What is our primary use case?
IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe is being used for connecting to operating systems.
How has it helped my organization?
I have experienced firsthand the benefits of this technology. In terms of storage efficiency, the lack of moving parts has greatly improved the functionality of the system, as well as reducing the need for repairs and servicing. Additionally, the battery system, which is integral to the IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe, has also played a significant role in improving the overall performance and productivity of the system.
What is most valuable?
There are many valuable features of IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMele I have found to meet my needs. Specifically, the maintenance cycle is a standout feature of this solution. The main component of the IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe is the maintenance of the batteries, which have a predetermined and reliable four-year life cycle. This is in stark contrast to other solutions that may use spinning disks, which can fail unexpectedly, causing unwanted downtime and maintenance. Having a predictable maintenance cycle is a significant advantage and has made this solution a preferred choice for me.
What needs improvement?
There is a tool provided by IBM for repairing batteries which can only be utilized by those who have an IBM technical advisor under service contract. However, for individuals who do not have such a contract, the tool can be difficult to use and requires a zip file copy. I believe that it would be greatly beneficial if the tool were made more user-friendly and accessible for all individuals who need to repair batteries.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe for approximately five years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The solution is designed to have zero downtime. The solution has demonstrated remarkable stability. We have not encountered any stability or performance issues thus far. However, the only challenge we have faced is in the process of migrating data from one system to the next, which can be a bit difficult. Nevertheless, apart from this minor issue, everything has been running smoothly.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The scalability of IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe is impressive. The system can be scaled from a small two-unit system to a large multi-rack system that can accommodate up to eight units. The scalability of the solution is dependent on the size of the rack cage, making it possible to scale the system to meet the needs of different customers. Additionally, the system comes in different storage capacities, so it is possible to choose the right storage capacity based on your needs.
The IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe is linked to one to multiple DR systems. We have a large system that is using the solution with the Z operating system which are larger system.
How are customer service and support?
We've had technical support before and it's been straightforward. It's easy to access, easy to use, and easy to liaise with it. We use support for a variety of things and they are responsive.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
I have used other data storage systems, such as IBM Storwize and IBM DS8000 series.
How was the initial setup?
The configuration of IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe is complex, but it's quite straightforward to deploy. The documentations are very clear.
The deployment time depends on the requirement, but if you were looking for a basic deployment, you can be up and running within an hour.
What about the implementation team?
We do the deployments of the solution.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The price of IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMele can be considered affordable when taking into account the operating system that is required for it to function properly. This operating system, which is licensed by IBM, may carry a higher cost, but it is worth the investment for larger corporate entities, such as insurance companies, Fortune Five companies, and banks, who make up a significant portion of their target market. The FlashSystems are designed for larger corporations and multinational enterprises, and may not be the most cost-effective solution for smaller businesses.
There are not any hidden costs. The pricing model is straightforward, you acquired the hardware, you get the software license that goes with it, and updates that go with it within that period. There is typically standard three-year support from IBM in the first three years.
What other advice do I have?
In order to make a well-informed decision, it is important to consider the architecture and weigh the benefits of the IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMele against its cost. If quick recall of data is not a priority, then there may be alternative options to consider. However, at present, this solution offers remarkable performance, efficient mirroring, and replication services. It serves as a remarkable improvement compared to previous solutions in the market.
I rate IBM FlashSystem 9100 NVMe a nine out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
*Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: partner