Plasmon today announced the introduction of two new tape autoloaders integrating Sony Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT) technology. Tape autoloaders present an ideal first step into automated data storage applications such unattended network backup, remote storage, automated archiving, imaging and hierarchical storage management.
The new Plasmon V-Series have a small footprint with high storage density. The V15 supports 15 cartridges, one or two drives, and offers 750GB native capacity at 43GB/hour throughput. The V30 supports 30 cartridges, one, two or four drives, and offers 1.5TB native capacity at 86GB/hour throughput. Both support an optional bar code reader, Ethernet connection for remote management, standalone or rack mount installation, and come with a 3-year advance exchange warranty. Initial shipments of the V Series Autoloaders will come with the Sony AIT-2 tape drive. Sony AIT-3 based autoloaders are expected this fall.
Sony AIT-2 drives provide a throughput of 6 MB/sec (15 MB/sec with 2.6:1 compression) and high capacity per cartridge at 50 GB (130GB with 2.6:1 compression) in a very compact form factor. High data search rates are achieved through the assistance of MIC technology — the MIC chip contains key parameters such as a tape log, search map, and application information that allow flexible management of the media and its contents.
“We are pleased that Plasmon is integrating AIT drives in its new autoloaders to meet its customers’ demands,” said John Woelbern, director of marketing for the tape storage solutions division of Sony Electronics’ Business Solutions & Systems Company. “AIT technology is ideally suited to meet a wide range of customer requirements for high capacity, high performance, affordable, reliable and scalable data storage.”
The new Plasmon AIT tape autoloaders, which are certified by all the major backup software developers, start at $8000.