IBM (NYSE: IBM) is moving to expand its data storage products with the acquisition of Texas Memory Systems, which focuses on solid state technology.

Solid state memory relies on Flash or RAM memory as opposed to hard disk drives with multiple moving parts and is a growing factor in the storage space market. Products include rackmount system hardware and memory cards.

“The products are designed to help companies improve performance and reduce server sprawl, power consumption, cooling, and floor space requirements, all of which in turn can help clients save money, improve performance and invest more in innovation,” IBM says.

Financial terms were not disclosed. The deal is expected to close later this year. 

Texas Memory Systems, which is based in Houston, has some 100 employees. It launched in 1978.

Unlike many recent IBM acquisitions, this deal focuses on hardware rather than software or services.

“The TMS strategy and solution set align well with our Smarter Computing approach to information technology by helping clients realize increased performance and efficiencies at lower costs,” said Brian Truskowski, general manager of Systems Storage and Networking for IBM. “Solid state technology, in particular, is a critical component of our new Smarter Storage approach to the design and deployment of storage infrastructures, and part of a holistic approach that exploits flash in conjunction with disk and tape technologies to solve complex problems.”

IBM says it will invest in the TMS product line once the deal closes. TMS technology also will be incorporated into other IBM products.

“IBM understands the positive and dramatic impact that solid state technology can have on storage and server infrastructures, and once the acquisition is complete we look forward to advancing the technology even further. With the global reach of IBM, we expect to grow the engineering staff and product lines much faster than we could before,” said Holly Frost, founder and CEO of TMS.

IBM employs some 10,000 people across North Carolina. 

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