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1) In order to gain LPAR functionality, do I need to purchase PowerVM software?
Yes, PowerVM IVM. You will have to call IBM and give them the details , see my last post on POWERVM
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2) I read that LPARs are managed from locally attached graphical workstations called HMCs. Is HMC a physical device I need to connect to my system?
You can manage graphically through VIOS IVM POWERVM ( all three sames for the same product )
Don't waste your money on HMC. HMC will benefit you if you have many machines and would like to have one
1) console
2) management
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3) Can I create LPARs on my current system without losing my current OS? Or will I have to reformat my disks before starting?
Let us assume you have 7 disks
you have O/S on Hdisk0
and Hdisk1 to Hdisk7 are free
you can use POWERVM IVM VIOS on hisk7
and create LPAR and importvg HDISK0
so the answer is NO you will not lose current OS