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Abstract
IBM Storage Ceph Ready Nodes are x86 compute servers sourced from select IBM partners. These servers are pre-configured, tested, and certified by IBM to run IBM Storage Ceph software.
They represent an integrated hardware and software solution, combining compute power with IBM Storage technology in a single, unified offering. The goal is to simplify procurement, deployment, and support, allowing clients to purchase both hardware and software as a single solution, where hardware serves to expand the reach of IBM Storage Ceph software.
Ready Nodes are sold and supported as a complete package, providing a streamlined transaction model for clients.
Content
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Has IBM entered the commodity x86 server reseller business with the introduction of IBM Storage Ready Nodes?
No. IBM Storage Ready Nodes are not standalone server products. They are only offered as part of a complete solution, bundled with specific IBM Storage software, such as IBM Storage Ceph. This ensures the hardware and software are optimized to work together, rather than positioning IBM as a commodity server reseller.
Can a client buy Ready Nodes servers independently of the defined hardware and software pairings?
No. IBM Storage Ready Nodes are an integral part of IBM's broader solutions and must be sold together with the specific IBM software they are designed to support. They cannot be offered as standalone servers. IBM Storage Ceph Ready Nodes can only be purchased with IBM Storage Ceph software.
What are the main challenges in buying Storage Ceph Ready Nodes servers without the associated Storage Ceph software?
Supportability
Buying only the server component would violate the defined Terms & Conditions, warranty, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and quality assurance testing. The full solution, including both hardware and software, informs pricing, performance characterization, and support models (reliability, availability, and serviceability—RAS).
Buying only the server component would violate the defined Terms & Conditions, warranty, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and quality assurance testing. The full solution, including both hardware and software, informs pricing, performance characterization, and support models (reliability, availability, and serviceability—RAS).
Business Misalignment
The servers are strategically positioned as enablers for IBM Storage software, helping clients achieve IT operational efficiencies and Digital Transformation goals. Offering the Ceph Ready Nodes independently of the Storage Ceph software is not accounted for in the business offering (e.g., pricing, support, service, etc.)
The servers are strategically positioned as enablers for IBM Storage software, helping clients achieve IT operational efficiencies and Digital Transformation goals. Offering the Ceph Ready Nodes independently of the Storage Ceph software is not accounted for in the business offering (e.g., pricing, support, service, etc.)
Where do I order IBM Storage Ceph Ready Nodes together with IBM Storage Ceph software?
Storage Ceph Ready nodes and Storage Ceph software can be ordered together in the IBM eConfig/iERP system.
What cords, cables, interconnects, and transceivers are included with the Ready Nodes offerings?
Ready Nodes are delivered with C14/14 and C19/20 power cords.
What other hardware options are available for Ceph Ready Nodes?
Ceph Ready Nodes include options for drives, NICs, HBAs, transceivers, DIMMs, and more. You can find the details in the IBM announcements below:
Can a client add non-Dell components (e.g., drives, NICs) to a Ceph Ready Node system?
No, adding non-Dell components to Ready Nodes servers may void the warranty and support, as this would violate contractual agreements.
What service offerings are available for Ready Nodes?
Ceph Ready Nodes come with a standard 3-year warranty and 9x5 next business day (NBD) service level support. Clients have the option to upgrade their services to 24x7 support, add media retention, and extend the warranty up to 7 years.
After adding hardware to the nodes, I need 10GBase-T or a different non-standard optic. Will IBM provide these?
Ceph Ready Nodes come equipped with the most common data center network optics. If these are not suitable for your specific application, you can easily replace them with the required optics. It is strongly recommended to purchase replacement optics from Dell to ensure full compatibility with the installed network card.
I see IBM is selling these XL model nodes, but I cannot configure them through Dell’s online ordering systems. The system suggests certain features are end-of-life or incompatible. Is IBM selling end-of-life, second-hand, or custom hardware?
No, IBM only sells brand-new hardware that is fully warrantied and supported throughout the duration of the support contract. The XL model series is a special OEM designation that ensures product longevity, stability, and long-term parts availability. These XL models are identical to their non-XL counterparts. Since they are not typically sold directly to consumers, they are unavailable through online ordering systems. XL systems can be specified and purchased through a registered Dell business partner, such as IBM.
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October 2024
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Modified date:
21 October 2024
UID
ibm17172760