Compact and rugged GPGPU supercomputer system redefines SWaP

A new fanless, rugged GPGPU supercomputer that measures only 20 cubic inches, while providing 1 TFLOP of parallel processing, has been introduced by Aitech Defense Systems. The self-contained, military grade A176 Cyclone redefines SFF (small form factor) power density by delivering 60 GFLOPs/W in a compact, low-power HPEC (high-performance embedded computer). Using the revolutionary NVIDIA Maxwell architecture for the GPU subsystem, the A176 integrates 256 CUDA cores with 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM. The Quad-core ARM Cortex A57 CPU provides an operating frequency to 1.9GHz per core, with an overall maximum power consumption of only 17W (8-10W typical). Commenting, Aitech’s Dan Mor, GPGPU product manager, said: “GPUs unburden the CPU from heavy computation, enabling better and faster processing of the overall system, a principle taken from the graphics-intensive gaming industry. A compact, rugged system that delivers these levels of processing truly redefines what an embedded designer can do with an HPEC.” Its exceptional processing, low power and compact size make the A176 Cyclone ideal for embedded deep learning, computer vision, graphics and GPU computing applications, especially in harsh environments. Specific uses include C4ISR, intelligent video analytics, image capture and processing, UAS and UGVs as well as signal processing and persistent video surveillance. The A176 Cyclone measures only 4.3 x 4.3 x 1.18 inches and weighs less than 2.2lbs. Operating temperature is -40C to +70C with vibration and shock to VITA 47 levels V2 and OS1, respectively. The system withstands rain, dust, salt fog and bench handling to MIL-STD-810G and EMI/RFI levels to MIL-STD-461, says the company.