Saying it wants to enable its solution provider partners to offer a broader range of solutions to their customers, AMD announced today it’s adding two single-socket server motherboards with new platform providers to its AMD Validated Solutions (AVS) program.In addition to the server motherboards designed specifically for the SMB market, AMD also introduced the Atlhon 64 X2 dual-core processor 6400+ Black Edition, an enthusiast dual-core processor designed for the consumer space.
Ron Myers, divisional manager for AMD’s Validated Solutions program, said the North American-wide AVS program works with best of breed platform providers and OEMs to target specific platforms for distribution into the channel. What sets the program apart, said Myers, is that AMD gets directly involved in service and support for motherboard platforms.
“If a customer or a solution provider has a problem they can call AMD’s global customer care and get service and support,” said Myers.
The program also offers solution providers channel stability, said Myers, by providing partners with a clear roadmap. For commercial desktop motherboards, AMD offers 15 months of stability and for the new one-piece server motherboards, 24 months of stability will be offered.
“That stability really gives them a chance to roadmap with their customers and identify attributes they can sell to their commercial customers,” said Myers. “AVS is a program that allows solution providers to effectively compete in the commercial space by offering the same kind of attributes the multinational tier ones offer.”
Previously, AVS was focused on commercial desktop platforms but Myers said there was partner demand for a server platform, leading to the introduction of the two new one-piece server motherboards.
“It’s really a great companion product to our commercial desktop motherboards,” said Myers. “Up to now, a lot of solution providers weren’t able to offer a solid SMB server product so they had to offer a desktop that wasn’t really meant for server use.”
Recognizing the needs of the SMB space are different than the enterprise, and that in a small business a server might end up under someone’s desk rather than in a data centre. Myers said the new offerings have been tailor-made for the SMB, but still feature rich management capabilities. He added they would also work well as a departmental server.
“These are server boards. They’re not what we like to call a DUD: a dressed-up desktop,” said Myers. “It’s something that’s purpose-built for the SMB, and it will allow partners to engage on a different level. We think it’s going to be a key differentiator.”
Along with the new motherboards, AMD is enhancing the service and support component of AVS, and a Toronto depot will enable AMD to offer rapid advanced exchange on defective motherboards to its Canadian solution provider partners. Gold and platinum partners will get next business day advance exchange, with two-day advance exchange for member-level partners.
“This allows you to engage with your customer and set service level expectations,” said Myers.
