Operational Forecasting in Complex River Basins with SSARR-Micro Versus Mainframe Computer

Rockwood, David M.; Speers, Douglas D.; Davis, Edward; ,

Operational Forecasting in Complex River Basins with SSARR-Micro Versus Mainframe Computer

by David M. Rockwood, SAR Consultants, United States,
Douglas D. Speers, SAR Consultants, United States,
Edward Davis, SAR Consultants, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Computerized Decision Support Systems for Water Managers

Abstract:

The Streamflow Synthesis and Reservoir Regulation, (SSARR), model has been used for many years for river forecasting and reservoir system modeling in the Columbia River Basin. Operational forecasting effort has, through the years, been accomplished using a large main-frame computer which supports both the model and a large real-time hydromet data base. In 1984, a micro-computer version of the SSARR modeling system was first developed which is now based on the latest version of the SSARR model (Version 8). It incorporates all of the model algorithms and data processing techniques contained in the presently used main-frame system. This paper describes the analysis made of the feasibility of utilizing the micro-SSARR for a relatively large and complex basin (11,200 square miles), for operational use in day-to-day forecasting and reservoir regulation. The analysis covers factors such as computer speed, output capability, data input, and comparisons between different micro-processors, and the main-frame system. Operation of the micro-computer in a real-time forecasting environment is discussed.

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