A GPU friendly Metropolis algorithm

Just came across this paper on parallelizing the Independent Metropolis Hastings (IMH) algorithm: http://xianblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/parallel-processing-of-independent-metropolis-hastings-algorithms/

The fundamental idea in the current paper is that one can take advantage of the parallel abilities of arbitrary computing machinery, from cloud computing to graphical cards (GPU), in the case of the generic IMH algorithm, producing an output that corresponds to a much improved Monte Carlo approximation machine at the same computational cost.

This could be very interesting for all the GPU renderers out there.

Nvidia GTX 580 to launch on Nov 9!

It looks like this card came out of nowhere, I hadn't heard much about it until a few weeks ago. Hopefully this launch event will include a new and exciting ray tracing tech demo à la Design Garage (after the rather disappointing launch of the Radeon HD 6800 cards with no tech demo's whatsoever). Maybe something OTOY/voxel ray tracing related ;D?

Videogames and snacks

I get into a frame of mind where I need nothing but videogames or chocolate. Either one put me in a trance where I don't have to think about anything but what I'm doing. It's fantastic. I don't need drugs and don't think I ever will. Unless drugs give you superpowers and then I'm totally in on getting some.

Top 10 snacks to eat while gaming:

10. Chocolate. In bar form for easy eating.

9. Cupcakes. Especially the ones with lots of frosting.

8. Chips and dip. I like corn chips myself.

7. Crackers and dip. Similar to chips and dip but with strong crackers instead.

6. Hot dogs. Oh yeah. Easy to eat one handed.

5. M&Ms. Doesn't matter what colour.

4. Hot chips. Deep fried goodness.

3. Salad... JUST KIDDING.. but seriously something healthy maybe?

2. Nachos. So close to being my number one snack

1. Pizza. Food of the Gods. Need I write more?

I never do real blog posts. You were warned a few posts ago.