DriveNets and Accton Technology Unveil AI Networking Solution
In a major advancement for AI networking, DriveNets and Accton Technology have introduced an innovative open Ethernet solution that integrates DriveNets Network Cloud-AI software with cutting-edge white boxes from Accton featuring Broadcom's Jericho-3-AI and Ramon-3 DDC scheduled fabric architecture.
Key Features of the New Solution
This groundbreaking solution is designed to efficiently support AI and machine learning clusters, accommodating up to 32,000 GPUs linked via 800Gbps interfaces. The architecture, based on the OCP DDC (Distributed Disaggregated Chassis), offers unparalleled scalability, rapid deployment, and the ability to adapt as a business expands. The efficacy of this solution has been validated through successful proof of concepts with Tier 1 AI clients.
Strong Demand in the Market
Ryan Donnelly, the Chief Operating Officer of DriveNets, stressed the increasing demand for Broadcom's ASICs among companies building expansive AI clusters. He noted that these companies desire diverse hardware options without sacrificing performance capabilities. The collaboration enables customers to pursue an open Ethernet-based AI networking alternative to InfiniBand without any degradation in performance.
Accton Technology’s Expertise
Mike Wong, Accton’s Head of Product Management, highlighted Accton’s rich experience in engineering and design, mentioning that they have shipped millions of units to date. The latest open networking white box switches are currently showcased at a significant industry event and demonstrate the reliability necessary for modern AI infrastructures. DriveNets' flexible operating system complements the performance of the Accton white boxes, facilitating elastic network growth utilizing a Distributed Disaggregated Chassis topology.
Details on the New White Boxes
The recently launched Accton white boxes include:
- NCP-5 (Accton ASA926-18XKE), which utilizes Broadcom's Jericho-3-AI ASIC and supports 18 network ports of 800Gbps alongside 20 fabric ports of 800Gbps.
- NCF-2 (Accton AS9936-128D), based on Broadcom's Ramon-3 ASIC and capable of supporting 128 fabric ports of 800Gbps.
Before their introduction to the market, these white boxes underwent extensive testing in Accton’s laboratories. Their performance was evaluated using a combination of NCP-5, NCF-2 configurations, Spirent's AI workload emulation solution, and Intel Gaudi servers within a 32 GPU cluster running advanced AI models. The test outcomes indicated over a 30% improvement in Job Completion Time (JCT) when compared to traditional Ethernet Clos architectures, underscoring the advantages of their architecture over competitors.
Insights from Spirent's Innovative Testing Solutions
The pioneering AI workload emulation solution from Spirent simulates real-world AI traffic patterns using RoCEv2 transport and features integrated Collective Communications Library (CCL) support, enabling the identification of potential issues that could contribute to network bottlenecks and inefficiencies. This enhances the validation process of AI infrastructures by providing repeatable testing and valuable metrics.
Upcoming Presentations at Industry Events
As part of their commitment to advancing AI networking solutions, DriveNets and Accton will present their findings at an upcoming industry summit. They will share insights related to both the performance tests and the general capabilities of the new Ethernet-based AI networking solution.
About DriveNets
DriveNets stands at the forefront of high-scale disaggregated networking solutions. Since its inception in 2015, the company has redefined networking strategies for service and cloud providers, promoting streamlined operations and enhanced network performance across diverse environments, from core to edge.
About Accton Technology
Accton Technology Corporation is recognized as a premier provider of networking solutions, collaborating with leading partners to design and manufacture cutting-edge network products. Their commitment to innovation allows them to cater to various market segments through superior virtual network solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main innovation in the new solution from DriveNets and Accton?
The introduction of open Ethernet white boxes powered by Broadcom's advanced ASICs significantly enhances AI networking capabilities, offering scalable performance for extensive GPU clusters.
How does this solution compare to traditional methods?
The solution provides an high-performance alternative to InfiniBand, allowing for diverse hardware use without compromising network efficiency and productivity.
Who conducted the rigorous testing for the white boxes?
The white boxes underwent thorough evaluation conducted by Accton in their specialized laboratories, utilizing Spirent's AI workload emulation tools and Intel Gaudi servers.
What are some benefits of using this networking solution?
The key benefits include enhanced scalability, reduced deployment times, and performance improvements exceeding traditional Ethernet solutions.
What industries could benefit from this new AI networking approach?
Hyperscalers, enterprise networks, and companies involved in AI development can gain significant advantages through this open networking architecture.
