IBM Unifies Server Product Lines, Introduces SMB SolutionsIBM Unifies Server Product Lines, Introduces SMB Solutions

IBM is rolling out a new line of Power Systems servers that will incorporate both the current System i and System p server lines.The new servers are based on IBM's Power6 processors and will run the company's System i operating system, as well as Linux and AIX. The company claims that existing customers of its midrange System i servers will be able to easily move their i applications to the new servers, using the same operating system. The company said the unified server line will simplify pricing and lower administration costs.

Small and medium businesses are the market for the first products from the new line. The Power 520 Express, which supports up to four processor cores and starts at less than $9,000 with the i OS, is "designed to deliver outstanding business value to smaller and mid-sized businesses while meeting the needs of many mission-critical applications," said IBM's statement. The Power 550 Express, due out in late May, will support up to eight cores is a "complete, cost-effective business system that grows with a business" that "allows the mid-sized company seeking simplicity to avoid increased spending and staffing requirements while becoming more responsive to their customers, improving their productivity and keeping their data secure."ChannelWeb, Computerworld