IBM buys flash memory firm

IBM on Thursday announced a deal to buy a US firm specializing in high-performance solid state memory, which is fast replacing spinning disks used to store data in computer hard drives.

IBM did not disclose financial terms of the agreement to acquire Texas Memory Systems (TMS), which is based in Houston.

What TMS has to offer compliments "Smarter Computing" systems promoted by IBM as ways to increase performance and efficiency of technology networks, according to IBM systems storage and networking general manager Brian Truskowski.

"Solid state technology, in particular, is a critical component of our new Smarter Storage approach to the design and deployment of storage infrastructures," he said.

He said it was also "part of a holistic approach that exploits flash in conjunction with disk and tape technologies to solve complex problems."

Solid state drives with flash or RAM memory can operate faster while using less electricity than drives that rely on spinning disks. Solid state memory is common in smartphones and tablets as well as ultra-slim laptop computers.

"The products are designed to help companies improve performance and reduce server sprawl, power consumption, cooling, and floor space requirements," IBM said as it extolled benefits of solid state drives for data centers.