New Functions and Features for IBM DS3500

IBM System Storage combines features to simplify ordering of DS3500 systems.

Some are included in the base CFW for no additional charge, and other premium functions are now included in separate premium feature bundle options.

CFW version 7.84
includes additional functions and features:

• Partitions, 128
• FlashCopy , 32
• VolumeCopy, 256 ( IBM recommends that VolumeCopy be used with FlashCopy )
• Full Disk Encryption

Additional premium feature options include:

• DR Option offers 16 Enhanced Remote Mirrors (synchronous over FC, including FCoE) and 32 Global Mirrors (asynchronous over FC and IP mirroring over iSCSI)
• Backup and Restore Option offers up to 512 point in time instances of Enhanced FlashCopy
• Performance Read Cache enables the utilization of solid state disks (SSDs) accelerating reads from the storage, helping to increase performance of the disk system
• Super Key enables all the functionality in the DR Option, the Backup and Restore Option, and the Performance Read Cache

All other premium feature keys remain available and functional with CFW version 7.84. Customers that upgrade to CFW version 7.84 will find that the keys that have already been purchased and activated still work as the functions worked before the firmware upgrade. Also, upgrading with the keys that were previously announced will still continue to unlock in the latest CFW version 7.84 the functionality that was delivered in earlier versions of CFW.

For example, a customer may have already purchased some earlier FlashCopy instances, and if it would be more efficient to continue with those features, then those options are available and still work under the new CFW. Other features, such as the Turbo Performance Option and the 96 to 192 Drive Enclosure Expansion keys, continue to be available for the new code under current terms and conditions.

The new Solaris Host Kit for DS3500 provides entitlement and support for servers using DS3500 Disk Systems and hosting Solaris OSs.

Pricing terms
Prices are suggested list prices on day of announcement for the US only. Dealer prices may vary, and prices may also vary by country. List price does not include tax or shipping and is subject to change without notice.

Planned availability date
December 7, 2012