Intel Launches New Modular Server Building Blocks for Worldwide System Builder Channel
SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 11, 2008 – Intel Corporation today announced the launch of its first modular server building block products that support a server specification announced last July by the Server Systems Infrastructure (SSI) organization.
In using these modular server building blocks, system builders can uniquely integrate computing, networking and storage capabilities in one system for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), and their needs for budget-friendly IT simplicity and flexibility. The modular server building blocks are based on Intel® Multi-Flex Technology, a set of management and storage technologies developed to enable ease of use, low-cost and flexibility.
Research firm Access Markets International (AMI) Partners Inc. believes global SMB server spending is set to hit $19.8 billion this year, growing at a double-digit rate over 2007. Intel has a long history of supporting system builders around the globe and continues to do so with these modular server building blocks built on Intel® Multi-Flex Technology.
"The Intel Multi-Flex Technology is a breakthrough in providing a variety of building blocks to system builders that in turn will greatly benefit small and medium businesses," said Steve Dallman, vice president of Intel's Sales and Marketing Group and general manager for the Worldwide Reseller Channel Organization.
When integrated by system builders into a complete server system, the Intel modular server building blocks have the ability to support up to six server compute nodes and 14 serial attached SCSI 2.5" hard disk drives, as well as two Ethernet switch modules, integrated storage attached network and a management module. The server compute nodes support the latest quad and dual-core Intel® Xeon® processors in a two-socket motherboard.
For system builders, the server market represents one of the most rewarding and fast growing business opportunities. Server systems provide a unique opportunity for the channel to get closer to the core IT infrastructure of their customers, making them a more trusted partner.
"The system builder server market will have a richer set of offerings with the high-end server technologies featured in this set of modular building blocks," said Tom Rampone, vice president of Intel's Sales and Marketing Group and general manager for the Channel Platforms Group.
Intel's endorsement of the new SSI industry specification for modular server platforms will ensure that system integrators have an opportunity to participate in the fastest growing Intel server segment – blade computing.
By using Intel Multi-Flex Technology as the building block foundation for their server solutions, system builders and their customers can have confidence they are deploying industry leading performance, reliability and manageability that people have come to expect from Intel.
Intel modular server building blocks are now shipping. Pricing is available from selected Intel® Channel Partners Program members. More product information is available at www.intel.com/go/mft.
