Intel (http://www.intel.com) launched its first Intel Atom processor- based platform optimized for networked home and small office/home office (SOHO) storage devices.
Home server and SOHO network-attached storage (NAS) devices based on the new Intel Atom processor- based platform act as centralized hubs that organize, manage, protect and share documents, photos, videos and music throughout the home and small office, according to Seth Bobroff, general manager, Intel Data Center Group, Storage. This makes it possible to keep digital content safe and available anytime, anywhere, he adds.

With an up to 50% power reduction and improved performance1 compared to Intel’s previous generation of Intel Atom processors, the new Intel Atom processors paired with the Intel 82801IR I/O Controller enable vendors to deliver cost-effective, feature-rich and reliable systems that scale to support the demands of the evolving home and small office storage market, Bobroff says.

The new platform features six PCI Express lanes, 12 USB 2.0 ports, a port multiplier function and eSATA ports that give original equipment manufacturers the ability to add peripheral devices and expand storage capacity outside of the box. It also features hot plug capabilities forcapacity upgrades and an integrated gigabit Ethernet MAC controller for improved data transfers to and from the home server or small office NAS device.