Tech

Bridging the Gap between Processing Speeds and other Computing Components

Published

3 years ago

January 19, 2022

A peripheral component interconnect (PCI) is a hardware interface that allows for connecting peripheral devices to an already existing computer. Initially, computers came with several inbuilt PCI slots but could not hold for long as with time, computers came with more control circuits packed onto the motherboard chipsets.

PCI cards have been designed to carry out various computing functions. Examples include connecting network, video and sound cards to the motherboard. They can host up to 5 devices at a time and come with a fixed bandwidth of only 32 bits.

They however have one major drawback holding them back. This is that, in as much as the other devices, such as sound cards, video cards, and processors, are attached to it, the PCI has had little to no change over the years.

The Need for PCI Express

A newer version of PCI known as the PCI Express seeks to eliminate that very problem. A PCIe is basically used to connect very high speed components to the motherboard to complement the installed powerful processors. Desktops have in them a couple of PCIe slots built onto their motherboards for the purposes of adding other devices such as the graphics processing units. A host of other add-on cards that could go into these include solid state drives, Wi-Fi cards and RAID cards.

PCIe cards have on them lanes, which are how data is transmitted in and out of the PCIe card. They are classified by how many lanes a card has. This is denoted by an x and then followed by the number of lanes present.

For example, you could have a variation of x4 and x16, among others. A PCIe x4 card thus has 4 lanes and has the ability to transmit data at four bits per cycle. The greater the number after the x the more the bandwidth and frequency of data transfer of the said card.

One key difference between the PCIe and the PCI, is that it encompasses a switched architecture with the ability to run up to 32 separate serial lanes unlike the shared bus which the PCI uses. The serial lanes use the parallel mode of data transmission and each individual lane is full duplex and has its own clock.

What Are Accelerator Cards?

Accelerator cards are a special type of cards that are dedicated for the purposes of expansion. They are thus meant to accelerate specific workloads. These are plugged in through the PCIe slots and are categorized as standard PCIe devices by the inbuilt processor.

Instructions can be passed onto the accelerator cards with the effect of performing various operations by the commanding programs. Such programs are usually embedded by the card manufacturer in the form of hardware specific library code. Once the card is done computing it then relays the results to the host processor.

Why We Need Them

With the onset of new technologies such as 5G networks, more components have been interconnected now more than ever. This has pushed for more power needs for more solutions to existential problems such as the need for more storage and thus the increased demand for cloud storage services.

This in turn has pushed over the roof, demand for increased computing performance especially on sites such as servers and data processing units and centres.

Accelerator cards offer such advantages as flexibility, ease of system configuration, ability to carry out high speed parallel computing while still maintaining low latency and keeping the development cycle short.

How Do They Work?

Accelerator cards are powered almost exclusively by ASIC chips (application-specific integrated circuit) which can also be referred to as accelerators. They are, at their very base level, integrated circuits that have been designed to perform specialized tasks.

The IC mostly comes as a combination of an Analog circuit, an amplifier, a denoising circuit and a digital block such as registers and arithmetic logic units (ALUs) as well as memory blocks.

They make use of discrete signals for a digital plane and continuous signals for an Analog one.

These chips may have numerous applications but at their core level are used mainly to control other electronic devices and how they will function. The metal oxide semiconductor technology is used to fabricate them. Their complexity and the level of functionality have increased significantly especially owing to the fact that there has been a downwards trend in feature sizes and improvements in design tools.

Seeing as these chips are dedicated to one or a group of functions, they execute workloads way faster and efficiently as compared to their counterparts, the general purpose processors.

These operations are therefore accelerated on the card as opposed to if they were being carried out on a general purpose processor. The accelerator is incorporated with specialized logic that enables it to perform the said complex operations more efficiently.

Examples of accelerator cards include AI accelerator cards, PCIe accelerator cards, cryptographic accelerator cards, programmable accelerator cards and graphics accelerator cards. We shall discuss the first two that I have listed below.

Where AI comes in

AI accelerators can be defined as a specially designed hardware accelerator which has been specifically crafted to accelerate machine learning and artificial intelligence applications in general.

These applications also extend to computer vision and artificial intelligence neural networks. AN networks mostly fall under the realms of deep learning (DL). Examples of these applications include the implementation of algorithms for internet of things (IoT), robotics and carrying out automated tasks.

These types of accelerators make use of techniques such as optimized memory use and lower precision arithmetic, which have the effect of increasing computational throughput and accelerating calculations.

Optimized memory employs algorithms that analyse the use of an external memory model, also referred to as an I/O model or a disk access model. It forms an abstraction which performs the same as a Random Access Memory (RAM) machine model but has an added cache memory on top of the main memory already in place.

This method harnesses the speed by which data can be retrieved from the cache memory block. Read and write operations are also performed much faster as compared to doing the same tasks in main memory. A common metric used in measuring the performance of an algorithm is the running time. It is defined as the number of read and write operations to an external memory.

Low precision arithmetic makes use of floating point values which are denoted by very few bits known as mini floats. These are specialized for specific functions and thus do not fare well where general purpose numerical arithmetic operations are being carried out. These specific functions, which mostly fall under computer graphics, require that the iterations are small. Machine learning techniques also make use of these with such formats as the bfloat16.

PCIe Accelerator Cards

These are an answer to the current huge demands and thus rely on the availability of PCIe interfaces for plugging in accelerator cards. These slots then make it possible to accomplish all of the above with the goal of handling processor workloads by trying to meet the required data processing bandwidth.

Accelerators cards have slots on them which have been specifically PCIe standardized. These, however , pose a challenge as the size of the accelerator boards are fixed and cannot be expanded.

Business Solutions

Geneo Glam: Skin Firming Treatment for Radiant, Youthful Skin

Geneo Glam is the ultimate skin firming treatment designed to restore elasticity, enhance radiance, and leave you with a glowing, youthful complexion.

Published

14 hours ago

May 9, 2025

Marks Strand

The Geneo Glam skin firming treatment is a luxurious, non-invasive facial that revitalizes the skin by improving firmness, elasticity, and hydration. Using advanced OxyPod technology, this treatment delivers a unique combination of exfoliation, oxygenation, and infusion of active ingredients to help the skin look smoother, tighter, and more radiant.

Key Benefits

Firms and Hydrates
The treatment boosts collagen and elastin production, helping skin feel firmer and more supple.
Improves Elasticity
Increases the skin’s resilience and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Prevents Collagen Breakdown
Helps preserve the skin’s youthful structure by protecting existing collagen and supporting healthy cell function.

Powerful Natural Ingredients

24K Gold Particles
Stimulate collagen production, protect skin fibers, and encourage cell renewal for a firmer, lifted appearance.
Silk Amino Acids
Strengthen the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and support collagen synthesis to reduce visible signs of aging.
Carnosine Peptides
Help protect the skin from sugar-related damage (glycation), delay cellular aging, and extend the life of skin cells.
Copper
An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that supports collagen development, smooths fine lines, and helps with skin regeneration.

How the Treatment Works

Exfoliation and Oxygenation
The Geneo Glam OxyPod is activated with a Primer Gel, gently exfoliating the skin and triggering a natural oxygenation process that increases blood flow and enhances skin vitality.
Infusion of Actives
Active ingredients such as gold particles, peptides, and amino acids are infused deep into the skin to firm and rejuvenate.
Hydration and Nourishment
A final serum containing hyaluronic acid, rosehip oil, and marula oil hydrates and soothes the skin, leaving it soft and glowing.

Who Should Try Geneo Glam?

This treatment is ideal for people who want to:

Reduce fine lines and early signs of aging
Firm and tighten sagging skin
Restore hydration and improve skin tone

Geneo Glam offers a refreshing way to firm, lift, and hydrate your skin—leaving you with a youthful glow and smooth, resilient skin. It’s a perfect solution for anyone seeking visible results without invasive procedures or downtime.

Business Solutions

H.265 miniature UAV encoders: A comprehensive Overview

H.265 miniature UAV encoders revolutionize aerial technology with advanced video compression, ensuring high efficiency and superior performance for modern UAV systems.

Published

2 days ago

May 8, 2025

Adva

As the demand for high-quality, real-time video transmission from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) continues to rise in both military and commercial applications, the need for efficient, compact video encoding solutions has become paramount. H.265 miniature UAV encoders represent a significant advancement in this space, providing robust video compression in a small, lightweight package ideal for drones with stringent size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints. Leveraging the power of High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), also known as H.265, these encoders allow UAVs to deliver high-resolution video over constrained data links, enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness without overwhelming available bandwidth.

H.265 is a video compression standard that succeeds H.264/AVC and offers approximately double the data compression ratio at the same video quality level. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for UAV applications, where bandwidth and power availability are limited, especially during beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) missions or in contested environments. With H.265 encoders, UAVs can stream 1080p or even 4K encoder video in real time while consuming significantly less data than older standards. This is critical for operations such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), where maintaining video clarity over long distances or through relay networks is essential for accurate decision-making.

Miniature H.265 UAV encoders are engineered to operate under harsh environmental conditions while maintaining optimal performance. These devices are typically ruggedized, featuring extended temperature ranges, shock resistance, and electromagnetic shielding to ensure reliable operation in military or field environments. Despite their small size—often no larger than a deck of cards—they include advanced features such as low-latency encoding, dynamic bitrate control, encryption, and support for multiple streaming protocols including RTSP, RTP, and MPEG-TS. This allows them to integrate seamlessly into existing command-and-control infrastructure and support a variety of end-user applications, from real-time ground monitoring to autonomous navigation and object tracking.

H.265 miniature UAV encoders

The integration of H.265 encoders into small UAVs has significantly expanded the capability of tactical drone systems. For example, military units can deploy hand-launched drones equipped with these encoders to provide persistent ISR coverage over a battlefield, transmitting clear, actionable video intelligence back to command centers in near real time. Law enforcement agencies and border security forces also benefit from these technologies, using UAVs to monitor large or remote areas with minimal personnel. In disaster response scenarios, such encoders enable drones to deliver live aerial assessments of affected regions, helping responders prioritize actions and coordinate relief efforts efficiently.

Beyond video transmission, modern H.265 UAV encoders are increasingly integrated with onboard artificial intelligence modules that enable edge processing. This allows UAVs to perform real-time object recognition, motion detection, and scene analysis directly within the encoder, reducing the need to send raw data to centralized systems for processing. Such capabilities are crucial in time-sensitive missions where latency can affect outcomes, such as tracking moving targets or identifying threats in complex terrain.

Despite their many advantages, the deployment of H.265 miniature encoders does come with some technical considerations. The encoding process, while more efficient than previous standards, requires higher computational resources. Manufacturers must therefore strike a careful balance between processing power, thermal management, and energy consumption. Additionally, the compatibility of H.265 streams with legacy systems remains a factor, as not all ground stations or video players natively support HEVC decoding without updates or specialized software.

Manufacturers of H.265 miniature UAV encoders include companies such as IMT Vislink, Soliton Systems, Haivision, and VITEC, all of which provide solutions tailored to UAV and robotics applications. These encoders are often modular, allowing integrators to select configurations based on mission requirements, payload limitations, and transmission needs. As the ecosystem of compact, high-efficiency video systems grows, continued innovation in low-power silicon and AI integration is expected to drive the next wave of capability enhancements in this field.

In the evolving landscape of drone technology, H.265 miniature UAV encoders stand out as a critical enabler of high-performance video transmission. By combining advanced compression with minimal SWaP impact, these systems provide UAV operators with the tools to observe, analyze, and act with unprecedented precision and clarity—no matter how small the platform or how demanding the environment.

Business Solutions

IEEE 802.11p and V2X Communication: Enabling Smarter, Safer Roads

IEEE 802.11p revolutionizes V2X communication, driving smarter, safer roads through advanced vehicle connectivity. This cutting-edge technology enhances transportation systems, enabling intelligent and secure interactions for a safer future.

Published

2 days ago

May 7, 2025

Adva

Modern vehicles are no longer isolated machines; they are becoming intelligent, connected nodes within a larger transportation ecosystem. At the heart of this transformation is Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, which enables cars to talk to each other and to the infrastructure around them. One of the first and most influential technologies developed to support V2X is the IEEE 802.11p standard—a wireless standard specifically tailored for vehicular environments.

What is IEEE 802.11p?

IEEE 802.11p is an amendment to the IEEE 802.11 standard (commonly known as Wi-Fi), designed to enable wireless access in vehicular environments. It was approved in 2010 and forms the basis for Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC).

Key Characteristics of 802.11p:

Frequency Band: Operates in the 5.9 GHz band reserved for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).
Low Latency: Optimized for fast, real-time communication necessary for safety-critical applications.
Range: Effective communication range of up to 1 kilometer, suitable for high-speed vehicle interaction.
Decentralized Architecture: Enables direct communication (V2V and V2I) without the need for cellular or network infrastructure.
Robustness: Handles high-speed mobility and rapidly changing topologies typical of vehicular environments.

Role of 802.11p in V2X Communication

V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) is a broader term encompassing various communication paradigms, including:

V2V (Vehicle-to-Vehicle)
V2I (Vehicle-to-Infrastructure)
V2P (Vehicle-to-Pedestrian)
V2N (Vehicle-to-Network)
V2C (Vehicle-to-Cloud)

802.11p primarily supports V2V and V2I communications, forming the backbone of DSRC-based V2X implementations. Its low latency and direct communication capabilities make it ideal for applications such as:

Forward collision warnings
Intersection movement assist
Emergency electronic brake lights
Lane change warnings

Comparison with Cellular V2X (C-V2X)

As V2X technology has evolved, C-V2X (based on LTE and 5G standards) has emerged as a strong alternative to 802.11p. Here’s how they compare:

Feature	IEEE 802.11p (DSRC)	C-V2X (LTE/5G)
Latency	~10 ms	~5–10 ms (LTE), <5 ms (5G)
Coverage	Short-range, direct	Short + long-range via network
Deployment	Mature, field-tested	Growing, especially with 5G
Infrastructure	Minimal (no cellular needed)	Requires cellular networks (for V2N/V2C)
Interoperability	Limited with C-V2X	Newer versions support dual-mode

Adoption and Use Cases

Global Deployment:

United States: Initially favored DSRC based on 802.11p, though recent FCC rulings have shifted focus toward C-V2X.
Europe: ETSI has defined ITS-G5, a protocol stack based on 802.11p.
Japan and South Korea: Active use of DSRC for tolling and traffic safety.

Real-World Applications:

Collision avoidance systems
Smart intersections
Road hazard notifications
Platooning for commercial vehicles
Public transport priority systems

Advantages of 802.11p

Mature and Proven: Used in numerous pilot programs and early deployments.
Fast Time to Communication: No need for handshake protocols; devices can communicate almost instantly.
No Subscription Costs: Operates independently of cellular networks.

Limitations and Challenges

Scalability: In high-density traffic, packet collisions may reduce reliability.
Spectrum Allocation: Regulatory changes in some countries have limited the bandwidth available to DSRC.
Limited Ecosystem Growth: Many automakers and countries are shifting investment to C-V2X and 5G-based platforms.

Future Outlook

While 802.11p has laid the foundation for V2X communication, the industry is gradually pivoting toward more advanced and scalable technologies such as 5G NR-V2X. However, 802.11p remains relevant in regions where DSRC infrastructure is already deployed and continues to serve as a dependable option for immediate, low-latency vehicular communication.

Hybrid Solutions:

Some industry players are exploring dual-mode V2X devices that support both 802.11p and C-V2X, ensuring backward compatibility and smoother transitions.

IEEE 802.11p has played a pivotal role in launching the era of connected vehicles, offering reliable, low-latency communication tailored for high-speed mobility. While newer technologies like C-V2X and 5G are beginning to dominate the roadmap, 802.11p’s contributions remain foundational in the evolution of V2X systems. As the automotive industry moves forward, a mix of technologies, including legacy support for 802.11p, will ensure that safety, efficiency, and connectivity continue to advance on roads around the world.