Direct-attached NVLink provides significantly higher bandwidth and lower latency compared to routing traffic over a traditional network. This is crucial for applications that require intensive GPU-to-GPU communication, such as large-scale AI training. While direct-attached NVLink can simplify configuration in some cases, its primary advantage is the performance improvement.

Using a splitter can overload the original connector and cause instability or damage. Leaving a GPU unpowered defeats the purpose. SATA connectors are not designed for the high power requirements of GPUs. Underclocking might work, but is not a reliable long-term solution. Replacing the PSU is the safest and most reliable solution.

Using a base image provided by NVIDIA (such as those from NGC) is the recommended approach because it ensures that the container image includes the correct and compatible drivers and libraries, simplifying the build process and reducing potential compatibility issues. The NVIDIA Container Toolkit requires host drivers and handles the injection of the library into the container and not the building of the image.

QSFP-DD SR4 with OM4 provides 400GbE over short distances (up to 100m) using multi-mode fiber. DR4 and FR4 require single- mode fiber and are typically used for longer distances. LR8 typically requires single mode fibre for specified distances. Using SR8 with OM3 is unlikely to achieve 400GbE as SR8 works best with OM4/OM5.

BlueField DPUs offload network tasks, freeing up CPU resources and improving network performance through hardware acceleration. Simplified configuration is not always guaranteed, as DPUs often require more configuration due to their advanced features. DPUs do not eliminate the need for a NIC, they are a NIC with advanced processing capabilities.