Cutting-edge PC blades for Vista

ClearCube introduces new blade client systems running Windows Vista operating system and its first dual-core

ClearCube Technology will today introduce new blade client systems that can run Microsoft’s forthcoming Windows Vista operating system. These will include ClearCube’s first dual-core blade.

The ClearCube architecture replaces desktop PCs with rack-mounted blades for easier centralised control. User access is via a desktop console, thin client or wireless Tablet PC. The two new blades are the fastest single- and dual-processor models available, according to ClearCube.

“We’re staying in lock-step with Intel’s roadmap, and dual-core keeps us in line with the expectations of our higher-end customers,” said ClearCube senior technologist Ken Knotts.

The R1300 is priced from $1,999 (£1,090) and runs either a P4 or dual-core Pentium D processor with up to 2GB memory and dual Ethernet ports.

Based on twin Xeon processors, the R2200 is designed for more demanding environments such as financial trading floors. This blade can be fitted with two hard disks configured as a Raid array to speed disk access and has up to 4GB memory. It costs from $2,999 (£1,630).

Both blades can hold graphics adapters with 128MB or 256MB memory, in line with Vista’s more demanding graphics requirements. Knotts said the blades are compatible with ClearCube’s existing chassis designs, and the vendor will maintain compatibility in future.

Last month, ClearCube launched its Sentral 5.0 tools to manage networks of PC blade clients and deploy virtual desktop PCs across them.