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In a move to promote European technological sovereignty and reduce dependency on large multinationals, Europeans have introduced a new processor based on RISC-V open hardware technology. Spearheaded by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) – a stalwart developer of open-source computing technology – the aim is to transform Barcelona into an epicenter of semiconductor design.
Sargantana: A Leap Forward
The BSC unveiled the ‘Sargantana’ chip, the latest in a line of open-source processors completely crafted at the center. This advancement fortifies the BSC’s standing as a leading figure in European RISC-V open-source computing technology research.
Sargantana, named after the lizard in Aragonese and Catalan, takes the mantle from Lagarto – Spain’s inaugural open-source chips. As part of the DRAC (Designing RISC-V-based Accelerators for next-generation Computers) project, Sargantana is considered one of the most advanced open-source chips in Europe at an academic stage. The processor has outperformed its two predecessors and is the first of the Lagarto breed to exceed a gigahertz in operational frequency.
Breaking Technological Dependence
Notably, these new processors feature an open-source instruction set architecture (ISA), which enables innovation and lessens reliance on large multinational corporations. Accessibility to the ISA allows institutions and companies to collaborate without the constraints of a proprietary framework. The RISC-V free hardware architecture forms the basis of these chips, potentially heralding a transformative era for hardware technology akin to Linux’s revolution in software.
BSC director Mateo Valero lauded the launch of Sargantana as a critical step in developing European RISC-V based technology. This open hardware safeguards European technological sovereignty and bolsters European industrial competitiveness, thus cementing the BSC’s pioneering role in open-source chip design.
In 2017, the European Union recognized the vulnerability presented by the absence of indigenous hardware. The risk of industrial espionage, is compounded by heavy reliance on non-European designed and developed chips, particularly from the United States, Taiwan, China, Japan, and South Korea. The EU entrusted the BSC with the crucial mission of spearheading the development of open, local alternative chips appropriate for high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, automotive industries, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
The Sargantana project integrated researchers from various universities and research centers. It was headed by BSC researcher Miquel Moretó, who praised the collaborative potential of open-source semiconductor technology and its universal accessibility.
Sargantana: An Experimental Milestone
Moretó clarified that Sargantana is an experimental chip intended as a prototype for research and not poised for use in computers or other devices. He emphasized this technology would assist Spain and Europe in designing increasingly competitive processors and aid in preparing professionals for a promising sector sure to add significant value to the production stream.
Mateo Valero echoed this sentiment as he shared his vision of Barcelona becoming a global standard-bearer in processor design. He expressed confidence in the region’s talent and technical and scientific resources necessary for Barcelona to compete globally and emerge as a ‘Design Valley,’ thereby fostering new job opportunities and establishing tech companies.
The unveiling of Sargantana, held at BSC’s Barcelona complex, was part of the Spanish Open Hardware Alliance’s inaugural day, a collaboration of Spanish universities and research centers aimed at promoting research in Open Computer Technology and Architecture. This alliance aims to nurture talent for generating high-quality employment opportunities, thus bolstering the sector.
