The server market is at a potential inflection point, with a new breed of ARM-based microserver vendors (and Tilera) challenging the status quo, particularly for cloud computing. We survey 20 modern processors to understand the options for alternative architectures. To achieve disruptive performance, microserver vendors must deeply specialize in particular workloads. However, there is a trade-off between differentiation and market breadth. As the handful of microserver startups are culled to 1-2 viable vendors, only the companies which deliver compelling advantages to significant markets will survive.

http://www.realworldtech.com/microservers

Comments, questions and feedback welcome as always!

David