Nscale is embarking on an ambitious journey to develop a state-of-the art AI high-performance computing (HPC) data center in Glomfjord, Norway. The goal is to quickly deploy a scalable and flexible infrastructure that can grow with the increasing demand for computational power. Modular HPC for AI: Kontena’s KONNECT HPC solutions to the rescue!
Modular Approach to high-performance computing in the Nordic Region
Nscale aimed to develop a state-of-the-art high-performance computing (HPC) data center in the Nordics. With a facility already in place, they sought to utilize their outdoor terrain to create a scalable, cost-effective infrastructure. The challenge was to start small with a flexible solution that could be expanded as demand grows, while also minimizing upfront investment and deployment time. Additionally, Nscale required a secure and climate-controlled environment for their sensitive AI equipment and the ability to manage and scale infrastructure without the limitations of traditional building construction.
EDGE – 600: Kontena’s Modular Data Center Solution
Our EDGE modular data containers proved the perfect solution for Nscale’s ambition. Designed for flexibility and scalability, KONNECT’s modular engineering allowed to start with a single, easy to deploy unit. This minimized initial capital expenditure while providing the flexibility to expand as the need for more HPC compute capacity grows.
The setup includes two EDGE – HPC data rooms connected with a DOCKER unit. Two ICE cooling units are mounted on top. The EDGE units each provide 564U available rack space in 12 ITE racks. Rear door coolers (RDHx) keep temperatures inside the racks and container at the preferred temperature.
Concept to Operation: Accelerating HPC Infrastructure with Modular Data Containers
By adopting our modular data containers, the client could accelerate deployment and avoid the costly upfront investment of a traditional data center. They gained the flexibility to scale their infrastructure with growing demand, ensuring they only invest in the resources they need at each stage. The modular system allows for rapid, cost-effective expansion, providing Nscale with a future-proof foundation to support their AI HPC operations. With Kontena’s KONNECT products, Nscale is poised for long-term success in developing their next-generation AI infrastructure.
EDGE
2 EDGE HPC units - the HPC data room whitespace - are the central building blocks of the KONNECT ecosystem. They feature redundant power distribution, high-density racks and cooling, as well as fire detection and extinguishing. All ensuring high uptimes with a relatively small footprint.
DOCKER
The DOCKER units allow to combine several of the EDGE units into a bigger modular data center. Enter and exit the data rooms without being exposed to the open air. Protect the equipment you need to move around from the elements. Provide more granular access control to your staff and customers.
ICE
The KONNECT ICE is a fully pre-built cooling unit that seamlessly integrates with the EDGE HPC data room. It provides modular and redundant cooling, consisting of an adiabatic dry cooler and pump skid with control system. For hot climates, the cooling capacity can be upgraded with a KONNECT ICE chiller.
Low CAPEX
Up to 4 times lower CAPEX compared to traditional data center solutions.
Quick to deploy
Essentially building blocks, all units within the ecosystem are compatible. Plug-and-play at its finest.
Scalable
Reduce your CAPEX. Scale your operations later on as your business grows.
Rack density
Rack densities up to 80kW. Even higher densities are available with liquid-to-chip cooling.
Easy to finance
Lease both the hardware and infrastructure. You can completely eliminate upfront costs, paying only when the installation is in use.
Flexible
Move to a better environment, change out or upgrade, or even sell when the need arises. It has never been this simple.
Enhance your HPC data center with Kontena’s innovative modular solutions. Whether you’re building, improving, or expanding, we provide cost-efficient and scalable options. Contact us today to explore the possibilities.
Relevant products
EDGE – HPC Data Room
Our HPC Data Room is a plug-and-play containerized mobile data center that comes equipped with everything you need for high performance computing.
ICE – HPC Cooling Unit
The ICE – HPC Cooling Unit is designed to integrate with Konnect HPC modular equipment and consists of an adiabatic dry cooler.
