Intel alliance could make CA domination a reality

Computer Associates' drive to make its Unicenter systems management software the leading choice for enterprise customers received a boost last week when the firm outlined an alliance with Intel at the Comdex show.

CA's Wake PC technology will allow systems administrators to use the central console of Unicenter TNG to boot up and access Intel's Wired for Management-compliant hardware. This will enable them to activate sleeping PCs throughout an enterprise remotely.

The company also intends to announce the ability to remotely configure any desktop management interface (DMI) compliant desktops or server using a browser to view asset information and receive alarms.

The products will be part of a wider managed PC initiative which the company is spearheading with another 12 desktop companies, including Acer and Intel. The initiative intends to establish a common approach to managing desktops from a central point.

Workstation manufacturer Intergraph is suing Intel, alleging that the chip giant has performed anti-competitive practices and has violated contracts and patents. Intel has denied any infringement.