Microsoft bets on AMD

BANGALORE: The world's second largest chipmaker, AMD will partner with the world's largest software maker, Microsoft to bring the first x86-based 64-bit servers to Microsoft Technology Centers (MTC) worldwide. This also looks like a first move to break the Wintel (Windows and Intel) stronghold.

Microsoft plans to deploy and use enterprise-class HP ProLiant DL145 and DL585 servers powered by the AMD Opteron processor at MTC locations in North America, Europe and Asia. These systems will enable MTC customers to migrate, test and validate 64-bit applications while preserving their investment in 32-bit applications.

"Working with Microsoft in the MTC is a key step in supporting our enterprise customers as they continue to optimize their IT infrastructures on AMD64 platforms," said Marty Seyer, corporate vice president and general manager, Microprocessor Business Unit, Computation Products Group, AMD. "The impressive combination of the AMD Opteron processor and Microsoft's 64-bit operating systems brings the flexibility and scalability needed for enterprises to realize the full benefits of 64-bit computing."

"Using AMD Opteron processor-powered servers in Microsoft Technology Centers was an obvious choice since the centers were created to bring the best hardware, software and expertise together to solve customers' problems," said Adam Hecktman, director Microsoft Technology Centers -Chicago. "With AMD64 technology in the MTC, our teams will have the ability to help optimize customers' 32- and 64-bit .NET applications all on a single platform."

"AMD and HP have a very successful track record of developing innovative and industry-leading systems to meet enterprise-class customer needs," said James Mouton, vice president, platform division, Industry Standard Servers, HP. "Along with our ongoing Microsoft and MTC support and relationships, this initiative is another way to provide our customers access to the systems, service and support they need as they move to 64-bit computing."