HP StorageWorks Array, Data Protector Bolster Smart Office
HP plans to introduce a new StorageWorks 1510i Modular Storage Array as well as HP StorageWorks Data Protector Express backup and recovery software.
"The 1510i is targeted at midsized businesses experiencing data growth, either through their internal user base or through compliance issues," said Lisa Wolfe, worldwide SMB business protection solutions manager for the Palo Alto, Calif., company. "This offers them scalability as well as ease of management."
The SAN product, which has an iSCSI interface, has a base list price of $7,995.
The StorageWorks Data Protector Express backup and recovery software, designed specifically for small businesses, can run on Windows, NetWare or Linux. Priced at $799, it includes one year of business support and software upgrade rights.
Wolfe said both HP Direct and solution providers would sell the new offerings.
Many solution providers however, said they make limited use of the Smart Office portfolio because they already build comparable solutions for SMB clients.
"We are aware of the Smart Office bundles; we just haven't come up with anybody who has the need for that kind of product," said Pete Busam, vice president and COO of Decisive Business Systems, Pennsauken, N.J.
Busam did say the Smart Office portfolio would work well for small businesses that can't afford consulting and design services.
In addition, HP is collaborating with Cisco to help deploy HP systems and Cisco networking products. HP is launching a series of online tools that will allow solution providers and small businesses to define their networking needs and then locate solution providers that are both HP- and Cisco-certified.
"We're trying to simplify the networking experience for the customer," said Jack Van Horn, HP's SMB Americas solutions marketing manager, responsible for the Cisco relationship.
Some solution providers are puzzled by the collaboration. "HP has its own networking products," said one HP partner, who requested anonymity. "Why aren't they steering customers to ProCurve products?"