RE: Tape drive recommendations

Ken,
I used to be in a similar situation, the good old 8mm just couldn't cut it
anymore - it took me about 15-16hrs to do a full system save - lots of
thumb-twiddling!
I looked at everything that was around, DAT, MLR, DLT, QIC, etc.  In the end
i bought a Magstar 3570 C01.

Reliability
No problems, plus it self-cleans so i don't have to bother with doing that
every week or so like my 8mm wanted.
Capacity
Each tape fits 7gb uncompressed, so circa 21 post compression.  I have a
magazine of 20 tapes that will let me do unattended full system backups, and
cope with years of growth as far as system size is concerned.  
Speed
It is FAST.  A full system backup now takes about 1hr 45 mins, and could
probably be quicker as i'm pretty sure the tape drive is faster than the 400
(using a 2729 on the main system bus).
Cost
Given that with capacity & speed what they are, i won't need to buy another
backup solution for at least 5-7 years.  That makes the initial outlay more
than worth it in my book.

I would not hesitate to say that this has been the best piece of equipment i
have ever bought. 

Regards,
Stuart
                                                             
Stuart Allen
European Systems Analyst,  Fellowes
mailto:sallen@fellowes.com

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Sims, Ken [SMTP:KSIMS@SOUTHERNWINE.com]
> Sent: Tuesday, July 25, 2000 1:08 AM
> To:   MIDRANGE-L@midrange.com
> Subject:      Tape drive recommendations
> 
> Hi gang -
> 
> We have a 720 running V4R4.  We currently have a 6390-001 tape drive (8mm,
> 7GB).  Unfortunately, 7GB (post-compression) is not enough anymore.  There
> is too much operator intervention required for changing tapes.
> 
> We need at least 20GB (post-compression) without operation intervention,
> whether this be on one tape, or multiple tapes in a tape library system.
> The 6390 is hooked to a 2748, but I think we could also handle a drive
> that
> hooks to a 2729.
> 
> My priorities are: reliability, capacity, speed, cost.  My boss would
> probably move cost to the top of the list! <G>
> 
> We are open to both IBM and non-IBM solutions, and also to both new and
> used.
> 
> What are your thoughts on the most bang for the buck?
> Vendors please respond direct, not via the list.
> 
> Thanks.
> 
> Ken
> Southern Wine and Spirits of Nevada, Inc.
> Opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily represent the views
> of
> my employer or anyone in their right mind.
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