HP makes Quantum leap from StorageTek

HP has decided to drop its main tape storage hardware maker in favour of Compaq's supplier.

HP said it will no longer be using StorageTek's disk arrays or libraries despite a years-long OEM agreement with the vendor, but will instead be using Quantum.

Compaq and Quantum have had a long-standing partnership which has seen Quantum's products sold under the Compaq brand.

Barbara Nelson, executive vice president of corporate marketing and strategy at Quantum, said the agreement is a sign that HP is trying to streamline its product line.

She said: "HP is trying to find more suitable partners now so it no longer has tons of products from many different vendors. It is picking those who can offer the best deals to its customers."

Quantum said HP will phase out its StorageTek manufactured HP 10/180 and HP 20/700 arrays over the next three months.

Quantum claimed HP will offer support for customers using StorageTek libraries until the end of 2003.

HP and StorageTek were both unavailable for comment.