High Performance Computing (HPC) is a critical enabler for scientists, researchers, bioinformaticians, and engineers in industry, as it empowers them to address complex computational challenges and deliver innovative solutions. With the ever-growing demands of big data, AI workloads, and real-time analytics, optimising HPC infrastructure for performance, efficiency, and scalability has become a top priority. Enter the Data Processing Unit (DPU), a ground-breaking technology designed to offload and accelerate network, storage, and management tasks, freeing up CPU resources and transforming your HPC environment. In this article, we'll delve into the features and benefits of choosing a DPU, as well as some of the challenges, and discuss the advantages of partnering with an IT systems integrator to tailor a solution that meets your unique needs and pain points.
DPU: A New Paradigm in HPC
DPUs, also known as SmartNICs, are purpose-built processors that offload critical networking, storage, and management tasks from the CPU, resulting in enhanced performance, efficiency, and scalability. By integrating a DPU into your HPC infrastructure, you can optimise compute resources, reduce power consumption, and lower the total cost of ownership (TCO), all while addressing the unique requirements of data-intensive workloads.
By Vibin Vijay, Data and AI Solution Specialist at OCF
By Mischa van Kesteren, Pre-Sales and Sustainability Lead at OCF
by Charlotte Hopewell, OCF Project and Operations Senior Lead
Q&A with Faye Exton, OCF Head of Operations
Q&A with Julian Fielden, OCF Chairman
By Russell Slack, OCF Managing Director
By Laurence-Horrocks Barlow, Technical Director at OCF