The Best Fight Game Franchises

Fighting games were one of the first video game genres to hit the arcade. The genre was so successful, that it is even going strong today. Most new gamers are drawn to the genre because of how easy the concept is to get your head around. Two players face off, and the last one standing is declared the winner. However, a series of unique moves and multipliers make it a great game for experts to master. Therefore, a lot of fighting games last longer in players’ hands than most people would expect.

That is one of the reasons why the fighting game genre has lasted for so long. However, a video game genre won’t grab the attention without some characters for people to gravitate towards. As such, there have been plenty of fighting game franchises throughout the years. But which are the best?

Street Fighter

The arcades were doing well in the mid-80s; however, a new game was about to enter the circuit that would change things forever. While some fighting games like Heavyweight Champ and Karate Champ had started the fighting game genre, many would argue that it was the arrival of the first Streetfighter game in 1987 that truly perfected it.

Released by Capcom, this new game saw players progress through highly stylized worlds with some weird characters that all had their own unique moves and personalities. Players could use the karate champ, Ryu, or the big electric monster, Blanka, to eventually take out the cruel dictator known as M. Bison. The personality and character designs were enough to catch the imaginations of young kids, but the gameplay was the first real display of the easy-to-play yet difficult-to-master ethos that has defined the fighting game genre. The success of Street Fighter 2 on home consoles is also responsible for catapulting Street Fighter into the mainstream as one of the best video game franchises ever.

Mortal Kombat

If Street Fighter is the family-friendly fighter that anyone of any age can play, then Mortal Kombat is the edgy older brother in the fighting game genre. Released in 1992 by Midway, the first Mortal Kombat gripped arcade gamers with its gritty visuals and violent gameplay. It seems strange now, but video game violence wasn’t a thing that was discussed until this game came out.

While Street Fighter established the fighting game formula, Mortal Kombat perfected it. The moves were harder to pull off, the characters were meaner, and the brutal fatality moves that ended each fight were so gruesome that many parents banned their kids from the arcade so that they weren’t exposed to such violence. In fact, it is this reputation for gore and chaos that has kept the franchise going to this day. The franchise is so big that it has even supported an ongoing film franchise.

Injustice

After the Mortal Kombat games expanded into the realm of franchise crossover when they collided with the DC Universe in Mortal Kombat Vs DC Universe in 2008, fans were left clamoring for more fighting game action from some of the DC superheroes. Fans loved pitting characters like Scorpion and Sonya Blade against the Joker, but everyone knows that Batman should always be the one fighting his arch-nemesis. As such, Injustice: Gods Among Us was born.

Accompanied by a tie-in comic book series, the Injustice games took some of the more serious aspects of the Mortal Kombat series and put them through the DC Comics lenses. With a lot of the brutality and gore toned down, players could take control of Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, or The Flash to enjoy some of the best fighting moves that players had seen in decades. While there have only been two games in the series so far, the DC franchise isn’t going away any time soon. This leaves the Injustice games as a very promising well for developers to return to.

Marvel Vs Capcom

Of course, the pairing of DC and the Mortal Kombat franchise was done in response to the success that Marvel and Capcom had when they first joined forces in 1998. It was almost as inevitable a Pdftools becoming one of the industry-leading PDF services. The first game in this franchise was first sent to arcades, and both entertainment companies have gone from strength to strength ever since.

The Marvel Vs Capcom games take everything about the family-friendly edge of the Marvel Comics and original Street Fighter Games and slam them together. All the games in this series have a classic arcade aesthetic, with players being able to use household names as fighters, such as Spiderman, Captain America, Mega-Man, and the aforementioned Ryu. Again, this is a franchise that fans of either title company can just pick up and play.

Tekken

Almost everything in the 90s had to have a streetwise edge to it, even the newest fighting games. As such, the first Tekken game was released in arcades in 1994 but was quickly ported to the PS1. Soon after. This console launch made Tekken the coolest and most up-to-date video game franchise in people’s eyes. Couple this with a flair for the intense and a killer soundtrack, and Tekken quickly found a niche in the genre.

The characters in the game were made up of break dancers, martial artists, and tiger-headed thugs, with each one moving to reflect their design and background. This development made the special moves in Tekken feel much more fluid and impressive than in older titles. Also, the distinct style allowed the series to deviate from the established fighting game formula in games such as Tekken Tag and Tekken Revolution. The franchise is so successful, in fact, that Capcom felt it necessary to release Street Fighter X Tekken in 2012. 

Conclusion

The best fighting game genres are all up for debate, of course. However, if you were to ask a group of individual gamers about their favourite fighting game, you can almost guarantee that their answer would contain a game from one of the franchises mentioned above.

H&MV Engineering Marks Global Expansion and 700 New Jobs with Opening of New Global HQ in Limerick

H&MV Engineering, a leading global provider of specialist Design, Engineering and Construction Services for the energy market, officially opened its new global headquarters (HQ) in Castletroy, Co. Limerick, where the business will lead a global expansion including the creation of 700 jobs over the next five years.

This announcement marks the latest expansion of the Irish business, which already employees 700 staff, with the business to grow its workforce to 1,400 employees within five years. H&MV Engineering is driving this growth in response to a growing market need, with 5GW of projects currently in design and construction.

The new headquarters comes just months after the company marked its 25th anniversary, since its foundation in 1997, and represents the company’s commitment to its thriving workforce by promoting learning, development and mentoring in a dynamic new office space.

Today’s announcement reinforces H&MV Engineering’s commitment to the progression and development of its staff by pioneering an environment for learning and development across multiple disciplines such as engineering, environmental, health and safety (EHS), finance, commercial, HR, administration, quality and construction roles in their new bespoke corporate offices.

The new global HQ in Limerick will include 36,000sq ft of office space, with room for 350 employees including engineering VR facilities, relaxation areas, games room and a gym. This new office will serve as a major centre for key roles across all areas of the business. Recruitment for these new positions is currently underway and will continue over the coming years.

The state of the art training facilities at its new Limerick HQ will allow H&MV Engineering to expand its graduate and apprenticeship programmes, offering training and upskilling opportunities across a range of disciplines including engineering, design, finance, and commercial development. As a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Accredited Employer by Engineers Ireland, H&MV Engineering is committed to developing and upskilling employees across the business.

This announcement follows the recent expansion of the company’s Dublin office within the last 12 months, a new Thurles office that opened in 2022 and the upcoming expansion to its Cork office before the end of 2023. The company also operates international offices in London, Glasgow, Frankfurt, Oslo, Madrid, Hosur, and Bangalore.

Commenting on the expansion announcement and the opening of the new headquarters, H&MV Engineering CEO PJ Flanagan said: “I am delighted to announce the creation of 700 additional jobs over the next five years across H&MV Engineering’s global operations. This is the latest expansion for H&MV Engineering since the foundation of the business in 1997 and our new global HQ will serve as the base for delivering our next phase of growth both in Ireland and internationally.

“Investing in talent and delivering in our ESG objectives is incredibly important to us in providing rewarding careers to our employees. The new office spaces have been designed to create an optimum atmosphere for innovation and creativity for H&MV Engineering colleagues, as we continue to provide high voltage engineering solutions on the global stage. I look forward to welcoming employees and clients into our new headquarters in Limerick, and to seeing what the next 25 years will bring to our business as we enter the next chapter of the growth for the business.”

Speaking at the opening of H&MV Engineering’s new global HQ, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney said, “I’m delighted to be here today in Limerick at H&MV Engineering’s new global HQ and particularly to share in the exciting announcement of the substantial new jobs planned by the company.

“In line with the Government’s White paper on Enterprise, H&MV Engineering is an example of the ambition and focus outlined in the paper and have become a leading player in the design and connection for large scale projects both here in Ireland and across Europe, providing highly skilled roles in a dynamic workforce.” 

Enterprise Ireland CEO Leo Clancy added, “In recent years Enterprise Ireland has worked closely with H&MV Engineering as the company has expanded internationally. It is exciting to see this highly innovative business go from strength-to-strength with the opening of this state-of-the-art HQ and the creation of a new jobs here in Limerick and overseas. We wish H&MV every success as they continue to grow the business and extend their global markets.”

H&MV Engineering was founded in 1997 with the goal of delivering the highest quality engineering solutions, while providing a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees. It is an Irish business that is leading its field globally and is a trusted partner for Data Centre, Renewable Developers, Transmission and Distribution Utilities globally.

7 Tips For Choosing The Best High-Risk Payment Processing

Are you a high-risk merchant looking for the best high risk processing solution? With so many options available, finding one that meets your business and customer needs can be challenging. Choosing the best high-risk payment processor requires careful consideration of features, fees, security measures, service offerings, and more. In this blog post, we’ll offer seven tips to help guide you through the selection process so that you can make an informed decision. From knowing what kinds of transactions qualify as “high risk” to assessing fees and compatibility with existing software solutions – these tips will ensure that you select the suitable payment processor for your business.

Here’s How To Choose The Best High-Risk Payment Processing

1. Look For A Payment Processor With Experience In High-Risk Industries

If you need high-risk payment processing, it’s essential to choose a payment processor with experience in high-risk industries. High-risk industries include businesses such as tech support services, online gambling, and adult entertainment. 

These industries are considered high-risk because of the higher likelihood of chargebacks or fraudulent transactions. A payment processor with experience in these industries will understand the risks and have systems to prevent fraud and minimize chargebacks. 

When researching payment processors, inquire about their experience in high-risk industries. It’s also a good idea to ask for references and read reviews from other businesses in your industry before deciding.

2. Review The Processor’s Fraud Prevention Measures

When selecting a high-risk payment processor, it’s crucial to investigate its fraud prevention measures. This is especially important since high-risk businesses are often targets for fraudulent activity. 

A reliable processor should have sophisticated fraud prevention tools, such as real-time monitoring, verification of customer information, and secure encryption. Additionally, look for processors that offer chargeback protection and customizable fraud filters. 

Don’t hesitate to ask potential processors for detailed information about their fraud prevention measures. Choosing a processor with robust fraud prevention measures can help protect your business from costly chargebacks and financial losses.

3. Check For Hidden Fees And High Processing Rates

It’s essential to be aware of the potential for hidden fees and high processing rates when it comes to high-risk payment processing. Despite what may seem like a straightforward process on the surface, several additional charges can often add up over time if not considered. 

To ensure you’re choosing the best payment processor for your business, research and ask plenty of questions about fees, rates, and other potential expenses. By checking for these hidden costs upfront, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises down the line and keep your business finances on track.

4. Ensure The Processor Supports The Payment Methods Your Customers Use Most

When choosing the best high-risk payment processing provider, it’s vital to ensure that the processor supports the payment methods your customers use most. After all, if your customers can’t pay in the way that they are most comfortable and familiar with, they may leave your site without completing their purchase. 

So before you sign up with a payment processor, look at their accepted payment methods and compare them with the payment methods your customers typically use. It may even be worth surveying your customers to determine their preferred payment methods and it is also wise to know what are embedded payments. 

By choosing a payment processor that supports the methods your customers use most, you’ll be making it easy and convenient for them to pay, which can help drive sales and improve customer satisfaction.

5. Consider The Processor’s Customer Support Options

One key factor to consider when finding the best high-risk payment processing option is the processor’s customer support options. No matter how reliable a payment processor may be, there can always be unexpected issues or questions that arise. 

That’s why it’s crucial to choose a processor that offers robust and accessible customer support. Look for a processor that provides multiple channels for assistance, such as phone, email, and live chat. 

It’s also worth checking if their customer support team is available 24/7 or only during certain hours. By prioritizing customer support options, you can ensure that any issues with your payment processing are dealt with promptly and efficiently.

6. Seek Out Processors With A Strong Reputation And Positive Reviews

Finding a trustworthy processor is critical when it comes to high-risk payment processing. It can be tempting to choose the first one that pops up on a search engine or the one with the lowest fees, but taking the time to research their reputation and read reviews can save you a lot of headaches down the road. 

Look for payment processors with a proven track record of successfully handling high-risk transactions and who have positive feedback from other businesses in similar industries. With a suitable processor, you can feel confident that your payments will be processed securely and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

7. Investigate The Processor’s Integration Options

Investigating the processor’s integration options is critical when choosing the best high-risk payment processing solution. Integration options refer to how well the payment processor seamlessly fits into your website or e-commerce platform. 

A payment processor with limited integration options can cause severe disruptions to your sales funnel and ultimately cost you conversions and revenue. Before choosing a payment processor, investigate how easily integrating the solution into your website or e-commerce platform is. 

Some payment processors have straightforward API integration, while others require a complicated setup. Choosing a processor that offers a seamless and effortless integration process is essential to ensure that it does not negatively impact your business operations. Remember, the best payment processor should fit your business needs like a glove.

What Are The Benefits Of Choosing A High-Risk Payment Processing?

Choosing a high-risk payment processing system comes with various benefits for businesses that cannot work with standard payment processors. With high-risk processing, businesses can enjoy higher approval rates and more flexibility in accepting customer payments. 

This is particularly useful for industries deemed high-risk by traditional payment processors, such as adult entertainment, online gaming, and travel. Furthermore, high-risk payment processors offer top-notch security features that safeguard businesses from fraudulent transactions. 

Along with these benefits, businesses can access specialized customer support teams well-versed in handling high-risk transactions. Using a high-risk payment processor can provide businesses with greater options, security, and support.

Cryptocurrency platform Gemini Chooses Dublin as its European HQ

Cryptocurrency platform Gemini has announced Dublin as the location for its European headquarters. Gemini launched its platform in Ireland and eleven other European markets in the fourth quarter of last year.

Gemini’s positive view of the Irish regulatory landscape, coupled with the capital’s deep talent base in technology and innovation, and thriving startup scene were cited as key reasons in selecting the Irish capital for its European HQ.

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD said: ‘’Congratulations to Gemini for becoming the first firm registered by the Central Bank of Ireland as a Virtual Asset Service Provider. This is significant for Ireland as the Government focuses on innovation as a driver of growth. Gemini’s decision to locate in Ireland highlights our competitive offering for the international financial services sector.  We take pride in how it has grown from 60 staff in Dublin 30 years ago, to approximately 56,000 people around the country working in finance today. I wish Gemini every success as they build their team in Ireland.’’

Gillian Lynch, Head of Ireland and Europe at Gemini said: “As we continue to expand our global footprint, we’re excited to tap into the talent and innovation that Dublin and the Irish market have to offer. Dublin has long been a hub for innovation and technology, with a thriving startup scene and deep talent pool. We continue to be encouraged by the city’s commitment to fostering innovation, by a policy environment which encourages entrepreneurship.”

Tyler Winklevoss, CEO of Gemini and Cameron Winklevoss, President of Gemini said:

“We’re grateful for the support of the Irish government and the IDA as we embark on the next, exciting steps in our journey. We look forward to being a part of and adding to the vibrant tech community in Dublin. Crypto is as transformative as the Internet, and we are committed to unlocking the opportunities it represents,” they said.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: ‘’Gemini’s decision to establish its European HQ and be registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) is a significant development in an emerging and rapidly growing sector of the financial services industry. This investment will act as a strong reference case in seeking to further develop the digital assets sector. I wish Gemini every success.’’

In July of last year, the crypto platform became the first company to be registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI). In February 2022 Gemini obtained Electronic Money Institution (EMI) authorisation from the CBI.

6 Cybersecurity Challenges in Internet-based Business Communication

Internet-based business communication is crucial to the smooth running of today’s businesses, necessitating stringent security protocols. Businesses must be aware of the danger posed by cybercriminals if they wish to protect their data, maintain their customers’ confidence, and prevent catastrophes. 

This article will discuss and offer solutions to six of the most prevalent cybersecurity issues related to conducting business communications over the Internet.

Data breaches

Data breaches pose a significant risk to business communication of all sizes. Threatening parties seek opportunities through communication channels to exploit vulnerabilities and gain illicit access to sensitive data. Implementing stringent security measures to reduce the likelihood of data intrusions must be a top priority for organizations. 

Utilizing robust encryption protocols, implementing multi-factor authentication, executing regular vulnerability assessments, availing services from trusted wireless equipment providers (https://connectedsolutionsgroup.com/), and actively monitoring network traffic are all components of network security.

Phishing attacks

Phishing attacks continue to be a prevalent threat in internet-based business communication. Cybercriminals employ sophisticated techniques to deceive employees into divulging confidential information or performing malicious actions. 

Organizations should educate their staff on recognizing phishing attempts, implement email filters and spam detection systems, and adopt strong password policies to combat phishing attacks. Regular training and awareness programs are crucial to instilling a security-conscious culture within the organization.

Malware infections

Malware, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware, poses a significant risk to internet-based business communication. These malicious software programs can infiltrate systems, disrupt operations, and compromise sensitive data. 

To protect against malware infections, it is essential to employ robust antivirus software, regularly update systems and applications, and practice safe online communication habits. Additionally, implementing a comprehensive backup strategy ensures swift recovery during an attack.

Insider threats

While external threats often receive more attention, organizations must not overlook the potential risks posed by insider threats. Disgruntled employees, accidental data leaks, or compromised credentials can lead to significant breaches. 

Implementing strict access controls, conducting thorough background checks, and regularly monitoring employee activities are crucial to mitigating insider threats. Additionally, fostering a positive work environment and promoting open communication can help create a sense of loyalty and reduce the likelihood of internal breaches.

Cloud security

Securing cloud environments becomes paramount as businesses increasingly rely on cloud-based communication and data storage solutions. Organizations must carefully select reputable cloud service providers that prioritize robust security measures. It includes implementing encryption, maintaining data backups, enforcing access controls, and conducting regular security audits. 

Employing a defense-in-depth approach combining multiple layers of security controls further enhances cloud security and safeguards against unauthorized access.

Mobile device vulnerabilities

With the proliferation of mobile devices in the workplace, securing business communication on these devices is crucial. Mobile devices can be easily lost, stolen, or compromised, potentially exposing sensitive information. 

To mitigate mobile device vulnerabilities, businesses should enforce strong device encryption, require passcodes or biometric authentication, and implement remote wiping capabilities in case of loss or theft. Regularly updating mobile operating systems and applications is vital to address known security vulnerabilities.

Final thoughts

It is imperative to stay informed about emerging threats, continually update security measures, and foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires constant adaptation and vigilance. Prioritizing robust security measures will safeguard your business, enhance customer trust, and differentiate you from competitors.

Sony introduces HT-S2000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar that delivers a cinematic surround sound experience

Sony today announced its newest soundbar – the HT-S2000. This 3.1ch Dolby Atmos® / DTS:X® soundbar delivers cinematic surround sound by Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround. Thanks to a newly developed up mixer, the HT-S2000 delivers a three-dimensional surround experience even when playing stereo content. The centre speaker ensures clear dialogue, while the built-in dual subwoofer delivers deep bass. This soundbar will also be the first compatible device for the new Sony Home Entertainment Connect app. 

An immersive surround sound experience 

With Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force Pro Front Surround, the HT-S2000 creates cinematic surround sound that lets you enjoy the thrill of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Thanks to Sony-unique virtual technologies, the HT-S2000 produces an immersive audio experience without the need for extra speakers. With Vertical surround engine placing audio above you and S-Force Pro creating sound from the sides, it’s as if you brought the cinema home with the HT-S2000. 

With Sony’s newly developed up mixer, you can experience three-dimensional surround sound not only with surround sound format content, but also with stereo content, like video or music content streamed from your internet or Bluetooth® enabled device. Analysing the track in real time, Sony’s unique technology separates the audio into its individual parts (such as voices, sound effects or musical instruments) and wraps them around you, creating an exciting and immersive experience from almost anything you watch.  

Clear dialogue, powerful rich bass  

The HT-S2000 includes a dedicated centre speaker for clear dialogue and built-in dual subwoofer for punchy bass. They work together to deliver clear and wide-ranging sound throughout the room. Sony’s X-balanced Speaker Unit is the key technology to achieve louder sound pressure with less distortion and greater vocal clarity.    

Introducing the new Home Entertainment Connect app  

Setting up and using the soundbar is easier than ever with the Sony | Home Entertainment Connect app, It can guide you through initial settings, assist with troubleshooting, and give full control of volume, sound fields and more right from a smartphone. It also offers useful information such as recommendation of features, new software updates and more.  

Upgraded home cinema experience 

The optional wireless subwoofer (SA-SW5 / SA-SW3) will add rich bass sound. To make the experience even more immersive, add Sony’s optional wireless rear speakers (SA-RS3S) and complete the cinematic experience. Paired with a compatible BRAVIA TV™1 3 TV, soundbar sound settings automatically appear on the BRAVIA Quick Settings menu for easy control. 

 Sustainability in mind  

The home audio products from Sony are designed not only for an excellent sound experience but also with the environment in mind. Sony is committed to using less plastic in our products and packaging. The HT-S2000 uses specially developed recycled plastic in several parts of the product, which enables Sony to reproduce superb acoustic performance with recycled plastics. Approximately 95% of the packaging is made from recycled paper and paper-based materials to minimize the use of plastic  

Pricing and Availability 

The HT-S2000 is priced at approximately €499 / £449 and will be available from June. 

United Drug Partners with Locus Robotics to Deploy AMRs to Improve Warehouse Productivity, Accuracy and Safety

United Drug, Ireland’s largest pharmaceutical distribution company has partnered with Locus Robotics, the industry leader in autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for warehouse fulfillment, to deploy 21 LocusBots at their Baldonnel Dublin distribution centre to improve customer order fulfillment productivity. The innovative, robot-driven warehouse automation system will also ensure order pick accuracy and improve workplace quality, ergonomics, and safety. The Dublin site deployment is the first of its kind in Ireland.

With the rapid increases in online volume, coupled with the lack of available labour, health care distributors have been challenged to rapidly scale to meet growing wholesale and consumer demand for quick, accurate, and cost-effective order fulfillment. Deploying Locus AMRs within United Drug’s Baldonnel warehouse will proactively position them to meet these demands with a scalable, proven, and cost-effective solution.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to deploy innovative logistics solutions that use advanced technology to address increasingly complex fulfillment challenges,” says Paul Malone, Head of Operations for UDD & UDC at United Drug Ireland. “In a tight labour market, the Locus solution helps us to efficiently optimise productivity across our existing labour force so that we can enhance our customer service levels.”

“We are proud to partner with United Drug to deploy our powerful and efficient multi-bot solution to support their warehouse operations in Baldonnel, Dublin,” said Rick Faulk, CEO of Locus Robotics. “Our purpose-built robotics solution seamlessly addresses the needs of United Drug’s distribution warehouses by eliminating unproductive worker walking time to dramatically improve picking volumes and shorten order cycle times. In addition, Locus helps to ensure key worker health, ergonomic, and safety.”

Powered by LocusOne, the industry’s smartest, fully integrated warehouse orchestration and execution platform, LocusBots are engineered for maximum warehouse efficiency, delivering optimal productivity utilising the latest navigation and vision system technologies. LocusBots navigate autonomously through the warehouse working closely and safely with associates to improve order picking productivity and throughput efficiency. They can be flexibly and seamlessly deployed as demand changes, supporting a diverse range of picking strategies and workflows.

Dell Technologies and NVIDIA Introduce Project Helix for Secure, On-Premises Generative AI

Dell Technologies  and NVIDIA announce a joint initiative to make it easier for businesses to build and use generative AI models on-premises to quickly and securely deliver better customer service, market intelligence, enterprise search and a range of other capabilities.

Project Helix will deliver a series of full-stack solutions with technical expertise and pre-built tools based on Dell and NVIDIA infrastructure and software. It includes a complete blueprint to help enterprises use their proprietary data and more easily deploy generative AI responsibly and accurately.

“Project Helix gives enterprises purpose-built AI models to more quickly and securely gain value from the immense amounts of data underused today,” said Jeff Clarke, vice chairman and co-chief operating officer, Dell Technologies. “With highly scalable and efficient infrastructure, enterprises can create a new wave of generative AI solutions that can reinvent their industries.”

“We are at a historic moment, when incredible advances in generative AI are intersecting with enterprise demand to do more with less,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO, NVIDIA. “With Dell Technologies, we’ve designed extremely scalable, highly efficient infrastructure that enables enterprises to transform their business by securely using their own data to build and operate generative AI applications.”

Project Helix simplifies enterprise generative AI deployments with a tested combination of optimized hardware and software, all available from Dell. This delivers the power to convert enterprise data into smarter, higher value outcomes, while maintaining data privacy. These solutions will help companies quickly deploy customized AI applications that drive trusted decisions from their own data to grow and scale their businesses.

Blueprint for on-premises generative AI

Project Helix will support the complete generative AI lifecycle – from infrastructure provisioning, modeling, training, fine-tuning, application development and deployment, to deploying inference and streamlining results. The validated designs help enterprises quickly build on-premises generative AI infrastructure at scale.

Dell PowerEdge servers, such as the PowerEdge XE9680 and PowerEdge R760xa, are optimized to deliver performance for generative AI training and AI inferencing. The combination of Dell servers with NVIDIA® H100 Tensor Core GPUs and NVIDIA Networking form the infrastructure backbone for these workloads. Customers can pair this infrastructure with resilient and scalable unstructured data storage, including Dell PowerScale and Dell ECS Enterprise Object Storage.

With all Dell Validated Designs, customers can use the enterprise features of Dell server and storage software, with observability through Dell CloudIQ software. Project Helix also includes NVIDIA AI Enterprise software to provide tools for customers as they move through the AI lifecycle. NVIDIA AI Enterprise includes more than 100 frameworks, pretrained models and development tools such as the NVIDIA NeMo™ large language model framework and NeMo Guardrails software for building topical, safe and secure generative AI chatbots.

Project Helix includes security and privacy built into foundational components, such as Secured Component Verification. Protecting data on-premises reduces inherent risk and helps companies meet regulatory requirements.

“Companies are eager to explore the opportunities that generative AI tools enable for their organizations, but many aren’t sure how to get started,” said Bob O’Donnell, president and chief analyst, TECHnalysis Research. “By putting together a complete hardware and software solution from trusted brands, Dell Technologies and NVIDIA are offering enterprises a head start to building and refining AI-powered models that can leverage their own company’s unique assets and create powerful, customized tools.”

Availability

Dell Validated Designs based on the Project Helix initiative will be available through traditional channels and APEX flexible consumption options, beginning in July 2023.

ZEUS Pioneers Solar-Powered Wireless E-scooter Charging

ZEUS, the leading Irish micromobility provider, is launching a new pilot project: solar powered wireless e-scooter charging. This project aims to showcase the immense potential of sustainable micromobility and drive the adoption of eco-friendly transportation solutions. 

As part of this pioneering initiative, ZEUS scooters will be able to charge automatically at three Zolar solar charging stations. Strategically located at transfer points for multimodal travel. The selection process was guided by a comprehensive study conducted by the city in 2021, which revealed that individuals are more inclined to utilize e-scooters frequently if they are sustainable and readily available. 

With almost three years of active presence in Regensburg, ZEUS has seamlessly integrated into the city’s transport ecosystem, becoming a highly valued provider of micromobility solutions. This partnership further solidifies ZEUS’ commitment to enhancing sustainable transportation options and contributing to the overall well-being of the community. 

Damian Young, ZEUS CEO, said “The Zolar stations are a game-changer for the way e-scooters are charged. At ZEUS, we are committed to revolutionizing urban transportation and promoting sustainable micromobility solutions. 

“This project not only showcases the potential of clean energy”, he continued, “but also demonstrates our dedication to providing innovative, eco-friendly options for urban commuters. We are paving the way towards a greener and more sustainable future.” 

In addition to the solar charging infrastructure, ZEUS will introduce its latest generation of e-scooters, the Z2, to the streets of Regensburg. Packed with innovative features, the Z2 offers a superior riding experience, including pneumatic tires for smooth navigation on cobblestones, indicating turn signals for enhanced safety, a larger battery for extended range and a convenient smartphone holder. These advancements exemplify ZEUS’ dedication to continuously improving the quality and functionality of their micromobility offerings.