| Automated tape handling has been prevalent in mainframe
computer centers for over 20 years. The benefits of this technology are
now widely available to users of low cost, high density cartridge tape
formats.
Tape automation products are generally divided into two
groups: autoloaders and libraries. Autoloaders hold 1 tape drive and a
limited number of cartridges, typically 8 to 16, although some will
house over 20. Autoloaders are limited in both capacity and throughput.
They are primarily intended to support small department or single
application backups.
Tape libraries invariably house 2 or more drives and from 10
to 100's of tapes. Libraries are designed for continuous, unattended
operation and allow simultaneous reading and writing to multiple drives.
Libraries also offer key features such as barcode readers to scan labels
on cartridges, and an I/O Port for importing and exporting individual
tapes under application control. A Fibre Channel Option provides SAN
correction for library command and control. DFA (Direct Fiber Attach)
tape drives are also now available in some formats. An iSCSI Option
connects RLS and TLS Libraries to IP SANS.
Qualstar designs and manufactures libraries for the popular
AIT and LTO tape formats, housing up to 96 tape drives and 6000
cartridges. Over twenty-five models provide combinations of capacity and
throughput to match any storage management requirement.
All TLS and RLS libraries contain Q-Link, our web browser
based remote library manager that enables administrators to configure,
upgrade, and monitor any of our libraries via a company intranet or over
the Internet from anywhere in the world. Q-Link extends the library's
comprehensive front panel menu system and adds additional functionality
such as automatic e-mail notification based on rules set by the
administrator, and remotely implemented firmware updates.
Qualstar's N2Power subsidiary has pioneered and patented
hi-efficiency power technology for years. Storing data in our tape
libraries uses much less power than disk, saving money by
substantially reducing electrical and cooling requirements.
Our TLS and RLS Series libraries incorporate a number of
innovations that improve reliability and performance, including:
- Inventory Sentry to allow the library to be opened to read
handwritten cartridge labels without forcing the unit off-line for
an unnecessary inventory of all cartridges.
- Closed loop servo control of all motions for absolute position
accuracy.
- Leadscrew-driven mechanisms for highest reliability, instead of
belts and pulleys.
Qualstar TLS and RLS Series library families are sold worldwide through
Systems Integrators and Value Added Resellers who share our commitment
to quality and deliver complete storage solutions to their customers.
Please contact us for additional information on our products or the name
of an integrator that can help address your needs.
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