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NVIDIA focuses on deep learning at GTC Asia South 2015

NVIDIA recently hosted its Asia South leg of GTC 2015 in Singapore, intended as a showcase of the role of GPUs in accelerating research and how they could be used to run deep learning algorithms.

Instead of focusing on gamer-centric technology, speakers from institutions and companies like Monash University and WeChat were there to talk about how deep learning and high performance computing (HPC) were helping them advance their respective agendas.

Marc Hamilton, VP, Solutions Architecture, NVIDIA, also talked about the real-world applications of deep learning in things like self-driving cars and image recognition. In a nutshell, deep learning involves using algorithms to emulate complex, model architectures. More often than not, these model architectures are artificial neural networks, and machines running these algorithms can be taught to do things like recognize pictures of cats, and respond on-the-fly to changing and unpredictable situations, as opposed to relying on a strict set of programmed responses.

For instance, automated driving systems that could power self-driving cars in the future could be taught to stay within the lane demarcations on roads, even if the lines have been obscured by things like snow.

GPUs are poised to power the future of deep learning. (Image Source: NVIDIA)
GPUs are poised to power the future of deep learning. (Image Source: NVIDIA)

In addition, NVIDIA also unveiled plans for a Deep Learning Technology Center in Singapore, the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific region. The center will be located at Nanyang Technological University, and has the support of the Economic Development Board (EDB). The center will leverage the capabilities of NVIDIA’s GPU platforms to help develop innovative solutions for both the private and public sectors.

NVIDIA announced plans to set up a Deep Learning Technology Center right here in Singapore. (Image Source: Hardwarezone Malaysia)
NVIDIA announced plans to set up a Deep Learning Technology Center right here in Singapore. (Image Source: Hardwarezone Malaysia)

NVIDIA intends to invest more than S$20 million in the center over a three-year period. On the cards are plans to deploy a broad range of NVIDIA technologies. For instance, the NVIDIA Drive PX platform for automated driver assistance systems and self-piloted vehicles and NVIDIA’s Tesla platform. The latter drives deep learning on leading public clouds the world over, in addition to some of the fastest supercomputers.

GPUs power deep learning for leading cloud services from the likes of Google, Baidu, Facebook, and Twitter. (Image Source: NVIDIA)
GPUs power deep learning for leading cloud services from the likes of Google, Baidu, Facebook, and Twitter. (Image Source: NVIDIA)

The center will dovetail with Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative. In addition to deep learning, the center will help develop solutions in intelligent video analytics and large-scale data analytics.

Source: Hardwarezone Malaysia