What is the Cray-1 computer?

Cray-1. The Cray-1 was a supercomputer designed, manufactured and marketed by Cray Research. Announced in 1975, the first Cray-1 system was installed at Los Alamos National Laboratory in 1976. Eventually, over 100 Cray-1’s were sold, making it one of the most successful supercomputers in history.

What was the size of the Cray-1?

It measured 8½ feet wide by 6½ feet high and contained 60 miles of wires. TECH STORY: Cray Research achieved the Cray-1’s record-breaking 160 megaflops performance through its small size and cylindrical shape, 1 million-word semiconductor memory, 64-bit word size, optimized Fortran compiler, and a technique called “chaining.”

Who was the architect of the Cray-1?

The Cray-1’s architect was Seymour Cray; the chief engineer was Cray Research co-founder Lester Davis.

What is the relationship between Cray and HPE?

HPE shared the vision that began with Seymour Cray. In 2019, HPE acquired Cray and with it opened a new chapter in a vibrant, ongoing supercomputing journey. FUN FACT: The Cray-1 was the world’s fastest supercomputer from 1976 to 1982.

How fast was the Cray-1?

The Cray-1 was 10 times faster than competing machines. But speed came at a cost. It sold for up to $10M and drew 115 kW of power, enough to run about 10 homes. Over 60 miles of wire snaked through the Cray-1, with no segment longer than 3’ to minimize signal delays. This model shows how circuit boards were kept cool in the Cray-1.

What is the difference between Cray-1 and Cray 1S?

The Cray-1S, announced in 1979, was an improved Cray-1 that supported a larger main memory of 1, 2 or 4 million words. The larger main memory was made possible through the use of 4,096 x 1-bit bipolar RAM ICs with a 25 ns access time.