The IBM ® System p (formerly known as the RS/6000) is highly popular among retailers, particularly those who require large scale computing environments. Its popularity is not unsurprising given that virtually all of the major retail software providers offer System p-based solutions.
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The IBM System p family of servers is best known as a Unix-based environment, utilizing IBM's AIX or Linux.

It also has many nuances that make it particularly favorable for retailers.

Superior Performance
In addition to breakthrough IBM Virtualization Engine™ options like Micro-Partitioning technology, eServer p5 and OpenPower systems offer amazing performance. In fact, eServer p5 and OpenPower systems took the lead in over 50 key computing performance benchmarks. See http://www.TPC.org.

Support for Multiple Operating Systems
As an open UNIX solution, AIX 5L allows retailers to run the applications you want on the hardware you want, scaled to the size you need—bringing new levels of flexibility and performance. AIX 5L delivers high levels of security, integration, flexibility and reliability—essential for meeting the high demands of today's e-business applications. AIX 5L operates on both the IBM System p and IBM iSeries platforms.

Logical Partitioning
These servers are not all about power and capacity; they come standard with IBM Virtualization Engine systems technology with breakthrough innovations like Micro-Partitioning. This allows as many as 10 dynamic logical partitions (LPARs) or "virtual servers" per processor to be defined. Both systems can be configured with up to 254 virtual servers with a choice of UNIX (AIX 5L), Linux and i5/OS operating systems in a single server, opening the door to vast cost-saving consolidation opportunities.

Logical partitioning is like having "a box within a box." It enables a retailer to share data between two or more machines that reside in the same physical "box." This enables applications like Merchandise Management and Business Intelligence Data Warehousing to pass data not just by Ethernet, but by using a common, shared bus.

Memory and disk capacity can be dynamically adjusted to allow for on-demand processing requirements.

IBM System i Storage Solutions
IBM is a market leader in the storage industry. Innovative technology, open standards, excellent performance, a broad portfolio of storage proven software, hardware and solutions offerings - all backed by IBM with its recognized e-business on demand™ leadership are just a few of the reasons why you should consider IBM storage offerings.

With virtually unlimited storage capacity, the IBM System p TotalStorage offers the best storage products, technologies, services and solutions in the industry without the complexity of dealing with different hardware and software vendors and system integrators.

Click here to learn more about IBM TotalStorage solutions.

The IBM System p is previously known as the pSeries or RS/6000.

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