Sun's stockholders approved the transaction on July 16, 2009. Closing the transaction is subject to conditions, including clearance by the European Commission.

The news for Sun's employees looks more promising. Last year Sun announced a 7% reduction in headcount, leading to 2,500 job losses, but fewer people appear to have lost their jobs at the ailing hardware manufacturer, according to a source close to the company.

"The Oracle acquisition is welcome among staff. Sun had the right products, but couldn't make them profitable." Oracle has a track record in integrating multi-billion pound companies, which could help Sun and its staff move forward.

However the deal has left industry commentators assessing how Sun will fit into Oracle's software empire.

Source: Computer Weekly