.. _getting_started: ================================= Registration and getting started ================================= The `Parallel computing with MPI `_ course will take place on 18/5 and 19/5, 3-5pm in the CDT space (Teaching Room 3). If you are planning to take the course, please fill out the short survey `here `_. Class e-mails will only be sent to those who complete this form. Installing software ------------------- It is recommended that students run example codes from the class on their own laptops or desktops. This will require working versions of Fortran and MPI. Installing Fortran and MPI is straightforward if you are running Linux, fairly straightforward on a Mac, but more complicated with Windows. Regardless of which operating system you are using, you will need to have some basic comfort using a Unix terminal (*e.g.* using commands like *cd*, *ls*, and *pwd*). Introductory notes can be found here: :ref:`full`. Instructions for installing software are available here: :ref:`software_installation`. Getting help ------------- Getting used to Unix and setting up Fortran and MPI can be challenging/frustrating if you are new to this sort of thing. Please feel free to e-mail the instructor for help (p.ray at imperial.ac.uk). You can also get assistance in-person in the CDT space (in Sherfield) on **Thursday, 14/5, 5-6 pm** or before the course starts on **Monday 18/5, 2-3 pm**. Giving help ----------- Please also send an e-mail if you find mistakes in these notes or if you have suggestions for improvement.