Skip to main content

Service Types and Capabilities

sc.sb offers four main categories of services, each designed to meet specific computing and storage needs. Understanding these service types will help you choose the right resources for your projects.

Service Categories Overview​

1. Storage Services​

Purpose: Data storage, file management, and database services

Key Features:

  • File Storage - Secure, scalable file storage with version control
  • Database Services - Managed database instances with automatic backups
  • Data Synchronization - Real-time sync across multiple devices
  • Access Control - Granular permissions for files and folders

Use Cases:

  • Document storage and collaboration
  • Database hosting and management
  • Backup and archival solutions
  • Content delivery and distribution

Examples:

  • Elements NAS - Network-attached storage for file sharing
  • CSB NAS - Specialized storage for specific regions

2. Cluster Services​

Purpose: High-performance computing clusters for intensive workloads

Key Features:

  • Job Scheduling - SLURM-based job management system
  • Resource Allocation - Dynamic CPU and memory allocation
  • Parallel Processing - Support for distributed computing tasks
  • Performance Monitoring - Real-time resource usage tracking

Use Cases:

  • Scientific computing and research
  • Data analysis and machine learning
  • Rendering and video processing
  • Batch processing workflows

Examples:

  • Elements Cluster - General-purpose computing cluster
  • CSB Cluster - Regional cluster with specific optimizations

3. Media Services​

Purpose: Media processing, streaming, and content delivery

Key Features:

  • Media Upload - Secure file upload with progress tracking
  • Streaming Setup - Real-time video and audio streaming
  • Content Processing - Automated transcoding and optimization
  • CDN Integration - Global content delivery network

Use Cases:

  • Video streaming and broadcasting
  • Media content management
  • Live event streaming
  • Content distribution networks

Examples:

  • Elements Fin - Media processing and streaming platform
  • CSB Fin - Regional media services with local optimization

4. GPU Services​

Purpose: Graphics processing and AI acceleration

Key Features:

  • GPU Access - Dedicated graphics processing units
  • AI/ML Setup - Pre-configured machine learning environments
  • Deep Learning - Support for popular ML frameworks
  • Performance Tuning - Optimized configurations for specific workloads

Use Cases:

  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence
  • 3D rendering and graphics processing
  • Scientific simulations
  • Cryptocurrency mining (where permitted)

Examples:

  • Elements OI - GPU-accelerated computing platform
  • Specialized GPU instances for specific workloads

Service Status and Availability​

Service Status Indicators​

Each service displays real-time status information:

  • 🟢 Service Available - Service is fully operational
  • 🟠 Attention Advised - Service has warnings or limitations
  • 🔴 Service Unavailable - Service is down for maintenance or issues

Status Details​

When you click on a service, you can see detailed status information:

  1. Service Status - Overall availability
  2. Connection Status - Network connectivity requirements
  3. Region Status - Geographic availability
  4. Compatibility Status - Device compatibility

Understanding Service Alerts​

Service Unavailable (Red)

  • Scheduled maintenance
  • Network disruptions
  • Operational issues
  • Contact support for estimated resolution time

Attention Advised (Orange)

  • Region mismatch - Service in different region than your account
  • Connection required - Service needs specific network connection
  • Compatibility issues - Service not compatible with your device
  • Press and hold to access despite warnings

Device Compatibility​

Compatibility Levels​

Services support different device types:

  • Both Desktop and Mobile - Full compatibility across all devices
  • Desktop Only - Optimized for desktop/laptop computers
  • Mobile Only - Designed specifically for mobile devices

Checking Compatibility​

  • View compatibility status in service details
  • Use compatible devices for optimal performance
  • Contact support if you need compatibility assistance

Regional Considerations​

Service Regions​

Services are deployed in different regions:

  • US - United States region
  • CN - China region
  • ZZ - Global/Universal region

Region Matching​

  • Services work best when your account region matches the service region
  • Cross-region access may have performance implications
  • Some services may not be available in all regions

Service Access and Permissions​

Group-Based Access​

  • Each service corresponds to an Azure AD group
  • Your group membership determines service access
  • Administrators can grant/revoke access through group management

Permission Levels​

Different services may have different permission levels:

  • Read-Only - View and download content
  • Read-Write - Full access to create, modify, and delete
  • Admin - Administrative access for service management

Service Add-ons​

Available Add-ons​

Many services offer additional features through add-ons:

  • Enhanced Storage - Additional storage capacity
  • Premium Features - Advanced functionality
  • Support Packages - Priority support and assistance
  • Integration Tools - Third-party service integrations

Purchasing Add-ons​

  • View available add-ons in service details
  • Click "+ Add-ons" to see options
  • Purchase through integrated payment system
  • Add-ons are billed separately from base services

Best Practices​

Service Selection​

  • Choose services that match your use case
  • Consider device compatibility requirements
  • Check regional availability for your location
  • Review service status before starting projects

Performance Optimization​

  • Use services in your preferred region when possible
  • Connect through recommended network options
  • Monitor service status for optimal performance
  • Contact support for performance issues

Next Steps​

Understanding service types helps you make informed decisions about which sc.sb resources best meet your needs. Each service is designed with specific use cases in mind.