Re: Why can't we use eConfig?? -- MIDRANGE-L

Bob,

Realize that I am not an IBM representative but a BP so my views may(?!) not represent IBM's true position. First eConfig requires registered access to update and keep current. Second it DOES contain pricing in many cases for thousands of features and even multiple Geographies. It also takes some talent to run. I see that you are an IBM certified iSeries Expert and while I don't know in what, I will assume for the moment that it is in iSeries Technical Solutions. There are not very many of us around and most are with BPs not customers. To be sure the process of running multiple configurations takes time and effort but a real BP will do this work for/with you to build the right system(s) for you.

As you state the LVT does generate nice building blocks but is missing such trivial items as a) Power cords and redundant power supply features, b) HSL Cables and the features to support them, c) External tape and CD/DVD drives and cables and more. While these features are not usually a large percentage of system cost they can be significant and must not be omitted. Then there is software, something LVT ignores completely. Also thing like the memory rules for some models are next to impossible and only eConfig will give you the feature stack to populate the slots correctly.

If you are serious (as I suspect you are) about generating configurations that will be purchased and your BP will not work with you on it, then I suggest you get a better BP.

- Larry

Bob Larkin wrote:

I have a need to run configurations on multiple scenarios, to determine our strategy for growing our iSeries processing power. In days past, I would simply use the configurator, Now IBM is telling me that configuration is done with eConfig, and customers cannot use eConfig, only BPs and IBMers.

This doesn't make sense to me. I can configure a system using LPAR validator, then use readily available pricing to determine a list price. The problem with this approach is that the LPAR tool does not guarantee a complete system, which the eConfig tool does. Also, I have to manually lookup prices.

Have I been misinformed? I can't believe IBM would not let customers use tools that would lead to a purchase. The comment was made to just have a BP perform the configurations. I feel that is asking a bit much, as there can be many iterations. This is also time consuming, and will slow down the process greatly.

Anyone have any suggestions?
Bob Larkin
IBM Certified iSeries Expert


--
Larry Bolhuis           | IBM eServer Certified Systems Expert
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