update Intel today launched the vPro desktop platform in Australia and New Zealand, claiming the technology will reduce support costs, improve hardware security and make PCs easier to manage. However, newly found partner Apple has no plans to include vPro in its line of offerings.

vPro-certified systems comprise of three components -- an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, Q965 Express chipset (pictured below) and 82566 DC Gigabit Ethernet Controller.

Click to enlarge. Source: Intel

First announced in the US in April, a key feature of vPro is remote management where hardware diagnosis and asset management exercises can be conducted remotely. For instance, an IT manager would be able to log-in from home and do a count of free hard drives or RAM slots on powered-down machines (at the office). In addition, the IT manager would also be able to reboot, troubleshoot or repair the company's desktop fleet (watch video below).

By clicking on the Active Management Technology (AMT) menu within a management console, the IT manager can tell if a PC is powered on or off, or needs to be restarted. AMT is an embedded firmware solution that doesn't require agents.

In terms of security, the chipmaker claims that vPro's Embedded IT Virtual Appliance can help block network traffic from a vPro desktop if unusual traffic is detected (in the case of a virus attack, for instance).

In Australia, vPro desktops will be available from Dell, Acer, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo and Optima. Acer vPro machines will start at AU$1,999 and be available from mid-September, a spokesperson told ZDNet Australia. HP is expected to announce pricing on Monday. vPro management consoles will be available from LANDesk, Altiris and StarSoftComm.

Apple Australia has yet to announce plans to support vPro although it said yesterday that iMac desktops are now equipped with Intel's Core 2 Duo processors. "No announcement has been made with regards to vPro," said Apple Australia spokesperson Fiona Martin.

vPro is aimed at the enterprise and small- and medium-sized business markets, said Brett Hannath, Intel Australia regional solutions manager.

IDC New Zealand analyst Mujin Kang expects vPro to do well in the enterprise space. "Businesses who've had problems with security in the past will welcome vPro since security is enforced at the hardware layer rather than software.

"And desktops consuming less power is a definite positive. But since it's a new platform, it may be too costly for SMBs who usually don't have large budgets."

Intel plans to roll out its notebook vPro technology platform -- codenamed "Santa Rosa" -- in 2007, which will additionally support wireless patch updates.