IBM adds to storage array with DS8700

IBM claims to offer better support for business-critical apps and analytics

IBM has unveiled a new addition to its DS800 storage array line, claiming better energy efficiency and a performance gain of around 150 per cent.

The IBM System Storage DS8700 includes dual IBM POWER6-based controllers, a new internal fabric interconnect, and upgraded device adapters. Taken together these will let the system better support critical business applications and analytics, according to IBM.

The firm also announced new additions to its N Series of network-attached storage offerings, adding much larger (between 16 and 32 times) Performance Accelerator Module (PAM II) adapter cards, and increased cache memory response times of around 30 per cent. Again power efficiency has been improved, in this case by a claimed 50 per cent.

IBM also announced System Storage EXN3000 expansion disks for the N Series. The slimline units are almost three-quarters the size of their predecessors, and allow for better rack space efficiency, the firm said.

Lastly, a new N series SnapManager tool for Microsoft Hyper-V virtualisation technology will give customers an overview of such systems, letting them better manage their data protection and disaster recovery, according to IBM.