For users wanting to expand file storage capacity on their networks, the normal route is to add a new server. However, a viable alternative to traditional servers is now available in the form of the Quantum Snap Server, a storage appliance designed for network file sharing.
"A Snap Server saves you time and money, yet delivers reliability, performance and connectivity as well as general-purpose file servers," says Lawrence Polkinghorne, storage product manager at AXiZ. "As it has been specifically designed for file sharing, any other function or service irrelevant to this purpose has been eliminated. It is not an application server, and does not perform network directory services."
Polkinghorne points out, however, that for those companies that already have an existing fiel server, the Snap Server offers an excellent option in additional network storage. Snap Servers come in 10GB, 20GB, 40GB, and 120GB models, all of which the benefits of plug and play: the user simply plugs in the power, plugs in the RJ-45 Ethernet connector and turns on the Snap Server.
The 10/100 Ethernet connection detects the appropriate network bandwidth, and the Snap Server automatically responds and connects to all client protocols. The Snap Server provides full multi-platform file sharing in mixed Windows NT, NetWare, UNIX, Linux, and/or Macintosh environments from the moment it is turned on. It also provides network security integration with NT domain and NetWare bindery. Snap Servers provide throughput performance comparable with traditional file servers, even under high loads.
The Snap Server 1000 (single drive) Because of its small footprint and light weight (just over 1,5kg), the Snap Server 1000 makes the ideal portable server for telecommuting, trade shows, sales calls, presentations, or just adding emergency storage to a workgroup or LAN wherever it is needed. The Snap Server 1000 has 10GB of portable storage.
The Snap Server 2000 (two-drive)
The Snap Server 2000 offers control over how the two Quantum Ultra ATA hard disk drives are configured. They can be separated into two volumes (JBOD) to keep workgroup or project files separate; or mirrored for instant backup with data protection. They can also be striped into one large virtual drive (RAID 0) for highest performance and efficiency. The Snap Server 2000 stands just 22,5cm tall and weighs only 3,6kg.
The Snap Server 4000 (four-drive)
This product sits two rack units high and mounts in a standard 19" rack or on a desktop, and provides RAID 5 (enabled on four 30GB drives), and drives that can be reconfigured to RAID 0, 1, or JBOD.
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AXiZ
AXiZ is a leading computer component and peripherals distribution company in South Africa, with offices in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Pretoria and a staff complement exceeding 200. Founded in 1989, AXiZ has evolved from a supplier of memory modules and processors to be the leading distributor of branded end-to-end PC components, from motherboards, processors and PC cards to networking products, storage products, software, monitors, peripherals and graphics cards. In addition, AXiZ provides services such as a PC and server configuration service, customer deliveries, and training and education.