There are general purpose computers, and application specific workhorses. By targeting the latter, BOXX Technologies achieved an 87% growth rate in Intel CPU usage, earning Intel’s Top Growth in the Desktop/Workstation Innovation award in April 2009.

What do I mean when I say application specific? In my tests, the Red format has proved incredibly resistant to speedy processing. Even throwing an eight-core Nehalem-based processor at the problem does little good. In these instances, pure CPU speed is sometimes better than multiple cores or hyperthreaded technology. That’s why BOXX built the redBOXX II RED ONE workstation, which is powered by the Intel Core i7 processor, over-clocked to 4GHz. The unit includes Assimilate’s Scratch Cine software, and BOXX claims the unit can achieve realtime 2K and HD playback of most 4K RED ONE camera modes.

The other area where BOXX zigged while others zagged is with their renderBOXX 10300, which packs two dual Quad Core processor systems (16 cores) in a compact 3.5″ w x 7″ h x 32″ case. That’s so small that five modules (80 cores) fit into a 4 rack unit space (7″x19″). You can purchase the system with PipelineFX Qube!, V-Ray and mental ray, running either Windows or Linux.