Intel announces modular server kit for SMBs

Intel has launched a modular-server kit, which provides standardised parts for original equipment manufacturers, and resellers, to incorporate into servers for small and medium-sized businesses.

The Intel Modular Server platform uses blade server specifications announced by the Server Systems Infrastructure (SSI) group in July 2007. The specification allows standardised off-the-shelf components to be used to build new systems, in order to keep down costs.

Intel’s Modular Server platform is based on a 6U chassis comprising up to six dual- or quad-core servers, 14 hard disk drives, two Ethernet switch modules, an integrated storage attached network, and a management module.

A builder gets the chassis, a motherboard, a switch and failover. Resellers then add the hardware and sell it off. The finished server product is branded by the channels, not Intel, and the server pricing is decided by the local OEM or reseller offering the end-product to the customer.