Compact, Powerful Edge Nodes for Azure Stack HCI: Efficiency Redefined

Dell offers powerful solutions designed to extend Azure Stack HCI for the edge with high performance 1U and 2U sleds. They provide advanced management and automation with two hardware options: Dell APEX Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure and Dell Integrated System for Azure Stack HCI.

“These platforms can withstand the unpredictable and often challenging deployment environments found in non-data center locations,” said Matt McSpirit, senior principal engineering technologist at Dell Technologies and Microsoft Azure MVP. “Whether it's space constrained back offices of your retail locations or directly next to heavy machinery on the manufacturing floors, these options deliver flexible compute on resilient infrastructure that can adapt to those unpredictable and challenging conditions.”

The sleds can be rack mounted or stacked. The two options are designed around a unique chassis and compute sled concept, 1U and 2U form factors.

“The chassis is engineered for flexibility all while fitting into a standard width rack for easy integration with existing compute infrastructure,” said McSpirit. “Now the stackable chassis, they're ideal for space limited environments and can be placed on a desktop or stacked on a shelf using its built-in latches. Both chassis are designed for wall mounting, providing maximum flexibility in areas where floor space is scarce.”

These small chassis are powerful, delivering the full Azure Stack HCI experience for various tasks like AI, machine learning, Azure Virtual Desktop and on-premises container workloads.

“The sleds contain the Intel Xeon D processors, and these made for the edge CPUs come with up to 20 cores, meaning a rackable chassis can be deployed with up to 80 total cores,” said McSpirit.

The Edge Optimized Nodes are perfect for maximizing efficiency in small spaces. They reduce power use, cut costs and lower carbon emissions.