Data center hardware and strategy
Data center hardware includes a broad range of devices. Hardware components that make up the IT infrastructure of a data center include servers and computing equipment, networking equipment and storage equipment, plus additional infrastructure to support it like power and cooling systems. Get insights into developing a data center hardware strategy.
Top Stories
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News
10 Jul 2024
JetCool CEO on liquid cooling and the modern data center
In this Q&A, JetCool's CEO talks about the growing interest in liquid cooling and how it's being used to divert heat away from compute so that bigger workloads can run consistently. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jul 2024
Storj buys Valdi for cloud compute to bolster storage offers
The acquisition brings Storj's distributed storage offerings together with Valdi's distributed compute services for high-performance workloads, including generative AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2022
USART (universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver/transmitter)
A USART (universal synchronous/asynchronous receiver/transmitter) is hardware that enables a device to communicate using serial protocols. Continue Reading
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News
14 Nov 2022
HPE's low-end supercomputers take aim at the AI market
HPE rolls out lower-cost supercomputers designed to handle complex AI-based workloads. Dell looks to meet its longtime rival in the middle with its highest-end HPC offering. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2022
Include VXLANs in data centers for quicker network speeds
VXLANs add network isolation and enable organizations to scale data center networks more efficiently. Consider VXLANs to expand a data center network and improve performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Nov 2022
display
In computing, a display is a device with a screen that shows a rendered electronic image made up of pixels that are illuminated in a way that distinguishes text and graphic elements. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Oct 2022
peak-to-peak (pk-pk)
Peak-to-peak (pk-pk) is the difference between the highest and the lowest values in a waveform. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
Best practices for data center network optimization
Data center network optimization can improve business impact and promote long-term equipment health. Look to pilot new equipment, consolidate servers and improve energy efficiency. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2022
mount point
A mount point is a directory on a file system that is logically linked to another file system. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Oct 2022
non-interlaced display
A non-interlaced display is a screen display in which the lines are scanned progressively from the top to the bottom of the screen. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2022
adiabatic cooling
Adiabatic cooling is the process of reducing heat through a change in air pressure caused by volume expansion. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
28 Sep 2022
How to use file server reporting in FSRM
File server reporting within File Server Resource Manager can help admins identify problems and then troubleshoot Windows servers. This tutorial outlines how to generate reports. Continue Reading
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News
28 Sep 2022
Intel expands Developer Cloud, updates GPUs, CPUs
Administrators who manage many users can go one step further toward streamlining license assignments by taking advantage of a new feature from Microsoft. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Sep 2022
Bourne shell
The Bourne shell is the original Unix shell -- command execution program, often called a command interpreter -- that was developed in 1979 at what at the time was Bell Labs. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Sep 2022
cluster
Clusters are typically defined as collections or groups of items with similar or different characteristics. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2022
Arm Neoverse roadmap targets enterprise infrastructure, cloud
Arm's roadmap for Neoverse V2 core is designed to handle 5G, HPC and edge workloads. Nvidia will incorporate the offering in its Grace data center chip in 2023. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Sep 2022
von Neumann bottleneck
The von Neumann bottleneck is a limitation on throughput caused by the standard personal computer architecture. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2022
IBM targets energy-saving mainframes at Linux users
IBMs new generation of Linux-based mainframes can significantly reduce energy use for companies willing to replace x86 servers with proprietary systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Sep 2022
data integrity
Data integrity is the assurance that digital information is uncorrupted and can only be accessed or modified by those authorized to do so. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Sep 2022
plotter
A plotter is a printer that interprets commands from a computer to make line drawings on paper with one or more automated pens. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Sep 2022
permittivity of free space
The permittivity of free space is a physical constant that reflects the ability of electrical fields to pass through a classical vacuum. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Aug 2022
interlaced display
An interlaced display, or interlaced scan video, is when a video only changes every other row of pixels in the image at each screen refresh. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2022
raised floor
A raised floor is a data center construction model in which a slightly higher floor is constructed above the building's original concrete slab floor, leaving the open space created between the two for wiring or cooling infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Aug 2022
inkjet printer
An inkjet printer is a computer peripheral that produces hard copies of a text document or photo by spraying droplets of ink onto paper. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Aug 2022
fan-out
In digital circuitry, fan-out is a measure of the maximum number of digital inputs that the output of a single logic gate can feed without disrupting the circuitry's operations. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
22 Aug 2022
How to implement file classification in file servers
File classification with File Server Resource Manager enables admins to classify and organize data. This tutorial shows how to implement and manage file classifications. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2022
Planck's constant
Planck's constant, symbolized as h, is a fundamental universal constant that defines the quantum nature of energy and relates the energy of a photon to its frequency. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2022
sensor
A sensor is a device that detects and responds to some type of input from the physical environment. Continue Reading
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News
15 Aug 2022
Semiconductor companies face a long road back to growth
Even with government money soon headed their way, top-tier semiconductor companies will still have to deal with a range of challenges, from falling PC sales to material shortages. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Aug 2022
kernel
The kernel is the essential foundation of a computer's operating system (OS). It is the core that provides basic services for all other parts of the OS. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2022
operation (computing)
An operation, in computing, is an action that is carried out to accomplish a given task. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2022
Spine-leaf (spine-leaf architecture)
Spine-leaf, or leaf-spine, is a two-layer network topology composed of spine and leaf switches. Continue Reading
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News
08 Aug 2022
CHIPS and Science Act boosts U.S. technology investment
Agencies including the National Science Foundation will receive a significant increase in funding from the CHIPS and Science Act to research and develop new technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Aug 2022
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)
A complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) is the semiconductor technology used in most of today's integrated circuits, also known as chips or microchips. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Aug 2022
POST (Power-On Self-Test)
A Power-On Self-Test (POST) is an operation initiated by a computer after it has been turned on but before it boots up the OS. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jul 2022
House sends CHIPS Act to Biden's desk
Congress approved the CHIPS Act and billions more for scientific research to help the U.S. better compete against China in technology markets. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jul 2022
CHIPS Act takes step forward on long road to production
If Congress approves the CHIPS Act, it will funnel billions into domestic chip production and provide companies like Intel and TSMC with tax breaks to build U.S. facilities. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
Nvidia QODA platform integrates quantum, classical computing
Nvidia's QODA platform bridges the chasm between quantum and classical environments. It could set the stage for quantum applications leveraging existing GPU and AI technologies. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
IBM debuts low-end Power10 servers, pay-as-you-go plan
IBM's new line of lower-end Power servers packs more processing power for smaller IT shops to deliver AI services faster, with a pay-as-you-go plan. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2022
Hamming code
Hamming code is an error correction system that can detect and correct errors when data is stored or transmitted. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2022
intermediate distribution frame (IDF)
An intermediate distribution frame (IDF) is a free-standing or wall-mounted rack for managing and interconnecting a telecommunications cable between end-user devices and the main distribution frame (MDF). Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2022
HPE GreenLake achieves everything as a service
The latest version of HPE GreenLake has realized the vision of everything as a service, although customers are still figuring out the new way to consume infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2022
hardware security
Hardware security is vulnerability protection that comes in the form of a physical device rather than software that's installed on the hardware of a computer system. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2022
accumulator
An accumulator is a type of register for short-term, intermediate storage of arithmetic and logic data in a computer's central processing unit (CPU). Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2022
HPE GreenLake updates aim for public cloud-like simplicity
HPE GreenLake has been simplified to feel more like a public cloud while making management of VMs across hybrid clouds more consistent. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2022
New HPE ProLiant servers with Arm target energy savings
The new HPE ProLiant system incorporates the Ampere Altra and Ampere Altra Max cloud-native processors with the goal of energy and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2022
Words to go: Learn basic Linux terminology
What is a distro? What does swappiness mean? How are Xen and KVM different from one another? Familiarize yourself with basic Linux terminology for beginner users. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2022
Understand the rise in leaf-spine architecture
Leaf-spine networks can help cut costs, reduce carbon footprints and optimize network traffic for data centers. Learn why this network architecture is on the rise. Continue Reading
- Definition 21 Jun 2022
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News
17 Jun 2022
Broadcom's acquire-and-axe history concerns VMware users
VMware users are taking a wait-and-see stance on the Broadcom acquisition, keeping their fingers crossed that Broadcom remains committed to investing in innovation. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2022
z/OS
Introduced in 2000, IBM z/OS is a 64-bit mainframe operating system (OS) developed by IBM for its family of enterprise z/Architecture mainframe computers. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2022
Quantinuum quantum systems now support parallel operations
Quantinuum has added parallel processing capabilities to its H1-1 quantum system making it more suitable for solving complex tasks involving cybersecurity and optimization. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Jun 2022
laser printer
A laser printer is a popular type of computer printer that uses a non-impact photocopier technology where there are no keys striking the paper. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jun 2022
What's the current state of quantum computing?
As quantum computing comes closer to being a reality, learn how this style of computing can coexist with traditional computing. Discover major players and key use cases. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jun 2022
volatile memory
Volatile memory is a type of memory that maintains its data only while the device is powered. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2022
quad-core processor
A quad-core processor is a chip with four independent units called cores that read and execute central processing unit (CPU) instructions such as add, move data and branch. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 May 2022
multithreading
Multithreading is the ability of a program or an operating system to enable more than one user at a time without requiring multiple copies of the program running in the computer. Continue Reading
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News
26 May 2022
Broadcom buys VMware in a $61B acquisition deal
As part of the deal, Broadcom Software Group will rebrand and operate as VMware, combining its existing infrastructure and security software into VMware's portfolio. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 May 2022
GNU/Linux
GNU/Linux is a Unix-like operating system made up of different OS components and services that create the Linux OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2022
Evaluate 5G networks vs. 4G for data centers
5G networking requires organizations and data centers to support IoT, while 4G requires increased machinery. Learn more about the differences between 5G and 4G for data centers. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2022
Intel's data center strategy rests on accelerator chips
Intel will release three generations of 200 GB, 400 GB and 800 GB infrastructure processing units over the next four years. The first two generations will include ASICs and FPGAs. Continue Reading
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News
10 May 2022
IBM pledges to push boundaries in quantum computer roadmap
IBM revised its quantum computing roadmap with a 4,000-qubit system by 2025 and unveiled its Modular Quantum Computing initiative to support multiprocessor systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2022
Explore liquid cooling for data centers
Discover the different classifications of liquid cooling -- such as direct-to-chip, liquid immersion or rear-door heat exchangers -- before adopting it in your data center. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2022
Dell to ship all-NVMe version of VxRail for Project Monterey
Dell plans to ship an all-NVMe version of VxRail that will be the first hyper-converged system to work with VMware's Project Monterey, scheduled for release this summer. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2022
IBM spruces up iSeries with cloud app dev tools
IBM's new version of the iSeries OS is tightly integrated with OpenShift and includes new tools to help iSeries developers modernize legacy apps for the cloud. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2022
Arm processor
An Arm processor is one of a family of CPUs based on the RISC architecture for computer processors. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Apr 2022
Break down types of data center storage
Data centers should consider alternate varieties of storage for different uses. Explore hybrid storage arrays, virtual storage, cloud storage and on-premises architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2022
power usage effectiveness (PUE)
Power usage effectiveness (PUE) is a metric used to determine the energy efficiency of a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2022
metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET)
The metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET, pronounced MAWS-feht) is the most common type of field-effect transistor (FET). Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2022
power distribution unit (PDU)
A power distribution unit (PDU) is a device for controlling electrical power in a data center. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Apr 2022
solid-state drive (SSD) capacity
Solid-state drive (SSD) capacity is the maximum amount of data that can be stored on a solid-state drive. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2022
IT innovation
IT (information technology) innovation in an enterprise is about using technology in new ways, where the result is a more efficient organization and an improved alignment between technology initiatives and business goals. Continue Reading
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News
05 Apr 2022
New IBM Z mainframe blunts quantum cyber attacks
Looking to compete with AI-based supercomputer vendors, IBM unveiled a Z mainframe armed with new AI features and security that deflects attacks launched from quantum computers. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2022
Intel acquires Granulate to boost cloud workload speeds
To improve performance of workloads spanning multiple clouds and on-premises environments, Intel acquired Granulate Cloud Solutions, specialists in autonomous optimization tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2022
Discover disaster recovery and backup for edge networks
Proper backup and DR at the edge requires an awareness of the specific challenges edge devices present, and appropriate plans and tooling to help ease management. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2022
CHIPS Act moves the needle on US chip manufacturing
Not only does the CHIPS Act funnel billions into U.S. semiconductor chip manufacturing, it reflects a major change in how U.S. lawmakers view industrial policy, experts say. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Mar 2022
Using digital twins simulation to reduce risks in industry
Whether it's fighting wildfires or working in a warehouse, people often encounter dangerous working conditions. Researchers are using digital twin simulation to counter those risks. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2022
Nvidia beefs up its line of AI supercomputers, chips
Nvidia rolls out a new GPU architecture, supercomputers and chips that in concert will aid developers in creating the hardware foundation for the next generation of AI applications and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Mar 2022
SMP (symmetric multiprocessing)
SMP (symmetric multiprocessing) is the processing of programs by multiple processors that share a common operating system and memory. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Intel's aggressive processor roadmap has some bumps ahead
Intel is optimistic its processor roadmap can put the company back on top, but the company faces the challenging prospect of balancing short-term costs with long-term competitiveness. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Mar 2022
supercomputer
A supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the highest operational rate for computers. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Mar 2022
What do GPUs do in your data center?
Though developed to handle complex graphics rendering calculations, GPUs now handle a variety of tasks in the data center. Learn what they can do for you. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Mar 2022
64-bit processor (64-bit computing)
A 64-bit processor refers to a microprocessor that can process data and instructions in chunks of 64 bits. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Mar 2022
multicore processor
A multicore processor is an integrated circuit that has two or more processors attached for enhanced performance and reduced power consumption. These processors also enable more efficient simultaneous processing of multiple tasks, such as with parallel processing and multithreading. Continue Reading
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News
02 Mar 2022
Kyndryl revenue slides, company lays out plans for growth
IBM spinoff Kyndryl reported revenue was down in 2021, but expects three cloud partnerships and a focus on growing markets to change that. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Feb 2022
hot/cold aisle
The hot and cold aisles in the data center are part of an energy-efficient layout for server racks and other computing equipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2022
IBM IMS (Information Management System)
IBM IMS (Information Management System) is a database and transaction management system that was first introduced by IBM in 1968. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Feb 2022
11 key considerations prior to a data center upgrade
When you upgrade your data center, know the 11 key steps you must take to ensure neat migrations, good availability, continued security and limited downtime. Continue Reading
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News
16 Feb 2022
Intel expands chip-making capacity with Tower acquisition
Intel continues its aggressive push in the processor market by purchasing Tower Semiconductor, which makes chips for a variety of consumer and industrial products. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
Nutanix streamlines its HCI, cloud portfolio for ease of use
Nutanix has slimmed down its portfolio by repackaging its HCI and cloud platforms to include support for VMs and containers in private data centers and public clouds. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2022
IBM Z as a service brings mainframes closer to hybrid clouds
Responding to demands to modernize mainframe environments, IBM delivered its Z as a service and a new software stack that brings mainframes and hybrid clouds closer together. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Feb 2022
real-time operating system (RTOS)
A real-time operating system (RTOS) is an OS that guarantees real-time applications a certain capability within a specified deadline. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Feb 2022
How can data centers support a remote workplace?
Remote work presents a variety of challenges to businesses. Here's what an organization can do to provide adequate resources for its at-home workers and admins. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2022
RAIN (redundant/reliable array of inexpensive/independent nodes)
A reliable array of independent nodes (RAIN) is a heterogeneous cluster of compute and storage nodes connected in a fault-tolerant network topology that incorporates multiple interfaces and redundant hardware. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jan 2022
water cooling
Water cooling, also called liquid cooling, is a method used to lower the temperature of computer processor units (CPUs), and sometimes graphics processor units (GPUs). Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
Nvidia Arm deal another step closer to -- death?
Negotiations of the long-awaited Nvidia acquisition of Arm Ltd. have come to a halt with rumors of Nvidia telling partners they can't come to agreement on a deal. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2022
IBM hybrid cloud strategy driving revenue growth
IBM revenue for its hybrid cloud business showed little indication of slowing down, with the company reporting sales of $6.2 billion for the fourth quarter and $20 billion for 2021. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jan 2022
Miami Dolphins add Dell VxRail to digital transformation project
Looking to enrich the experience of fans, the Miami Dolphins have embarked on an aggressive digital transformation project involving new Dell HCI and storage infrastructure systems. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2021
Nutanix CEO Ramaswami talks HCI, 'invisible' cloud strategy
Former VMware executive Rajiv Ramaswami remains embroiled in the VMware-Nutanix hybrid cloud war, but now he plays for the other team with an updated plan and vision moving forward. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2021
IBM, Samsung to deliver new energy-saving chip design
Looking to bolster its position in the next-generation chip competition, IBM unveiled a new design that allows chips to be stacked vertically, adding power and energy savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Dec 2021
Recent quantum computing advances point to brighter future
The past year saw a handful of breakthrough technologies from IBM and Honeywell, bringing the future promises of quantum computing closer to a present-day reality. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2021
What is edge computing? Everything you need to know
Edge computing is a distributed information technology (IT) architecture in which client data is processed at the periphery of the network, as close to the originating source as possible. Continue Reading