Final answer:
Clustered PCs were developed to investigate their potential in performing computation tasks beyond the capabilities of contemporary workstations at minimum cost. They involve the integration of multiple interconnected personal computers to create a powerful computing system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goal of clustered PCs was to investigate the potential of using multiple interconnected personal computers to perform computation tasks that surpassed the capabilities of contemporary workstations, all while minimizing cost. Clustered PCs, also known as computer clusters, involve the integration of several individual PCs to create a powerful computing system. This technique allows for distributed processing, where each PC handles a portion of the task, resulting in faster and more efficient computation.
The transition from expensive, room-filling machines to desktop computers brought forth a new era where supercomputers, like those at NASA's Ames Research Center, could perform extraordinary tasks. These supercomputers, capable of tracking over a million objects and their gravitational effects, epitomize the potential of clustered computing power. Personal computers, once seen as an exclusive domain of hobbyists and enthusiasts, transformed into vital tools in homes and businesses, changing the landscape of computing infinitely.