Is there really a need for computing resources out in the extreme wilderness? Maybe.
According to IDC the infrastructure industry is in a state of transition, driven by disruptive trends such as cloud, hyperscale, artificial intelligence, silicon heterogeneity, blockchain, social media, and mobility.
Fuelled by the incoming 5G connectivity platform, edge computing for Internet of Things (IoT) is “expected to bring some possible advantages for many IoT deployments, as compared to using the cloud to store and process data. For instance, many IoT processors deliver an increased level of automation at the edge resulting in low latency for rapid data processing.”
At least that is what Grand View Research is predicting will happen.
But all that potential needs to have computing technology near the source in order to be responsive and relevant.
Dell EMC seems to think this is a trend as well. The company has launched a ruggedized version of its VxRail systems that it claims answer the call for power and simplicity in the most challenging and space-constrained edge environments.
“More data is being created at the edge, and more companies are moving their data management infrastructure closer to where data is created. But sometimes the edge is a 100-degree rooftop, not a temperature-controlled traditional data centre,” said Tom Burns, senior vice president and general manager, Dell Technologies Integrated Products & Solutions.
In referring to the new ruggedized VxRail systems, he opined that “location and conditions don’t matter.”
The new ruggedized VxRail D Series is purported to be able to withstand extreme temperatures, sustain up to 40G of operational shock and operate at up to 15,000 feet. Not that there are many applications that call for a server in the Himalayas or next to a live volcano or even traveling at the speed of Voyager One – 17 kilometres per second.
Dell claims the new D Series is for applications in edge locations where resilient infrastructure is critical, such as the implementation of a data centre at remote sites, onboard ships at sea or equipped in aircrafts.
It cites manufacturing, industrial, and oil and gas environments where conditions create a technical challenge or space is at a premium.
On the software side, the latest version of VxRail HCI System Software helps streamline updates with the ability to run pre-upgrade health checks on demand and cloud-based management and orchestration, enabling every VxRail cluster to be maintained throughout its lifecycle, regardless of location.
“For organisations looking to simplify operations and keep their infrastructure in check while driving towards their digital transformation goals, automating lifecycle management is vital to lightening the load for IT teams. This allows them to focus more on revenue generating or transformational opportunities. VxRail and the latest updates to the VxRail HCI System Software give IT teams the automated tools they need to become more efficient, reduce downtime and operational costs, and deliver real value to the business,” said Bob Laliberte, senior analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group.
