Hardware Category

IBM Power and AS/400 Server Hardware

New, refurbished, and end-of-lease IBM Power Systems and AS/400 servers, from entry single-partition boxes to multi-core enterprise CECs.

IBM Power and AS/400 Server Overview

Power server buying decisions on IBM i almost always start from a workload question, not a spec sheet. Buyers need to know how much processor, memory, and partition headroom a business-critical application actually requires before a model number ever enters the conversation.

This category covers the full range of physical server hardware buyers evaluate, from a single entry Power server running one partition to larger multi-core CECs supporting several logical partitions across production, test, and development.

Common Buyer IBM Power and AS/400 Server Questions

How much does AS/400 or IBM Power hardware actually cost?

It depends heavily on whether the buyer is looking at new, refurbished, or upgraded existing hardware. An entry Power server typically starts in the high four figures to low five figures, while multi-core enterprise configurations and full new deployments can run well into six figures once storage, networking, and infrastructure are included.

Refurbished and used systems usually land 40 to 70 percent below comparable new hardware pricing, depending on generation, condition, and warranty terms. The most useful first step is sizing actual workload requirements, since price comparisons only make sense against a specific configuration.

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Should we buy a new Power server or a refurbished one?

The honest answer depends on remaining IBM support runway, budget, and how critical the workload is. New hardware carries the longest support and warranty window but at the highest price. Refurbished hardware can deliver most of the same capacity at a meaningfully lower price, provided the seller tests and warranties the unit properly.

Buyers should compare total cost of ownership over the realistic hardware lifespan, not just sticker price, and should always confirm the refurbished seller's testing process before assuming price alone makes the decision.

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How do we size the right Power server for our workload?

Start with current CPW utilization, memory headroom, and partition count on the existing server rather than shopping by model number. A hardware partner can translate that data into processor core, memory, and capacity-on-demand recommendations for a specific target model.

Growth planning matters too. Sizing only for today's workload often means another hardware conversation within a year or two, so most buyers size with some deliberate headroom built in.

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IBM Power and AS/400 Server Features to Evaluate

  • Processor core count, activation, and available capacity-on-demand options
  • Memory ceiling and current utilization headroom for growth
  • Partition count supported and existing LPAR layout
  • IBM support coverage window and remaining lifecycle runway
  • Physical footprint, power draw, and rack compatibility

IBM Power and AS/400 Server Implementation Considerations

Server buying should start with a capacity review of the current environment, not a vendor's product list. Buyers usually need current CPW utilization, memory headroom, and partition growth plans before comparing new, refurbished, or upgraded hardware paths. Lease-end timing and IBM's own lifecycle calendar often set the real decision deadline.

IBM Power and AS/400 Server Product Directory

Refurbished and Used Systems

Certified Refurbished AS/400 9406 System

A tested and warrantied legacy AS/400 9406 system for buyers running stable older workloads or maintaining a matched spare or lab environment.

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Related Guides

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IBM i Hardware Lifecycle Buyer's Guide

A practical planning guide for IBM i teams tracking hardware lifecycle status, timing a server refresh, and deciding between new, refurbished, and upgraded capacity.

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A straight answer to what AS/400 and IBM Power server hardware actually costs across new, refurbished, and upgraded configurations.

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What Is IBM AS/400 Hardware?

A plain-language explanation of what AS/400 hardware is, how it became IBM Power Systems, and why the name still matters to today's buyers.

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IBM i Hardware Upgrades and Replacement Parts Refurbished and Used AS/400 and Power Systems IBM i Rack, Power, and Cooling Infrastructure