In the global move towards 64-bit computing, large organisations are facing potentially damaging cost implications in the foreseeable future.
With IT budgets more constrained than ever, today`s IT departments have been faced with a tough decision. Either forego spending on certain projects and purchase new servers that allow the organisation to transition to 64-bit computing, or face the risks of being left behind their competition.
With the release of IBM`s xSeries 346 server and other units based on Intel`s `Extended Memory 64 Technology` (EM64T) however, IT departments may not have to incur additional costs and have been given the ability to run 32-bit and 64-bit applications simultaneously, preparing for the final transition to a 64-bit platform.
"Apart from the xSeries 346 neat and compact 2U rack-mount form factor, the unit rates highly in both the reliability and performance stakes," says Brett Walter, IBM product manager at Tarsus Technologies.
The xSeries 346 now has the ability to utilise either one or two of Intel`s Xeon processors. I/O performance is boosted through a 800MHz front-side bus, up to 16GB of DDR2 memory and the faster PCI-Express interface, making this the perfect solution for customers with datacentres and other mission-critical server farms.
"The 346 also assists customers in keeping their costs down, integrating a great deal of additional functionality, including dual Ultra320 SCSI controllers and RAID 5 reliability as standard features.
"IBM has also focused on reducing total cost of ownership with the 346," Walter continues. "Standard the 346 includes an Integrated Systems Management processor which adds robust standards-based remote control functionality, without costing the customer anything extra."
"The server can also accommodate an optional SlimLine Remote Supervisor Adapter II, which extends standard capabilities to include virtual control of remote servers. These features are rounded out by the drop-down light path panel, which allows administrators to view diagnostics information and identify troublesome components from the front of the server, without having to open the box," Walter says.
"With the move to 64-bit computing becoming more and more of a priority, many companies have already made the switch and are benefiting from the additional performance and ability. The availability of the xSeries 346 is an integral step in allowing customers venturing down this path access to the required tools, while keeping costs at a minimum," he concludes.
Tarsus Technologies is rated by suppliers and channel partners as SA`s leading hardware distributor for its stability, service ethos, product knowledge, excellent support, competitive pricing strategies and channel focus.
Distributing a wide range of products from the world`s leading manufacturers, including Acer, APC, HP, IBM, OKI, Samsung and Tally, and supplementing this range with its own brand - the Tarsus PC - Tarsus focuses strongly on long-lasting partnerships with its suppliers and resellers. In line with this philosophy, Tarsus provides a comprehensive range of services to its resellers that enables them to add value to their own offering, and assists them in growing their business.
It is this service offering that has afforded Tarsus a number of channel accolades. The latest include: Channel Executive Awards - 2002; Best Distributor Overall - 2002; Compaq`s "BDG Distributor of the Year" award - 2001 and CRN Outlook Awards - 2002.
More information about Tarsus is available at http://www.tarsus.co.za.
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