Boosting edge performance
Edge computing is critical to realizing the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT). Applications such as autonomous driving, smart buildings, robotics, supply-chain management and healthcare are growing rapidly and rely on rapid response times from AI computers, speeds that cloud computers in large remote data centers cannot deliver. To deliver faster computation and data transfer speeds, AI processors are needed closer to smart devices— closer to “the edge.” Powering the fast-growing “edge” is an enormous challenge that requires advanced processors coupled with equally robust and compact power delivery networks.
Delivering compact, ubiquitous computing power
HIRO, a Dutch entrepreneurial technology company, develops innovative high-performance, reliable edge infrastructures (hardware and software) that can deliver intelligent edge as a service. Their Edge Micro Data Center (EMDC) – is a highly scalable, compact, edge computing resource that can operate reliably in harsh environments and deliver the speed and performance needed for today’s applications. EMDCs can integrate any type and quantity of CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs and NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) media into platforms from 1.5kW shoeboxes to 500kW containerized edge installations. Fully solid-state and modular, these platforms require little maintenance and no energy for cooling. Heat can be dissipated via a fan-supported dry cooler or a completely passive dry cooler, making the EMDC completely passive.
HIRO leverages edge computing to deliver meaningful community impact. HIRO has a special commitment to supporting hospitals with their EMDC which provides privacy, high-performance and reliable edge infrastructure for training their AI models that can help detect and cure cardiovascular diseases, cancer, tumours, and other complex disorders.
Power density and efficiency drive scalable, high-performance edge computing
Efficient power conversion is achieved by running from 48VDC power distribution, instead of 12VDC. The higher voltage reduces I2R power losses by 16X across the power delivery network (PDN). High-density, high-efficiency DCM power modules contribute to HIRO’s solid-state, thermally adept, compact, energy-efficient EMDC designs. Legacy solutions using standard COM Express modules (computer-on-module), for example, can draw approximately 3kW within one 3U chassis. Converting this power efficiently is paramount to EMDC performance. PCB Design Kft, a Hungarian hardware design house, helped HIRO design the EMDC and chose the Vicor DCM power modules for their compact size, thermal qualities and efficiency. The DCMs provide 48V to 12V conversion, offering flexible cooling options and world-leading volumetric power density. This flexibility also lends itself to renewable energy opportunities.
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