Dell Introduces PowerEdge XR9700 – Rugged Server for Cloud RAN and Edge AI Environments

Dell Technologies announced a new server from the PowerEdge series – Dell PowerEdge XR9700, designed specifically for Cloud RAN infrastructure and edge AI workloads. The device has been developed as a fully enclosed system with closed-loop liquid cooling, allowing it to operate in environments without traditional protection or data center infrastructure.

The server is intended for installation on utility poles, rooftops, and exterior parts of buildings, providing computing power in dense urban areas, remote locations, or spaces with limited room where standard data centers are difficult to deploy.

Computing power directly at edge locations

Telecommunications operators often face difficulties deploying computing infrastructure at the edge due to limited space and power supply. PowerEdge XR9700 is designed specifically for such conditions, delivering high-performance computing directly where it is needed.

The system uses an ultra-compact chassis with IP66 protection that is completely sealed from the external environment. This allows the server to operate in outdoor conditions without requiring additional infrastructure. For telecom operators, the platform offers a flexible, software-defined alternative to traditional RAN solutions by supporting Cloud RAN and Open RAN processing directly at the cell site.

In addition to telecom applications, the system can perform edge and AI tasks in real time, close to where the data is generated and used.

Resilience in harsh outdoor environments

The server is designed to operate in environments with extreme conditions. The compact enclosure with IP66 protection and GR-3108 Class 4 certification ensures reliable operation in environments with dust, moisture, and significant temperature fluctuations.

The system uses a closed-loop liquid cooling system and a specialized thermal management architecture that enables stable operation at temperatures between -40°C and 46°C. The platform is also resistant to direct solar radiation, with all hardware integrated into a compact 15-liter enclosure. This design allows the server to be mounted on utility poles, rooftops, and building facades, providing computing resources in locations where previously only radio systems were used.

Hardware platform and performance

PowerEdge XR9700 uses an Intel Xeon 6 SoC equipped with Intel vRAN Boost and Intel AMX. This combination provides sufficient computing power and network connectivity to support up to 15 5G sectors within a single server.

Although the system is optimized for Cloud RAN infrastructure, its architecture also allows operators to run edge applications and AI workloads depending on the specific network architecture and service requirements.

Integration with Dell’s existing infrastructure

PowerEdge XR9700 is part of the Dell PowerEdge XR-Series and can be integrated with Dell’s existing management tools and software ecosystem.

The server uses the Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller, which provides remote control and monitoring, as well as zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) capabilities. In addition, the platform is compatible with the same Cloud RAN software already validated for the Dell PowerEdge XR8720t server, which simplifies certification and accelerates the deployment of telecom infrastructure.