Dynamic Performance Prediction of an Adaptive Mesh Application

While it is possible to accurately predict the execution time of a given iteration of an adaptive application, it is not generally possible to predict the data-dependent adaptive behavior the application will take and therefore to predict the total execution time for a given execution. To remedy this situation we have developed an executable performance model that can be utilized dynamically at runtime directly from the application of interest. In this manner, the application itself can rapidly predict the expected execution time for its next iteration based on current information on the data layout and level of adaptivity. This enables the application itself to determine: if an optimum level of performance is being achieved (i.e. by comparing measured and predicted times); when to perform a checkpoint (if the next iteration will exceed a predefined time limit between checkpoints); or when to terminate (if the next iteration will exceed the application's system time allocation for instance). The dynamic model is shown to have high accuracy over a number of test cases, even in the presence of interference (system activities that are not a part of application activities). 1