Hewlett-Packard BladeSystem Virtual Connect and Matrix

The BladeSystem portfolio’s improved capabilities for Virtual Connect and Matrix enable users to reduce network sprawl. Virtual Connect’s reduced network complexity and its wire-once technology allows users to easily add, move and change servers connected to local area networks (LANs) and storage area networks (SANs) without rewiring.

Its FlexFabric 10 Gb/24-port module connects servers to any fibre channel, ethernet and iSCSI network with a single device. It is claimed to reduce up to 95% of network equipment by eliminating the need for multiple interconnects and connects BladeSystem server blades to data and storage networks using industry-standard protocols including 1Gb or 10 Gb ethernet; 2, 4 or 8 Gb fibre channel and iSCSI. The modules use Flex-10 technology to enable users to consolidate four interconnect modules into one and optimise application bandwidth.

FlexFabric technology is also built into the ProLiant G7 server blades, further simplifying connectivity. The technology can save clients on switches, networking cards and cables, while reducing power and cooling costs up to a claimed 40% per annum.

Claimed to be the first all-inclusive converged infrastructure offering, Matrix enables clients to easily deploy complex IT environments in minutes instead of months. It simplifies the creation of a private cloud with one-touch, self-service provisioning of infrastructure and extends this automated provisioning to applications through integration with the company’s Server Automation. As a result, clients can deploy services faster.

This version features automated storage tiering, which assigns storage based on application performance and availability requirements.

Its ecosystem features a portfolio of reference templates, including Microsoft Sharepoint and Exchange, Citrix XenApp and SAS, with SAP Business Objects, Siemens PTC Teamcenter, Novell and Symantec Net Backup templates to follow.