FAQS

Whilst we offer fixed sized SmartStack solutions for ease in ordering, the SmartStack solution is a reference architecture so every element of it is customisable. This means that we will configure a solution that meets your requirements exactly.

Yes, the SmartStack reference architecture is completely customisable. We can tailor the server configuration including CPU and memory, the storage configuration including the amount of cache, IOPs and capacity. The flexibility also allows our customers to start small and grow as and when the business grows. Speak to one of our technical consultants to help build a configuration to suit your needs.

The SmartStack is fully scalable, so start small and then buy additional servers/capacity incrementally and expand the infrastructure easily with no downtime or service interruption.

The customer still has support contracts with Cisco and Nimble, but where there is an issue somewhere in the stack that is difficult to diagnose the root cause, Nimble Storage will be the single point of contact under these circumstances and own the problem through to resolution.

The SmartStack can be deployed to suit any application requirement, large or small. We have customers who have deployed it for a project involving a single application, but then expanded it to host other applications or even their entire core infrastructure, once they recognise the benefits the solution has to offer.

A common misconception is that Nimble Storage cannot be very fast because they use 7200 rpm HDDs, however their proprietary CASL filesystem uses ‘slow’ HDDs like no other system does. The CASL uses a number of techniques to optimise HDD performance to achieve up to 10,000 IOPS from a single 7200 RPM HDD! Therefore a Nimble Storage array consisting of only twenty-one 7200RPM drives and only six SSDs can deliver up to 270,000 IOPS. All flash array performance without the compromise in capacity over cost.

Yes, we know what you are thinking and it does sound unbelievable, so we request you let us demonstrate this amazing feat and explain exactly how this is achieved.

All of our solutions include design, installation and if required migration services. We encourage customer involvement during deployments and always provide knowledge transfer afterwards to ensure the IT teams are comfortable with supporting and administering the system. We continue to be available should the teams require any assistance later as part of our core value added service. As SmartStack partner of the year and the largest Nimble Storage SmartStack partner in Europe, we have the experience and capability to deliver the highest standard of SmartStack deployment and support.