Supercomputers usually operate at over 1000 times the capacity of regular computers. They use processors that can execute different commands simultaneously in a fraction of a second, with the performance matrix being measured in FLOPS (floating-point operations per second).
Supercomputers can handle complex information and convert it into reliable data, which offers real-time solutions to day-to-day challenges in life. Their precision and accuracy are why supercomputers are used to run cities and help in research on issues in human societies.
Take a look at some of the common applications of supercomputers.
Solving Super-Sized Difficulties
Supercomputers have superior capabilities, which allow them to predict natural hazards and phenomena.
For instance, researching and understanding an earthquake’s impact can be vital in planning and mapping out the best way to save lives. Supercomputers have been used in studying cyclone patterns enabling them to outmanoeuvre them and lead people to safety.
The processing capacity of these supercomputers enables scientists to read and internalize data fed to the machine and, given the most likely outcome, have a remedy for the situation at hand.
In the Medical Field
The speed at which supercomputers process information enables them to process an entire database of information. It can be a patient’s history, lab notes from experiments, or even clinical trial databases.
Verifying this data is helpful to doctors since it saves time and enables doctors to diagnose patients. Hospitals and medical centres also save on costs when using supercomputers instead of having to key in data and manually conduct all the research.
In Military Operations
With advances in computer technology, newer and more advanced infantry weapons and armour are being created. Supercomputers have helped build and advance 3D-printed weapons, biosensors for use by soldiers, explosive defence systems for tanks, and guided munition systems.
Supercomputers can also create perfect simulations without soldiers needing to go to the battlefield. These computers simulate nuclear tests and explosions without requiring people to fire the nuclear bombs into deserts or the ocean as live tests.
In the Air
Though not yet perfected, supercomputers have helped aeroplane manufacturers develop safer and faster aeroplanes. Even more, there are autonomous vehicles which use autopilot functions. These functions enable the plane to keep flying. They also allow the pilot to take a rest.
The capabilities of supercomputers have led to improvements giving scientists hope that in some years to come, there will be fully autonomous planes that can take off and land on their own. Some even have an obstacle detection system, allowing them to steer clear of obstacles in the way.
Real-time data capture and image processing make obstacle detection and avoidance a possibility. Machine-learning capabilities make it all the more possible with supercomputers. The system is not overloaded with information but computed into a neural network creating better planes suited for passenger aeroplanes and warplanes.
In Financial Markets and Services
Supercomputers are necessary to protect money and create and discover new trading options that help make money. They make use of algorithms and automatically drive high-frequency trades. With the use of supercomputers, it is easier to detect and capitalize on the best opportunities in the market at the time.
Financial companies also make use of supercomputers to detect fraud as well as complete transactions within seconds. Their speed allows them to compute and detect hackers or fraudsters, giving financial companies more protection.
What Happens When Supercomputers Are Unable to Handle a Task?
In some situations, supercomputers are ineffective and better means are required. In that case, quantum computers and quantum computing software may be an alternative. Quantum computers are built to handle very complex issues.
Conclusion
Supercomputers have proven vital in several integral areas that affect daily life. Supercomputers have made possible advancements in medicine, transport, business and other sectors.
At least even when supercomputers are not up to the task, quantum computers can succeed even in highly complex situations, making it possible to make even more incredible advancements.
