The AVS program guarantees the stability of a platform for 15 months, meaning no changes to the configurations, driver requirements or other specifications.

"The AVS program's goal is to provide the channel with stable platforms," said Ron Myers, divisional manager for AMD Validated Solutions.

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The company, based in Sunnyvale, Calif., implemented the program in October. It expanded to desktop platforms a predecessor program that guaranteed the stability of server platforms. "This is one of the strong ways we are going to be able to ensure [that we provide] standard infrastructure to the channel. Things like stability [and] advanced product replacement haven't generally been offered in the channel," Myers said.

Myers said he believes the program will have particular appeal to those VARs that build their own branded systems because it allows them to provide their customers with even more value.

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The new chip-set platforms announced March 12 expand the number of platforms offered through AVS from four to eight, and Myers said AMD will add eight to 12 more platforms to the program by the end of 2007.

The March 9 announcement brings a chip set into AVS that takes advantage of features in Vista and Office 2007. For example, it offers the digital video-out feature, enabling commercial clients to use dual monitors. Using Microsoft Vista and Office 2007, users can view PowerPoint in working mode and animation and build mode. And in Microsoft Publisher they can see working mode and display mode, Myers said.

Partners can also look forward to the addition of small-form-factor desktop or DTX platforms to be added to the AVS program, according to Myers.