RHEA 1 and EPAC Drive EPI Advancement

At the recent EPI forum in Barcelona, it was evident that the European Processor Initiative (EPI) is steadily gaining momentum. While progress may not be as rapid as some would hope, significant strides are being made to transition from research concepts to tangible implementations in silicon. Notable examples of this progress include the RHEA 1 and the EPAC, which showcase the innovative developments within the initiative.

The RHEA 1 HPC microprocessor stands out as a key component in the ambitious goal of establishing a high-performance computing (HPC) system by 2028. This cutting-edge processor is equipped with 80 Arm Neoverse V1 cores, along with a sophisticated architecture that incorporates four High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) modules and four DDR5 modules. The capabilities of the RHEA 1 highlight the commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency in European processor technologies.

Another significant advancement showcased at the forum is the EPAC accelerator, which is built on the foundation of the RISC-V open architecture. This accelerator represents a crucial element in enhancing the processing power and capabilities of European supercomputers. By leveraging the flexibility and scalability of the RISC-V architecture, the EPAC accelerator is poised to drive innovation and performance in next-generation computing systems.

One of the primary objectives of the EPI is to contribute to the development of European supercomputer technologies. By fostering collaboration and innovation within the region, the initiative aims to strengthen the competitiveness and leadership of the European industry and scientific community in the global landscape. Through initiatives like the RHEA 1 and EPAC, the EPI is paving the way for the advancement of European microprocessors and accelerator technologies, positioning the region as a key player in the evolving field of high-performance computing.

In conclusion, the recent EPI forum in Barcelona showcased the significant progress being made in advancing European supercomputer technologies. With groundbreaking developments such as the RHEA 1 HPC microprocessor and the EPAC accelerator, the initiative is driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of performance in processor technologies. By focusing on key goals such as strengthening competitiveness, fostering collaboration, and developing cutting-edge technologies, the EPI is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-performance computing in Europe and beyond.