KDDI Starts Discussions to establish the Largest AI Data Center in Asia
―Introducing NVIDIA's state-of-the-art AI computing―
KDDI Corporation
KDDI is delighted to announce that on June 2, 2024, KDDI, Super Micro Computer Inc. (headquarters: California, USA, President & Chief Executive Officer: Charles Liang, "Supermicro"), Sharp Corporation (headquarters: Sakai City, Osaka, President & Chief Executive Officer: Robert Wu, "Sharp"), and Datasection Inc. (headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Representative Director: Shinichi Iwata, "Datasection") agreed to commence discussions to establish the largest AI data center in Asia (the "Agreement") [
1]. Based on the Agreement, the four companies will begin discussions, with the aim of starting operations as early as possible, regarding the construction of AI data center (the "AI Data Center") on the site of the former Sharp Sakai Plant, equipped with state-of-the-art AI computing platform, GB200 NVL72,etc, supplied by NVIDIA (headquarters: California, USA , President & Chief Executive Officer: Jensen Huang, "NVIDIA").
■Background
As AI technology is evolving at an ever-accelerating pace, there is a need to establish AI data centers that can handle the rapidly-increasing volume of data processed by AI. However, constructing a data center with a large-scale AI computing platform presents three key challenges: procuring state-of-the-art computing equipment; developing a highly-efficient cooling system to manage heat generation; and securing electric power and space. In this endeavor, we will leverage the combined assets of the partner companies to build an AI data center that can effectively and efficiently address these challenges.
■Approach for Construction of the AI Data Center
The four companies will collaborate to construct the AI data center on the site of the former Sharp Sakai Plant, with the goal of commencing operations as early as possible. We are considering the construction of an AI computing platform equipped with NVIDIA's state-of-the-art GB200 NVL72 etc., and will discuss Supermicro's provision of a platform capable of managing heat generation efficiently. We expect that the former Sharp Sakai Plant will be able to provide adequate electric power and space to support the AI data center's electricity needs. Datasection will support the operation of AI data center. KDDI will provide robust support this project through the construction and operation of AI data center and network infrastructure.
KDDI has launched "WAKONX" (wakon-cross), a new business platform for AI era which provides networks and AI services optimized for each industry, to realize "KDDI VISION 2030: The creation of a society in which anyone can make their dreams a reality, by enhancing the power to connect." Through the establishing the AI Data Center, KDDI aims to collaborate with business partners across various fields and industries to build a sustainable society, thereby contributing to the revitalization of the entire Japanese economy.
- [1]It is assumed that NVIDIA shall supply an estimated quantity of 1,000 units of GB200 NVL72.
- *The information contained in the articles is current at the time of publication.
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