Key Takeaways
1. Bolt Graphics, founded in 2020 by Darwesh Singh, has released its second GPU, the Zeus, designed for demanding tasks like simulations and 3D graphics.
2. The Zeus GPU features onboard networking with a 400 GbE QSFP, up to 32 GB of embedded GDDR5X, and supports upgradable DDR5 SODIMMs with a capacity of 2.25 TB.
3. It utilizes real-time path tracing technology (Glowstick) and is compatible with software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Unreal Engine, focusing more on rendering for TV and film than gaming.
4. The GPU aims to reduce rendering time for creators, potentially justifying a premium price for production companies.
5. While targeted at professionals, everyday users may find more value in traditional GPUs like the RX 9070, and the Bolt Zeus may be more accessible at retail locations compared to offerings from Nvidia or AMD.
Bolt Graphics might not be as well-known as Nvidia, AMD, or Intel when it comes to GPUs, but that hasn’t stopped them from introducing their second graphics card.
Company Background
Established in 2020, Bolt Graphics was founded by Darwesh Singh. He has experience in creating data centers for large companies and designing ray tracing solutions since 2014. His newly unveiled GPU is built for demanding tasks, like simulations and 3D graphics, while only consuming 120 watts of power.
Unique Features
The Zeus GPU boasts some distinct features that are unlikely to be found in consumer graphics cards. It includes onboard networking with a 400 GbE QSFP and offers up to 32 GB of embedded GDDR5X, along with upgradable DDR5 SODIMMs that can support an impressive 2.25 TB. Additionally, it has a standard 8-pin power connector that, fingers crossed, won’t overheat.
This isn’t the first GPU the company has released; that honor goes to the 2024 Bolt “Thunder,” which also comes with a similar set of extravagant features.
Performance and Use Cases
With real-time path tracing technology known as Glowstick, this card is compatible with software like AutoCAD, Revit, Fusion 360, 3ds Max, and Unreal Engine. While “gaming” is included as a capability, it’s more likely that this GPU will be used for rendering effects in TV and film rather than for playing the latest cloud games.
This card is mainly designed to help creators cut down on the time they spend waiting for their projects to finish rendering. If the benchmarks are accurate, production companies will surely be willing to pay a currently undisclosed premium to save significant time in rendering effects.
For everyday users, it might be wiser to choose an RX 9070, but realistically, you’re more likely to find the Bolt Zeus available at your local Best Buy than any of the newest offerings from Nvidia or AMD.
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