TLDR;
Felix builds a new high-performance computer, "Odysius," for machine learning tasks. He faces challenges like sourcing GPUs, building a custom case, and resolving compatibility issues. He overcomes these hurdles with persistence and help from an online stranger, ultimately achieving his goal of running eight GPUs in parallel. He also shoutouts G-Fuel and a travel eSIM service called Saily.
- Felix builds a new computer for machine learning.
- He encounters issues with GPU sourcing, case building, and component compatibility.
- He successfully runs eight GPUs in parallel after overcoming numerous challenges.
Intro: New Computer Build [0:00]
Felix is building a new computer to increase his compute power for machine learning. He jokes about needing more power as he spends more time on tech projects and less time outdoors. This new build is a step up from his previous PC and is intended for serious computational tasks.
Specs and Components [0:31]
Felix discusses the high-end components he has acquired for the build. These include a Pro VS X90E motherboard, an AMD Threadripper 7975WX processor, 96 GB of RAM (though he feels he needs more), and RTX 4000 GPUs. He humorously laments the high cost of GPUs and the lengths he went to find them, including writing a bot to scan the market, only to realize he was fighting anti-bot measures. He settles for seven RTX 4000 GPUs with 20 GB of VRAM each. For cooling, he's using an all-in-one cooler.
Justifying the Cost to Marcia [2:53]
Felix jokes about how to explain the expensive build to his wife, Marcia. He suggests arguing that the computer will pay for itself by replacing the need for cloud computation, estimating savings of over $20,000 over six months. He also points out the benefits of privacy and freedom from throttling or censorship compared to cloud services.
G-Fuel Sponsorship [3:57]
Felix promotes G-Fuel, announcing the new and improved 2.0 formula. He praises the smoother taste and reduced chalkiness compared to the previous version. He specifically highlights his PewDiePie Lingonberry flavor, which is included in a special September release along with Miami Nights and Hype Sauce. He thanks G-Fuel for sponsoring the video and helping to fund the build.
Case and Custom Build [5:35]
Felix discusses the challenges he faced with his previous computer case, which led him to build a custom case for this project. He's using 3030 aluminum extrusions for the frame, valuing their strength, lightweight nature, and relative affordability. He details the process of designing and assembling the frame, including making his own screw holes and mounting the PSUs and cooler. He also explains his plan for GPU placement to optimize airflow.
Building Challenges and Solutions [7:43]
Felix describes the various problems he encountered during the build, such as incorrect screw sizes and electrical socket incompatibilities. He shows the process of tapping screw holes, mounting PSUs, and creating GPU brackets. He mentions having to rebuild and optimize the layout multiple times.
Motherboard and Component Installation [11:10]
Felix details the installation of the motherboard, fans, storage, and RAM. He shares his struggles with reading instructions and the fear of damaging expensive components like the CPU. He recounts a problem where the computer wouldn't boot because he hadn't screwed the CPU cooler tight enough.
GPU Issues and Driver Problems [14:37]
Felix describes the issues he faced with getting all the GPUs to work. He initially had problems with GPU detection and driver compatibility. He discovered that some cables weren't properly connected, a "noob mistake." After resolving these issues, he found that he couldn't run all six GPUs in parallel due to tensor parallelism limitations.
Adding More GPUs and Bifurcation [15:46]
Felix decides to add two more GPUs, bringing the total to eight. He explains the concept of bifurcation, which allows splitting a PCIe slot to accommodate two GPUs. However, he discovers that his motherboard doesn't support the required 8x8 bifurcation.
BIOS Modding and Final Success [18:35]
Felix searches online for a solution and finds a forum thread where someone claims to have a modified BIOS that enables bifurcation. He contacts the person, receives the BIOS, and flashes it onto his motherboard. After a tense moment, the computer boots up successfully with all eight GPUs working.
Final Thoughts and Project Name [21:56]
Felix expresses his satisfaction with the completed build, addressing concerns about noise, power consumption, and temperature. He names the computer "Odysius," inspired by the character from the Iliad, and reflects on the challenges and rewards of the project.
Saily Sponsorship [24:38]
Felix promotes Saily, an eSIM service that simplifies getting internet access while traveling. He highlights the convenience and privacy benefits of using Saily compared to traditional methods like renting Wi-Fi or buying local SIM cards. He offers viewers a 15% discount with the code "pewdiepie."