The iDataPlex will compete with homegrown clusters built from standard x86 servers, and with servers from Verari Systems and Rackable Systems, Clabby said. "They already make these cheap, turnkey, 'plug em in and let em rip' servers for Web 2.0 companies. They proved the concept, now the 500 pound gorilla has landed on their doorstep."
While the main target is Web 2.0 companies, IBM said the servers are also good for complex financial analysis, video rendering and high-performance computing. The servers are configured for customers on site at a factory in China, and are available only to companies that place large orders. Most early customers are ordering thousands of racks, McKnight said.
IBM wouldn't provide pricing or specific configurations. It said customers can choose from 22 configurations, with a menu of networking, switch and storage options. The options include gear from IBM partners such as Avocent, QLogic and Blade Network Technologies, which designed a switch for the iDataPlex, IBM said.
IBM began designing the systems 18 months ago when it realized it didn't have a product for the burgeoning Web 2.0 market, McKnight said. He is due to give a presentation about the systems Wednesday at the Web 2.0 Expo in San Francisco.
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