The new server platform, which will begin shipping in December, is built using Intel's 45-nanometer 2P quad- and dual-core Xeon processors, code-named Harpertown and Wolfdale, respectively. Intel officials said the platform will be based on a new technology called Multi-Flex.

Officials said the product was conceived and defined through contact with customer segments served by the channel and is designed as a server that IT managers can easily use remotely.

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"This [is] for SMBs who are stretched pretty thin," said Jared Leavitt, Intel product manager for the Modular Server. "With that in mind, we wanted the IT administrator to stay home on weekends and leave at 5 p.m. every day. The product offers shared storage in the chassis and has virtualized storage capability."

While the product includes Intel's AMT (Active Management Technology) and out-of-band management, allowing IT to administer machines even if they have been shut down by users, Leavitt said administrators don't need to be experts in storage or other areas.

The product is coming out of Intel's Channel Platforms Group, a worldwide organization based in Shanghai, China, and charged with creating products for distribution partners.

The Modular Server will be available as a rack-mountable blade or stand-alone pedestal. Intel officials said it will also be available for office environments.