Xsigo Supports Next-Generation Intel Xeon Processor Family

Provides optimal I/O architecture to complement high-density computing environments

San Jose, CA, March 30, 2009 -- Xsigo Systems, Inc., a technology leader in data center I/O virtualization, today announced support for Intel's next-generation Xeon processor family. The new Intel processors offer enhanced performance and throughput capabilities that are expected to increase the need for virtual I/O as users migrate to high-density compute environments that demand greater I/O capabilities.

"The new Xeon-equipped servers will offer customers the ability to create computing environments with more virtual machines per server than ever before," said Bruce Fingles, Xsigo's VP of product line management, alliances, and IT. "To ensure optimal efficiency, customers will need a similarly capable I/O architecture that will support the bandwidth demands of the new devices. Xsigo virtual I/O meets this need with a high-speed InfiniBand-based fabric that delivers more bandwidth to each server, so users can efficiently run more virtual machines per server, deliver predictable performance from each VM, and achieve higher levels of resource utilization."

The new Xeon processors include architectural enhancements that increase both processing power and memory bandwidth. When users add workload to capitalize on these features, thereis an elevated risk of I/O bottlenecks unless there is a commensurate increase in I/O capabilities. Xsigo virtual I/O eliminates I/O bottlenecks with dynamic allocation that delivers performance on-demand to I/O connections over a high-speed 20Gbs fabric. Xsigo virtual I/O also incorporates quality of service features that reduce the risk of I/O resource contention, an issue that arises when multiple virtual machines compete for bandwidth on a single I/O link.

"Running enterprise applications on virtual machines demands that bandwidth be available when and where it is needed, without the risk of resource contention from virtual machines running less critical applications," Fingles continued. "Xsigo's hardware-enforced quality of service eliminates this risk by ensuring that specific, mission-critical virtual machines receive the bandwidth they need."

Increasing compute density frequently exacerbates I/O issues since high-density devices may lack the physical space to accommodate the needed I/O, particularly when blade systems or compact 1U or 2U servers are deployed. Xsigo virtual I/O eliminates this concern by providing up to 40Gbs of bandwidth with each I/O card or mezzanine card, or 2X to 40X the bandwidth density of conventional I/O.

Customers using Xsigo's I/O virtualization products can reduce both the operational and capital costs associated with server I/O. Xsigo consolidates the I/O infrastructure and replaces physical network and storage interfaces (NICs and HBAs) with virtual resources that can be deployed on-the-fly. Compared with traditional server I/O, benefits of the Xsigo virtual I/O infrastructure include:

• 100 times faster I/O configuration management
• 30 percent less power consumption
• 70 percent fewer I/O cards, cables, and switch ports
• Predictable I/O bandwidth to applications via hardware-enforced QoS

This open standards-based solution, interoperable with servers and storage across most leading platforms, is designed to remove the constraints imposed by traditional I/O cards and cables that otherwise limit the flexibility to re-deploy assets. The result is a wire-once infrastructure where configuration changes are completed in minutes rather than days, are executed in software rather than hardware, and can be remotely managed. Eliminating the need to re-cable can help reduce operational costs and remove the risk of cabling errors that may cause unplanned downtime.

About Xsigo Systems
Xsigo Systems, Inc. is a technology leader in Data Center I/O Virtualization, helping organizations reduce costs and improve business agility. Xsigo's VP780 I/O Director consolidates server connectivity with a solution that provides unprecedented management simplicity and interoperability with open standards. By using Xsigo, it is estimated that large data centers can reduce server-related operational expenses by 80%, cut capital costs by 50%, and use 70% less cabling. The privately held company is based in Sunnyvale, CA and funded by Kleiner Perkins, Khosla Ventures and Greylock Partners. For more information, contact Xsigo at 408-329-5600, or visit www.xsigo.com.

Learn more about the Xsigo I/O Director here.