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IBM System p
IBM System p
IBM System p
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IBM System p
System p5 595
Also known aseServer pSeries (2000-2004)
eServer p5 (2004-2005)
System p5 (2005-2007)
System p (2007-2008)
DeveloperIBM
TypeServer
Release date2000 (2000)
DiscontinuedApril 2008 (2008-04)
CPUIBM Power or PowerPC
PredecessorIBM RS/6000
SuccessorIBM Power Systems
RelatedIBM System i

The IBM System p is a high-end line of RISC (Power)/UNIX-based servers. It was the successor of the RS/6000 line, and predecessor of the IBM Power Systems server series.

History

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The previous RS/6000 line was originally a line of workstations and servers. The first System p server line was named the eServer pSeries in 2000 as part of the e-Server branding initiative.

In 2004, with the advent of the POWER5 processor, the server family was rebranded the eServer p5.[1]

In 2005, following IBM's move to streamline its server and storage brands worldwide, and incorporating the "System" brand with the Systems Agenda, the family was again renamed to System p5. The System p5 now encompassed the IBM OpenPower product line.

In 2007, after the introduction of the POWER6 processor models, the last rename under the System p brand dropped the p (numbered) designation.

In April 2008, IBM announced a rebranding of the System p and its unification with the mid-range System i platform. The resulting product line was called IBM Power Systems.

Hardware and software

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Processors

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Whereas the previous RS/6000 line used a mix of early POWER and PowerPC processors, when pSeries came along, this had evolved into RS64-III and POWER3 across the board—POWER3 for its excellent floating-point performance and RS64 for its scalability, throughput, and integer performance.

IBM developed the POWER4 processor to replace both POWER3 and the RS64 line in 2001. After that, the differences between throughput and number crunching-optimized systems no longer existed. Since then, System p machines evolved to use the POWER5 but also the PowerPC 970 for the low-end and blade systems.

The last System p systems used the POWER6 processor, such as the POWER6-based System p 570 and the JS22 blade. In addition, during the SuperComputing 2007 (SC07) conference in Reno, IBM introduced a new POWER6-based System p 575 with 32 POWER6 cores at 4.7 GHz and up to 256 GB of RAM with water cooling.

Features

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All IBM System p5 and IBM eServer p5 machines support DLPAR (Dynamic Logical Partitioning) with Virtual I/O and Micro-partitioning.

System p generally uses the AIX operating system and, more recently, 64-bit versions of the Linux operating system.

Models

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BladeCenter

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Main line

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eServer pSeries

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  • IBM eServer pSeries 610 (7028-6C1 & 6E1)
  • IBM eServer pSeries 615 (7029-6C3, 7029-6E3) (1~2-core POWER4+ CPU)[2]
  • IBM eServer pSeries 620 (7025-F80, 6F0 & 6F1) (1~3 2-core RS64-IV CPUs)[3]
  • IBM eServer pSeries 630 (7028-6C4, 7028-6E4) (1 1-core POWER4 CPU or 1~2 2-core POWER4 CPUs)[4]
  • IBM eServer pSeries 640 (7026-B80) 1-4 POWER3-II CPUs
  • IBM eServer pSeries 650 (7038-6M2) 2-8 POWER4 CPUs
  • IBM eServer pSeries 655 (7039-651) 4-8 POWER4 CPUs
  • IBM eServer pSeries 660 (7026-H80, 6H0, 6H1, M80 & 6M1)
  • IBM eServer pSeries 670 (7040-671) 4-16 POWER4 CPUs
  • IBM eServer pSeries 680 (7017 range)
  • IBM eServer pSeries 690 (7040-681) 8-32 POWER4 CPUs

The IBM p690 was, at the time of its release in late 2001, the flagship of IBM's high-end Unix servers during the POWER4 era of processors. It was built to run IBM AIX Unix, although it is possible to run a version of Linux minus some POWER4-specific features.

It could support up to 32 (1.5, 1.7 or 1.9 GHz) POWER4+ processors and 1 TB of RAM, which weighs well over 1000 kg. It was used in a supercomputer at Forschungszentrum Jülich in 2004, and was discontinued in late 2005.[5]

eServer p5

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Released in 2004.[6]

  • IBM eServer p5 510 Express (9111-510) (1~2-core 1.5 GHz POWER5 CPU)[7][8]
  • IBM eServer p5 510 (9111-510) (1~2-core 1.65 GHz POWER5 CPU)[9][8]
  • IBM eServer p5 520 Express (9111-520) (1~2-core 1.5 GHz POWER5 CPU)[10][11]
  • IBM eServer p5 520 (9111-520) (2-core 1.65 GHz POWER5 CPU)[12][11]
  • IBM eServer p5 550 Express (9113-550) (1~2 1~2-core 1.5 GHz POWER5 CPUs)[13][14]
  • IBM eServer p5 550 (9113-550) (1~2 2-core 1.65 GHz POWER5 CPUs)[15][14]
  • IBM eServer p5 570 Express (9117-570) (1~8 2-core 1.5 GHz POWER5 CPUs)[16][17]
  • IBM eServer p5 570 (9117-570) (1~8 2-core 1.65 GHz or 1.9 GHz POWER5 CPUs)[18][17]
  • IBM eServer p5 590 (9119-590) (1~4 8-core 1.65 GHz POWER5 MCMs)[19][20]
  • IBM eServer p5 595 (9119-595) (2, 4, 6 or 8 8-core 1.65 GHz or 1.9 GHz POWER5 MCMs)[21][20]

System p5

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ASC Purple Supercomputer
  • IBM System p5 185 (7037-A50) (1~2-core PowerPC 970 CPU)[22]
  • IBM System p5 505 (9115-505) (1~2-core POWER5 or POWER5+ CPU)[23][24]
  • IBM System p5 505Q (9115-505) (4-core POWER5+ CPU)[25][24]
  • IBM System p5 510 (9110-51A) (1~2 1~2-core POWER5 or POWER5+ CPUs)[26][27]
  • IBM System p5 510Q (9110-51A) (1~2 4-core POWER5+ CPUs)[28][27]
  • IBM System p5 520 (9131-52A) (1~2-core POWER5+ CPU)[29][30]
  • IBM System p5 520Q (9131-52A) (4-core POWER5+ CPU)[31][30]
  • IBM System p5 550 (9133-55A) (1~2 2-core POWER5+ CPUs)[32][33]
  • IBM System p5 550Q (9133-55A) (1~2 4-core POWER5+ CPUs)[34][33]
  • IBM System p5 560Q (9116-561) (1, 2 or 4 4-core POWER5+ CPUs)[35][36]
  • IBM System p5 570 (9117-570) (1~8 2-core POWER5+ CPUs)[37][38]
  • IBM System p5 575 (9118-575) (8 1~2-core POWER5+ CPUs)[39]
  • IBM System p5 590 (9119-590) (1~2 16-core POWER5 or POWER5+ processor books)[40][41]
  • IBM System p5 595 (9119-595) (1~4 16-core POWER5 or POWER5+ processor books)[42][41]

System p

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  • IBM System p 520 Express (1, 2 or 4-core POWER6 CPU)[43]
  • IBM System p 550 Express (1~4 2-core POWER6 CPUs)[44]
  • IBM System p 560 Express (POWER6)[45]
  • IBM System p 570 (POWER6)[46][47][48]
  • IBM System p 575 (POWER6)[49]
  • IBM System p 595 (9119-FHA) (1~8 8-core POWER6 processor books)[50][51]

System p was rebranded to Power Systems in 2008.

OpenPower

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"OpenPower" redirects here. For the organization which promotes the Power ISA, see OpenPOWER Foundation.

OpenPower was the name of a range of servers in the System p line from IBM. They featured IBM's POWER5 CPUs and run only 64-bit versions of Linux. IBM's own UNIX variant, AIX is not supported since the OpenPower servers are not licensed for this operating system.

There were two models available, with a variety of configurations.

Before 2005, OpenPower belonged to the eServer product line but were eventually rolled into the IBM's Power Systems product portfolio.

  • IBM eServer OpenPower 710 (9123-710) (1~2-core POWER5 CPU)[52]
  • IBM eServer OpenPower 720 (9124-720) 1-4 POWER5 CPUs

IntelliStation POWER

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BladeCenter

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See also

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to IBM System p.
Preceded by IBM System p
2000 - 2008
eServer pSeries
2000 		eServer p5
2004 		System p5
2005 		System p
2007
Succeeded by
Preceded by IBM System i
2000 - 2008
eServer iSeries
2000 		eServer i5
2004 		System i5
2005 		System i
2006

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

IBM System p

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The System p was a family of high-performance, scalable server computers introduced by in October 2005, featuring the and subsequent POWER5+ processors and designed primarily for enterprise workloads running AIX and operating systems. These servers succeeded the earlier pSeries line, which had evolved from the RS/6000 series since the , and emphasized modularity, reliability, and advanced to handle demanding applications in areas like e-business, scientific computing, and database processing. A defining feature of the System p was its integration of Advanced POWER Virtualization (APV), introduced with the POWER5 generation, which enabled technologies such as Micro-Partitioning for fine-grained allocation of CPU resources across multiple logical partitions, shared processor pools, and the Virtual I/O Server (VIOS) for virtualized storage and networking. This allowed up to 254 micro-partitions per system in high-end models, supporting dynamic resource adjustments via Dynamic Logical Partitioning (DLPAR) and Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) for enhanced performance without dedicated hardware silos. Key models included the entry-level System p5 505 and 510 Express for rack-optimized deployments, mid-range p5 550 and 570 for balanced scalability, and high-end p5 590 and 595 capable of up to 64 cores and massive memory configurations for mission-critical environments. The platform's open architecture also facilitated Linux distributions from vendors like Red Hat and SUSE, broadening its appeal for heterogeneous computing. In April 2008, IBM rebranded and unified the System p with the midrange System i platform—previously focused on integrated business —into the broader family, leveraging the same POWER hardware base while preserving distinct operating environments like AIX/UNIX and . This merger streamlined IBM's server portfolio, enhancing hybrid capabilities for across workloads and paving the way for future POWER generations, though System p models remained supported through extended service until the early . The System p era marked a pivotal advancement in POWER-based , prioritizing efficiency and consolidation in data centers.

History

Origins and Early Development

The IBM System p lineage traces its origins to the RISC System/6000 (RS/6000), introduced by in February 1990 as the company's first family of RISC-based UNIX servers and workstations. This platform represented a significant pivot from IBM's earlier proprietary mainframe (such as System/370) and minicomputer (such as System/3) architectures, which were optimized for business data processing, toward scalable, open-systems computing tailored for technical and scientific workloads. The RS/6000 emphasized for engineering simulations, scientific modeling, and graphics-intensive applications, filling a gap in IBM's portfolio where UNIX-based systems from competitors like dominated. At launch, the RS/6000 utilized IBM's newly developed POWER1 processor, a superscalar RISC design clocked at 20-30 MHz in initial models like the 320 and 540, delivering up to 11 MFLOPS on for floating-point operations. Integrated with AIX version 3, a POSIX-compliant UNIX operating system derived from System V Release 2 and 3 with BSD enhancements, the platform supported multi-user, multi-tasking environments and featured separate instruction and data caches for efficient execution. Early commercial deployments targeted institutions and firms, where the systems' price-to-performance ratio—often cited as superior to Sun's SPARC-based workstations—enabled rapid adoption for compute-intensive tasks like finite element analysis and CAD. For instance, the RS/6000 Model 540 achieved leading SPECfp89 scores, outperforming models in floating-point benchmarks while maintaining comparable pricing. Development accelerated through strategic partnerships, notably the formed in 1991 between , Apple Computer, and to create a common RISC processor architecture. This collaboration refined the POWER instruction set into the PowerPC standard, but independently advanced its server line with the POWER2 processor in 1993, which operated at up to 71.5 MHz and doubled floating-point throughput over the POWER1 for demanding scientific applications. These innovations solidified the RS/6000's role as a foundational platform for what would evolve into the System p family.

Branding Evolution and Key Milestones

In October 2000, IBM transitioned its RS/6000 server line to the eServer pSeries branding as part of a broader eServer that unified its server offerings under a common "e" prefix for enhanced e-business focus. This rebranding aligned the POWER-based UNIX servers with IBM's evolving enterprise computing vision, retiring the RS/6000 name for servers while retaining it briefly for workstations until 2002. The eServer pSeries line saw significant evolution in 2004 with the introduction of the eServer p5 series, powered by the new processors, which enabled advanced features like and Micro-Partitioning for improved resource utilization in UNIX and environments. This launch on July 13, 2004, marked a key milestone in performance advancement, positioning the pSeries as a competitive force in high-end . In 2003, IBM consolidated its UNIX server portfolio under the pSeries umbrella with enhancements to models like the p670 (introduced May 2003) and p690 (introduced 2001), integrating capacity on demand and advanced partitioning to streamline deployments and support workload consolidation. By 2005, IBM shifted to the System branding initiative, launching the System p5 servers on October 4, which continued to emphasize support for AIX 5L and Linux distributions through enhanced scalability and virtualization capabilities. This rebranding reflected IBM's streamlining of server and storage lines into the "System" family for clearer market positioning. In 2006, the lineup evolved further into the System p series, incorporating POWER5+ technologies while prioritizing AIX 5L compatibility and native Linux integration for enterprise applications. A pivotal 2007 milestone was the introduction of PowerVM as the unified virtualization platform (announced January 2007) for System p, enabling advanced logical partitioning and live migration to optimize resource sharing across AIX, Linux, and IBM i workloads, alongside the May 2007 launch of POWER6-based systems. The System p brand concluded as a standalone line in April 2008, when IBM merged it with System i into the unified Power Systems family to simplify offerings and leverage common POWER architecture across platforms. During its peak in the mid-2000s, System p and predecessor pSeries lines saw significant revenue growth, with pSeries up 15% in 2005, driven by strong demand in UNIX server markets and adoption.

Architecture

Processor Technology

The IBM System p servers utilized processors based on the POWER architecture, with the , launched in 2004 and foundational to the 2005 System p introduction, advancing to 1.9 GHz with dual cores and introducing (SMT), supporting up to 64-way SMP in high-end models like the p5 595. The POWER5+ (2005) was a 90 nm shrink of the , operating at 1.5-2.2 GHz with a similar dual-core SMT design but improved efficiency and reduced power consumption. By 2007, the reached up to 5.0 GHz in dual-core designs, maintaining scalability to 64-way SMP while incorporating IEEE 754r-compliant floating-point capabilities for financial and transactional workloads. Key innovations across these processors addressed performance bottlenecks in enterprise environments. The introduced SMT with two threads per core, allowing efficient resource utilization in multithreaded applications and providing significant improvements, with modeling showing 35-40% capacity gains in throughput-oriented workloads, alongside instruction set extensions for and large-page memory support. In the , a dedicated accelerated precise arithmetic operations essential for banking and systems, eliminating software emulation overhead and complying with industry standards for decimal data handling. These features, integrated into the POWER ISA versions (e.g., v2.02 for , and v2.05 for ), optimized for scalable enterprise processing without relying on earlier 32-bit-only modes. Typical configurations highlighted the processors' balance of speed, density, and efficiency. For instance, the featured dual cores at 1.9 GHz, with 1.9 MB shared L2 cache and 36 MB L3 cache per chip, supporting up to four logical threads via SMT for parallel enterprise tasks. The offered dual cores at up to 5.0 GHz, 4 MB L2 cache per core, and 32 MB shared L3 cache per module, enhancing bandwidth for database and workloads. All generations operated natively in 64-bit mode, addressing vast memory spaces (up to terabytes) and complex addressing required for large-scale SMP systems, while maintaining with 32-bit PowerPC applications through mode-switching mechanisms that preserved legacy software performance without hardware reconfiguration. This 64-bit emphasis enabled scalability to 64-way SMP in System p high-end models, facilitating clustered deployments for demanding commercial computing.

Hardware Design and Features

The IBM System p servers featured modular chassis designs that enabled flexible configurations for deskside, rack-mounted, or high-density form factors, optimized for enterprise workloads. These chassis incorporated partitioned hardware supporting logical partitioning (LPAR), allowing up to 64 partitions per system to isolate workloads and enhance resource utilization without dedicated physical separation. This design facilitated dynamic resource allocation across partitions, with support for both dedicated and shared processor modes in high-end models like the p5-595. Memory subsystems in System p utilized , with high-end configurations supporting up to 2 TB in models such as the p5-595, enabling large-scale for demanding applications. Storage integration included built-in SAS and controllers, providing connectivity for hot-swappable disk bays with capacities reaching several terabytes; these supported levels 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 for and performance optimization. I/O architectures emphasized high-bandwidth connectivity, featuring slots operating at 133 MHz and early adoption of PCIe with up to 8 lanes for enhanced throughput in peripheral expansions. Options for adapters were available, alongside the Host Ethernet Adapter (HEA), which integrated virtual Ethernet capabilities directly into the system for efficient without additional hardware. Power and cooling systems prioritized reliability and efficiency, incorporating redundant hot-swappable power supplies rated up to 2000 W and matching cooling fans to minimize . During the era, design innovations such as smaller die sizes and dynamic reduced overall power consumption compared to prior generations, contributing to energy-efficient operations in data centers. Scalability extended beyond single systems through cluster support via Cluster Systems Management (CSM), enabling configurations of up to 64 nodes (higher quantities available by special bid) for environments, managed centrally for workload balancing and .

Software Support and Virtualization

The primary operating system for IBM System p servers is AIX, with supported versions ranging from AIX 5L (introduced for POWER architecture) through AIX 6.1, providing robust functionality optimized for enterprise workloads. AIX on System p includes the Journaled File System 2 (JFS2), which supports large file sizes up to 16 TB and enhanced scalability for high-performance storage environments, introduced in AIX 5.1 and refined in subsequent releases. Additionally, the Workload Manager (WLM) feature enables resource partitioning by grouping processes into classes and allocating CPU, , and I/O based on defined policies, allowing administrators to prioritize critical applications and ensure service level agreements are met. IBM System p also supports major Linux distributions, with certifications beginning in 2003 for POWER processors; (RHEL) AS 3 was updated in 2004 to fully support System p5 hardware, enabling deployment of open-source applications on partitioned environments. Similarly, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) has been certified since early versions like SLES 9, providing kernel-level optimizations for POWER architecture and integration with System p's capabilities for consolidated server deployments. Virtualization on IBM System p is powered by PowerVM (previously known as Advanced POWER Virtualization), which facilitates logical partitioning (LPAR) to divide physical hardware into isolated virtual servers, supporting dynamic resource allocation without downtime. Key features include micro-partitioning, allowing up to 254 partitions per system with granular CPU entitlements as small as 0.1 processing units, enabling efficient resource sharing across diverse workloads. For entry-level systems without a dedicated management console, the Integrated Virtualization Manager (IVM) provides built-in tools to create and manage LPARs directly from a partition running the Virtual I/O Server (VIOS). System management for IBM System p relies on tools like the Hardware Management Console (HMC), a dedicated appliance for remote configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of multiple servers and their partitions from a centralized interface. Complementing the HMC, IBM Systems Director offers a platform-independent foundation for aggregating system data, automating tasks, and integrating with heterogeneous environments to streamline operations across physical and virtual resources. Security in the System p ecosystem is enhanced by Trusted AIX, which implements (MLS) to process data at varying classification levels, meeting standards like the U.S. Department of Defense's (TCSEC). Trusted AIX integrates (RBAC), allowing fine-grained delegation of administrative privileges without granting full access, thereby reducing risk in multi-user enterprise settings.

Server Models

pSeries Line

The pSeries line marked IBM's rebranding and advancement of its UNIX-based server portfolio, succeeding the RS/6000 series and emphasizing scalability for emerging e-business environments from 2000 to 2004. These servers integrated evolving processor technology with enhanced reliability features, targeting midrange applications such as web hosting and , as well as high-end workloads in database management and . Key innovations included the commercial debut of the processor architecture, which introduced dual-core designs and shared caches for improved throughput, alongside that enhanced and reduced latency compared to aluminum wiring in prior generations. The pSeries 630, announced in August 2002, served as an entry-to-midrange model with up to four processors at 1.0 GHz (upgradable to POWER4+ at 1.45 GHz), providing scalable for cost-effective deployments in e-business and departmental . It supported up to 32 GB of RAM and AIX 5L, enabling logical partitioning for virtualized environments and hot-plug components for minimal downtime. This model addressed growing demands for reliable, compact servers in and small-scale database operations, offering a balance of performance and affordability. At the high end, the pSeries 690, launched in October 2001 as the first commercial system with processors at 1.3 GHz, supported up to 32-way configurations ideal for and large-scale analytics. With a maximum of 256 GB RAM and AIX 5L support for dynamic logical partitioning, it facilitated server consolidation and workload isolation, achieving up to 10 times the of RS/6000 predecessors in SPEC CPU2000 benchmarks due to its design and high-bandwidth interconnects. Targeted at enterprise database servers and scientific simulations, the p690's copper-based wiring further bolstered reliability in demanding 24x7 operations. Building on this, the pSeries 595, introduced in February 2003, utilized POWER4+ processors at up to 1.5 GHz in 32-way enterprise configurations, optimizing for mission-critical and transaction-heavy environments. It extended AIX 5L capabilities with advanced and up to 512 GB RAM, delivering sustained performance for data warehousing and systems while inheriting the p690's reliability innovations like copper wiring for fault-tolerant operations. These models collectively drove adoption in sectors requiring robust, scalable UNIX computing before transitioning to POWER5-based systems in 2004.

eServer p5 and System p5

The eServer p5 and System p5 series, launched in 2004, introduced IBM's dual-core processor technology to its UNIX server lineup, enabling enhanced (SMP) capabilities and marking a significant evolution from prior pSeries models. These systems supported AIX 5L and distributions, with features like Micro-Partitioning for that allowed fine-grained to improve efficiency. The series emphasized scalability for enterprise workloads, including database management and , while facilitating server consolidation by reducing the physical footprint compared to distributed x86 environments. Key entry-level models included the eServer p5 505, a compact 1U rack-mount server announced on October 4, 2005, featuring 1 or 2 single-core or dual-core processors at speeds up to 1.65 GHz, suitable for file serving, web applications, and small-scale clustering. For midrange needs, the System p5 575, introduced in late 2005 with general availability in early 2006, offered 8 to 16 cores using dual-core + processors at 1.9 GHz or 2.2 GHz, in a 4U form factor optimized for tasks such as scientific simulations and . Enterprise-grade options were exemplified by the eServer p5 570, announced July 13, 2004, which scaled from 4 to 16 cores with or + processors at frequencies up to 2.2 GHz, providing up to 512 GB of DDR2 RAM in a modular 4U-per-building-block for large databases and on-demand business operations. Design advances in the series centered on the POWER5 processor's dual-core architecture, which first enabled efficient SMP configurations by presenting multiple cores as a unified multiprocessor to the operating system, with subsequent POWER5+ enhancements supporting quad-core modules that appeared as four-way SMP units. The high-end System p5 595 exemplified this scalability, supporting up to 64 cores in SMP mode using POWER5+ processors at 2.1 GHz or 2.3 GHz, with a maximum of 2 TB DDR1 or DDR2 RAM and theoretical memory bandwidth exceeding 500 GB/s through distributed architecture and high-speed interconnects. These innovations improved throughput for parallel processing while incorporating reliability features like error-correcting code (ECC) memory and dynamic logical partitioning. The p5 series excelled in use cases involving x86 server consolidation, where virtualization technologies enabled 2-4x improvements in workload density by partitioning resources across fewer physical machines, reducing data center space and management overhead for applications like and . By 2008, the series was phased out in favor of the Power Systems platform, with providing migration paths through hardware upgrades and software compatibility to transition existing p5 deployments seamlessly.

System p Mainstream Models

The mainstream models of the IBM System p series, introduced between and , represented the culmination of the product line under the System p branding, emphasizing scalability, reliability, and integration with advanced virtualization technologies before the transition to Power Systems. These servers targeted enterprise environments requiring robust performance for UNIX-based workloads, with a shift from + to processors enabling higher clock speeds and improved efficiency. Key offerings included midrange and high-end configurations designed for data centers handling complex applications such as databases and . The System p 570, launched in 2006 with , supported 4 to 16 CPUs in a scalable rack-mounted , allowing up to 512 GB of DDR2 and extensive I/O expansion for midrange deployments. In 2007, the lineup expanded with the high-end System p 595, featuring in a 32-way configuration scalable to 64 cores, which provided exceptional throughput for demanding workloads while maintaining compatibility with AIX and operating systems. Entry-level options included the System p 510, introduced in 2005 with or offering 1 to 4 cores, and the System p 520, introduced in 2006 with offering 1 to 4 cores, catering to smaller-scale consolidation and web serving needs in a compact 1U or 4U form factor, with up to 64 GB of per system (note: -based successors available from 2008). Significant enhancements in these models stemmed from the processor, clocked at up to 4.7 GHz and incorporating dual integrated memory controllers per chip for improved bandwidth and reduced latency. This architecture enabled high-end configurations like the p 595 to reach up to 64 cores (with dual-core modules), supporting advanced partitioning via PowerVM for dynamic resource allocation across multiple logical partitions. Scalability was further bolstered by integration with the System Storage DS8000 series, allowing System p servers to access up to 1 PB of enterprise-class storage through attachments, facilitating large-scale data management without compromising performance. These models focused on energy-efficient operations for data centers, with delivering up to 60% reductions through and features like dynamic throttling, compared to prior generations. highlighted scenarios where two System p 570 servers at 60% utilization could save over $100,000 annually in energy and space costs relative to distributed x86 alternatives. By , prior to rebranding, the System p line had achieved widespread adoption, with converged System p revenues contributing positively to 's systems segment growth amid increasing demand for reliable UNIX servers.

BladeCenter p Servers

The IBM BladeCenter p servers represented a line of high-density blade computing solutions within the System p family, leveraging POWER architecture for enterprise and high-performance workloads. Introduced as part of IBM's eServer BladeCenter portfolio, these servers integrated multiple compute nodes into shared chassis to optimize space, power, and management in data centers. They supported AIX, Linux, and later IBM i operating systems, with virtualization capabilities enabling efficient resource allocation across nodes. Key models in the BladeCenter p series included the JS20, released in 2004 with dual 2.2 GHz (PowerPC 970) processors, designed for initial entry into blade-based POWER computing. The JS21 followed in 2006, featuring dual-core (PowerPC 970MP) processors at speeds up to 2.5 GHz and supporting up to 16 GB of DDR2 . The JS22, launched in 2007, advanced to dual 4.0 GHz processors with integrated SIMD extensions, offering up to 32 GB of memory and enhanced multithreading for demanding applications. Each model was a single-wide blade, compatible with standard BladeCenter chassis, and focused on scalability through modular expansion. These servers operated within the BladeCenter E (7U) or H (9U) chassis, which provided shared infrastructure for up to 14 single-wide blades per unit. The chassis design included redundant hot-swap power modules (up to 2,980 W each in the H model) distributed across two power domains for high availability, along with integrated cooling via multiple blower modules. Networking options encompassed Ethernet via integrated Gigabit controllers and switch modules (up to 10 Gb), as well as InfiniBand support in the BladeCenter H's high-speed I/O bays for low-latency interconnects. This shared midplane architecture minimized internal cabling, routing all blade I/O through the chassis backplane. Notable features included integrated storage with up to 146 GB of SAS disk per via dual-drive bays and an onboard controller (RAID 0/1/10), suitable for local caching or boot volumes. was enabled through PowerVM, supporting logical partitioning (LPAR) with up to 10 partitions per core, dynamic LPAR adjustments, and micro-partitioning for fine-grained resource sharing. Live Partition Mobility, available with PowerVM Enterprise Edition, allowed non-disruptive migration of running partitions across blades or chassis, provided shared storage and virtual I/O were configured. BladeCenter p servers found primary use in (HPC) clusters, where InfiniBand-enabled configurations facilitated parallel processing for scientific simulations and data analytics. They integrated with IBM's HPC software stack, including LoadLeveler for job scheduling and Parallel Environment for MPI-based applications on AIX or . Deployments often scaled to dozens of in clustered environments, supporting workloads like and bioinformatics. Compared to traditional 1U rack servers, BladeCenter p offered approximately twice the compute in equivalent rack , achieved through compact 30 mm form factors and shared resources. This design also reduced cabling complexity by up to 80% internally, as power, cooling, and networking were centralized, lowering deployment and maintenance costs in dense environments.

Workstations

The IBM System p lineup extended its POWER architecture to workstations designed for professional single-user environments, particularly in , media production, and scientific visualization. These systems built on the same processor technology and software as the server models but emphasized compact, deskside configurations optimized for interactive workloads such as (CAD) and content creation. The workstations maintained compatibility with System p features like advanced and reliability enhancements, allowing seamless integration into enterprise infrastructures. The flagship model was the IntelliStation POWER 285, introduced on October 4, 2005, as the POWER 285 Express with one or two dual-core POWER5+ processors at 1.9 or 2.1 GHz, providing up to 4 cores and up to 32 GB of DDR2 memory. This tower-form-factor system measured 533 mm high by 201 mm wide by 706 mm deep, weighing 35.5 to 43 kg, and featured four hot-swappable disk bays for up to 1.2 TB of storage, six slots, and redundant cooling with fan redundancy. Graphics capabilities included 2D accelerators like the GXT135P for general use and high-end 3D options such as the GXT4500P or GXT6500P, which supported resolutions up to 2048x1536 at 60 Hz and were optimized for professional rendering in applications like mechanical CAD. These NVIDIA-based graphics accelerators enabled smooth performance in visualization tasks, with additional support for USB 3D input devices like the SpaceBall and SpacePilot for intuitive workflows. Operating system support centered on AIX 5L versions 5.2 and 5.3, with distributions available via the AIX Toolbox for enhanced interoperability, including host support for networked storage. The platform earned certifications from independent software vendors (ISVs) for key professional tools, notably 64-bit V5 from for handling large engineering assemblies in mechanical CAD/CAE workloads, as well as compatibility with media and design applications from vendors like and for tasks in and digital content production. Reliability features such as , fault isolation, and self-healing diagnostics ensured uptime for mission-critical professional use. The workstation line evolved from the earlier RS/6000 series, which dominated UNIX-based professional computing in the , transitioning to the IntelliStation POWER branding in the early with integration into the pSeries family and culminating in full System p compatibility by 2005. This progression allowed legacy RS/6000 applications to migrate smoothly while leveraging newer advancements for improved single-threaded performance in . Although representing a specialized segment within the broader System p portfolio, these workstations were essential for and technical markets, enabling high-fidelity simulations and in industries like automotive and .

OpenPOWER Variants

The IBM eServer OpenPower 710, introduced in 2005, represented a low-cost entry point into the System p ecosystem, specifically designed as a developer-oriented station for extending access to POWER architecture beyond enterprise environments. This model utilized the processor running at 1.65 GHz in a single-processor configuration for the base setup, with support for up to two processors, and offered 1 GB of base RAM expandable to 32 GB using 266 MHz DDR1 . Housed in a compact 2U rack-mount form factor measuring 89 mm high, 483 mm wide, and 686 mm deep, it weighed between 16.8 kg and 23.2 kg, making it suitable for space-constrained development labs. The system's pricing started at $3,449 for the entry-level one-way model, excluding the operating system, positioning it as an affordable alternative to higher-end UNIX and servers from competitors like HP and Sun. Targeted primarily at educational institutions, independent software vendors (ISVs), and developers, the OpenPower 710 facilitated the porting and testing of applications to the POWER Instruction Set Architecture (ISA). It supported SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 9 or later and AS Version 3 or later as primary operating systems, with AIX 5L available through a Request for Price Quotation (RPQ). Basic software features included compatibility for high-performance engineering and scientific workloads, web serving, and application hosting, emphasizing ease of integration for Linux-based development. While optional advanced via Micro-Partitioning allowed up to 20 logical partitions, along with virtual and Ethernet support, the base configuration focused on straightforward single-node operations without the full suite of enterprise tools. Storage options comprised up to four hot-swappable Ultra320 bays, and networking included dual [Gigabit Ethernet](/page/Gigabit Ethernet) ports, all backed by redundant cooling and optional redundant power supplies. Despite its accessibility, the OpenPower 710 lacked comprehensive enterprise-grade (RAS) features found in mainstream System p servers, such as advanced dynamic logical partitioning or full hot-plug slot support under all operating systems. Error handling relied on fundamentals like with single- and double-error detection, a service processor for fault monitoring, and first-failure data capture, but it omitted OEM compatibility and extensive options typical of production environments. This design trade-off prioritized cost reduction for non-production testing and porting tasks, enabling ISVs to certify applications on through programs like the Virtual Loaner Program and Migration Factory, while internal and partner education leveraged it for pre-sales assessments and proof-of-concept demonstrations. The three-year limited warranty provided standard coverage, aligning with its role as a development tool rather than a mission-critical system.

Legacy and Successors

Market Impact and Adoption

The IBM System p series achieved significant commercial success in the UNIX server market, securing a leading position with 31.8% revenue share in 2005 and maintaining its status as the top UNIX vendor worldwide through 2006, particularly in high-demand sectors like , , and . Prominent adopters included major financial institutions such as , which deployed System p for and in foreign currency operations during the mid-2000s. In supercomputing, the platform powered several high-performance systems, contributing to IBM's 47.8% share of the list in November 2006 and placements within the top 10 rankings. System p revenue grew 8.8 percent in 2007 compared to 2006, reflecting strong demand for POWER6-based models. The platform's capabilities facilitated widespread server consolidation, enabling organizations to achieve significant reductions in operational costs through lower energy consumption, space requirements, and administrative overhead. A key competitive advantage was the System p's Reliability, Availability, and Serviceability (RAS) features, supporting availability levels of 99.999% uptime for mission-critical workloads. Although initial acquisition costs were higher than those for x86-based alternatives, TCO analyses revealed savings for System p deployments, driven by reduced hardware footprint, software licensing efficiency, and long-term operational gains in enterprise environments.

Transition to Power Systems

In 2008, IBM unified its System p (targeted at UNIX environments with AIX and ) and System i (focused on i5/OS) server lines into a single Power Systems brand, leveraging and subsequent POWER7 processors to streamline offerings for diverse workloads including and database management. This , announced in 2008, aimed to simplify marketing and hardware development while enabling customers to mix operating systems on unified platforms, marking the end of the distinct System p identity. The high-end Power 595 with processors was introduced in May 2008, supporting up to 64 cores for enterprise-scale computing and marking the transition from System p branding. Subsequent models transitioned seamlessly to the new branding without hardware changes, preserving for AIX and PowerVM environments. Hardware support for System p models generally ended in the early , though software compatibility continues on newer Power Systems via and emulation. IBM maintained ongoing support for System p legacy through software updates, including the release of AIX 7.1 in 2010, which enhanced scalability and security while ensuring compatibility with and later architectures. PowerVM virtualization updates have continued to evolve, with versions like PowerVM 3.1 supported until 2025 and newer iterations (e.g., PowerVM 4.x) providing sustained compatibility for legacy System p applications on modern hardware through at least 2025. The Power Systems lineage evolved from POWER7 processors in 2010, which introduced eight-core designs for improved energy efficiency, to in 2022, featuring AI-optimized accelerators and up to 15.4 TFLOPS per socket for hybrid cloud deployments. System p technologies, such as advanced and high-availability features, persist in these successors, enabling integration with Pak for hybrid environments that blend on-premises Power hardware with public cloud resources. This transition influenced the broader ecosystem via the OpenPOWER Foundation, established by in December 2013, which opened the POWER ISA for third-party development and led to diverse hardware innovations like NVIDIA's DGX systems and Google's server designs.

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