A Note on Parallelizing the Parameterized Expectations Algorithm

The parameterized expectations algorithm (PEA) involves a long simulationand a nonlinear least squares (NLS) fit, both embedded in a loop. Both steps are natural candidates for parallelization.This note shows that parallelization can lead to important speedups forthe PEA.I provide example code for a simple model that can serve as a templatefor parallelization of more interesting models, as well as a download linkfor an image of a bootable CD that allows creation of a cluster and executionof the example code in minutes, with no need to install any software.