HP Project Moonshot – going that extra mile

The IT companies understand the significance of server systems based on the ARM architecture. The processors built with this architecture use a simplified technology that lets them to operate on very low power. Such processors have a strategic place in the development of mobile and embedded electronics to facilitate cheaper, yet reliable product options in the market.

For quite some time, ARM-based microprocessors and microcontrollers have been used in a variety of consumer electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, digital media players, portable gaming consoles, routers, etc. However, the companies are now looking forward to develop ARM-based server systems, especially for infrastructure related to cloud computing. In such context, HP recently took up an initiative toward developing the first ARM-based server system for commercial use.

HP recognized this opportunity as soon as the Austin-based firm Calxeda announced the availability of its first ARM-based chips, EnergyCore ECX-1000. The release can facilitate the development of ultra-low power servers as the processor consumes just 1.5 watts of energy. To put its vision to task, HP has launched a trial program in this line, declared as Project Moonshot. The project is dedicated to applications that run on a larger scale. It is estimated that the Project Moonshot would facilitate a requirement of 89 per cent lesser energy and utilize just one-tenth of the space. As an outcome, the initiative can lead to the cost reduced by up to 63 per cent. It would also prove to be an advantageous alternate for web companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, etc. that use the conventional x86 processors. These x86 processors are not only expensive but also consume high power.

To start with, HP has already developed a 7-inch prototype server (Redstone) that is said to be capable of generating an overall output equivalent to around 700 conventional servers. The server integrates 288 EnergyCore chips. With a fast-track vision as this one, HP might soon come up with a trendsetting innovation in IT industry.

Click here to visit the HP Moonshot webpage.