Using BRMS for SWA and save to save file?

We are looking to reduce our daily backup time. System is a 9406-810,
7409 capacity processor, 3GB main storage, 350GB. Backing up to a
3581-H13 (LTO-1 cartridges) connected to a 2749 controller. Our 350GB
DASD is spread over 6 4327 70GB drives, all at 56% space used. OS
version is V5R4 using BRMS. A full system save fits on one tape.



Our daily backups (Tuesday-Saturday morning) only save critical
information, including security data, config, ERP / financial data,
in-house files, QGPL, DLO and IFS. The save takes just over 2 hours,
3:00am-5:09am on 9/1. On Sunday we take a full system backup (BRMS
equivalent of Save 21), which lasts for 3.5 hours (2:00am-5:32am 8/30).
ERP and financial data is the bulk of our system.



Money is tight so getting another tape drive is out. I would like to use
BRMS to either or both of using save while active and saving to a save
file. I forget if virtual tape is available in V5R4.



I'm in the process of reviewing the save/restore and BRMS manuals, but
looking for some real-world data from anyone who has done either or both
of these strategies.



What is the "right" way to implement SWA?



Any info, tips, and tricks appreciated.

--Loyd



--

Loyd Goodbar

Business Systems

BorgWarner Shared Services

662-473-5713