Monday, 17 December 2012

Intelligent Provisioning replaces SmartStart (v1.30 now supports Windows Server 2012)

If you have bought a HP Gen8 Server recently you may have noticed that the SmartStart CD is no longer included. This is because HP now have a feature called Intelligent Provisioning which is embedded on the server.

Intelligent Provisioning provides similar functionality as SmartStart, but has some significant enhancements that SmartStart did not have such as:

  • Ability to update your drivers and systems software by connecting directly to HP.com and perform firmware updates and install an OS in the same step.
  • Provision a server remotely using HP iLO 4
  • Remote Support registration. 
  • A new "Recommended Install" for quick one-click, simple fast installation  - This express installation process has preset defaults and will perform a software and firmware update if the network is available at your location. (Recommend that you use the HP suggested defaults.
  • The "Customised Install" (often called Guided or Assisted install) - has been simplified, updated, and refreshed. This is the full HP interview with a start to finish wizard for deploying HP ProLiant Gen8 servers. It provides the network setup, remote support registration, the systems software, driver and firmware update, the server hardware configuration, RAID configuration, and OS installation. This interview process is also much faster than in the past and includes software driver and firmware updates as part of the interview process
  • A much simplified "Manual Install" is provided that automates finding your drivers without you searching the web. 

Once you are ready to install your system software, you'll notice the next difference; with HP Intelligent Provisioning all your needed firmware, drivers, and tools are pre-loaded and ready to deploy at your command. No CD's to load, no software to find, no guesswork. The built-in Smart Update capability recognises if the system software is out-of-date and will automatically download the latest update for you.

Important Note for Windows Server 2012 users - Intelligent Provisioning v1.30 now includes support for Windows Server 2012.

If you need help with any additional details or need a solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

HP renames storage products

HP have recently changed some of the the names of their storage products.
To keep you up to date with the new names here is a list of what they were called and what they are called now (In bold)

  • HP Storageworks LTO Tape Drives - HP StoreEver LTO Tape Drives
  • HP Storage Servers (X1000,3000,5000) - HP StoreEasy 1000 / 3830 / 5000
  • HP P4000 G2 - HP StoreVirtual 4000 Storage

If you need help with any additional details or need a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 4 December 2012

HP Storage Sales Training Webinar - December 6th

Legacy storage designed 20 years ago cannot adapt to virtual, cloud, and big data demands.

The next era of IT is coming. Hear about the importance of the biggest HP Storage launch in more than a decade. This session will cover game-changing innovations that allow customers to meet any need, at any scale, with effortless simplicity.

Join us on our next channel partner webinar where you will:
  • Hear about the ground-breaking news and gain deeper insight into the refreshed Converged Storage portfolio that will be announced at HP Discover
  • Find out how to prepare your customers for data growth and new business initiative
  • Learn about our vision for a profitable future for HP and our partners 

On the call there will be a team of experts you can ask your questions to.

Please go to this link to register for the event







If you need help with any additional details or need a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.


Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

New Release - HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 - T1 Storage at a midrange price.


The world’s most advanced storage platform has just extended its midrange offerings, delivering effortless, efficient, bulletproof, and futureproof storage to the entire midrange.

HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 Storage delivers the same industry-leading architecture chosen by eight out of 10 of the world’s largest service providers at a price that makes compromises a thing of the past. It’s also the only platform that offers the performance required to double virtual machine (VM) density on your physical servers—guaranteed.1,2 Store all of your data on a single system that supports advanced features, such as storage federation and automated tiering, and that enables you to start small and grow without disruption.

StorServe 7200
With two models and a range of options including support for solid state drives (SSDs) and an all-SSD configuration, HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 Storage is effortless to install, own, and upgrade. You’ll be up and running in just minutes. You’ll be able to meet mixed workload demands with virtually unlimited scalability options. You’ll spend less time managing your storage and increase your responsiveness to new demands. You’ll be able to meet your current block and file storage needs with an architecture that is also designed to meet your object storage needs as they emerge. You’ll eliminate tradeoffs that have forced you to sacrifice critical capabilities like performance and scalability.

The HP 3PAR Operating System Suite that comes with HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 Storage includes everything you need to get started, including HP 3PAR Thin Technologies that set the gold standard for storage efficiency. Optional software suites are also available that offer data optimization, replication, security, reporting, and application integration—making enterprise Tier 1 features available to midrange customers like you at a price that you can afford. It’s storage that offers the performance and flexibility you need to accelerate new application deployment and support server virtualization, the cloud, ITaaS, or whatever else your future may hold—effortlessly.


















Gain enterprise-class features at a midrange price with HP 3PAR StoreServ 7000 Storage.
Visit hp.com/go/storeserv7000.


If you need help with any additional details regarding the new StoreServ 7000 series or need an entire solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

December 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month many of HP's fantastic Storage and Networking promotions have been extended!









Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team 

Friday, 16 November 2012

We have a fresh new look

I am sure you have noticed by now but we have a new look on the blog.
The old scheme was starting to look outdated and therefore we decided to bring it up to date using similar theme to our Solutions Microsite.

If there is anything you feel could be improved on or if there is any content you wish to see more of please send me an email richard.stock@westcoast.co.uk, Your feedback is welcome on the blog site and how it feels and looks. 

In the meantime I hope you enjoy our new look and again as always if you need any help with providing a solution then we are more than happy to help.

Regards

Richard Stock
Westcoast Technical ISS Solutions Team

Thursday, 1 November 2012

How to install Microsoft Server 2012 on HP ProLiant Servers

The HP Smart Start Disk that is shipped with all 3xx series servers and above, does not currently support Microsoft Server 2012 as yet. HP however has made this very handy step by step guide to help you get up and running with Server 2012 without the use of the Smart Start Disk.

As soon as Smart Start supports Server 2012 I will notify on a new blog post and link it from here as well.

In the meantime please download the white paper below (By clicking on the HP Logo) for the instructions on how to install 2012 without Smart Start.












If you need help with any additional details or need a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

**UPDATE** Intelligent Provisioning (Which replaces SmartStart on a Gen8) now supports Windows Server 2012 - Please click This link (Intelligent Provisioning)

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Where did all the HP LTO tape backup units go?

You may be wondering why suddenly a short time ago the whole range of HP LTO tape drives went listed as obsolete. We certainly have been getting a number of calls surrounding this.

Don't panic all that has changed is that now the part numbers end with a "B" instead of an "A".
For example an LTO4 SAS internal tape drive was part number EH919A this is now EH919B

The reason for the sudden mass part number change is due to new RoHS Compliance guidelines. If you have been in the industry when RoHS was first introduced you will remember that something similar happened then with the HP part numbers.

So don't worry HP are still supplying Tape Drives and will be for the foreseeable future.

Also a quick note to add, the majority of HP SCSI based Tape drives are EOL with no SCSI replacement. We can still offer solutions using the SAS based tape drives, but to confirm compatibility with your server infrastructure we will need to know the model and generation of the servers you with to use with the tape drive.

If you need any more help or more information on the HP storage range of products or require a solution to fit your needs then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

November 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month many of HP's fantastic Storage and Networking promotions have been extended!








 

Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Friday, 26 October 2012

HP Storage Pre-Launch Session - 27th November 2012

Be among the first to hear about this huge development in the Mid-Storage Market by attending this exclusive pre-launch NDA session. This event is aimed at Sales & Pre-sales professionals looking to get ahead and learn about this game changing technology first.

HP Storage has a number of developments coming this year and HP want to ensure that you and your organisation understand the true value of these announcements.

The Agenda 
A 4 hour interactive training session for reseller sales and pre-sales people, followed by a 2 hour workshop for those who want to go deeper into the technology.

The well known and highly regarded HP accredited trainer Antti Hemminki will deliver the training and also host the workshop session. As the content is confidential the detailed agenda will be provided on the day of the training.

This 1 day sales and pre-sales training session will provide you with the knowledge and confidence needed to build a significant pipeline of opportunities for a successful 2013.

So Where and When?
The Session will be held in our Solution Lab based in Milton Keynes.
It will take place on the 27th November 2012 from 9.30am until 4pm.
For more information on how to register for this event please call our Solutions Lab manager Phil Follett on 01908 685851

This is the biggest announcement surrounding HP Storage this year! So don't miss this opportunity to learn about it before its launched.

If you need any more help or information on the HP storage range of products or require a solution to fit your needs then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 9 October 2012

QLogic Launch new mobile app

QLogic has just launched QMobile which turns your iPhone or Android into an interactive Adapter Matrix. Download the app for FREE and quickly view which adapter is qualified by server type, OS and HP Storage array.


  As an iPhone user just visit Partners Registration and follow the instructions.
  http://www.qlogic.com/Pages/partnerAccountRequest.aspx


 
For Android smartphones just go to QLogic Mobile - Android Apps on Google Play. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=qlgc.pkg


If you need help with a San or Server solution then please contact us

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

HP & Qlogic - Switch And Save

The new HP Trade-In programme rewards $35 per port for every newly purchased HP H-series FC edge switch.

In return, end user customers trade-in their outdated 2 or 4 Gb infrastructure from Cisco, Brocade or McData no matter whether it's HP branded or not.

Visit the HP Trade-In portal at http://h41201.www4.hp.com/tradein and select your country of residence for further information and to review the Terms and Conditions.

If you need any help with a SAN solution surrounding Qlogic please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 3 October 2012

HP Gen 8 Servers e-Series vs p-Series - Whats the Difference??

As part of the HP Generation 8 server line, the new e-Series delivers performance/price, efficiency, and expandability. Lets see what differentiates it from the p-Series Gen8 models.


If you need help with any additional details with regards to the differences between the new Gen8 e/p series or require a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 2 October 2012

October 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month there are many of NEW fantastic Storage and Networking promotions as well as others that have been extended!









Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team  

Monday, 1 October 2012

HP ProLiant Gen8 Free Processor Promotion

HP ProLiant Servers and AMD processors – the key to your business success IT departments are more challenged than ever before.

It’s time to unleash innovation and cost savings with next generation HP ProLiant Gen8 servers powered by AMD Opteron™ 6200 Series processors.

How to qualify
Simply purchase any qualifying HP ProLiant DL385p Gen8 Server as outlined in the qualifying server list between the 1st October and 30th November 2012, together with a 2nd identical processor kit and HP will refund the cost of processor.

In the current economic climate, it just makes sense to extend the life of your servers for as long as possible. By doing so, you reduce disruption, plus lower acquisition and overall IT costs.

In conjunction with this Free processor offer, purchase a 3 Year 24x7 DMR HP Care Pack and claim an additional £200 Cash Back or double the Cash Back to £400 with a 5 Year 24x7 DMR HP Care Pack.

Qualifying Products and Claim forms (click to download)

If you need any more information on the AMD range of ProLiant Servers or need a HP server/storage solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 26 September 2012

NEW HP Releases: New Gen8 Server models, C-Class Interconnects, Racks, Microsoft Server 2012, Software, Graphics & Memory

Well there has been a lot of new HP releases, covering new Gen8 Servers, Microsoft Server 2012, new HP networking for C-class blades, racks, management software, VMware, SSD's, Graphics and Memory.

Here are some of the details on the new products.

HP ProLiant DL320e Gen8 Server series 
New Ideal single-application and IT infrastructure server
What’s new?
  • Double memory capacity (32GB max) and higher performing 1600MHz DDR3 memory 
  • HP Common Slot Platinum Plus Power Supplies for up to 94% power efficiency 
  • HP Smart Array drives with up to 50% increase in storage capacity (12TB) 
  • Enhanced serviceability with fast access PCIe riser solutions and HP SmartMemory 
 
HP ProLiant ML310e Gen8 Server series 
New Essential availability and expansion in a 1P tower
What’s new?
  • Up to four PCIe 3.0 and Gen2 slots for additional I/O performance 
  • Double memory capacity (32GB max) and higher performing 1600MHz DDR3 memory 
  • Choice of hard drive cage and hot plug drives for 50% increase in storage capacity (up to 12TB) 
  • iLO Management Engine (iLO 4) for enhanced manageability and reduced operational costs

HP ProLiant ML350e Gen8 Server series 
Essential performance with room to grow
What’s new?
  • HP Hot-Plug 4LFF Shield Metal FIO Kit Factory integrated option kit allows 4LFF hot plug drives to be used in the 6LFF chassis with embedded controller.



HP 6125G and HP 6125G/XG Ethernet Blade Switches 
New Product
Features?
  • Intelligent Resilient Framework (IRF) combines multiple switches into a single virtual switch at the enclosure, rack or data center level 
  • Full layer 3 routing with IPv6 support for excellent investment protection 
  • Comware operating system provides for a common level of management, features, and security form edge to core 


HP Intelligent Series Racks 
Achieve more compute power with limited space, power and cooling resources
What’s new? 
  • New SKUs offer new dimensions and configurations with latest features 
  • HP Location Discovery Services sends the rack identification number and precise U location to the servers
  • HP Power Discovery Services eliminates configuration errors and precisely tracks power usage by rack and by server Reduce error-prone manual processes


HP Location Discovery Kit 
New Automated location awareness of installed servers in HP Intelligent Series Racks
What’s new?
  • Provides exact U location of servers in the rack and synchronises with HP Intelligent PDUs and Insight Control to graphically show location with power topology 
  • Eliminates human errors from inefficient manual documentation processes 
  • Accurate location information combined with graphical power, temperature, and performance data in Insight 
  • Control enables optimised workload placement Reduces unplanned downtime due to mis-wired servers in the wrong place 

Microsoft® Windows Server® 2012 
New HP and Microsoft combine the intelligence of HP ProLiant Gen8 with the virtualization and scalability of the Microsoft Windows Server 2012 product family
What’s new?
  • Scale and secure workloads, cost-effectively build a private cloud, and securely connect to cloud services 
  • Efficiently manage infrastructure while maximising up time and minimising failures and downtime 
  • Build on an open and scalable web platform that supports applications across premises 
  • Support a mobile and flexible work style 


HP Insight Control for VMware vCenter Server 7.1 
Full Interoperability with VMware’s latest version - vSphere 5.1
What’s new?
  • One installer delivers both the .NET and New Web Client Graphical User Interface (NGC) 
  • Active management for 3PAR arrays 
  •  In context launch of HP management ecosystem tools (iLO, On board Administrator, Virtual Connect, HP Storage Management)

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for HP ProLiant & BladeSystem Servers
HP and SUSE combine for highly available computing environments
What’s new?
  • SUSE has changed its packaging / pricing and HP is replacing its entire SUSE Portfolio 
  • Now available for 2, 4 and 8 sockets and Physical or Virtual environments with 24x7 HP bundled support 
  • HP offers greater coverage (more years/more support for less money) 


VMware vSphere from HP 
New VMware products for HP CloudSystem solutions
What’s new?
  • VMware vCloud Suites Bundle of multiple VMware products such as vSphere Enterprise Plus, vCloud Director, vCenter Operations Manager, vCloud Networking & Security Suite, vCenter 
  • Site Recovery Manager Offers comprehensive value for Cloud Deployments, as opposed to purchasing individual products within the bundle VMware vCenter Operations Enterprise and Enterprise Plus 
  • The vCenter Operations Management Suite enables IT organisations to proactively ensure service levels, optimum resource usage, and configuration compliance in dynamic virtual and cloud environments 


HP Smart Bundles for Microsoft Hyper-V 
Pre-designed, preconfigured solutions: Servers, Storage, Networking, Management, and Software
What's new?
  • New versions that Include new Microsoft® Windows® Server 2012 Essential Tower, Essential Rack HA, and Scalable Rack 
  • HA Improved performance and admin productivity with new HP ProLiant Gen8 servers 
  • Deploy with confidence, no worries about trying to integrate multiple vendor tools 


HP Smart Bundles for VMware 
Pre-designed, preconfigured solutions: Servers, Storage, Networking, Management, and Software
What's new?
  • New versions of HP Smart Bundles for VMware Essential Tower, Essential Rack HA, and Scalable Rack HA 
  • Improved performance and admin productivity with new HP ProLiant Gen8 servers 
  • Deploy with confidence, no worries about trying to integrate multiple vendor tools 


HP 6G SAS Enterprise Mainstream Endurance 2.5-in SSDs 
Next generation of solid state drives using SLC NAND flash technology
What’s new?

  • For HP G6, G7, and Gen8 servers and HP storage products 
  • 25% more performance and 3X more endurance 10%-20% lower pricing than previous generation 
  • Small form-factor (SFF) 
  • Supported with SMARTSSD Wear Gauge 

 
NVIDIA Tesla K10 Dual GPU PCIe Module 
New PCIe module with two GPUs optimised for single-precision performance
What’s new?
  • Available as option for HP ProLiant SL250s and SL270s servers 
  • Dramatically reduces computational time for single-precision parallel applications 
  • High density decreases the physical footprint required High performance per watt reduces the carbon footprint per unit of computation 

 
HP SmartMemory 
Industry first and unique technology for HP ProLiant BL460c Gen8 Server
What’s new?
  • First to introduce 3 Rank DDR3 technology 
  • New 24GB 3 Rank DIMM works at 1.35v @1333 MT/s Gives select HP ProLiant Gen8 Blade servers 384GB capacity at high speed and lower price 

If you need help with any additional details about any of the new releases above or need a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.


Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 3 September 2012

September 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month many of HP's fantastic Storage and Networking promotions have been extended!









Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team 

Friday, 24 August 2012

NEW OFFER: An extra £50 off HP Top Value Servers!

HP have launched an amazing £50 additional discount across ALL ISS Top Value Servers (INCLUDING the HP Microserver Part # 658553-421).

This offer will run from the 24th August until the 31st August 2012 only.

The maximum is 50 units on each TopValue product line during the promotional period. Deals with a quantity higher than 50 units on any single product line will require verification and authorisation from HP. Any high quantity deals on single lines that have not been verified and approved by HP may be exempt from the rebate claim made.

If you need help with any additonal details or need a HP server solution then please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 7 August 2012

HP ISS Fact of the week by Paul Kember (HP)



If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 1 August 2012

August 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month many of HP's fantastic Storage and HP Networking promotions have been extended!
There is a fantastic £150 cash back offer on the HP ProLiant ML110 G7 plus lots of other great offers on HP ProLiant Servers.









Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 23 July 2012

HP Launch £100 Cash-back offer on the ML110 G7 (470065-612)

HP have launched a £100 Cash-back offer on the ML110 G7 Dual Core model (470065-612) from the 23rd July until the 31st August 2012

You will need to claim this cash back directly from HP the relevant claim forms will be attached once we have received them from HP.

Specifications on the 470065-612
  • Processor - Intel G840 Dual Core (2.8Ghz), 
  • Memory - 2GB
  • HDD - 1x250GB Non Hot Plug LFF SATA HDD, 
  • Optical - DVD-ROM, 
  • Power - 1x350W PS, 
  • Disk Controller - B110i (Raid 0,1,10)
  • 1yr NBD warranty

If you need help with the above or any HP server solution then please contact us and we will provide a tailored solution to your customers needs.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 17 July 2012

Westcoast launches EXCLUSIVE OFFER on HP Servers

Claim a free HDD with orders over £5k
Westcoast is introducing an EXCLUSIVE offer on HP servers
For a limited time only* you can get a free Hard drive with ever server deal over £5k

This offer is only available from Westcoast, so don't miss this opportunity and get a free HP HDD with your order. You can choose from the below top selling drives.

512547-B21 - HP 146GB 15k 6G 2.5" SAS DP HDD £259 RRP
512545-B21 - HP 72GB 15k 6G 2.5" SAS DP HDD £195 RRP
507127-B21 - HP 300GB 10k 6G 2.5" SAS HDD £215 RRP

Call your account manager today to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
* Offer runs until the 31st July, or while stocks last, available to HP Non-Specialist resellers only.

If you need help with a HP server solution then please contact us and we will provide a tailored solution to your customers needs.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 16 July 2012

HP 3PAR Starter Kit - Now even more affordable

HP 3PAR Storage is based on a modern scalable architecture build from the ground up to serve the storage requirement of today’s virtual data centers.

50% less capacity, 90% less administration and 50% more VMs, …
… let’s make sure every customer can take advantage of these benefits!

 
HP have announced an update to the existing EMEA 3PAR Starter Kit Promotion.

Inform your customers they can start the 3PAR journey now for more than 11% less.
The promotional offer includes all that is needed to deploy a first HP 3PAR F-Class system
  • HP 3PAR F200/F400 Starter Kit (QW960A/QW961A)
    • Two F-Class 3PAR controller nodes including the Thin Build In ASIC
    • Rack mount kits for racking into 3rd party and HP 19” racks (rack and PDUs need to be supplied separately)
    • 4 embedded FC host ports, 4 embedded disk ports to connect disk chassis
    • 2 disk drive chassis (Total of 32 drive slots)
    • 16x 600GB 15k rpm FC disk drives (~ 9.6TB raw)
    • 4 host cables
    • HP 3PAR InForm Operating System Software Suite
    • 10 TB of Thin Suite
  • HP 3PAR Service Processor for remote support and call home
  • HP 3 years Support Plus 24 and HP Installation Services

In addition, training is now available on how to position and articulate the value of 3PAR to a mid market customer which includes competitive differentiation, the sweet spots for the F-Class, sales tools and supporting programs to help you win new business. http://www2.ibtalk.net/index.php?cmp=attendx_meeting&mt_number=70269359

If you need help with a 3PAR storage solution then please contact us and we will provide a tailored solution to your customers needs.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Thursday, 5 July 2012

HP ISS Fact of the week by Paul Kember (HP)












If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 3 July 2012

July 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month many of HP's fantastic HP Storage and HP Networking promotions have been extended! There is a fantastic £150 cash back offer on the HP ProLiant ML110 G7 plus lots of other great offers on HP ProLiant Servers.










Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 25 June 2012

HP Networking new releases - 25th June 2012

HPN have released a number of new products from the Switches and Network Management categories.

HP 1405 Small Office Switch Series 
The affordable new HP 1405-8 Switch delivers unmanaged plug-and-play set-up, Fast Ethernet performance, and broad compatibility, backed by a 3 Year Warranty.
• Unmanaged, Plug and play out of the box
• Improved green functionality through EEE and idle port detect with power savings modes
• Enhanced traffic prioritization with the use of IEEE 802.1p w/ DiffServ HP 3100 EI Switch Series These Layer 2 Ethernet switches are designed for enterprise networks demanding high security and intelligence.
• Comprehensive security control policies
• High reliability with improved backup redundancy
• Simplified deployment and ease of use
 • Highly expandable and highly reliable
• Diversified management modes and maintenance

HP 3600 EI Switch Series 
The HP 3600 EI Switch Series are Layer 2/3 Fast Ethernet and PoE/PoE+ switches, with advanced features that deliver premium levels of intelligent, resilient performance, security and reliability for robust switching at the enterprise network edge.
• Robust switching at the enterprise network edge
• Advanced Layer 3 and multicast routing
• IRF-automated stack and switching fabric setup
• Integrated and distributed security enforcement
• Enterprise-level nonblocking performance

HP Switch Software K/KA 15.09 
This software update is for HP Switch 8200, 6600, 6200, 5400, 3800, and 3500 series. It contains features that improve interoperability, simplify IP phone deployment, and enhance usability for enterprise customers.
• Improve interoperability with RPVST+
• Simplify IP phone configuration via CDPv2
• Improve usability for Comware users with Compatible CLI
• Add routing capability to existing HP Meshing feature
• Synchronize features in Switch 3800 with other ProVision switches.

IMC Virtual Application Networks Manager
IMC VAN Manager enables IT to provision applications quickly by accelerating VM deployment with a template-based approach for network automation and orchestration of edge connectivity.
• Save quantifiable time by reducing the manpower and operational cost of administering cloud networks
• Supports heterogeneous networks through IMC’s multi-vendor device support
• Reduces provisioning time from weeks to minutes
• Eliminates manual configuration from network edge

IMC Application Performance Manager 
IMC APM allows administrators to visualize and measure the health of business applications and the impact to network performance.
• Monitor performance and health of applications
• Discovers of applications automatically
• Manages fault for monitored applications
• Comprehensive reporting of monitored objects

IMC Service Health Manager 
IMC SHM delivers end-to-end network health monitoring and assurance.
• Model services using a visual perspective
• Includes predefined and custom key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Monitor Network Quality Assurance (NQA) Link
• Features comprehensive SHM reports and network service quality trend analysis
• Includes service level agreement (SLA) module

Extended APIs license 
eAPI license allows organizations integrate third-party applications with IMC’s open and extensible SOA platform.
• Utilizes RESTful implementation for simplified integration
• Over 200 eAPIs are available

HP IMC Remote Site Manager 
IMC RSM securely extends IMC's core platform capability to remote sites by deploying remote agents to provide comprehensive, efficient remote site management.
• Supports firewalled remote networks (NAT or Proxy)
• Discover local networks • Offers remote site service monitoring
• Communicates with agents in a secure fashion via SSL

HP IMC TACACS+ Authentication Manager
IMC TAM provides basic authentication, authorization and accounting functions for network devices or users.
• Supports TACACS+ device identification and authentication
• Flexible authorization policies
• Comprehensive user and log monitoring
• Centralized device user management

HP IMC Intelligent Analysis Reporter 
IMC IAR extends the reporting capabilities within IMC to include customized reporting.
• In-depth data collection of network information
• Provides Simple to use report design tools
• Automates and distribution of reports
• Exports into a variety of formats

IMC User Access Manager 
Supports BYOD phase 1 with Simple Network Access Control and portal for iOS clients.

IMC Endpoint Admission Defense 
Supports IPv6.

IMC Wireless Services Manager 
Includes performance monitoring and graphs and RF predictor support for HP MSM wireless devices.

IMC IPSec VPN Manager 
Supports templates, management and provisioning for Dynamic Virtual Private Network.

If you have any questions with regards to these new products or need any help with anything related to HP networking, servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team 

Monday, 18 June 2012

NEW Release: AMD Opteron based Gen8 Servers

The first AMD Gen8 platforms have been released with the BL465c and DL385p server based on AMD Opteron™ 6200 Series processors.

BL465c Gen8 - Unique blend of core density and a broad memory footprint in a half-height form factor, delivering price and performance leadership for virtualized and high-performance computing environments.

DL385p Gen8 - The HP ProLiant DL385p Gen8 Server is built to protect your investment and extend server life with reliability, accessibility, and serviceability features. New features include: Up to two AMD Opteron 6200 Series Processors: and 2x the cores for more virtual machines per box for better virtualization.

If you wish to know more then please click the below PDF's
DL385p Gen8













BL465c Gen8













If you have any questions with regards to these server or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Friday, 1 June 2012

June 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers.

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

For June, many of HP's fantastic Storage and Networking promotions have been extended!

The month HP are celebrating the success of the iconic HP ProLiant MicroServer and have increased our cash back offer by a further £10! There is also a half price Care Pack offer on the HP ProLiant ML110 G7 powered by up to an Intel® Xeon® E3 processor.










Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 28 May 2012

HP SMB Blueprints - Accessible Competitive Flexible

HP have launched a great new program called SMB Blueprints which includes some major discounts over Storage, servers, networking and support..

So what is HP's offering in this new Program?

"Office in a box” 
Who are the target customer?
Small start ups looking for their first IT estate or established SMBs looking for an office refresh.

What’s the value proposition?
All a customer needs for a scalable, fast, value focused IT estate that can support virtualisation.

What’s in the bundle?
P2000 with 7.2TB of high performance disk, 2x DL380 G7s, necessary connectivity, 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus. 3 bundles with different connectivity: SAS, i-SCSI or Fibre Channel.

“Virtualisation Starter Kits” 
Who are the target customer? Small start ups to medium sized established businesses looking for a highly available and scalable virtualisation solution.

What’s the value proposition? A preconfigured bundle to deliver highly available storage, servers and networking regardless of the customer size.

What’s in the bundle?
Small Tower: 2x ML350G6s with 9.6TB storage, 2x P4000 Virtual SAN Appliance Licenses, 2x HP Networking 2910AL switches with 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

Small Rack: 2x DL380G7s with 9.6TB storage, 2x P4000 Virtual SAN Appliance Licenses, 2x HP Networking 2910AL switches with 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

Medium Rack: 2x DL380G7s with 7.2TB P4300 storage, 2x HP Networking 2910AL switches with 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus. Large Rack: 2x DL380G7s with 14.4TB P4500 storage, 2x HP Networking 2910AL switches with 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

“NAS Bundles”
Who are the target customer? Small businesses looking for file storage or to add file storage to an existing SAN.

What’s the value proposition? Micro-NAS-Server: Preconfigured Proliant MicroServer with Windows Server Operating System – Windows File Serving at an unbeatable price. X3000 NAS Gateways: Add easily clustered NAS File services to SANs that effortlessly integrate in to windows environments. X5000 Clustered NAS: High available file serving straight out of the box that delivers the best possible performance and scale.

What’s in the bundle?
Micro-NAS-Server: Proliant MicroServer with 4TB of Storage, DVD drive and Windows Server 2008 Foundation.

X5000 48TB: X5520 cluster with 16x 3TB drives and 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

X5000 120TB: X5520 cluster with 40x 3TB drives and 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

X3800 NAS Gateways for Fibre SANs: 2x X3800 NAS Gateways in a cluster, dual fibre channel connections, memory upgrade, processor upgrade with 3yr 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

X3800sb BLADE NAS Gateways for Fibre SANs: 2x X3800sb BLADE NAS Gateways in a cluster, dual fibre channel connections, memory upgrade, processor upgrade with 3yr 24x7 4hr Support Plus.

“D2D Bundles” 
Who are the target customer? Small businesses looking for deduplicated backup storage to accelerate backup, restore and to easily move data off site.

What’s the value proposition? StoreOnce D2D allows fast deduplication of backup data, with only unique data replicated to keep bandwidth cost low. As data is stored on disk; backups are available for fast restore.

What’s in the bundle? 
Small D2D bundle: 2x D2D2502i 1.5TB useable StoreOnce appliances with replication license, 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus and HP hardware installation.

Medium D2D bundle: 2x D2D2504i 3TB useable StoreOnce appliances with replication license, 3yrs 24x7 4hr Support Plus and HP hardware installation.

General Terms and Conditions
This promotion is effective from 22nd May - 31st July 2012 inclusive. This promotion is valid for all product numbers listed in the Promotional Product Price List only. There is a sell-out cap in place of 5 units on each product line or bundle, per reseller, per distributor each month. Deals with a quantity higher than 5 units on any single product line or bundle will require verification and authorisation from HP. Any high quantity deals on single lines or bundles that have not been verified and approved by HP may be exempt from the rebate claim made. Rebates are only valid for sales out from LSP/CDPs made within the dates of the promotion (as above). This promotion may only be used in conjunction with other HP promotions when listed in the qualifying products section of the other HP promotion. HP reserves the right to validate all claims and request any additional information as required. This includes requesting paper copies of all related invoices. The partner account manager remains the primary point of contact for all communications on this promotion. HP reserves the right to cancel or amend this promotion, with immediate effect. This includes part numbers, pricing and quantities.

If you have any questions with regards to these offers or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team 

Thursday, 17 May 2012

HP takes 1st place for Increased Performance & Automation with new ProLiant Gen8 Servers and VMware

HP has released new Gen8 virtualisation benchmarks and shows examples of  their innovative Gen8 automation technologies with their new ProLiant Gen8 servers.

• HP ProLiant DL380p Gen8 - #1 virtualisation performance on 2-Processor VMmark V2 benchmark http://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetPDF.aspx/4AA4-1452ENW.pdf 

• VMware vSphere from HP- Decrease capital and operational costs through server consolidation and energy efficiency http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/servers/software/vmwar /index.html?jumpid=reg_R1002_USEN 

• Groundbreaking benchmark with HP VirtualSystem for VMware http://h71028.www7.hp.com/enterprise/us/en/partners/vmware-hpvirtualsystem-SAPbenchmark.html

Vittorio Viargeno, Vice President, End-User Computing at VMware makes the comment "HP ProLiant servers have long-standing success as a proven platform for VMware cloud infrastructure. With the improvements now seen in VDI user density when running VMware View™ with HP ProLiant Gen8 servers, HP is showcasing ProLiant servers as a powerful platform for desktop virtualisation as well.”

With these fantastic benchmarks and details of how you can decrease operational costs through HP Gen8 server automation, it makes sense to consider making the change to Gen8 for your hardware refresh. If you need help with providing a solution for Gen8 then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 16 May 2012

HP are offering an additional £50 discount across all HP Top Value Servers..

As of today you can get an amazing £50 discount across all HP ProLiant Top Value Servers (excluding Microserver).

The £50 discount will also run in conjunction with the IceBreaker discounts where applicable, making the Ice Breakers even more competitive than ever before:

This offer will run until the 25th May.
There is a maximum of 50 units per Top value line per reseller and All qualifying orders must ship within the promotional period.

If you have any questions with regards to this promo or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

HP ISS Fact of the week by Paul Kember (HP) - ProLiant Gen8 ROI Tool













Please click the above Image or go to  http://alinean.austin.hp.com/roianalyst/AuthenticateLogin.do

1. Click on “New User Access" and a login & password will be sent to you.
2. Scroll down the list of ROI tools to the Servers section and select "ProLiant ROI Calculator".
3. Select customer’s existing ProLiant G2 – G6 servers to be refreshed, from drop-down menu. Input quantity.
4. Select proposed ProLiant Gen8 (or G7 where server line has not yet rolled to Gen8).
5. Tool estimates # of Gen8 servers needed based on performance. Change quantity if desired.
6. Click on "Create a Report".

If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Thursday, 10 May 2012

NEWS : HP 42u racks now EOL (AF001A & AF002A)

Old 10k Series Rack
HP have discontinued two 42u Racks namely the AF001A and AF002A from their 10kG2 Series Rack range.

This is to make way for HP's new Intelligent racks the BW903A (Pallet) and BW904A (Shock).

The HP Intelligent Series Rack also offers many improvements over the HP Rack 10000 G2 Series racks:
  • 6 castors supports highest dynamic load up to 3000lbs, 
  • Front door with updated design to provide the maximum airflow 
  • Front and rear door handles and lock bars for improved security 
  • Side panels come in 3 parts for easier manageability and mounting 
  • Cable management accessories and cable management bracket in every Intelligent Series rack. 
  • Three year limited warranty, parts only (3/0/0)

If you wish to know more about the new Rack solutions from HP please have a look at the quickspecs, or contact us for more information.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 9 May 2012

AMD Powered ProLiant servers, a good alternative...

As many of you know HP have a range of servers which use AMD Processors.
There are many reasons why you should consider an AMD based server.

The newer AMD processors boast a brand new 16-core architecture for the next generation of scalable business critical applications, these processors feature an innovative design that drives more core density and greater throughput with up to 160% more cores than the competition.

AMD Processors also have Greater Efficiency in what AMD are calling "C6 Power State" This is when a core is halted and its workload is then exported to system memory, the voltage needed to run this core is then removed therefore saving power. In times where efficiency is paramount this technology really saves you money.

Greater Scalability - AMD Turbo CORE Technology - Allows processors to independently boost their clock speed to respond to the need for more application performance. The industry’s best full-core boost - up to 500 MHz.

AMD is also traditionally cheaper than their competition, this means that the power vs pounds trade off is better with AMD. 

The Current ProLiant range of AMD based servers is as follows,

BL465 G7 - For use in the C3000/C7000 Blade Chassis.
BL685 G7 - For use in the C3000/C7000 Blade Chassis.
DL165 G7 - 1u Standalone Rack server
DL385 G7 - 2u Standalone Rack server
DL585 G7 - 4u Standalone Rack server
SL335s G7 -HP ProLiant SL Scalable System
SL165s G7 - HP ProLiant SL Scalable System
SL165z G7 - HP ProLiant SL Scalable System
HP Microsever - Single Small footprint Tower server

As you can see there is a HP AMD based solution for every type of enviroment, 
Please click on the links above to find out more information on the ranges of HP AMD based servers.

If you are interested in building a solution around HP AMD ProLiant servers or need more information on the range of servers then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 2 May 2012

May 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers.

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

Claim HP Insight Control for free when purchased with a qualifying New HP ProLiant Gen8 Server such as the HP ProLiant ML350p Gen8 server.

Half Price HP P2000 G3 MSA’s PLUS 50% off additional HP HDD’s and claim a £140 cash back when you purchase a qualifying HP switch with a HP Gigabit Transceiver.









Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 18 April 2012

HP ISS Fact of the week by Paul Kember (HP)













If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Monday, 2 April 2012

Westcoast Event : The Importance of Education Expo – 25th April 2012

Westcoast are holding their second multi-vendor education event on 25th April 2012 focused around ‘The Importance of Education’. The event will be held at the British Library, London Kings Cross, and is expected to attract over 200 resellers who will have the chance to engage with key vendors as well as a selection of end users.

After the success of the 2011 education event in Oxford, Westcoast is excited about holding an even bigger and better show, in order to help resellers grow their education business. Resellers will have the opportunity to engage with education vendors and Westcoast, allow attendees to view the latest product technologies, and discover the latest marketing offerings available from vendors. In addition, those who attend will also have the chance to book 1 to 1 sessions with key speakers, from Westcoast, Samsung, Toshiba, Apple, HP and Microsoft.


Key Highlights
• Understand which solutions are right for your education customers
• Oportunities to learn from various vendor and end user speakers
• See new and emerging technologies in the vendor village
• Think differently and keep your business ahead of the rest
• Book 1-2-1 vendor sessions
• Specific for sales people and key business decision makers

View the agenda and register at www.westcoast.co.uk/education

If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage for your educational customers then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

April 2012 - HP Server, Storage and Networking offers.

In order for you to have your own copy of this months offers, We offer them in a easy downloadable PDF for you.

This month HP have a selection of great offers available including 50% Cash Back on HP P2000 G3 plus 50% on additional HDD’s, a great 'buy one get one free' offer on qualifying memory units when purchased with a qualifying HP ProLiant server.

A Free HP ProLiant MicroServer when purchasing HP Windows SBS Essentials 2011 and a Free Wireless Access Point when you buy our Wireless Starter Kit.










Please click the image above to open the PDF for more details.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Wednesday, 21 March 2012

Learn more about HP Service Offerings with HP’s Technology Services Clinic

Would you like to learn more about HP service offerings?
HP is running an event called HP Technology Services Clinic. Its aim is to provide you with a clear overview of HP's key Technology Services.

The Clinic will include sessions on five areas of the portfolio, each being repeated on the hour starting at 10.00am. Numbers are be limited at each session, so please register now to select your preferred time slot per portfolio topic. The last session will begin at 3.00pm. Lunch will be available at 1.00pm where the portfolio team will be able to answer questions specific to your customers.

The sessions will be as follows:

Session 1: Mission Critical - Proactive Care
Proactive Care is our new service created to address the changing needs of our customers. Understand what it comprises of; where it sits within the Mission Critical portfolio and the benefits of selling the service

Session 2: Third Party Maintenance
Understand why you would even consider using a Third Party Maintainer to support HP products; and understand as an OEM, how HP supports its own Technology

Session 3: HP Networking
An open Q&A session for anybody requiring more information on selling HP support services associated with HP Networking

Session 4: Lifecycle Services - Data Centre Services
Review of key services within the Lifecycle services portfolio to understand how they complement the Partners existing offerings

Session 5: Customer Asset Programme
Understand what the Programme is and how it will benefit your customers.

When and where is the TS Clinic to be held?
The TS Clinic will be held on Thursday 19th April at 9.30am.
The event will be held at the following address:

Harrison House,
1040 Arlington Business Park,
Theale,
Reading RG7 4SA

Spaces are limited so please click here to register your attendance for one of HP's TS Clinics.

In the meantime if you have any questions with regards to HP services or have any opportunities which need to have HP support/service included then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team

Tuesday, 20 March 2012

HP ISS Fact of the week by Paul Kember (HP)


If you have any questions or need any help with HP servers or storage then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards

Technical ISS Solutions Team