IBM Launches Mainframe For Mid-Sized Customers

IBM has launched the System z10 Business Class (z10 BC), a new mainframe aimed to help mid-sized companies and customers in emerging markets jumpstart new application development efforts, consolidate IT server sprawl, and give qualified organisations a ‘pay-as-you-grow’ financial platform to build the mainframe as the foundation of their new enterprise data centre.

Additionally, in support of clients’ needs for attractive financing options, IBM Global Financing is now offering ‘Why Wait’, a no-interest, no-payments programme for 90 days deferral to support qualified customers acquiring the new z10 BC now through the end of 2008.

“Clients are continuing to invest in mainframe technology, as evidenced in IBM’s Q308 earnings, as revenues for IBM System z mainframe server products increased 25 percent compared with the year-ago period, with double-digit growth in all geographies,” said Shashi B Mal, director – Systems and Technology Group , IBM India/South Asia. “Now with the introduction of our new z10 business class mainframe, clients have an incredibly efficient consolidation platform that is smart and very affordable.”

Designed as an entry-level version of the IBM System z10 Enterprise Class (z10 EC) mainframe announced earlier this year, the IBM z10 BC provides mid-sized clients with all the attributes of an IBM mainframe. For example, companies in emerging markets (such as South Africa and Singapore) or in hot industries (such as social networking or mobile commerce) – can now afford IBM’s mainframe technology for under $100,000.

For customers seeking server consolidation options to cut costs, the IBM z10 BC delivers the capacity of up to 232 x86 servers, with 83 percent smaller footprint, up to 93 percent lower energy costs, and a high level of security, control and automation.

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. The IBM z10 BC also offers processors known as ‘specialty engines’ that expand the use of the mainframe for popular SAP, Linux and Java applications, among others.