In a groundbreaking initiative, Australian researchers are on the verge of completing the construction of the world’s inaugural brain-scale computer, set to become operational next year. Named DeepSouth, this supercomputer is a collaborative effort between the International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS) in Sydney, Intel, and Dell, with its development taking place at Western Sydney University.
Diverging from conventional computing paradigms, DeepSouth’s distinctive feature lies in its hardware chips, specifically designed to implement spiking neural networks. These networks emulate the synaptic information processing mechanisms found in the human brain, offering a novel approach to computational architecture.
As reported by NewScientist on December 12, DeepSouth is poised to surpass its predecessors in the realm of neuromorphic computing. With a staggering capability of 228 trillion synaptic operations per second, this supercomputer aligns with the estimated synaptic operations occurring in the human brain, marking a significant leap in computational power.
While acknowledging that DeepSouth may not outpace existing supercomputers in raw computational power, Andre van Schaik, a member of ICNS and the project lead, emphasized its pivotal role in advancing the understanding of neuromorphic computing and biological brains. The objective is to enhance knowledge about the intricate workings of the brain, unraveling its exceptional cognitive capabilities. Schaik remarked, “We need this ability to better learn how brains work and how they do what they do so well.”
Ralph Etienne-Cummings from John Hopkins University, unaffiliated with the project, asserted that DeepSouth would accelerate scientific research by providing a platform for repeated testing of brain models. This, he suggested, positions the supercomputer as an invaluable tool for researchers delving into neuroscience and those seeking to prototype innovative solutions in artificial intelligence (AI).
Moreover, Etienne-Cummings anticipates that DeepSouth could usher in a new era of energy-efficient computing. The supercomputer’s unique design, inspired by the brain’s neural architecture, has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency of AI processes.
According to Western Sydney University’s statement, DeepSouth’s advantages extend beyond its computational prowess. The supercomputer promises super-fast, large-scale parallel processing while consuming minimal power. Its scalability allows for flexibility, accommodating the addition of more hardware to create expansive systems or scaling down for portable and cost-effective applications.
In summary, DeepSouth represents a groundbreaking leap in neuromorphic computing, poised to deepen our understanding of the brain, revolutionize AI, and pave the way for more energy-efficient computing solutions. As it prepares to go online, the world awaits the transformative impact of this extraordinary brain-scale supercomputer.
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