IBM Intros Next-Generation Mainframe

IBM (News - Alert) has introduced IBM System z10 Business Class (z10 BC) mainframe to help midsize companies and customers in emerging markets jumpstart new application development efforts and consolidate IT server sprawl.

 

In addition, this new mainframe is expected to give qualified organizations a “pay-as-you-grow” financial platform to build the mainframe as the foundation of their new enterprise data center.

 

The mainframe has been designed as an entry-level version of the IBM System z10 Enterprise Class (z10 EC) mainframe, which was introduced earlier this year. The IBM z10 BC delivers the capacity of up to 232x86 servers, with 83 percent smaller footprint.

 

This latest offering is equipped with up to 130 capacity settings for running permanent and temporary workloads such as application hosting or testing efforts. The IBM z10 BC can give administrators an upgradeable system to manage business growth.

 

Additionally, IBM z10 BC offers processors known as “specialty engines” that expand the use of the mainframe for SAP (News - Alert), Linux, Java applications, among others.

 

Company officials said that from a performance point of standpoint, the IBM z10 BC is “nearly 40 percent faster, has over 50 percent more total capacity and nearly four times the maximum memory compared to its predecessor—the IBM z9 BC.”

 

Like its predecessor, the new IBM z10 BC also features Enterprise Quad Core z10 processor chip with hardware accelerators and cryptographic functions. Additionally, IBM z10 BC can support an incremental 1,000 e-mail users with the energy of a 100-watt light bulb.

 

Anne Altman, general manager for IBM Systems, said in a statement that with the introduction of the new z10 business class mainframe, clients have an “incredibly” efficient consolidation platform that is “smart, cool, and very affordable.”

 

IBM also announced the next-generation information infrastructure offerings DS8000 disk storage and TS7700 tape storage, to work in conjunction with the new IBM System z10 Business Class mainframe.

 

Moreover, IBM Global Financing now offers "Why Wait," a no interest no payments program for 90 days deferral plan to support eligible customers acquiring the new IBM System z10 BC now through the end of 2008.