Where should I get a computer for scientific computation?

Question

I'm looking to get a dual socket, quad core (8-cores total) machine with 16-32GB of RAM. I've heard that there are lots of issues with various architectures running parallel applications with 8-cores at least with Intel based machines. I'm planning to run linux (CentOS 5) on the machine. Does anyone have a company they would recommend going through, or has anyone recently configured a computer like this?

Answer 1

Gosh mad max ...Your after the math cruncher i guess...Well i hate to drop names but why not just call you HP representative for business applications..And as far as linux ,,whats wrong with full blown UNIX unless you have some specific programs that are going to be PC based. That way you get the multitasking (for real) and can actually use a compiler to re-write your software..The only reason i would try them first is they will give you the sticker shock and a lot more bells and whistles than you might need...just for grins Sun Micro-systems makes some really Kicker stuff..at Sun.com  ...good luck..From the E