- Enhanced PacStar® 451-NR module now optimized with AVX-512 Vector Neural Network Instructions to support AI, 5G, and hyperconvergence solutions at the edge of the battlefield
Ashburn, Va . 26 September 2023 . Curtiss-Wright’s Defense Solutions division, a leading developer and supplier of advanced communications solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), has introduced an enhanced version of its popular PacStar 451-NR server module with Intel Xeon D-1700 (Ice Lake) processors (available in 4 and 8-core variants). This high-performance computing and network virtualization platform includes support for high-speed NVMe® storage and Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI) for remote management. When combined with Curtiss-Wright’s IQ-Core® Software, the module provides maximum visibility into network operations and management, speeding the deployment of applications at the edge, to ensure access to advanced technology, even in disconnected, intermittent, and limited (DIL) environments.
The single-slot module’s Intel Xeon D-1700 processors deliver 2x floating point processing performance with support for Intel’s AVX-512 Vector Neural Network Instructions (VNNI), making it ideal for addressing emerging requirements such as edge deployed AI and 5G communications acceleration. Complex AI workloads also benefit from the module’s support for Intel Deep Learning Boost (Intel DL Boost). For applications requiring GPU-class processing, Curtiss-Wright offers the PacStar 453 and PacStar 454 NVIDIA GPU enhanced server modules.
For system designers seeking high-performance, rugged solutions that support system hyperconvergence on the move at the tactical edge, the Ice Lake-powered PacStar 451-NR trulyhttps://www.curtisswrightds.com/products/networking-communications/pacstar/comms-hardware/packagingdelivers. It’s by far the most compute-dense server ever offered in a tactical rugged form factor, accelerating the deployment of new applications at the tactical edge or providing additional SWaP reduction for existing payloads. Continuing Curtiss-Wright’s leadership role as a supplier of advanced battlefield communications hardware, the enhanced, compact PacStar 451-NR server module enables customers to leverage Intel Xeon D-1700 performance (up to 8 cores) to handle demanding compute and networking applications in the field. With its remote management capability and super-fast, high-density NVMe storage, the PacStar 451-NR serves as the heart of a virtual network system and boosts the capabilities of Curtiss-Wright’s PacStar Modular Data Center (MDC) and CSfC cybersecurity offerings.
With built-in IPMI support, the PacStar 451-NR enables users to remotely set up and manage their tactical server hardware, greatly speeding ease of use and deployment. Media resources, such as DVDs, USB drives and ISO files, can be accessed using a remote keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) over IP networks, eliminating the need for the operator to be physically present.
Designed for optimal performance in harsh environments, the rugged server module also delivers the industry’s highest density support for high-speed NVMe storage, with two (2) NVMe drives (packaged in removable cartridges), each measuring only 1” x 2.5” and storing up to 4TB. An optional embedded 240GB NVMe “boot drive” is also available.
A wide variety of pre-loaded, pre-secured, and pre-qualified software applications or virtualized appliances appropriate for use in tactical C5ISR/EW applications are available for the PacStar 451-NR, including networking technologies from Aruba Networks, Cisco Systems, Forcepoint, Haivision, Information Security Corp, Juniper, Microsoft, Palo Alto Networks, Peraton Labs, RedHat, VMware, and more.
Capable of hosting a vast array of applications, virtualized network functions, storage, analytic and cybersecurity technologies, the PacStar 451-NR server module delivers industry-leading performance in a 2.7 lb., MIL-STD tested platform for flyaway, command post, ground vehicle and aircraft applications. The module can run standalone for rugged workstation applications paired with a rugged display, or it can be rapidly integrated into a larger PacStar 400-Series based packaging solution with support for up to nine PacStar 400-Series modules in a 4RU form factor. All PacStar 400-Series modules can also plug into the PacStar Smart Chassis, which supports a wide range of transportation and mounting options and can mount alongside other chassis from the PacStar product line, including the PacStar VPX Smart Chassis. Additional system packaging options for PacStar 400-Series modules include briefcase, transit case, rack mount, vehicle mount, and backpack transport.
