IBM plans to unveil its second-generation BladeCenter on Feb. 8, CNET News.com has learned, as it tries to keep its top spot in sales of thin but high-end servers.

The launch of the system, confirmed by sources familiar with the plan, is scheduled to take place at a press event in New York. The blade server upgrade is key to Big Blue’s attempt to stay ahead in the strategically important and fast-growing market. Blades are clearly a priority for Big Blue: In an interview earlier this month, Susan Whitney, IBM’s top Intel server executive, was quick to stress the company’s blade server prowess.
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