The US government is auctioning off the once-mighty Cheyenne supercomputer, offering a chance to own a powerful piece of tech history. While not the top performer anymore, this decommissioned system boasts impressive processing capabilities and could find new life in research or specialized applications.
The US government is holding an auction for a piece of technological history – the Cheyenne supercomputer. This once-mighty machine, previously ranked 20th most powerful in the world, is now available through the General Services Administration.
While its peak performance may not rival the current top supercomputers, the Cheyenne remains a formidable computational force. With over 145,000 CPU cores and 313 terabytes of memory, it significantly contributed to advancements in atmospheric and Earth system sciences research during its operational years.
Initially planned for a five-year service, the Cheyenne’s lifespan extended due to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions. Now, with some cooling system issues and a portion of its nodes requiring repair, it’s time for this supercomputer to find a new owner.
Starting at $2,500 (current bid: $27,643 as of this writing), potential buyers can potentially acquire this computational marvel. However, be prepared for a significant logistical undertaking – the Cheyenne comprises massive racks and components, each weighing thousands of pounds.
This auction presents a unique opportunity for research institutions, technology enthusiasts, or those seeking powerful computational resources. While not for the faint of heart or those lacking ample space, the Cheyenne offers a chance to own a piece of supercomputing history and potentially repurpose its components for specialized applications.
It’s important to note that the extensive cabling is not included in the auction. Potential buyers should ensure they have the necessary fiber optic and CAT5/6 connections to utilize this computational powerhouse.
