Computers are faster than humans. Have you ever wondered how much faster these man-made machines are? Speed comparisons can be made based on simple mathematics.
A sharp fifth-grader can answer simple calculations at a rate of one answer every second. When the same task is delegated to an old 1GHz computer, it can compute a billion answers per second.
Wow. So, if a backdated model with modest specifications is so prompt, how fast is the fastest computer in the world? Let’s find out. In this article, you will learn about a beastly supercomputer called Fugaku.
History of Fugaku: World’s Fastest Computer
A long-standing collaboration between Japanese technology giant Fujitsu and leading research institute RIKEN in 2006 led to the development of the “K computer,” titled the world’s fastest computer in 2011.
Continued development efforts have allowed the companies to introduce Fugaku, an evolved and more powerful version. Fugaku is a giant leap forward in terms of speed and performance.
It has outmatched not only its predecessor but also other latest supercomputers such as Sierra and Summit. Fugaku was named to correctly represent its immense scope for innovation.
The fastest supercomputer was named after the highest mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji. The name not only symbolizes the device’s high performance, but also the broad insights it offers to users.
Specifications and Features of Fugaku
Fugaku can perform over 415 quadrillion computations a second, which is more than 1,000 times faster than regular computers and 2.8 times faster than the Summit’s speed.
2020’s fastest computer boasts a speed of 415.5 petaFLOPS and 7.3 million cores. Powered by powerful ARM processors, Fugaku offers two new features. Each of its processors has hybrid memory cubes attached.
The supercomputer also flaunts a new version of the Tofu network to enable tight integration between the nodes in its system at high bandwidth and low latency.
In addition to its high computational performance and user convenience, Fugaku has a low power consumption of 30 to 40 MW.
The computer model is designed for critical AI applications like deep learning, which allows it to deliver ground-breaking results.
Unique Features: What Makes Fugaku Special?
The room-size system backed by cutting-edge IT can be used for complex scientific and military tasks. Its diverse use-cases include modeling climate changes, simulating new designs for cars and aircraft, and of course breaking codes.
It can also be used to conduct virtual weapons testing and simulate nuclear explosions.
Experts are hoping Fugaku will contribute to advances in social challenges like the global pandemic. It is already being used to diagnose, study, and help treat the novel Corona-virus.
Although the supercomputer is not completely functional until 2021, it is being used on an experimental basis to help identify treatments for COVID-19. It has already run simulations on how breathing droplets spread.
How Much Does The World’s Fastest Computer Cost?
There’s no doubt that Fugaku exceeds all expectations. If you are wondering how much this technological marvel would cost to buy, you’ll get the answer to that as well!
The price of the supercomputer’s system and associated technology development adds up to ¥130 billion. This is equal to a whopping $1.2 billion! The computer is not widely available for sale yet.
However, RIKEN, in collaboration with the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, has started a program to make Fugaku’s computation resources available for R&D projects to help fight COVID-19.
The Bottom Line
Fugaku is a supercomputer with mind-blowing features. It is the latest in tech and has mesmerized audiences around the world. The computer is a sign of things to come.