The National Network for Advanced Computing (RNCA) announces the launch of two innovative virtual laboratories, the main objective of which is to drive innovation in both High Performance Computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). RNCA invites anyone interested in finding out more about the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Laboratory to attend an online information session on May 29 at 12 noon.
Supported by RNCA's Operational Centers and Competence Centers, a pilot project was born for a virtual High Performance Computing laboratory, called HPCvLAB. HPCvLab aims to provide an accessible and educational environment for users with no previous experience in HPC.
By providing an initial package of HPC computing resources, HPCvLAB empowers potential future users, allowing them to explore and take advantage of the benefits of high-performance computing. This access to high-performance computing resources for training and knowledge development is supported by five Competence Centers with a presence 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:
- Users with no previous experience in HPC are encouraged to explore this computing environment with the necessary support for learning.
- Testing of HPC tools in pilot projects in the industry and public administration sectors, in line with the objectives of the EuroCC2 project, promoting innovation and technological development.
- Support for teachers on master's and doctoral courses, enabling them to access HPC resources for research and teaching.
- RNCA and EuroCC2 project initiatives, 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 to promote the use of Artificial Intelligence resources was named AIvLAB and is centered on the VISION platform, a machine from the University of Évora specially designed for Artificial Intelligence work on machine learning algorithms. This virtual AI laboratory aims to boost the use of AI techniques in the research and innovation communities, offering resources and support for experimentation and development of AI and Machine Learning projects.
This laboratory aims to meet the following requirements:
- Supporting inexperienced users and candidates CPCA candidates who want to test AI tools on GPUs;
- Testing AI tools in pilot projects in the industry and public administration sectors;
- Supporting AI training within the scope of EuroCC2, as well as welcoming teachers from courses taught at HEIs who request resources to test AI tools and algorithms with GPUs.
This 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 on AIvLAB @ VISION is scheduled for May 29 at 12 noon.
Both laboratories reflect the commitment of RNCA and the EuroCC2 project to promoting the adoption of advanced technologies and empowering the 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, those interested in taking advantage of HPCvLAB simply need to contact one of the participating Competence Centers and request free access to HPCvLAB's resources.
In the case of AIvLAB @ VISION , those interested should fill in the form available online.
For further clarification or more information on how to access it, you can write to us at rnca@fccn.pt.
