Hewlett-Packard makes server backup easier to manage HP SureStore Rack Kits offer up to 160gb of tape storage in a neat, accessible package

Hewlett-Packard introduces the SureStore Rack Kit tape storage solutions for network backup of rack-mounted servers.

Over the past year, sales of rack-mounted servers have grown to double those of stand-alone servers. Rackable solutions have two big advantages over stand-alone ones: they make maximum use of available office space, and they are much easier to service and support. HP`s compact new rackable tape storage solutions fit with standard mid-range and high-end rack-mounted servers, so that their associated network tape storage is also tidy and secure.

HP`s rackable tape storage solutions comprise a standard-sized rack enclosure which houses drive modules, each containing an HP DAT or DLT tape drive, power supply and fan in one neat, accessible unit. These k drive modules are hot-swappable for high availability, so that if a drive does fail it can be removed and replaced without taking down the system. The HP SureStore DAT k drives include the revolutionary HP One-Button Disaster Recovery, the fastest way to restore lost data. HP TapeAssure and TapeAlert make them easy to manage and monitor for errors, and all are backed up by HP`s leading three-year Express Exchange warranty.

The HP SureStore Rack Kits come in two sizes:

• The HP SureStore 3Uk Rack Kit has four bays to accommodate either two full-height DLT40 k or DLT80 k drive modules, or one full-height DLT40/80 k and

• two half-height DAT 24 k or DAT 40 k drive modules, or four half-height DAT 24/40 k drive modules. This gives a maximum capacity of 160GB.

The 2Uk Rack Kit, with two bays, can hold HP SureStore DAT24 k or DAT40 k drive modules, giving a maximum capacity of 80GB.

"We have seen customer requirements for rackable storage grow in line with the trend for rackable servers," says Ivan Kraemer, HP business development manager Middle East & Africa, back up and storage. "This new range of solutions is HP`s response to market demands. HP has the answer to the Data Centre manager`s need for easily accessible, highly reliable, convenient storage."

HP SureStore k Rack Kits are designed to replace untidy, inconvenient shelf storage solutions. They complement HP`s existing SureStore TapeRack, which is specifically for high availability solutions, providing dual hot-swappable power supplies, dual hot-swappable fans and the facility for RAIT (random array of intelligent tape drives) with the appropriate software.