The purpose of this blog is to highlight many factors that you want to consider when you are about to buy a new IBM POWER server. These factors will save you delays, unexpected costs and painful expensive oversights.
Disclaimer: iSeries and AS400 are servers. IBM i is an operating system. I use them interchangeably so folks to more easily find what they are searching for on the web.
As an IBM Business Partner, I work with many IBM i users that want new servers.… and seem not to want my advice.
As you may expect, many want to replace their end-of-life iSeries with the new POWER9. In essence, I hear, “Just give us the newest replacement at the best cost.”
Clearly, cost is important.
Even so, there are other factors that should be considered.
What Is Involved When I Move My Software To A New Server?
The answers to this question are crucial. AND, you want to know the answers before you commit any money for a new server.
Here’s why.
First, software providers often require that you are current with your software support to have access to any software keys to move your software to a new server with different serial number.
This can mean if you do not have current software support, you may not be able to move your software to a server with a different serial number.
Second, when you move to a new server, you may want to upgrade to a new version of the IBM i OS. It is important to verify that your software is certified to run on the new IBM i versions.
Third, some software providers charge a transfer fee when you move your software to a server with a new serial number. These fees may be modest to VERY expensive. You will want to research this aspect of your software BEFORE you decide to buy a new server. (You never know what you are in for.)
Bottom line: The answers you receive may cause your management to think twice before they approve a hardware change.
What Is Involved With An IBM i OS Version Upgrade?
The answers to this question are also critical in your decision to get a new POWER server.
First, you need to verify that your version of IBM i has the most current PTFs (software patches) in place so you can upgrade to a newer IBM i OS level.
Next, you may need to test your version upgrade in advance depending on your circumstances, whether your software comes from a provider or it is your own custom software.
If this is required, you want to work with an expert that thoroughly knows IBM i OS as well as your application software.
If you need to upgrade to a newer version of IBM i, this should be part of your new server acquisition plan.
What Storage Should I Get – SSD’s or Disk Drives?
SSD’s have become remarkably affordable.
If you need extra performance, take a close look at SSD’s. My clients that have moved to SSD’s have seen their new servers with SSD’s run 300% – 500% faster.
What Power Should I Get – 110 Volt Or 220 Volt?
In most cases, you will likely get the same power you have now.
Even so, it is good to check this point with your hardware provider.
Maybe it is my “lucky” year because I have seen (3) servers delivered with the incorrect power. In essence, everyone on the acquisition teams was so focused on other configuration issues and missed the correct power completely.
Just so you know, it can be fixed in about 2-7 days. But who needs this embarrassing oversite.
Do You Need A New Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)?
IBM i servers have required UPS since inception.
How come?
If the IBM i server has a sudden power loss, the DB2 SQL database indexes run the risk of being lost. If so, it can take a full Save21 restore to bring your IBM i server back. That can take about 6-12 hours depending on the age of your server and the size of your database.
The UPS protects you from sudden power loss. Also, when properly configured with the server, your IBM server can have a “soft” power down to protect your SQL database should your power not come back on after a reasonable period of power loss.
I am surprised how many are unaware of the reason for the UPS, the risk of data loss with a power failure and that the UPS can include a “soft” power down feature.
So during our early conferences with a new client to understand his server needs, when I asked about updating his UPS, he responded, “We got it handled. We will use our current UPS.”
Shame on me because I should have dug deeper. Within a week of server delivery, we learned this client’s UPS was over 13 years old with 220 volt outlets. Oops, the server is 110 volt with 4 power cords which this UPS cannot accommodate. Ultimately, this creative client researched a creative workaround by changing the power cord plugs.
We also discovered that if he ever needed extra batteries for more run time, the manufacturer no longer offers them because this UPS is so old. The batteries are out of production.
The point of this story is DON’T take the UPS for granted. Understand what you have and what you may need. In many cases, you can be WAY better off with a newer UPS designed for your new IBM POWER server.
Plan To Get New Back Up Media
For new IBM POWER servers IBM, no longer offers QIC, DAT or LTO-2 to LTO-5 tapes.
When you get your new POWER9 server, you will either go with LTO-6 or LTO-7. (OK, a small number of users may port their LTO-4/5 over to their new server. This is the exception, not the rule.)
So what?
When you get your new POWER server you will need new backup tapes compatible with your tape drive.
Surprisingly, backup media can get dismissed…until the server shows ups. Then someone says, “Oh, what do we need for backup?”
My advice, plan for new backup media as part of your plan to get your new server and avoid the unpleasant “Whoops, we need to get backup media.”
Will You Need New Peripherals?
It depends.
If you are still using Twinax devices, you either need to replace these devices or get a Twinax-to–Ethernet controller because the new IBM servers do not support Twinax. Period.
A Twinax-to-Ethernet controller allows you to connect Twinax devices to your new IBM POWER server.
Also, when you get a new POWER server, you may also consider upgrading your desktops so you can move up to Windows 10. You may also want to get newer printers.
Should You Consider Online Backup To The Cloud Or Other Disaster Recovery Options?
As you plan for a new server it may also make sense to check out options for online backup to the cloud as well as other Disaster Recovery (DR) options.
Perhaps your operation is more dependent on your server than ever before. Or, you may be more aware of risks that can cause unexpected downtime.
When evaluating a new server, you may also want to check out your options to present management with a more comprehensive assessment of your overall IT infrastructure needs.
Need Help?
Call me at 714-593-0387 or email me at blosey@source-data.com.
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