π₯οΈ 1. CPU vs GPU: How They Work for Deep Learning
β
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
- Best for: General-purpose tasks, branching logic, and sequential operations.
- Strengths:
- Fewer cores (4β64 typical), but each is powerful and optimized for diverse tasks.
- Large instruction sets and sophisticated caching for flexible computing.
- Limitations:
- Small cache sizes compared to GPUs.
- Not as efficient for massive matrix operations or parallel tasks.
β
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
- Best for: Highly parallel tasks like matrix multiplications, convolutions, and large batch operations.
- Strengths:
- Thousands of smaller cores optimized for parallel processing.
- Larger combined cache and memory bandwidth to handle lots of data streams at once.
- Limitations:
- Less flexible for non-parallel workloads.
- Cores canβt work independently on diverse tasks β they shine when many cores work on the same type of computation.
π‘ Quick Insight
In deep learning, training neural networks often means multiplying huge matrices and applying vectorized operations across many examples β exactly what GPUs excel at!
π οΈ 2. Deep Learning Software Ecosystem
β
Common Deep Learning Frameworks:
- TensorFlow & Keras: Flexible, scalable, and great for production pipelines.
- PyTorch: Widely loved by researchers for its dynamic computation graph and Pythonic feel.
- MXNet, JAX, PaddlePaddle: Other modern frameworks that provide efficient GPU support.
- ONNX: Open Neural Network Exchange β helps models work across frameworks.
πΊ Recommended Watch: