Bit-Brick Cluster K1 – A 4-slot RISC-V cluster board for SpacemiT K1-based SSOM-K1 system-on-module

Abstract

The Bit-Brick Cluster K1 is a specialized cluster board designed to house up to four SSOM-K1 system-on-modules, powered by the SpacemiT K1 octa-core RISC-V processor optimized for high-performance edge computing. The board facilitates robust scaling via an integrated Gigabit Ethernet switch chip, ensuring fast and stable inter-node communication necessary for complex workloads. This platform targets developers and researchers focused on AI acceleration, delivering up to 2 TOPS of processing capability within a compact clustering framework.

Report

Key Highlights

• RISC-V Clustering Platform: The Bit-Brick Cluster K1 is a dedicated cluster board capable of hosting up to four SSOM-K1 system-on-modules (SOMs).
• Core Processor: Utilizes the SpacemiT K1 octa-core 64-bit RISC-V CPU, which includes vector extensions and integrated AI acceleration.
• Integrated Networking: Features an onboard Gigabit Ethernet switch chip for high-speed interconnection of the four core modules.
• Target Applications: Designed specifically for developers working on edge computing, demanding AI workloads, and high-performance embedded systems.

Technical Details

• CPU Architecture: SpacemiT K1, octa-core, 64-bit RISC-V with vector extensions.
• AI Performance: Offers AI acceleration up to 2 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second).
• Networking Infrastructure: The cluster board features a Gigabit Ethernet switch chip that assigns an independent network port to each SSOM-K1, supporting stable inter-node communication and automatic IP assignment.
• SSOM-K1 Specifications (Per Module): Supports up to 8GB dual-channel LPDDR4X memory and up to 64GB eMMC flash storage. Features dual Gigabit Ethernet ports and HDMI 1.4 output capabilities (on the module).
• Cluster Board I/O: Includes USB 3.0/2.0 ports, an M.2 M-Key slot for storage expansion, a 3-pin fan header, a USB Type-C debug port, and dedicated power/reset/download buttons.
• Display Output: HDMI output is available via the master slot only.

Implications

• Democratization of RISC-V Clusters: The Bit-Brick Cluster K1 lowers the barrier to entry for researchers and developers to experiment with and deploy localized RISC-V based distributed computing, shifting away from reliance on centralized cloud or complex custom solutions.
• Advancement in Edge AI Deployment: By integrating high-performance RISC-V cores with dedicated AI acceleration (2 TOPS) and robust clustering hardware, the platform provides a powerful solution for complex edge AI applications that require parallel processing close to the data source.
• Maturity of the RISC-V Ecosystem: The release of specialized, integrated cluster hardware indicates that the RISC-V architecture is maturing beyond basic development boards, proving its viability for professional, high-density computing solutions in specialized markets like embedded and edge high-performance computing.