IBM, Tricon collaborate on data center

Offshore staff

ARMONK, New York -- IBM and Tricon Geophysics have collaborated to build a data center powered by IBM System x iDataPlex that will enable Tricon to analyze 25 times more seismic data than is currently possible with existing systems. The new data center allows Tricon to explore larger oil and gas fields up to 1,000 sq mi (2,589 sq km).

Tricon worked with IBM Global Technology Services and IBM Business Partner Strix Technologies, S.A., to implement and support its new infrastructure, which runs the Red Hat Linux V5 operating system.

iDataPlex more than doubles the number of systems that can run in a single IBM rack and uses 40% less power, while increasing the amount of computing that can be done. iDataPlex can be outfitted with a liquid cooled wall on the back of the system that enables it to run at "room temperature" -- no air conditioning required. The system uses all industry-standard components as well as open-source software such as Linux to help lower costs, the company says.

04/29/2009