Dell and IBM preparing ARM processor servers

Now that we know that the ARM architecture will soon find its place in servers, it appears that Dell and IBM are testing multi-core processors for low energy use servers.

The site EE Times, obviously well informed on the subject, has indicated that Dell and IBM are looking to test ARM processors with the aim being to integrate these into servers. This is a new field which is opening  up for the ARM architecture, normally reserved to mobile products, which will pit them directly against x86 processors, right at the same time that these are attempting an integration into the mobile field.

Dell will be testing multi-core ARM processors provided by Marvell Technology for their low energy use servers while IBM, who has similar projects underway, remains quiet on the subject. The interest is in being able to offer low energy use servers for large data centres.


Opening of a segment which is just beginning
Dell has previously attempted getting a foothold in this segment, but with low energy use x86 processors provided by VIA. They are now evaluating the SoC capabilities (System on a Chip) of the ARM Cortex-A9 multi-core processor burned at 40 nm.

Other chipset manufacturers should start to show their hand in the near future, like Broadcom and Texas Instruments (using an OMAP4 base), as the market is only just beginning. The arrival of ARM processors visibly meets a growing need - that of having a processor calibrated for specific uses.

The characteristics of the low energy use ARM architecture can become a benefit if performance is up to standard for the specified use, which will notably be better adapted than super powerful processors that offer multi-use options, but which also bring with them heavy energy requirements.