Data center hardware and strategy
Data center hardware includes a broad range of devices. Hardware components that make up the IT infrastructure of a data center include servers and computing equipment, networking equipment and storage equipment, plus additional infrastructure to support it like power and cooling systems. Get insights into developing a data center hardware strategy.
Top Stories
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Tip
16 May 2025
Single-tenant vs. multi-tenant cloud architecture
Single-tenant and multi-tenant cloud architecture offer unique advantages and disadvantages. Understanding both is crucial for selecting the best fit for your organization. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2025
Nutanix platform may benefit from VMware customer unrest
Nutanix's Next 2025 conference attendees are jumping ship to the platform after Broadcom's VMware buy, as Nutanix executives plan enterprise-driven evolutions for the platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 May 2025
What is virtual memory?
Virtual memory is a memory management technique where secondary memory can be used as if it were a part of the main memory. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2025
Nutanix platform may benefit from VMware customer unrest
Nutanix's Next 2025 conference attendees are jumping ship to the platform after Broadcom's VMware buy, as Nutanix executives plan enterprise-driven evolutions for the platform. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2025
Nutanix CEO talks customer challenges and platform updates
Many customers are still looking for a VMware exit and need a modernized platform, Nutanix President and CEO Rajiv Ramaswami says in this Q&A with Informa TechTarget. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is a capacitor (capacitance)?
A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical charge. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 May 2025
Complexities of integrating AI into legacy data centers
Integrating AI into legacy data center infrastructure is challenging. Increased heat and load require advanced cooling systems, structural adjustments and enhanced power capacity. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What are hot and cold aisles in the data center?
Hot and cold aisles in the data center are part of an energy-efficient layout for server racks and other computing equipment. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Apr 2025
What is an mSATA SSD (mSATA solid-state drive)?
An mSATA SSD is a solid-state drive that conforms to the mSATA interface specification developed by the Serial ATA (SATA) International Organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is a clustered network-attached storage (NAS) system?
A clustered network-attached storage (NAS) system is a scale-out storage platform made up of multiple NAS nodes networked together into a single cluster. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2025
Explore the impact of quantum computing on cryptography
When quantum computers become more widely available, lots of encryption types will be vulnerable. Learn why, plus solutions and how to navigate a post-quantum cryptography world. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2025
Classical vs. quantum computing: What are the differences?
Classical and quantum computers differ in their computing capabilities, how they operate and the resources they need. Know the differences to plan for a quantum future. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2025
Quantum AI: Explaining how it will impact the business world
Quantum computers could boost AI with faster training on big data and better problem-solving abilities. But combining the two in practical business applications could take years. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Apr 2025
What is a disk image?
A disk image is a compressed file that contains a copy of the entire contents of a computer's hard drive or other storage media, such as optical discs or solid-state drives. Continue Reading
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News
09 Apr 2025
Google Cloud Platform adds WAN and on-premises AI services
A handful of infrastructure announcements for the Google Cloud Platform debut at Next 2025 including a Cloud WAN service, on-premises Gemini AI and new AI chips. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Apr 2025
The state of quantum computing: What businesses need to know
Quantum computing's potential and steady advancement make the technology worth investigating, but adopters still need to deal with conflicting claims and uncertain market timing. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Apr 2025
What is a side-channel attack?
A side-channel attack is a cybersecurity exploit that aims to gather information from or influence a system's program execution. It does this by measuring or exploiting indirect effects of the system or its hardware rather than directly targeting the program or its code. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2025
Broadcom VMware hardens vDefend, drops Tanzu branding in VCF
The VMware Cloud Foundation private cloud platform sheds the Tanzu branding for Kubernetes and adds new capabilities to vDefend, but are prices hikes coming? Continue Reading
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News
01 Apr 2025
Intel CEO Tan to revamp Intel development for AI
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan plans to leverage AI for semiconductor design, shed non-core assets and foster a culture of innovation to turn around Intel. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Apr 2025
Dell VxRail vs. Nutanix NX: HCI heavyweights square off
Compare Dell VxRail and Nutanix NX, leading hyperconverged infrastructure platforms, to understand their strengths and ideal applications to best fit your organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is Nvidia?
Nvidia Corporation is a technology company known for designing and manufacturing graphics processing units (GPUs). Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2025
12 companies building quantum computers
Companies are building quantum computing capabilities in the software and hardware space. Twelve have contributed significant progress and offer capabilities for the future. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2025
What is a semiconductor, and what is it used for?
A semiconductor is a substance that can act as a conductor or insulator depending on other factors, enabling it to serve as a foundation for computers and other electronic devices. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2025
AMD teams up with Rapt AI to boost GPU performance for AI
AMD is partnering with Rapt AI to focus on workload management and performance optimization when running AI models on AMD's Instinct GPUs. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is direct-attached storage (DAS) and how does it work?
Direct-attached storage (DAS) is a type of data storage that is attached directly to a computer without going through a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2025
What is reliability, availability and serviceability (RAS)?
Reliability, availability and serviceability (RAS) are related operational activities that must be considered when designing, manufacturing, purchasing and using a computer product or component. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2025
What are logic gates?
A logic gate is a device that acts as a building block for digital circuits. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Mar 2025
Quantum computer vs. supercomputer: Key differences
Quantum computers could someday outperform supercomputers by orders of magnitude. Compare speeds, capabilities and specialties, and get a look into a future that combines the two. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Mar 2025
What is pipelining?
Pipelining is the process of a computer processor executing computer instructions as separate stages. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What is RAID (redundant array of independent disks)?
RAID (redundant array of independent disks) is a way of storing the same data in different places on multiple hard disks or solid-state drives (SSDs) to protect data in the case of a drive failure. Continue Reading
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News
12 Mar 2025
Intel appoints ex-Cadence CEO amid turnaround struggles
Intel appoints chip industry veteran Lip-Bu Tan as the next CEO responsible for revitalizing the struggling chipmaker and transforming it into a contract manufacturer. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Mar 2025
What is a network interface card (NIC)?
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component, typically a circuit board or chip, installed on a computer so it can connect to a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Mar 2025
What are optical disks and how do they work?
An optical disk is an electronic data storage medium that can be written to and read from using a low-powered laser beam. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is data center infrastructure management (DCIM)?
Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) is the convergence of IT infrastructure, operations and building facilities functions within an organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a router?
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2025
Amazon, Google, Microsoft race for first in quantum computing
Amazon, Google and Microsoft prioritize quantum computing reliability for future enterprise applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2025
What is quantum in physics and computing?
A quantum, the singular form of quanta, is the smallest discrete unit of any physical entity. For example, a quantum of light is a photon, and a quantum of electricity is an electron. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2025
Nvidia reports strong Q4, prepares for new AI GPUs
Nvidia's revenue soared 78% to $39.3 billon, driven by strong AI GPU demand. With Blackwell's success, a more powerful variant launches later this year. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Feb 2025
What is RAID 0 (disk striping)?
RAID 0 (disk striping) is the process of dividing a body of data into blocks and spreading the data blocks across multiple storage devices, such as hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs), in a redundant array of independent disks group. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is RAID 5?
RAID 5 is a redundant array of independent disks configuration that uses disk striping with parity. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is hexadecimal numbering?
Hexadecimal is a numbering system that uses a base-16 representation for numeric values. It can be used to represent large numbers with fewer digits. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2025
Microsoft unveils quantum chip Majorana 1 for future advances
Microsoft unveils Majorana 1, a quantum chip with 8 qubits, aiming for 1 million. It focuses on scalability for breakthroughs in various fields despite current challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2025
5 data center trends to watch in 2025
Data center trends for 2025 focus on sustainability and AI, highlighting energy demand, hyperscale data centers, innovative cooling methods, sustainable energy and edge computing. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Feb 2025
What is a supercomputer?
A supercomputer is a highly advanced computer that performs at or near the highest operational rate for computers. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2025
10 top AI hardware and chip-making companies in 2025
Due to rapid AI hardware advancement, companies release advanced products yearly to keep up with the competition. The new competitive product on the market is the AI chip. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2025
What is a motherboard?
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2025
How do CPU, GPU and DPU differ from one another?
Data centers use three varieties of processing units: CPU, GPU and DPU. Learn the unique uses for each and how to use them in conjunction to speed up data center workloads. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2025
AMD trims delivery time for MI350
AMD plans to send samples of the rack-scale AI chip to key customers in the current quarter. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2025
Intel axes Falcon Shores amid market challenges
Intel decides its limited resources would be better spent on Falcon Shores' successor, Jaguar Shores. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2025
VMware alternative vendors see 2025 as year to make a mark
Numerous KVM-derived hypervisors are competing to claim the title of VMware alternative among enterprise customers, but actual adoption rates are still a question. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2025
Intel Foundry gains new defense clients for 18A process
Intel Foundry secures defense contracts with Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems, highlighting confidence in its 18A manufacturing process. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jan 2025
4 hyperconverged infrastructure trends for 2025
Hyperconverged infrastructure is rapidly changing. Read what HCI has to offer in 2025 and what projected growth it may have within the next couple of years. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jan 2025
5 top colocation providers to watch in 2025
The market share leaders are poised to pursue more AI workloads in 2025, while also expanding their data center portfolios and addressing energy consumption issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jan 2025
Is TEC the next data center cooling breakthrough?
Thermoelectric cooling uses semiconductors for efficient temperature control of IT equipment, while using less energy, but it has limitations in ambient cooling and scalability. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jan 2025
Third-party VMware support for perpetual licenses growing
VMware support for perpetual licensed software by Broadcom may be dwindling, but third-party vendors are stepping up to fill the void. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jan 2025
What is hot spot/cold spot?
A hot spot/cold spot is an undesirable, tightly focused local temperature variation that often occurs when data center equipment is improperly cooled. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Dec 2024
What is a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)?
A complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) is the semiconductor technology used in most of today's integrated circuits (ICs), also known as chips or microchips. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2024
What is quantum superposition?
Quantum superposition is the ability of a quantum system to act as if it is in multiple states at the same time until it is measured. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2024
What is the double-slit experiment?
The double-slit experiment is a 19th century investigation into the properties of light that has since been found to demonstrate the wave-particle duality of photons, electrons and other particle types, as well as other quantum properties, such as superposition and interference. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2024
What is quantum theory?
Quantum theory, or quantum mechanics, is the theoretical basis of modern physics that explains the nature and behavior of matter and energy on the subatomic level. Continue Reading
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News
19 Dec 2024
VMware by Broadcom changes to continue in 2025
After a year of lawsuits, customer confusion and a restructuring of the core business, VMware by Broadcom has much to prove in 2025 to avoid future irrelevancy in the data center. Continue Reading
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News
18 Dec 2024
GPU scarcity shifts focus to GPUaaS
High GPU costs and scarcity drive users to GPUaaS for AI workloads. But businesses should assess needs before investing. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Dec 2024
Chip recycling: Addressing e-waste in the AI hardware industry
The surge in AI chip demand raises concerns about their materials and environmental impact. Sustainable sourcing and chip recycling initiatives are crucial for a greener future. Continue Reading
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News
16 Dec 2024
Broadcom, AT&T settle lawsuit over VMware support
The companies have 'reached a settlement-in-principle,' but the telecom giant has indicated it's planning an exit from the virtualization platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is Secure Digital Extended Capacity card (SDXC)?
A Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) card is a very small flash memory card that has greater storage capacity than the original SD (Secure Digital) memory cards. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Dec 2024
What is memory management in a computer environment?
Memory management is the process of controlling and coordinating a computer's main memory. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Dec 2024
Understanding the impact of data center noise pollution
Data center noise pollution from generators and cooling systems disrupts nearby communities and affects health. Community concern raises demand to reduce noise levels. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Dec 2024
What is a diode?
A diode is a specialized electronic component, specifically a two-terminal semiconductor device, with two electrodes called the anode and the cathode. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2024
Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger out; board searches for new CEO
Gelsinger's turnaround plans -- including layoffs, restructuring and foundries -- weren't enough to pull the company out of trouble. Continue Reading
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News
25 Nov 2024
AWS to offer native VMware service with license portability
AWS and Broadcom partner again to offer a new, native service within Amazon Virtual Private Cloud using existing VMware Cloud Foundation licenses. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2024
HPC, supercomputing share stage with enterprise AI at SC24
AI's effects on supercomputing helped shift the focus toward enterprise demands at SC24, as vendors -- including Dell and HPE -- showcased new offerings. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2024
Court asks AT&T, Broadcom to resolve VMware dispute
A New York State Supreme Court judge gave AT&T and Broadcom until Dec. 13 to file a settlement, which attorneys say is forthcoming despite recent negotiation spats. Continue Reading
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News
21 Nov 2024
Nvidia Blackwell GPU production ramps up amid revenue surge
Nvidia's Blackwell GPU production is 'full steam' ahead as revenue surges with AI demand. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Nov 2024
What is a server?
A server is a computer program or device that provides a service to another computer program and its user, also known as the client. Continue Reading
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News
20 Nov 2024
Object storage, VM offerings emerge for HPE GreenLake
HPE aims to attract new customers to its GreenLake ecosystem by launching standalone virtualization software. It also eyes AI ambitions with new object storage hardware. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2024
AMD layoffs follow AI job trend
AMD joins other tech companies in using layoffs to make room for AI talent. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
Projections and feasibility of data centers in space
Earth has a limited amount of land, and data centers occupy large amounts of it. Data centers in space would reduce land use and energy costs, while improving processing speeds. Continue Reading
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News
08 Nov 2024
CHIPS Act expected to survive, change under Trump
Changes to the Biden administration's application guidelines for the CHIPS Act, some of which Republicans fought against, are likely. Continue Reading
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News
05 Nov 2024
Broadcom unveils AI, networking features for VCF
Broadcom solidifies VMware Cloud Foundation's shift with a focus on AI and services, but experts wonder about future R&D. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2024
Intel beats expectations, but AI chip Gaudi disappoints
The overall uptake of Gaudi has been slower than the company anticipated. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2024
Liquid cooling's moment comes courtesy of AI
GPUs for AI workloads are driving up power demand and consumption. Liquid cooling companies are trying to address this issue with a growing and diverse arsenal. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2024
What is SRAM (static random access memory)?
SRAM (static RAM) is a type of random access memory (RAM) that retains data bits in its memory as long as power is being supplied. Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2024
Intel, AMD form x86 group in effort to combat Arm
Intel and AMD are joining forces to retain market share and create seamless interoperability across hardware and software platforms. Continue Reading
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News
15 Oct 2024
Broadcom, AT&T explore settling VMware pricing dispute
The two companies could settle a lawsuit related to a two-year extension for VMware support services. AT&T filed its complaint in August claiming breach of contract. Continue Reading
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News
10 Oct 2024
Dell expands AI Factory with new AMD servers
Dell adds to its AI Factory, extending its services and hardware to cover new AMD-based servers in its push to provide ways to run AI workloads on premises. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Oct 2024
What is a real-time operating system (RTOS)?
A real-time operating system (RTOS) is an OS that guarantees real-time applications a certain capability within a specified deadline. Continue Reading
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News
25 Sep 2024
Intel rolls out AI chips amid financial turmoil
Intel ships AI chips Xeon 6 and Gaudi 3 while analysts ponder how the company's severe cash shortage will transform its business over the next several years. Continue Reading
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News
25 Sep 2024
Broadcom: AT&T is trying to 'rewind the clock' on VMware
A newly filed memorandum from Broadcom points to an 'unambiguous 'End of Availability' provision' as rationale for why a court should deny AT&T's request for injunctive relief. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Sep 2024
What is infrastructure (IT infrastructure)?
Infrastructure is the foundation or framework that supports a system or organization. Continue Reading
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News
20 Sep 2024
VMware platform an investment in users, Broadcom CEO says
Hock Tan underscored the importance of customers at the Boston VMware User Group UserCon, but users remain uneasy about the recent changes ushered in by VMware's new parent company. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Sep 2024
The 'on-premises as-a-service' genie is out of the bottle
While on-premises storage as a service has been around for a few years, it's having a moment. Organizations seek simplicity, and vendors are ready with offerings. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2024
Calculate UPS battery backup time to prepare for power failure
Extreme heat and inadequate cooling systems can lead to power failures in data centers. Calculate the duration of your UPS battery supply to prepare for backup power needs. Continue Reading
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News
17 Sep 2024
Intel gets boost from AWS, government contracts
Intel's turnaround efforts are progressing, but the chipmaker will need more than government funding and a deal that expands its AWS manufacturing partnership, an analyst said. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is JCL (job control language)?
JCL (job control language) is a language for describing jobs to the Multiple Virtual Storage (MVS), OS/390 and Virtual Storage Extended (VSE) operating systems (OSes), which run on IBM's S/390 mainframe computers. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2024
Lenovo adds GPUaaS for on-premises AI workloads
Lenovo adds to its AI portfolio with a new GPU-as-a-service offering, a move that challenges Dell and HPE. It also adds predictive analytics to its management offering. Continue Reading
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News
12 Sep 2024
AT&T sues Broadcom over VMware support licensing
AT&T claims its negotiated contract with VMware pre-Broadcom acquisition is not being honored, casting light on recent product and purchasing changes Broadcom has instituted. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2024
What is a transistor?
A transistor is a miniature semiconductor that regulates or controls current or voltage flow in addition to amplifying and generating these electrical signals and acting as a switch/gate for them. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2024
What is NetApp?
NetApp, formerly Network Appliance, Inc., is a multinational corporation in the computer technologies industry specializing in data storage hardware, software and cloud services. Continue Reading
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News
29 Aug 2024
Hock Tan locks in VMware's private cloud future
The Broadcom CEO says public cloud migration trauma can be cured by private cloud services like those from VMware, but VMware Explore attendees aren't fully sold on the idea. Continue Reading
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News
29 Aug 2024
IBM's latest Z mainframe offers lessons in building AI systems
Studying the engineering behind IBM's mainframe architecture could help enterprises build higher reliability into the GPU clusters used to run AI applications. Continue Reading
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News
20 Aug 2024
AMD acquires ZT Systems for $5B to take on Nvidia in AI race
AMD plans to acquire AI systems designer and manufacturer ZT Systems for $5 billion. AMD CEO Lisa Su said hyperscalers want more than just chips when developing AI applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Aug 2024
What is parallel processing?
Parallel processing is a method in computing of running two or more processors, or CPUs, to handle separate parts of an overall task. Continue Reading