2. Multi-FPGA Platforms as a Host of MEC Architecture

This chapter delves into the unique advantages of FPGAs in Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) architecture, highlighting their superior power efficiency and real-time processing capabilities. The M-KUBOS board, developed as a computational element for MEC, is a central focus, showcasing its architecture, performance, and resource management. The text explores innovative techniques such as link aggregation, multi-ejection STDM switches, and hybrid routers to enhance FPGA cluster performance. Performance comparisons with CPUs, including the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, demonstrate the potential of FPGAs in MEC applications. The chapter also covers the development of the FiCMPI library for parallel computing and the implementation of a power model for FPGA clusters. Real-world applications like ResNet-50, Amoeba-SAT solver, and FFT are used to benchmark the M-KUBOS cluster, providing practical insights into its capabilities. The conclusion emphasizes the significance of stand-alone FPGA clusters in MEC and the broader implications for future developments in this field.