SURF partners with NextSilicon for faster and energy-efficient research workflows

SURF recently joined forces with deep tech startup NextSilicon Ltd to conduct a technology assessment of its software-defined hardware platform Maverick. The goal is to explore the acceleration of research workflows while improving energy efficiency.

Next-generation computing platform

NextSilicon Ltd. is a deep-tech startup focused on advancing a next-generation computing platform for the high-performance computing (HPC) market. The organisation is at the forefront of developing intelligent software algorithms. Designed to be as flexible as a CPU and deliver out-of-the-box performance, NextSilicon's solution allows scientists to focus on their research, without the need for complex software porting.

"NextSilicon's technology outperforms CPUs and GPUs while saving both energy and operational costs, enabling impactful and sustainable computing solutions" - NextSilicon

Feasibility for Dutch research

With the Experimental Technologies Platform, SURF focuses on identifying and evaluating emerging technologies to assess their feasibility for the Dutch research community. In this context, SURF carried out a technology assessment together with NextSilicon and investigated the possibilities of their distinctive accelerator, the Maverick.

"Exploring a device that intelligently adapts its architecture to meet algorithmic requirements is exciting. This technology will reduce energy consumption while maximising throughput, all without the need for code changes." - Xabier Álvarez-Farré (SURF)

Through the partnership, NextSilicon's technology is integrated into SURF's Experimental Technologies Platform. The aim is to support the development of Maverick and concurrently build up knowledge and expertise in the system. We aim to meet the changing needs of our research communities in the coming years, allowing Dutch research groups to seamlessly deploy their use cases and applications on NextSilicon platforms.

Interested?

SURF's Experimental Technologies Platform has a dedicated team of expert system administrators and advisors. Are you interested in co-creating and experimenting with emerging technologies and methodologies? Then share your innovative challenges with us!