Artificial intelligence is increasingly finding its way onto the shop floor. From smart cameras and robots to industrial automation and vehicles: AI helps organisations make processes faster, smarter and more efficient. At the same time, there is growing interest in edge AI, where data is processed directly on machines, vehicles and other systems. Fifty-four per cent of Dutch companies now regard this technology as a key development for the coming years. This is according to recent research by reichelt elektronik.
This development also brings new challenges. For example, 35 per cent of Dutch industrial SMEs cite inadequate IT infrastructure as a barrier to the deployment of artificial intelligence. In addition, 31 per cent state that existing machines are not designed for AI-supported automation. As a result, the focus is shifting increasingly from software to the underlying infrastructure. The question is no longer just what artificial intelligence can do, but also what hardware is needed to run AI applications reliably, efficiently and at scale.
According to Sven Pannewitz, Product Manager for Development Boards & Vehicle Accessories at reichelt elektronik, this development is reflected in a growing demand for specialised hardware suitable for artificial intelligence.
Significant computing power
AI applications require significant computing power, sufficient memory and a reliable infrastructure. This is certainly true when applications are not only run in data centres but are deployed directly on-site, for example in machines, vehicles or industrial installations. This requires powerful hardware optimised for artificial intelligence.
Key technology
AI boards play a key role in this. These are specialised processor or edge boards developed specifically for AI applications. They combine high computing power, a compact design and energy efficiency in a form suitable for a wide range of applications.
Whether it’s industrial automation, robotics, smart vehicles or IoT solutions: wherever data needs to be processed in real time and decisions need to be made instantly, the importance of AI boards is growing.
From experiment to application
More and more organisations are looking beyond experiments and pilot schemes and want to actually implement artificial intelligence in their day-to-day processes. At the same time, the barriers to entry are falling. The cost of AI-compatible boards has fallen in recent years, whilst performance continues to improve. As a result, the technology is becoming more attractive not only to large enterprises, but also to SMEs.
New generations
The technology itself is also developing rapidly. New generations of hardware are more powerful and flexible than their predecessors and can support a wide range of applications. At the same time, it is becoming easier to integrate AI solutions into existing systems, making the step from pilot to implementation a smaller one.
Performance and efficiency
Alongside performance, efficiency is playing an increasingly important role. Due to rising energy costs and stricter sustainability requirements, organisations are taking a more critical look at the energy consumption of their IT infrastructure. Modern AI boards offer a significant advantage in this regard: they combine high performance with relatively low energy consumption.
Reliable partners
Furthermore, successful projects utilising artificial intelligence require not only the right products, but also reliable partners. Distributors play a key role in this by giving companies access to a wide range of AI hardware and offering support in choosing the right solution. This is particularly relevant in a market that continues to face supply chain challenges and occasional chip shortages.
Configuration solutions and starter kits
In addition, starter kits and pre-configured solutions help companies get started with artificial intelligence more quickly. They shorten development times, minimise integration risks and make it easier to put new applications into practice.
Not a luxury, but a prerequisite
At the same time, the new hardware also presents challenges. Not every solution is suitable for every application, and the availability of specific chips and components remains a concern. This is precisely why it is important to consider the hardware strategy behind artificial intelligence projects at an early stage.
The right technological foundation
AI is increasingly seen as a strategic investment. But anyone wishing to derive lasting value from it must look beyond software alone. Data, expertise and algorithms are important, but without the right technological foundation, much of the potential remains untapped.
Source: Reichelt Elektronik
Image: Image by Gerd Altmann via Pixabay
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