Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003 on SGI Altix XE Cluster Systems is the result of a Microsoft and SGI strategy designed to expand high-performance computing. Starting with March 2007, the SGI Altix XE Cluster Systems powered by quad-core and dual-core Intel Xeon processors will feature Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003.

"Customers are dealing with the complexity of working with different operating systems throughout their workflow. SGI now provides solutions that bridge that interoperability gap," said Dennis McKenna, CEO of SGI. "The Windows platform, which is core to many of these workflows, combined with our HPC expertise further expands our reach into these markets. By adding SGI Altix XE solutions with Intel Xeon and Windows Compute Cluster Server to our existing portfolio, our aim is to provide solutions that are transparent across mixed workflows and make HPC accessible to a much broader market at a lower cost of ownership."

The joint Microsoft and SGI HPC solution is designed for implementation in mixed workflow infrastructures addressing media data management, industrial design, healthcare; governmental and academic markets. According to Microsoft, Windows Compute Cluster Server will streamline the deployment, handling and integration process of HPC clusters with existing infrastructure and tools.

"We are pleased to be working with SGI, an innovator of solutions for customers running high-performance computing systems across many industries," said Kyril Faenov, general manager of High Performance Computing at Microsoft Corp. "Windows Compute Cluster Server and Microsoft's tools and application ecosystem can help customers be more productive and accelerate the pace of discovery and insights. Together, Microsoft and SGI aim to help researchers and scientists gain ready access to supercomputing power from their desks."