Via has created a reference design for an 8U, 64-processor cluster based on 32 dual-processor mini-ITX boards. The Cluster Server Platform requires only one kilowatt, and can be powered from a standard wall outlet. The company hopes the design will move clusters out of server rooms and into classrooms and offices.

(Click for slightly larger view of 8U Via Cluster Server Platform)

Via's VT-310DP (Click to enlarge)

Via's cluster reference design is based on its VT-310DP motherboard (pictured at right), featuring dual Eden-N processors clocked at 1GHz. The Eden-N CPUs are housed in 15 x 15mm Nano-BGA packages, dissipate only 12 Watts, and require no cooling fans, even in high density designs, Via says. The VT-310DP board also features dual gigabit Ethernet interfaces, as well as one 10/100 Ethernet port, DDR memory support (up to DDR400), and support for IDE or SATA hard drives.

VT-310DP architecture diagram
The Cluster Platform design calls for two VT-310DP boards to be installed side by side in a short 1U (1.75 inch) case. Two such cases can be installed back-to-back in a standard 19-inch racks, Via says, resulting in a processor density of 8 CPUs per 1U, or 64 CPUs per 8U rack.

Each 1U case accommodates two dual-processor mainboards, and two hard drives

In addition to two dual-CPU mainboards, each case can hold two 3.5-inch IDE or SATA hard drives, for drive densities up to 32 drives per 8U rack unit.

Via says its cluster reference design requires neither CPU nor case fans, although some sort of cooling seems advisable if hard drives are used. The design can operate in virtual silence, the company says, and gains reliability thanks to fewer moving parts.

Via claims its Eden-N processors require 79 pecent less power than Intel chips, while offering up to 250 percent greater processing power per Watt.

Processor power consumption
(Source: Via)

Sisoft Sandra 2004 SP1 CPU arithmetic benchmark
(Source: Via)

Additionally, the Eden-N chips include Via's PadLock Hardware Security Suite, for fast processing of AES and other cryptographic algorithms.

Time to encrypt 1GB of data using AES with EBC mode
(Source: Via)

Eric Chang, special assistant to the CEO at Via, said, “Our energy efficient, cost effective Cluster Server Platform [puts] massively parallel computing into the hands of whole new markets.”

Availability

The Cluster Server Platform is available now to OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and system integrators, Via says. The company is demonstrating the technology at an eMEX (Engineering, Machinery & Electronics Exhibition) in the Suzhou Jiang Su Province of China today.

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