[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.6.5″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
Intel\u00ae CPUs power many of the computers we use today. These include everything from personal desktops and laptops, to high performance computing clusters that aggregate power to solve major global issues. So when choosing a suitable processor to build into our Nodegrid Serial Console, Intel was the obvious choice. In this post, we\u2019ll go over 7 reasons why we put Intel CPUs in the NSC.<\/p>\n
But before we get into the details, let\u2019s review some basics.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
There are mainly two types of CPUs, or processors, available today: x86 (such as Intel\u2019s offerings) and ARM. Though they serve a variety of purposes and can have some overlapping applications, x86 processors are typically deployed when speed & power are main concerns. Meanwhile, ARM processors are used in implementations geared toward minimizing power consumption and maximizing battery life.<\/p>\n
The way these types of processors work is based on their underlying instruction set. x86 CPUs take advantage of the Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC), which is able to process complex instructions that are crammed into a single line. ARM-based CPUs, on the other hand, use the Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC), which processes simple instructions over a span of multiple lines.<\/p>\n
As for the advantages, x86 processors are able to perform more tasks rapidly, while ARM processors are able to consume less power and maximize energy efficiency. The main drawbacks include more power consumption for the x86 CPU, and slower speeds for the ARM CPU.<\/p>\n
This is why purpose-built appliances, such as modems & routers, typically employ an ARM-based processor, while highly demanding devices such as desktops & servers use an x86 CPU.<\/p>\n
In a nutshell, this is why we chose the multi-core Intel CPU for the Nodegrid Serial Console. But here\u2019s a more detailed breakdown of the reasons for our choice.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”30px||30px||true|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
The Nodegrid Serial Console is designed to maximize speed and capabilities. Using x86 Intel CPUs, we created the world\u2019s fastest 1U serial console that doesn\u2019t compromise on performance. This processor allows for more simultaneous operations, more users, and more input\/output than ARM-based CPUs. In terms of real-world benefits, this blazing fast processor means quicker CPU cycles that help customers complete more tasks, reduce MTTR, and increase their ROI.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
Many existing servers use x86-based CPUs. Naturally, we wanted Nodegrid to integrate seamlessly for both users and developers. The Intel-based processor promises a common platform that these users are already accustomed to. They don\u2019t have to worry about application incompatibilities or slowdowns, nor do they have to spend time learning new systems. The x86 CPU provides a management and maintenance experience that users are familiar with, so they can maintain OS & application availability.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
Our Intel-based devices are a perfect platform to deploy custom solutions. The x86 CPU allows developers to benefit from a variety of readily-downloadable SDKs and environments. The Nodegrid Serial Console\u2019s SDK comes with Yocto, which means customers always have the latest updates, packages, and DIY customization capabilities. No more waiting for third-party fixes or workarounds, because customers can create solutions that meet their unique requirements.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
Because the x86 platform is capable of robust performance, Nodegrid allows users to leverage Docker containers and deploy virtualized solutions. With regards to Docker, the Nodegrid Serial Console is optimizable right out of the box so customers can get the most functionality out of a single device.\n<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
When it comes to open networking, the Intel CPU is the industry standard, which means customers get security patches as soon as they\u2019re available. They don\u2019t have to be left vulnerable waiting for third-party kernel patches from other chip makers. With an x86-based device, customers remain safe with up-to-date security, and in some cases can even apply patches before official updates are available.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
Part of designing a more powerful serial console was having the ability to support a variety of peripherals. The Nodegrid Serial Console features USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, allowing customers to connect an array of add-on devices. They\u2019re no longer limited by a single-purpose appliance that comes with minimal additional ports. With the NSC, customers can extend the box\u2019s functionality by adding cellular, Wi-Fi, storage, and other peripherals.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
With power and speed at the core of the Nodegrid Serial Console, we needed to incorporate enough drive space. We built the NSC with 32GB of storage, along with 4GB of RAM. Not only can it store plenty of data, but it also has a healthy amount of memory to accommodate running more apps and functions. And if 32GB isn\u2019t enough, customers can connect external drives via USB for even more local storage capacity.<\/p>\n
This list is made up of 7 compelling reasons why we chose x86 Intel CPUs for our devices. However, there\u2019s an 8th reason that we love to share\u2026<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″]<\/p>\n
By choosing the readily-available x86 CPU, we pass powerful processing along with cost savings to customers every day. Because we think having the world\u2019s best serial console shouldn\u2019t be prohibitively expensive.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”]<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/zpesystems.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Intel.jpg” alt=”Intel” title_text=”Intel” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”]<\/p>\n
Driving digital innovations and network transformation are visions we closely share with Intel. That\u2019s why ZPE Systems has been recognized as a Winners\u2019 Circle Member and Solution Plus Partner. Together, we offer go-to-market solutions that cultivate customer success and enrich our partner ecosystem with innovative networking technologies.<\/p>\n