Edge computing plays a vital role in unlocking the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT). As applications like autonomous driving, smart buildings, robotics, and healthcare continue to expand, they demand quick response times from AI systems—speeds that traditional cloud computing in remote data centers struggle to provide. To meet this need for faster computation and data transfer speeds, AI processors need to be located closer to smart devices, right at “the edge.”
Addressing this challenge is crucial, and HIRO, a Dutch technology company, is at the forefront of developing innovative, high-performance edge infrastructures, both hardware and software. Their Edge Micro Data Center (EMDC) offers a scalable, compact solution designed to operate reliably even in harsh environments, providing the speed and performance required for today’s demanding applications. These EMDCs can accommodate various types and quantities of processors, including CPUs, GPUs, FPGAs, and NVMe media, in platforms ranging from small shoebox-sized units to large 500kW containerized installations. Built to be fully solid-state and modular, these platforms require minimal maintenance and no energy for cooling, with heat dissipation achieved through fan-supported dry coolers or passive cooling systems.
HIRO’s focus extends beyond technological innovation to meaningful community impact. They are committed to supporting hospitals by providing EMDCs that offer privacy, high-performance, and reliable edge infrastructure for training AI models. These models play a crucial role in detecting and treating complex medical conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and tumors.
Efficient power conversion is essential for scalable, high-performance edge computing. HIRO achieves this by utilizing 48VDC power distribution, which significantly reduces power losses across the network. Their EMDC designs leverage high-density, high-efficiency DCM power modules from Vicor, chosen for their compact size, thermal performance, and efficiency. These modules enable efficient 48V to 12V conversion, offering flexible cooling options and leading volumetric power density, ultimately contributing to the success of HIRO’s edge computing solutions.
