[apawloski]

So for many distributed computations in my field (pretty much anything that isn't embarrassingly parallel [0]), the limiting factor is often network communication -- how quickly nodes can send messages to each other.

Even as just a toy, putting an affordable arm chip with a serious interconnect would be a really big deal. This is a great step closer.

[0] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embarrassingly_parallel

[Timmmmbob]

This is quite badly named and isn't intended for number-crunching. It's for when you want to use a RPi in a project, but want it smaller or better integrated into your other electronics. Think about a kiosk, or digital signage.

[timthorn]

The Calxeda ECX-1000/2000 would have been ideal for you then - 4x10GbE interconnects with a quad core A9/A15.

Shame they went under - but there are alternatives from Marvell, Applied Micro and others. Look for ARM server chipsets and you'll usually find a good fabric attached.

[justincormack]

You will also find a large price tag. And probably inability to actually buy one alas.

[timthorn]

You can get the Mirabox based on the Marvell Armada 370 for about £150, one-off. Includes dual 1GbE.

Eg http://www.newit.co.uk/shop/All-MiraBox/MiraBox

[justincormack]

That's not really server class, more a consumer product.