Tandberg Data StorageLoader LTO-2 Appeals To SMBs

Solution providers who sell tape backup solutions to the small to midmarket may want to consider Tandberg Data's newest product, the StorageLoader LTO-2 (Linear Tape Open).

The LTO-2 autoloader comes in a 1U rack mountable design, which can accommodate up to 3.2 Tbytes of data. The device is ready to go out of the box and does not require much configuration. CRN Test Center engineers were able to get the unit connected to a network and up and running within 20 minutes.

The unit can hold up to eight tape cartridges, which are separated into two 4-slot removable magazines storing a total of eight data cartridges for bulk-loading.

To move the robotic arm, all that is required is to simply remove a screw, which resides at the front of the right magazine.

Solution providers setting up the box can connect via a network port or through an Ultra160 SCSI/LVD. When connecting to the network, for example, administrators can use either the Web-based remote management feature or the LCD panel on the front of the autoloader.

Another thing to note about the design of the case is that the critical components, such as the cooling fans, hard drives and power supply, are all replaceable without taking the autoloader out of its environment. If the technician cannot fix the autoloader on-site, a replacement product can be shipped within 48 hours of the request. Solution providers can ensure their customers will only incur minimal downtime with Tandberg's quick hardware turnaround.

LTO technology was designed to handle multiplatform data storage requirements with automation. It is a second-generation technology, which offers increased performance, reliability, capacity and data transfer rates from its predecessor, LTO-1. LTO-2 does have one limitation: Unless it is working in an environment with large data capacity throughput, the performance and logistic benefits may not be as advantageous as one would hope. The notion of a constant data flow must be relevant to experience the performance benefits, and with LTO-2 tape cartridges costing 30 percent to 40 percent more than LTO-1 tapes, it may not be worth the extra cost. The company's channel program is being revamped. Currently, Tandberg Data has a one-level program but is expecting to launch a new three-tiered program by the end of the month. The current program is basic with a few incentives such as free technical support via telephone and e-mail. Tandberg Data provides rebates on existing products and offers a three-year advanced warranty exchange on most products.

The StorageLoader LTO-2 is priced at $4750 with the bar-code reader.