Intel is preparing to launch the next generation of its vPro platform on 27 August, vnunet.com has learned.

The chipmaker will also reveal Dell as the latest partner for its enterprise desktop platform, according to sources familiar with the matter. Spokespersons for Intel and Dell declined to comment.

Intel's vPro platform aims to reduce the costs of managing client computers. The technology allows IT staff to remotely power up computers, for instance, and install updates without requiring physical access to the system.

The technology also supports virtual software management appliances that run as a virtual host next to the system's main operating system.

Lenovo is currently the only vendor shipping an appliance, but others including Symantec are scheduled to follow.

Formerly codenamed Weybridge, the new vPro will introduce Intel's hardware-based Trusted Execution Technology formerly known by its LeGrande codename.

The platform also offers an updated version of Intel's Active Management Technology and adds support for the Web Services Management and Desktop & Mobile Working Group industry standards.

The introduction of industry standard management technologies is likely to have been the persuading factor for Dell, which is currently the only major PC maker not shipping vPro systems.

Dell is likely to unveil and start shipping its first vPro workstations on Monday, sources confirmed to vnunet.com.

The first version of vPro that Intel unveiled in May 2006 relied on the firm's proprietary Active Management Technology.

Although most major PC makers including Acer, HP and Lenovo quickly picked up the Intel technology, Dell held back.

In an interview with vnunet.com last November, Margaret Franco, Dell's director for the OptiPlex line of business, complained that the platform lacked openness.

"When customers really start deploying [management] technology, we think it will be in a new industry standard format," Franco said at the time.

"There should be a communication mechanism such that the industry can innovate within that open standard."

Intel is already working on a future version of vPro. The current iteration uses a proprietary hypervisor technology to run the management appliance and the user's operating system. The management appliance is limited to Windows CE.

Intel unveiled a partnership with Red Hat in May to design a future vPro version that will be based on Red Hat Linux and use the Xen open source technology.

In addition to Windows CE, virtual appliance vendors will also be able to run their software on Linux.