High Performance Computers and Export Control Policy: Issues for Congress
Abstract
Congress has a strong interest in export control policy with regard to technologies that may have both commercial and military applications outside of the United States. Through its constitutionally delegated authority to regulate foreign commerce, Congress has the authority to control exports for national security or foreign policy purposes. The 109th Congress may examine issues of national export control policy, including reauthorization of the Export Administration Act (EAA), and control policies concerning key technologies. Among these technologies are High Performance Computers HPCs. HPCs are either single computing machines (usually called supercomputers) or a cluster of easily available, high-end workstations or personal computers. Congressional interest in HPCs has primarily, but not exclusively, been focused on the dual-use applications of HPCs. That is, commercial HPCs that may also be used to simulate nuclear weapon tests, chemical and biological weapons production, and for military command, control, and communications. The 109th Congress likely will again consider the reauthorization of the EAA. Both chambers last considered EAA legislation in the 107th Congress. Legislation may also be introduced to repeal specific controls on HPCs enacted as part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 1998.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 05, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA462401
Entities
People
- Glenn J. Mcloughlin
- Ian F. Fergusson
Organizations
- Library of Congress