Re: Tape drive recommendations -- MIDRANGE-L



Ken,

We use a combination of 3570's and 3590's.  Actually I have two of each.  As far
as reliability I give them both a good grade.  I will admit we went through a
streak with V4R4, 7xx, and the 3590E where reliability was questionable.  It
wasn't an issue of hardware reliability but one of software.  However, since we
have resolved this the 3590's have been as reliable as the 3570.  Both do well
with capacity.  Both do well with speed.  I believe the performance capabilities
document does document some performance comparisons but it is probably a little
bit dated.  We are very happy with both.  Now, the reason why we have both.
Cost.  I have not been able to succesfully argue for the 3590 due to cost
factors.

I do think the 3570 is an extremely nice drive.  However, I am more comfortable
putting my stamp of approval on the 3590.  There have been some major speed and
capacity improvements lately for not much money.  Also, there seems to be a lot
more future promise for the 3590.  It may not be relevant to you.  I do believe
that their is a statement of direction to get the 3590 cartridge density to
100GB/cartridge.  Also, with the new 8xx models and new IOP these drives will
scream................

The issue is one of cost.  The two that we have I was able to include/bury in a
system upgrade so the drive price itself was not very evident.  I am guilty of
bundling like everyone else......

Michael Crump
Ball-Foster Glass Container Co.



|--------+------------------------>
|        |          "Sims, Ken"   |
|        |          <KSIMS@SOUTHER|
|        |          NWINE.com>    |
|        |                        |
|        |          07/24/00 07:07|
|        |          PM            |
|        |          Please respond|
|        |          to MIDRANGE-L |
|        |                        |
|--------+------------------------>
  >------------------------------------------------------------|
  |                                                            |
  |       To:     MIDRANGE-L@midrange.com                      |
  |       cc:     (bcc: Mike Crump/IS/Ball-Foster)             |
  |       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.
This e-mail and any attachment contains information which is private and
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