AI in US Virgin Islands
AI in US Virgin Islands: Server Configuration Guide
Welcome to the server configuration guide for Artificial Intelligence (AI) deployments in the US Virgin Islands (USVI). This article details the specific considerations and recommended server setup for running AI workloads within the unique infrastructural context of the territory. This guide is geared toward newcomers to our MediaWiki site and assumes a basic understanding of server administration. Please consult our System Administration Basics page for foundational knowledge.
Understanding the USVI Infrastructure Challenges
The USVI presents specific challenges for server deployments compared to mainland US locations. These include:
- Limited Bandwidth: Internet connectivity is often more expensive and has lower bandwidth than mainland US locations. This impacts data transfer for model updates, cloud synchronization, and remote access. See Network Connectivity Considerations.
- Power Grid Stability: The power grid is susceptible to disruptions, particularly during hurricane season. Robust power backup solutions are critical. Refer to Power Management Best Practices.
- Physical Security: Data center security must account for potential environmental factors and physical access concerns. Review Data Center Security Protocols.
- Skilled Workforce: A limited pool of skilled IT professionals requires careful planning for server maintenance and support. Explore our IT Staffing Resources.
Recommended Server Hardware
Given these challenges, the following hardware configuration is recommended as a baseline. This assumes a moderate AI workload (e.g., image recognition, basic natural language processing). Scaling will require adjustments outlined in Scaling AI Infrastructure.
| Component | Specification | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Xeon Gold 6338 (32 cores, 2.0 GHz) | 2 |
| RAM | 256GB DDR4 ECC Registered (3200 MHz) | 1 |
| Storage (OS/Boot) | 1TB NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSD | 1 |
| Storage (Data/Models) | 8TB SAS 12Gbps 7.2K RPM HDD (RAID 6) | 4 |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 (24GB GDDR6X) | 2 |
| Network Interface | Dual Port 10 Gigabit Ethernet | 1 |
| Power Supply | 1600W Redundant Power Supplies (80+ Platinum) | 2 |
This configuration prioritizes redundancy and reliability. The use of SAS HDDs for data storage balances cost and capacity while RAID 6 provides data protection. Refer to Storage Solutions Comparison for alternative options.
Software Stack
The software stack should be optimized for performance and resource efficiency. We recommend the following:
- Operating System: Ubuntu Server 22.04 LTS. See Ubuntu Server Installation Guide.
- Containerization: Docker and Kubernetes for efficient resource allocation and application deployment. Consult Docker and Kubernetes Tutorial.
- AI Framework: TensorFlow or PyTorch, depending on the specific AI application. Review TensorFlow vs PyTorch.
- Database: PostgreSQL for data storage and management. See PostgreSQL Administration.
- Monitoring: Prometheus and Grafana for server monitoring and performance analysis. Explore Server Monitoring Tools.
Power and Cooling Considerations
Due to the USVI's climate and potential power outages, robust power and cooling solutions are essential.
| Component | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) | 60kVA, 3-Phase | Provides backup power during outages. Must be sized appropriately for the entire server load. |
| Generator | 150kW Diesel Generator | Long-term backup power source. Requires regular maintenance. See Generator Maintenance Schedule. |
| Cooling System | CRAC Units (Computer Room Air Conditioners) | Redundant CRAC units are crucial for maintaining optimal server temperature. |
| Cooling Redundancy | N+1 Redundancy | Ensures cooling capacity even if one unit fails. |
Regular maintenance of the UPS and generator is paramount. Consider a service contract with a local provider. Details on local providers can be found on our USVI Vendor Directory.
Network Configuration
The network configuration should prioritize bandwidth optimization and security.
| Setting | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Dedicated 100 Mbps Fiber Optic Line | Consider a redundant connection for failover. |
| Firewall | pfSense or similar open-source firewall | Essential for protecting the server from external threats. See Firewall Configuration. |
| VPN | OpenVPN or WireGuard | Secure remote access for administrators. |
| DNS | Local DNS Server (BIND9) | Improves DNS resolution speed. |
Regular security audits are recommended. Consult our Security Audit Checklist. Furthermore, consider using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) for distributing AI models and data. See CDN Integration.
System Administration Basics Network Connectivity Considerations Power Management Best Practices Data Center Security Protocols IT Staffing Resources Scaling AI Infrastructure Storage Solutions Comparison Ubuntu Server Installation Guide Docker and Kubernetes Tutorial TensorFlow vs PyTorch PostgreSQL Administration Server Monitoring Tools Generator Maintenance Schedule USVI Vendor Directory Firewall Configuration Security Audit Checklist CDN Integration
Intel-Based Server Configurations
| Configuration | Specifications | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Core i7-6700K/7700 Server | 64 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2 x 512 GB | CPU Benchmark: 8046 |
| Core i7-8700 Server | 64 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2x1 TB | CPU Benchmark: 13124 |
| Core i9-9900K Server | 128 GB DDR4, NVMe SSD 2 x 1 TB | CPU Benchmark: 49969 |
| Core i9-13900 Server (64GB) | 64 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i9-13900 Server (128GB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Server (64GB) | 64 GB RAM, 2x500 GB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Server (128GB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x500 GB NVMe SSD | |
| Core i5-13500 Workstation | 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 2 NVMe SSD, NVIDIA RTX 4000 |
AMD-Based Server Configurations
| Configuration | Specifications | Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 5 3600 Server | 64 GB RAM, 2x480 GB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 17849 |
| Ryzen 7 7700 Server | 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 2x1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 35224 |
| Ryzen 9 5950X Server | 128 GB RAM, 2x4 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 46045 |
| Ryzen 9 7950X Server | 128 GB DDR5 ECC, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 63561 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/1TB) | 128 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/2TB) | 128 GB RAM, 2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (128GB/4TB) | 128 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (256GB/1TB) | 256 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 7502P Server (256GB/4TB) | 256 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe | CPU Benchmark: 48021 |
| EPYC 9454P Server | 256 GB RAM, 2x2 TB NVMe |
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⚠️ *Note: All benchmark scores are approximate and may vary based on configuration. Server availability subject to stock.* ⚠️