Difference between revisions of "Clusterboard"

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{{warning|1=Please fill in more information if you have it. :)}}
{{note|1=Please fill in more information if you have it. :)}}
The SOPine Clusterboard is a way to setup a compact cluster for low power usage and testing.
The SOPine Clusterboard is a way to setup a compact cluster for low power usage and testing.
It can hold up to 7 SOPine modules.
It can hold up to 7 SOPine modules.


Although there is a [[PINE_A64-LTS/SOPine]] page already, this page will describe both the Clusterboard and the SOPine modules.
Although there is a [[PINE_A64-LTS/SOPine]] page already, this page will describe both the Clusterboard and the SOPine modules.
There is a user guide on the [https://forum.pine64.org/showthread.php?tid=7077 forum] but sadly the images have disappeared.
While the Cluster board is an hardware open source project, please note that it does not mean this project is "OSH" compliant.
==Specifications==
==Specifications==
These are the specifications as mentioned in the project [https://www.pine64.org/clusterboard/ introduction]: (spellchecked a bit)
These are the specifications as mentioned in the project [https://www.pine64.org/clusterboard/ introduction]: (spellchecked a bit)
*Standard mITX Form-Factor
*Standard mITX Form-Factor (167mm x 170mm)
*Built-In Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch - RTL8370N
*Built-In Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch - RTL8370N
*7x RTL8211E Gigabit Ethernet port, connected to the Switch
*7x RTL8211E Gigabit Ethernet port, connected to the Switch
Line 49: Line 54:
|-
|-
| I
| I
| Network LED
| Activity LED
|-
|-
| J
| J
Line 55: Line 60:
|-
|-
| K
| K
| ?? 3-pin JST connector
| Lithium Battery 3-pin JST connector
|-
|-
| L
| L
| RTL8211E Ethernet Port
| RTL8211E Ethernet Port, with 2 status LEDs
|-
|-
| M
| M
Line 67: Line 72:
|-
|-
| O
| O
| ?? 2-pin JST connector
| ATX PS_ON 2-pin JST connector
|-
|-
| P
| P
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Parts F to L are duplicated for all 7 modules
Parts F to L are duplicated for all 7 modules
====20 Pin Connector====
====20 Pin Connector====
In the [https://forum.pine64.org/showthread.php?tid=5713 forum] there is an [https://forum.pine64.org/attachment.php?aid=1111 image] with the (likely) pinout.
===SOPine Module===
===SOPine Module===
[[File:SOPine-Annotated.jpg|200px|thumb|right|SOPine Front and Back annotated. Picture by abcde.]]
[[File:SOPine-Annotated.jpg|200px|thumb|right|SOPine Front and Back annotated. Picture by abcde.]]
Line 97: Line 103:
| E
| E
| mSD Card Slot
| mSD Card Slot
|-
| F (not annotated yet)
| Power LED
|}
|}
==Accessories==
==Accessories==
*To operate this board you will need a power supply, Pine advises a "+5V 15A power supply with 6.3mm OD/3.0mm ID barrel type DC Jack" which is also available in the store ([https://pine64.com/product/clusterboard-eu-power-supply/ EU]/[https://pine64.com/product/clusterboard-us-power-supply/ US] versions). There are other ways to power this board, but they are not described here yet.
*To operate this board you will need a power supply, Pine advises a "5V 15A power supply with 6.3mm OD/3.0mm ID barrel type DC Jack" which is also available in the store ([https://pine64.com/product/clusterboard-eu-power-supply/ EU]/[https://pine64.com/product/clusterboard-us-power-supply/ US] versions). There are other ways to power this board, but they are not described here yet.
*The board works best when it is protected by a (mITX)case, and has some airflow provided by a fan.   
*The board works best when it is protected by a (mITX)case, and has some airflow provided by a fan.   
*Each SOPine module can use cooling, both by a casefan, and by using heatsinks on the individual modules. At least the A64 could use some cooling.
*Each SOPine module can use cooling, both by a casefan, and by using heatsinks on the individual modules. At least the A64 could use some cooling.
*The first slot can use a eMMC module, which are in the store in [https://pine64.com/product/16gb-emmc-module/ 16GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/32gb-emmc-module/ 32GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/64gb-emmc-module/ 64GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/128gb-emmc-module/ 128GB] sizes. The modules can be used as a USB stick using a [https://pine64.com/product/usb-adapter-for-emmc-module/ USB adapter]. (The eMMC is also readable with the Hardkernel [https://www.hardkernel.com/shop/emmc-module-reader-board-for-os-upgrade/ eMMC to microSD] converter.)
*The first slot can use a eMMC module, which are in the store in [https://pine64.com/product/16gb-emmc-module/ 16GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/32gb-emmc-module/ 32GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/64gb-emmc-module/ 64GB]/[https://pine64.com/product/128gb-emmc-module/ 128GB] sizes. The modules can be used as a USB stick using a [https://pine64.com/product/usb-adapter-for-emmc-module/ USB adapter]. (The eMMC is also readable with the Hardkernel [https://www.hardkernel.com/shop/emmc-module-reader-board-for-os-upgrade/ eMMC to microSD] converter.)
*2x AA batteries, to make sure every device gets the right RTC(Real Time Clock) information.
*2x AA batteries, to allow the SOPine nodes to retain the RTC (Real Time Clock) time and date information when the power is disconnected.


==Installation==
==Installation==
To install this cluster it is important to know which module has which IP, so you can make sure you connect to the right board, esp with the module that has access to the eMMC.
To install this cluster it is important to know which module has which IP address, so you can make sure you connect to the right board, esp with the module that has access to the eMMC.
 
You can plug in each module individually, and give them a separate name. After that is taken care of you will know which module is used for what. It would also be possible to manually edit each images hosts/hostname files before first boot.
 
{{hint|1=The board has no hotplug functionality, so make sure you only plug/unplug the modules while the power is disconnected from the clusterboard.}}
{{hint|1=As a unmanaged switch is used there is no VLAN support.}}
 
===Serial console===
To boot use the serial console connect the pins to UART0 on the GPIO header and connect using baud 115200
 
* Pin 6: GND
* Pin 7: RTX
* Pin 8: TXD
 
The pinouts are available in the [https://forum.pine64.org/showthread.php?tid=8058 forum].


You can plug in each module individually, and give them a separate name. After that is taken care of you will know which module is used for what.
{{hint|1=Do not connect the GND connector until the power is on as it can provide power and prevent the board from booting}}


==Operating systems==
==Operating systems==
Line 114: Line 138:
To get the cluster running, start off with a basic [https://www.armbian.com/sopine-a64/ Armbian SOPine] install on the first module or directly on all the modules. Armbian offers Debian and Ubuntu as options for download.
To get the cluster running, start off with a basic [https://www.armbian.com/sopine-a64/ Armbian SOPine] install on the first module or directly on all the modules. Armbian offers Debian and Ubuntu as options for download.


There is an issue recognizing the network modules, and a PXE issue. These can be fixed by modifying the image before using it.
There is an issue recognizing the network that needs you to make a change to the base image described [https://forum.pine64.org/showthread.php?tid=10432 here], and a PXE issue. If you have a good description, please add it here. The network issue should have been resolved in Armbian builds post December 2020 - [https://github.com/armbian/build/pull/2396 as described here] - but confirmation from an affected user is needed.
==Tips==
 
*The board has no hotplug functionality, so make sure you only plug/unplug the modules while the power is disconnected from the clusterboard.
There are a number of possible basic installation methods.
*As a unmanaged switch is used there is no VLAN support.
*Full install on each module's mSD card.
*eMMC install on the first module.
*PXE boot for all modules, from the first module, or an external host.


==Frequently asked questions==
==Frequently asked questions==
Q: Are the individual MAC addresses linked to the NIC, or the module. I would say the NIC, which would make it easy to make a list for future reuse.
Q: Are the individual MAC addresses linked to the NIC, or the module.
 
A: The MAC address is specific to the SOPine module - swapping modules within the Clusterboard does not change the address of the module
 
== Schematics and other ==
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/PINE64%20CLUSTER%20BOARD_2_2.DSN Clusterboard version 2.2 Schematic Capture source file]
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/PINE64%20CLUSTER%20BOARD_2_2_Schematic.pdf Clusterboard version 2.2 Schematic Capture PDF file]
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/PINE64%20CLUSTER%20BOARD_2_2.brd Clusterboard version 2.2 PCB Job source file]
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/PINE64%20CLUSTER%20BOARD%20V2.2-gerber.rar Clusterboard version 2.2 PCB Gerber file]
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/PINE64%20CLUSTER%20BOARD_2_2_PCB.pdf Clusterboard version 2.2 PCB Layout PDF file]
* [https://files.pine64.org/doc/clusterboard/clusterboard_20pins_header.jpg Clusterboard 20pins header definition]
* [https://myhub.autodesk360.com/ue2b2f72e/g/shares/SH56a43QTfd62c1cd96840f4ec37c60bcf12 Clusterboard 3D drawing in Fusion360]
* [https://myhub.autodesk360.com/ue2b2f72e/g/shares/SH56a43QTfd62c1cd968cd6bc203ac753401?viewState=NoIgbgDAdAjCA0ICGBmARgEwGZIOwGMBaDFADgFNCAWfAJi2o1IFZDmlTSIA2DW8-FTQgAukA Clusterboard PDF drawing]


==Hardware revisions==
==Hardware revisions==
Line 131: Line 169:
*https://pine64.com/product/sopine-a64-compute-module/ Store page for SOPine module
*https://pine64.com/product/sopine-a64-compute-module/ Store page for SOPine module
*https://www.pine64.org/2020/02/03/fosdem-2020-and-hardware-announcements/ Mention of "Clusterboard with 4 SOEdge and 3 SOPine modules"
*https://www.pine64.org/2020/02/03/fosdem-2020-and-hardware-announcements/ Mention of "Clusterboard with 4 SOEdge and 3 SOPine modules"
*https://www.pine64.org/2019/08/05/august-update-london-meetup-pinetab-news-soedge-and-more/ SOEdge Intoduction
*https://www.pine64.org/2019/08/05/august-update-london-meetup-pinetab-news-soedge-and-more/ SOEdge Introduction
 
[[Category:SOPine]] [[Category:SOPine Clusterboard]] [[Category:Allwinner A64]]

Revision as of 19:46, 14 February 2021

Please fill in more information if you have it. :)

The SOPine Clusterboard is a way to setup a compact cluster for low power usage and testing. It can hold up to 7 SOPine modules.

Although there is a PINE_A64-LTS/SOPine page already, this page will describe both the Clusterboard and the SOPine modules.

There is a user guide on the forum but sadly the images have disappeared.

While the Cluster board is an hardware open source project, please note that it does not mean this project is "OSH" compliant.

Specifications

These are the specifications as mentioned in the project introduction: (spellchecked a bit)

  • Standard mITX Form-Factor (167mm x 170mm)
  • Built-In Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch - RTL8370N
  • 7x RTL8211E Gigabit Ethernet port, connected to the Switch
  • eMMC module Slot
  • 7x USB 2.0 (one for each module)
  • GPIO pins exposed for each module including UART
  • NIC LEDs for each SOPine Module
  • 2x 1.5V “AA” size Battery Holder for Real Time Clock Port (RTC)
  • +5V 15A power supply with 6.3mm OD/3.0mm ID barrel type DC Jack
  • ATX Power Supply Header

Layout

Clusterboard 2.3 Front annotated - image by abcde
Clusterboard 2.3 Back - image by abcde
Label Description
A 6.3mm OD/3.0mm ID barrel type DC Jack for +5V 15A 75W power supply
B Gigabit Ethernet Port
C Reset Button
D 2x 1.5V “AA” size Battery Holder for Real Time Clock Port (RTC)
E eMMC connector (only for 1st module)
F SOPine Module slot
G USB2.0 USB-A plug
H MicroUSB-B USB2.0 plug
I Activity LED
J 20-pin expansion connector
K Lithium Battery 3-pin JST connector
L RTL8211E Ethernet Port, with 2 status LEDs
M Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch - RTL8370N
N ATX Power Connector
O ATX PS_ON 2-pin JST connector
P HDD 5V Power (optional)
Q Resistor (optional, for use with the alternative powering options)

Parts F to L are duplicated for all 7 modules

20 Pin Connector

In the forum there is an image with the (likely) pinout.

SOPine Module

SOPine Front and Back annotated. Picture by abcde.
Label Description
A A64 SoC
B 2GB DDR3 RAM
C AXP803
D SO-Dimm connector
E mSD Card Slot
F (not annotated yet) Power LED

Accessories

  • To operate this board you will need a power supply, Pine advises a "5V 15A power supply with 6.3mm OD/3.0mm ID barrel type DC Jack" which is also available in the store (EU/US versions). There are other ways to power this board, but they are not described here yet.
  • The board works best when it is protected by a (mITX)case, and has some airflow provided by a fan.
  • Each SOPine module can use cooling, both by a casefan, and by using heatsinks on the individual modules. At least the A64 could use some cooling.
  • The first slot can use a eMMC module, which are in the store in 16GB/32GB/64GB/128GB sizes. The modules can be used as a USB stick using a USB adapter. (The eMMC is also readable with the Hardkernel eMMC to microSD converter.)
  • 2x AA batteries, to allow the SOPine nodes to retain the RTC (Real Time Clock) time and date information when the power is disconnected.

Installation

To install this cluster it is important to know which module has which IP address, so you can make sure you connect to the right board, esp with the module that has access to the eMMC.

You can plug in each module individually, and give them a separate name. After that is taken care of you will know which module is used for what. It would also be possible to manually edit each images hosts/hostname files before first boot.

The board has no hotplug functionality, so make sure you only plug/unplug the modules while the power is disconnected from the clusterboard.
As a unmanaged switch is used there is no VLAN support.

Serial console

To boot use the serial console connect the pins to UART0 on the GPIO header and connect using baud 115200

  • Pin 6: GND
  • Pin 7: RTX
  • Pin 8: TXD

The pinouts are available in the forum.

Do not connect the GND connector until the power is on as it can provide power and prevent the board from booting

Operating systems

Armbian

To get the cluster running, start off with a basic Armbian SOPine install on the first module or directly on all the modules. Armbian offers Debian and Ubuntu as options for download.

There is an issue recognizing the network that needs you to make a change to the base image described here, and a PXE issue. If you have a good description, please add it here. The network issue should have been resolved in Armbian builds post December 2020 - as described here - but confirmation from an affected user is needed.

There are a number of possible basic installation methods.

  • Full install on each module's mSD card.
  • eMMC install on the first module.
  • PXE boot for all modules, from the first module, or an external host.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Are the individual MAC addresses linked to the NIC, or the module.

A: The MAC address is specific to the SOPine module - swapping modules within the Clusterboard does not change the address of the module

Schematics and other

Hardware revisions

The current version is 2.3. There was at least a 2.2 version, if there is more info, please add it here.

Links