What is Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK?

The Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK is a powerful software development kit designed to facilitate the deployment of deep learning applications on Intel's Neural Compute Stick (NCS). The NCS is a USB-based device that enables developers to run neural networks at the edge, allowing for efficient processing of AI workloads without relying on cloud computing. The SDK provides a comprehensive set of tools, libraries, and APIs that make it easier for developers to optimize and deploy their machine learning models on the NCS.

The SDK is particularly beneficial for developers looking to create AI-powered applications that require low power consumption, real-time processing, and high performance. It supports various neural network frameworks, enabling developers to leverage pre-trained models or build custom models from scratch.

Features

The Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK comes packed with a variety of features that enhance its usability and performance:

• Model Optimization: The SDK includes tools for optimizing deep learning models to run efficiently on the NCS. This includes quantization, pruning, and other techniques that reduce model size and improve inference speed.

• Support for Popular Frameworks: The SDK supports a range of popular deep learning frameworks, including TensorFlow, Caffe, and MXNet. This flexibility allows developers to use the framework they are most comfortable with or the one that best suits their project needs.

• Pre-trained Models: The SDK provides access to a library of pre-trained models that can be used out-of-the-box for various applications, such as image classification, object detection, and facial recognition. This feature significantly reduces the time required to develop and deploy AI applications.

• Graph Compiler: The SDK includes a graph compiler that converts deep learning models into an optimized format for execution on the NCS. This ensures that models run efficiently and take full advantage of the hardware capabilities of the device.

• Real-time Inference: The SDK enables real-time inference capabilities, making it suitable for applications that require immediate processing of data, such as video analytics and robotics.

• Cross-platform Support: The SDK is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Linux and Windows, allowing developers to work in their preferred environment.

• Comprehensive Documentation: Intel provides extensive documentation and tutorials for the SDK, making it easier for developers to get started and troubleshoot issues.

Use Cases

The Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK is versatile and can be applied in various domains and industries. Some notable use cases include:

• Smart Cameras: Developers can create smart surveillance systems that leverage object detection and facial recognition algorithms to enhance security and monitoring capabilities.

• Robotics: The SDK can be utilized in robotics applications, enabling robots to recognize objects, navigate environments, and interact with humans through gesture recognition.

• Healthcare: In the healthcare sector, the SDK can be employed for medical imaging analysis, helping radiologists detect anomalies in X-rays, MRIs, and other medical scans.

• Retail: Retailers can use the SDK to develop applications that analyze customer behavior, optimize inventory management, and enhance the shopping experience through personalized recommendations.

• Agriculture: The SDK can be used in precision agriculture, where it helps in monitoring crop health, detecting pests, and optimizing resource usage through data analysis.

• Augmented and Virtual Reality: Developers can create immersive AR and VR experiences that utilize real-time object recognition and tracking, enhancing user interactions.

Pricing

As of the latest information, the Intel Neural Compute Stick 2 (NCS2) has been discontinued. The discontinuation means that new purchases may be limited to existing stock, and technical support ended on June 30, 2023. Warranty support will continue until June 30, 2024. Pricing for the NCS2 varied depending on the retailer and region, typically ranging from $70 to $100 at launch.

While the SDK itself is free to download and use, developers should consider potential costs associated with hardware, additional software licenses, and cloud services if required for their applications.

Comparison with Other Tools

When comparing the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK with other edge AI solutions, several factors come into play:

• Performance: The NCS is optimized for low-power inference, making it suitable for battery-operated devices. Other solutions, such as NVIDIA Jetson or Google Coral, may offer higher performance but at a higher power consumption.

• Model Support: The Movidius SDK supports popular deep learning frameworks, similar to other tools. However, the extent of optimization and ease of integration may vary.

• Ecosystem: Intel's ecosystem offers a range of hardware and software products that can work seamlessly together. In contrast, other vendors may have a more fragmented ecosystem.

• Ease of Use: The comprehensive documentation and tutorials provided by Intel can make the Movidius SDK easier for beginners to adopt compared to other tools that may have steeper learning curves.

• Cost: While the Movidius SDK itself is free, the total cost of ownership, including hardware and support, should be considered when comparing it to other edge AI solutions.

FAQ

Q1: What types of neural networks can I deploy using the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK?

A1: The SDK supports various types of neural networks, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for image processing tasks, recurrent neural networks (RNNs) for sequence analysis, and more. It is compatible with popular deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and Caffe, allowing for a wide range of model types.

Q2: Is the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK suitable for beginners in AI development?

A2: Yes, the SDK is designed with ease of use in mind. It comes with extensive documentation, tutorials, and pre-trained models, making it accessible for beginners looking to get started with AI development.

Q3: Can I use the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK for commercial applications?

A3: Yes, developers can use the SDK to create commercial applications. However, it is essential to review licensing agreements and compliance requirements for any third-party frameworks or models used in your application.

Q4: What are the hardware requirements for using the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK?

A4: The primary hardware requirement is the Intel Neural Compute Stick (NCS), which connects via USB. The host system should meet the minimum specifications for the operating system being used, typically a modern PC or development board with sufficient processing power and memory.

Q5: What happens after the warranty support period for the Intel Neural Compute Stick 2 ends?

A5: After the warranty support period ends, users will no longer receive technical support from Intel for the NCS2. However, developers can continue to use the SDK and any existing hardware as long as it meets their project needs.

In conclusion, the Intel Movidius Neural Compute SDK is a robust tool for developers looking to implement AI at the edge. With its optimization capabilities, support for popular frameworks, and diverse use cases, it remains a valuable asset in the realm of machine learning and deep learning applications, despite the discontinuation of the NCS2.