The National Network for Advanced Computing (RNCA) announces the launch of two innovative virtual laboratories, whose main objective is to drive innovation in both High Performance Computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). RNCA invites anyone interested in learning more about the Virtual Laboratory in Artificial Intelligence to attend an online information session at May 29th, at 12pm.
Supported by Operational Centers and Competence Centers from the RNCA, a pilot project was born for a virtual laboratory of High Performance Computing, called HPCvLAB. HPCvLab aims to provide an accessible and educational environment for users with no prior HPC experience.
By providing an initial package of HPC computing resources, HPCvLAB empowers potential future users, allowing them to explore and leverage the benefits of high-performance computing. This access to high-performance computing resources for training and knowledge development is supported by five Competence Centers located in Vila Real, Aveiro, Covilhã, Lisbon, and Faro, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the country. HPCvLAB thus promises to expand and promote the efficient use of HPC clusters.
In general terms, the following uses are eligible:
- Inexperienced users prior knowledge in HPC are encouraged to explore this computing environment with the necessary support for learning.
- HPC Tool Testing in pilot projects in the industry and public administration sectors, aligned with the project objectives EuroCC2, promoting innovation and technological development.
- Support for professors in master's and doctoral courses, allowing them to access HPC resources for research and teaching.
- Initiatives from RNCA and the EuroCC2 project, such as HPC training for regional industrial partners.
This first edition of the HPC lab is scheduled to operate until December 31, 2024, and this initial investment aims to ensure that users, even beginners, have adequate resources to explore and make the most of the potential of high-performance computing.
In parallel, the laboratory for promoting the use of Artificial Intelligence resources was named AIvLAB and is centered on the VISION platform, a machine from the University of Évora specifically designed for Artificial Intelligence work on machine learning algorithms. This virtual AI laboratory aims to enhance the use of AI techniques in research and innovation communities, offering resources and support for experimentation and development of AI projects. Machine Learning.
For this Laboratory, the following precepts are intended to be met:
- Support inexperienced users and candidates CPCA who want to test AI tools on GPUs;
- Test AI tools in pilot projects in the industry and public administration sectors;
- To support AI training, within the scope of EuroCC2, as well as welcome teachers of courses taught at HEIs that request resources to test AI tools and algorithms with GPUs.
This The pilot project will also be active until December 31, 2024, and each user will have up to 6 months of access. An online information session about AIvLAB @ VISION is scheduled at May 29th, at 12pm.
Both laboratories reflect the commitment of the RNCA and the EuroCC2 project to promoting the adoption of advanced technologies and empowering research and innovation communities in Portugal. With the launch of these initiatives, a significant boost in collaboration and technological advancement is expected, as well as the demystification of access to these technologies.
In short, for those interested in taking advantage of the HPCvLAB will suffice contact one of the participating Competence Centers and request free access to HPCvLAB resources.
In the case of AIvLAB @ VISION Interested parties should complete the form available online.
For further clarification or more information on how to access, you can write to us at rnca@fccn.pt.