Cluster-in-a-box-Systems: Economic IT solutions in the smallest space

Cluster-in-a-Box Systems and Their Advantages

• Reduced Footprint with Cluster-in-a-Box

  A typical CIB system combines servers, storage, and required networking components within an extremely compact chassis. Intelligent airflow design ensures full functionality of all components at all times. Cluster-in-a-box solutions can effectively reduce rack space requirements by up to 50%, as dense 4–8U configurations can be consolidated into just 2–4U. Technologically, this concept is based on the compact and modular architecture of modern Blade Servers.

• Two-Node Support for High Availability

  By operating both nodes in permanent active-active mode, cluster-in-a-box systems ensure uninterrupted data access even if one node fails. Thanks to redundant access to the shared CIB storage, systems from AIC and Supermicro deliver true high availability (HA) and strong fault tolerance — a critical requirement for business environments. This makes cluster-in-a-box systems a powerful alternative to traditional Cluster Server architectures.

• SIOM Support in Supermicro CIB Systems

  Supermicro’s “Super I/O Module” (SIOM) acts as a dedicated controller that enables flexible network configuration and optimized data transfer within CIB systems. Since the SIOM controller does not occupy a PCIe slot, those slots remain available for additional Add-on Cards (AOCs). The modular design helps reduce operational costs while ensuring long-term scalability and easy system expansion.

Cluster-in-a-box systems are particularly well suited for small and mid-sized enterprises seeking a reliable IT solution with an excellent price-performance ratio. Despite their compact footprint, CIB systems feature modern hardware components, ensure high availability through precisely coordinated system architecture, and effectively eliminate SPOFs (Single Points of Failure) thanks to their fully redundant design.

Discover high-performance cluster systems at HAPPYWARE: Configure the ideal cluster-in-a-box system for your business today or contact us for expert consultation on your options.

Technical Specifications of Cluster-in-a-Box Systems from Supermicro and AIC

• Cluster-in-a-box systems available in 2–4U configurations
• Storage types: HDD + SSD / NVMe SSD support
• Storage capacity: 24–48 drives / 2.5"–3.5" / SATA or SAS3 depending on model
• Supermicro Super Storage Bridge Bay (SBB): Expandability via JBOD modules with hot-plug functionality
• Modern Intel Xeon processors
• Dual-node architecture with Intel Xeon processor support and optimized interconnect
• Hot-swap support for drives, nodes, and additional components
• Redundant system-critical components (power supplies and fans)

Cluster-in-a-Box Systems and Comprehensive Services at HAPPYWARE

Our cluster systems provide powerful enterprise IT solutions in a compact form factor — cost-efficient and highly adaptable to your operational requirements. We are also happy to advise you on scalable GPU Server solutions for compute-intensive workloads. In addition to storage and server solutions, we offer a full range of professional services:

• Configure and Purchase Custom Cluster-in-a-Box Systems

  Need a JBOD expansion within the same chassis? Looking for a large cluster with full NVMe SSD support? Use our configurator to design your ideal cluster system in just a few clicks.

• Lease or Rent CIB Systems

  Invest strategically in your IT infrastructure by leasing or renting our server systems over a defined period. We are happy to explain terms, conditions, and available contract models.

• Flexible Warranty Packages

  Choose from a range of warranty and support options — from standard telephone support to customized on-site service agreements tailored to your business needs.

Purchase your individually configured cluster systems from HAPPYWARE. If you have any questions prior to your purchase, feel free to contact us — we will find the right solution for your requirements.