Intel to propose new microserver standard

In September, general manager of Intel Architecture Group Sean Maloney demonstrated publicly for the first time a single-socket 'micro server' reference system which will help enable micro server innovation and future specification.

Jason Waxman, general manager of Intel's high-density computing group says the company will present the design specifications at the Server System Infrastructure Forum scheduled to be held at the end of this year. If the group's board approves the proposed design, then members will be able to use the specifications for free.

The proposed design for the server consists of a single quad-core processor and four memory banks. Intel showed 16 microservers housed in an 8.75-inch-tall chassis that supplies them all with power, cooling, and a network connection to the outside world. Along the bottom of the chassis is a bay with 16 "sleds" with each having a trio of 2.5-inch hard drives that directly connect to each microserver.

Waxman believes microservers will be ideal for Web site hosting companies that need a lot of servers or relatively low-traffic Web sites. He believes a low power draw when idle is an important characteristic for microservers but when that request to view the Web page does arrive, it must respond just as quickly.

"For the low-end, scaled-out Web hosting space, we think we can put enough power in a low enough power envelope," Waxman said.

Intel's big goal is for the microserver to idle at just 25 watts of power.