HP introduced on Wednesday a host of networking and storage products aimed at SMEs and based on the integration of voice, messaging and collaboration offerings.
The first products, the V1410 layer 2 gigabit switch family forms part of the V-series networking portfolio, and comes in eight, 16 and 24-port versions. The V1410 products are entry-level products each with two mini-GBIC slots. One has the option of fibre connectivity and all are capable of working without a fan. They can be wall-mounted or sit on a table-top.
HP's StorageWorks X310 Data Vault is a storage offering that offers deduplication and back-up features, providing local and remote file access for up to 10 PCs or Macs. The StorageWorks X1000 Network Storage System, meanwhile, offers up to twice the number of drives of prior generations in half the space.
The HP StorageWorks P2000 G3 SAS (serial-attached SCSI) Modular Array provides twice the capacity of the previous generation. It features 6Gb SAS technology, providing shared storage consolidation without the extra networking cost. It does not require the skills traditionally needed to run a storage area network, HP said.
The Unified Communication & Collaboration offering - which comes from a partnership between HP and Microsoft - combining servers, storage, networking and software which the companies intend will help to streamline firms' messaging, video and voice applications.
HP Virtual Rooms offers an interactive workplace, with a range of monthly billing options, while HP 48Upper is an online service that is designed to make the management of IT processes easier. This could include project planning, operations and service management, HP said.
HP also introduced a Download Store, featuring six pay-as-you-go support and collaboration services. One is named HP SmartFriend Assistance, where HP provides direct professional help in areas like software installation and printer issues. Another is the HP Performance Tune-Up Service, which offers support for users with poorly-performing machines.
