Channel Data has released the Quantum DX Series EBS, a new backup and restore solution using the inherent strengths of disk media (quick access, high-speed data transfer and RAID protection) to improve data backup functions.
Amit Parbhucharan, technology marketing director at Channel Data, says the product is one the new generation of enhanced backup solutions (EBSs) which are capable of effectively upgrading legacy tape backup systems by separating the backup target from the backup archive.
"In traditional data protection, backup, archive and restore functions are performed by one backup device - usually an automated tape library or standalone tape drive," he explains.
"Now, adding EBS disk-based technology to complement these devices, and separating the duties of each subsystem, some of the most significant backup challenges facing IT professionals today can be addressed.
"These include reducing the time required for backup, completing all backup jobs on schedule, and - more importantly - the provision of time to restore recently backed-up data."
Says Parbhucharan: "The Quantum DX Series will improve operational efficiencies in terms of tape loads and unloads, and minimise concerns about failed backup due to tape I/O errors, manageable volume recycling over standard disk backups and, more significantly, the need to keep a tape drive streaming during backup time to prevent it from malfunctioning or 'shoe-shining`."
He adds that the Quantum DX Series will allow existing tape library systems to optimise their strengths, which include low cost, an ability to write large block sizes and archival stability with the security of removable media. Key features of the Quantum Entry-Level (DX30) EBS include:
* Data transfer rates in excess of 288GB/hr
* 3TB initial capacity in 4U
* SAN Pluggable
* RAID 5 or RAID 10 protected disks
* Integrates with most tape libraries
* Hot-swappable disk drives
* Universally rack mountable
* Redundant 2 Gigabit Fibre Channel network interfaces
* Gigabit Ethernet interfaces for management and auxiliary functions
* Browser-based management support
* Emulates an ATL P1000 with two to six DLT tape drives for plug-and-play software compatibility and allowing concurrent backups
* Redundant fans, power supplies and interfaces for high availability
* Integrates seamlessly with existing backup software packages
* Scalable to provide 9TB of RAID5 storage
Technical perspective
From a technical perspective, the Quantum DX30 facilitates the direct back up of tasks to itself (the backup target) increasing backup speeds in excess of 216GB/hour. The software platform designed into the Quantum DX30 precisely emulates a tape library (with two to six tape drives) allowing backup software to function without modification.
The Quantum DX30 uses RAID-protected disks to increase backup and restore reliability.
After the backup has completed, a copy of the backup data can be exported - using the cloning or copy functions of existing backup software - from the Quantum DX30 to the tape library for archival storage.
The data in the tape library (on removable tape media) can now be moved off-site for full disaster recovery protection. The data now resides in both the Quantum DX30 (available for quick restore until overwritten) and in the tape library (archived or off-site for full disaster recovery protection).
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