Seneca Data Unveils Intel-Based Modular Server

Intel's server computer module is based on the Intel 5000P series chipset with support for Multi-Core Intel Xeon processors and has up to 32 gigabytes of memory. Using this technology, the Seneca Data Nexlink StableFlex modular server integrates dedicated storage capacity, computer modules and networking into a single 6U rack mount or pedestal chassis. It supports up to six Nexlink server modules, 14 SAS hard disk drives and Ethernet and system management modules.

Steve Maser, vice president of product development and marketing at Syracuse, N.Y."based Seneca, said that the product takes the best of blade infrastructure that SBMs usually can't afford and that proved to be too complex.

"This product takes the best of blade infrastructure; it's well designed and expandable. In this more manageable and smaller version there's a lot of flexibility which allows customers -- both end-users and resellers -- to have when they couldn't afford to get into this area."

According to the company, the modular servers will help resellers increase revenue by enabling them to deliver the high-end storage and processing capabilities of blade servers to a wider range of users, including government and educational organizations, while minimizing upfront customer investments. Once servers are up and running there is also residual income in maintaining and monitoring systems.

Customers can opt for one to six computer modules in a box which can later be expanded if necessary. Pricing ranges from an entry point of $10,000 and up, depending on number of blades.

Maser believes the system builder space is extremely healthy, showing tremendous growth and is poised for even greater expansion. In fact, research firm Access Markets International Partners has forecasted that global SMB server spending is set to hit $19.8 billion this year, growing at a double-digit rate over 2007.

"We've been doing great business; our overall server market increased 45 to-50 percent last year and we have forecasted double-digit growth for this year." Seneca is the third largest system builder with 4,000 reseller partners, behind Equus Computer Systems [Hopkins, Minn.] and Northern Computer Technologies [Burnsville, Minn.] respectively, according to CRN's list of the Top 30 companies in the space.