A new AI testing lab featuring Nvidia technology has opened in Stockport, Greater Manchester, as a significant development in the tech industry. The facility offers remote access to cutting-edge resources for developers. It will trial Nvidia’s latest advancements, including the Grace Hopper architecture. The UK government recently emphasised the critical importance of data centres. Investments in UK data infrastructure are attracting global tech giants.
A new artificial intelligence (AI) testing facility has been inaugurated in Stockport, employing advanced technology from Nvidia. This development marks a notable addition to the tech landscape of Greater Manchester, providing developers with the opportunity to ‘test drive’ state-of-the-art resources remotely. By allowing access to these cutting-edge technologies, the facility aims to facilitate thorough evaluations prior to investment.
The initiative, launched by Vespertec, includes Nvidia’s Grace Hopper architecture and SN5600 800GB/s ethernet switch, making it the first of its kind in Europe. Vespertec’s co-founder and director, Allan Kaye, stated, ‘We understand the complexities involved in adopting the latest solutions, which is why we’ve created this resource.’ This setup serves as both a pre-purchase evaluation tool and a post-implementation support mechanism, underscoring its role as a vital resource for developers.
Vesper Technologies, founded in 2014, is headquartered in Stockport and specialises in data centre infrastructure. The company is dedicated to the design and development of technologies essential to data centres’ functionality. This expertise underpins the technological advancement of the new facility. Stockport’s AI lab represents a strategic step in empowering developers through unprecedented access to pioneering technology.
The UK government recently highlighted the importance of data centres by designating them as ‘critical national infrastructure’. This move aligns with broader efforts to bolster British data capabilities, evidenced by recent investments from tech giants such as Microsoft and Google. These companies have announced new projects within the UK, reflecting confidence in the nation’s data infrastructure.
In a noteworthy development, a £3.7 billion data centre project in Hertfordshire has been proposed by DC01UK, a partnership between Griggs and Chiltern Green Energy. While the project remains in its nascent stages with no investors confirmed, it symbolises the growing commitment to enhancing the UK’s data infrastructure, further supported by government initiatives aimed at fostering technological growth.
The establishment of the AI lab in Stockport, leveraging Nvidia’s technology, is a pivotal enhancement to the UK’s data technology landscape, offering vital resources for evaluation and innovation.
