Call it the anti-virtualization approach: Rackable pushes teeny server footprint

Just say no to virtualization software.

That's the radical approach that Rackable Systems is advocating with prospects for its new MicroSlice server architecture, which crams up to 264 servers into one cabinet.

The configurations, which start at less than $500, build on AMD Dual-Core Athlon and Tri-Core or Quad-Core Phenom processors. They can all be managed via Rackable's Roamer remote server management software and have ultra-high efficient power supplies; each server draws as little as 72 watts depending on its activity. Here's some more background on the architecture.