Vespertec launches AI lab with cutting-edge NVIDIA technology

Vespertec, a specialist in high-performance data centre infrastructure, has unveiled its new AI lab environment in Stockport. This state-of-the-art facility features both the latest NVIDIA Grace Hopper architecture and the SN5600 800GB/s network switch, making it the first site in Europe to offer these combined technologies. The lab aims to provide businesses, local non-profits, and universities with the means to explore and validate the computing technologies that form part of the UK's National AI Strategy.

The NVIDIA GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip is at the core of the new facility. The Superchip's specialised CPU+GPU coherent memory model offers enhanced performance and processing capabilities, representing a significant advancement for accelerated AI and high-performance computing (HPC) applications. The lab also includes an NVIDIA PCIe-based GPU server, allowing users to compare and contrast performance across different environments. All components are interconnected through the NVIDIA Spectrum-4 SN5600 switch and Edgeware interconnect, ensuring high-bandwidth and low-latency networking throughout the platform.

The newly introduced Test Drive programme provides remote access, enabling users to evaluate and validate their applications on the latest architectures. This programme is particularly beneficial for those who need to ensure their code's performance, especially given the migration from x86 to Arm Neoverse v2 cores in the Grace Hopper architecture. By offering a risk-free environment to assess these advanced systems, Vespertec hopes to break down barriers to adoption.

Allan Kaye, Co-founder and Director at Vespertec, explained the rationale behind the initiative: "We understand the complexities involved in adopting the latest solutions, which is why we've created this resource. By offering remote access to the newest hardware, we're enabling our customers to thoroughly evaluate these technologies before purchase, and providing a valuable troubleshooting resource post-implementation. This initiative is a natural extension of our customer-first philosophy, ensuring we're there for our clients - from initial exploration to long-term support."

Vespertec has already deployed around 100 Grace Hopper systems, indicating a broad base of initial adoption. The lab environment aims to serve as a powerful tool for performance optimisation and troubleshooting. With the remote access feature, the facility is accessible to a wide range of users, including academic researchers and enterprise solution architects, who can leverage the cutting-edge technology without geographical constraints. Additionally, Vespertec's team of experienced engineers collaborates closely with Nvidia to support users through setup and ongoing optimisation, ensuring a seamless experience.

Vespertec's launch of the AI lab environment in Stockport represents a significant step forward in supporting the UK's National AI Strategy. By providing access to cutting-edge technologies like the NVIDIA Grace Hopper architecture and the SN5600 network switch, the facility empowers businesses, universities, and non-profits to explore advanced computing solutions. The introduction of the Test Drive programme further enhances this initiative, allowing users to validate their applications in a risk-free setting.