AI’s hunger for computing power grows quickly. This means huge data centers are needed. Running them can be costly and use much energy. Cisco Systems, a U.S. tech company, just released a new network chip. It’s called the P200. This chip aims to tackle these challenges.
The P200 isn’t for direct AI number-crunching. Instead, it’s a super-connector. Think of it as a specialized bridge. It links many different AI data centers together. This way, they can all work as if they were one giant computer. This setup is perfect for training complex AI systems.
Cisco’s Executive Vice President, Martin Lund, explained the chip’s impressive reach. He noted the P200 can connect data centers located thousands of miles apart. That’s like linking facilities on opposite sides of a continent. This capability means companies can spread out their AI infrastructure without losing efficiency.
The P200 also brings significant power savings. Cisco says one P200 chip can do the work of 92 older chips. This switch cuts down energy use by a whopping 65%. That’s a huge win for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint and operating costs.
Big players in the tech world are already on board. Microsoft and Alibaba are among the main customers for the P200. This new chip will compete with similar products from companies like Broadcom. Cisco is clearly making a strong play in the AI infrastructure space.