Low cost graphic cluster systems from SGILille 30 April 2001 SGI launched its new graphics cluster systems at the ITEC simulation trade show in Lille, France. The SGI Graphics Cluster high-performance visualisation product family takes provides low-cost, high-resolution, multi-channel immersive visualisation, combining the functionality of a single system with the economics and practicality of a component-based PC cluster.
The entire system is composed of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) componentry,
with innovative add-in boards and layered software to achieve superior
functionality and performance while preserving low-cost and open upgrade paths.
The system's graphics are powered by SGI
VPro VR7 graphics cards based on NVIDIA
graphics technology.
SGI Graphics Cluster systems will support advanced real-time 3D requirements through a suite
of technology modules such as SGI DataSync which provides the global cluster
data synchronization, and SGI ImageSync precision channel synchronisation technology,
which works in conjunction with the SGI VPro graphics card based on NVIDIA graphics to
provide true video-locked multi-channel synchronisation. Bundled free of charge with certain
configurations are robust software packages such as OpenGL Performer, the world's leading
scenegraph API, and SGI SynaptIQ software, which provides the ease, administration and
functionality of a single-system image machine on a low-cost cluster.
"SGI is one of the world's leaders in immersive visualisation, and NVIDIA is
thrilled to provide the graphics power behind this latest innovation," said Dan
Vivioli, senior vice president of marketing, NVIDIA. "SGI is breaking new ground with
technology modules like SGI ImageSync and we are thrilled to be a part of this
new development."
The SGI Graphics Cluster series offers several models to meet diverse cost and
performance requirements, with an entry-level price point of $9,500 per visual
channel. The series supports both Linux and Windows NT as well as
today's leading off-the-shelf graphics subsystems, API, and accelerators.
Product deliveries are planned for summer 2001.
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