Tech Data enters the small-business world with a new bundled storage area network (SAN) solution for the small-to-midsize-business (SMB) market. The offering combines products from Brocade Communications Systems, Computer Associates (CA) and Emulex.
The storage market for the SMB is considered to be lucrative in the coming years. According to research firm AMI Partners, worldwide spending among SMBs on storage hardware, software and services will increase from $4.6 billion to $19.5 billion between 2002 and 2006.
The Tech Data bundle runs on Windows NT/2000 and consists of the following:
- Brocade SilkWorm 320, an 8-port Fibre Channel fabric switch.
- Computer Associates BrightStor ARCserve Backup version 9. BrightStor SAN Manager provides discovery, zoning, LUN (Logical UNit) assignments and enhanced visualization to simplify SAN management. In addition, adoption of industry standards and existing management interfaces enable complete end-to-end management control of SAN environments, bridging SANs, fabrics, arrays and TCP/IP networks.
- Emulex LP9002L HBA. This products features automatic speed negotiation capability, which allows complete compatibility with existing 1Gb/s Fiber Channel SANs, while allowing seamless upgrades to higher speed 2Gb/s SANs. The LP9002L provides the flexibility and broad interoperability needed for complex highly scalable SANs.
Tech Data complements the bundled SAN solution with a host of reseller support services that include logistics management, technical assistance, systems engineers, business development, vendor product specialists, education and training, credit/financing options, marketing and configuration support.
Pricing for the bundle was not announced.