SiCortex proposes new green computing index for HPC

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Yesterday SiCortex announced a new metric to assess the performance of a supercomputer relative to the power needed to run the machine

SiCortex logoThe Green Computing Performance Index (GCPI) measures overall system performance-per-watt, based on the industry standard HPCC benchmark suite. The GCPI uses the benchmarks to provide three views of energy efficiency in terms of performance-per-watt. It is the first to measure and rank computers on a broad range of performance metrics relative to energy consumed, providing a business tool to help data center managers make more informed decisions. The initial results of sample comparisons revealed a few surprises regarding actual energy efficiencies versus marketing hype.

“We are optimistic that the GCPI will spawn needed dialogue in the industry, calling companies, including SiCortex, to live up to their claims surrounding green HPC,” said Chris Stone, president and CEO of SiCortex. “To this end, we are inviting experts from the user community and other thought leaders to take ownership of this Index and preside over its neutrality. It is essential that the industry fully participate in populating this Index; its value will increase as more data is available.”

The big difference between the Green500 and the GCPI is that the GCPI uses the HPCC, only a part of which is the HPL. Projecting the components of the HPCC down into a single number is envisioned, if your manager is a single number kind of gal.

If you want more on this, I wrote a feature piece on the metric which went up at HPCwire yesterday, and for balance Wade Roush has a piece at xconomy.com as well.

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  1. […] One could only assume they would submit the complementary results as well.  Following the lead of SiCortex, I’m curious what the relative GCPI [Green Computing Performance Index] is for this […]

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