Virginia Tech's System X, built in 2003, was a notable supercomputer that utilized 1,100 Power Mac G5s to achieve a performance of 10 teraflops, ranking it as the third-fastest computer globally at the time. The project involved significant collaboration among students and faculty and was later upgraded to Xserve G5 servers, increasing its capabilities to 12.25 teraflops. This initiative has contributed to advancements in scientific research at the university.
Key facts
- Virginia Tech's System X was built in 2003 with 1,100 Power Mac G5s.
- The initial cost of System X was $5.2 million.
- System X achieved a performance of 10 teraflops upon completion.
- In 2004, System X was upgraded to Xserve G5 servers, reaching 12.25 teraflops.
- System X ranked as the third-fastest supercomputer in the world at its launch.
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