IBM Bundles System x Servers with VMware vSphere 4 in New Finance Package

ARMONK, N.Y. (Map) - ARMONK, N.Y., June 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) said today it is offering special finance packages through the remainder of 2009 for its System x family of servers that bundle the newly released VMware vSphere(TM) 4 virtualization platform. Qualified customers are eligible for financing on purchases as small as $5,000.

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IBM's System x lineup includes BladeCenter servers, System x rack and tower models, and the System x3950 M2 enterprise server, the single-system "reference platform" for the development of VMware vSphere 4 scalability.

For example, an IBM solution configuration on VMware, that would allow customers to virtualize 70 active workloads(1) (onto a single System x3850), would retail for approximately $59,000. With financing, qualified customers could see zero upfront costs and monthly payments of approximately $1,675.00 per month.* Because virtualization reduces the number of systems needed, consolidating 70 active workloads onto a single System x3850 would cut hardware maintenance, capital, installation and utility costs.

The new financing plan is offered by IBM Global Financing, and is in direct response to customer demands for the packaging and financing of total solutions -- hardware, software and service.

All of IBM's System x and BladeCenter servers are currently eligible for the special finance plan, with financing for IBM's iDataPlex servers planned to be available later this year.

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Contact: Jason Stolarczyk IBM Media Relations +1 206-949-7776 jrstolar@us.ibm.com

(1) Active workloads calculated using VMmark Result of 20.50@14 tiles as of June 29, 2009.

* IBM Global Financing price based on US rates for 06.30.09 for hardware Fair Market Value lease and software financing with 36 months term and best credit rating.

IBM Global Financing offerings are provided through IBM Credit LLC in the United States and other IBM subsidiaries and divisions worldwide to qualified commercial and government clients. Rates are based on a client's credit rating, financing terms, offering type, equipment type and options, and may vary by country. Other restrictions may apply. Rates and offerings are subject to change, extension or withdrawal without notice.