IBM aims to lower the barriers for introducing grid computing-based information retrieval with an integrated hardware and software package combined with a financial deal.

IBM's bundle, dubbed Information Server Blade, combines Big Blue's own blade hardware with the IBM Information Server data integration software, an implementation service and a new financial package. The package aims to consolidate complex datasets, which may be geographically distributed throughout an enterprise. The combination of virtualization technology, grid and blade computing guarantees fast access to date and accelerates filtering, calculation and sorting of information.

The server blade was developed for complex data integration tasks that IT departments are often asked to handle in case of mergers or acquisitions. Compared with traditional grid solutions, the IBM package will need less in the line of system resources, and deliver information faster.

Information Server Blade runs on Red Hat Linux and comprises BladeCenter HS21 servers by IBM with dual-core Intel Xeon processors. Because the system uses standard processors it needs less power, and less cooling than larger systems. With the Systems Director Portfolio as the basis for the Information Server Blade users will be able to manage workloads, physical and virtual machines from a single interface. The package also includes the Tivoli Workload Scheduler, LoadLeveler, which provides integrated grid management and gives users the ability to distribute load over different blades. New blades can be linked into the grid as need arises, thus extending processing capabilities.

The financial deal included with the package covers various leasing options with terms of between 24 and 60 months, depending on the hardware technology advances anticipated in the period. Integration services are provided by IBM Lab Services and IBM Global Business Service. Industry models and best practice examples promise to make it even easier to introduce grid technology. IBM's Information Server Blade will be available as of October 2007.

IBM aims to lower the barriers for introducing grid computing-based information retrieval with an integrated hardware and software package combined with a financial deal.