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The IBM 3570 Model B1A enhances the Magstar MP Tape Drives with a Drive Load-to-Ready time of 6.7 seconds (typical), a drive average search time of 8 seconds, and cartridge capacity up to 15GB using 3:1 compression. Model B1A is designed specifically for field inclusion in the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library Dataserver, providing a mid-range and network server tape storage solution that combines reliable, automated tape handling and storage with reliable, high-performance Magstar MP Tape Drives. The attractive IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library extends automated tape handling with optimized read-and write-intensive tape drives to RS/6000 and other popular SCSI-attach open systems. The Magstar MP Fast Access Linear Tape used in the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library offers ultra-fast access time to data that sets it apart from comparable products. Additionally, Magstar MP offers technology designed for the tougher demands of automated tape handling.
Highlights
The Magstar MP 3570 Tape Library provides tape and automation reliability at open systems prices. Other features include:
Utilizes IBM-developed technology, including magneto-resistive heads, especially designed for automation
7 MB/second native sustained drive data rates using C-format cartridges in Model Cxx drives
2.2 MB/second native sustained drive data rates using B-format cartridges in Model Bxx drives
Barcode reader included on Cxx models
Expanded 5 MB cache memory on Cxx models for faster read/write performance
Newly designed digital data flow circuit on Cxx models for increased read/write performance
Self-enclosed data cartridges with pre-imbedded servo tracks
Mid-point load for fast time to data
Up to 300 GB of near online data with cartridge capacities of 15 GB (using 3:1 compression) in B1x and C1x Models
Description
The IBM Magstar MP Tape Subsystem is a revolutionary new multipurpose (MP) SCSI-attach tape technology designed for automation. Traditionally, tape has been used to perform write-intensive operations like backup and data interchange. The Magstar MP is a compact, integrated storage device that functionally expands the capability of tape to optimize both write AND read intensive operations. It provides the characteristics of high performance, high reliability, a new cartridge, and a new library subsystem.
High Performance:
The IBM Magstar MP has been designed to provide fast access to data. The drive and cartridge have been uniquely designed to allow fast cartridge insertion, almost instantaneous head/tape contact at load time, and mid-point load, where the tape is already positioned to achieve fast data access by quickly fast forwarding to data in either direction. The drive time to read/write data is about 8 seconds from the time of cartridge insertion. The drive can read/write data at a sustained data rate of 2.2 MB/sec (uncompacted) with a 20 MB/sec burst data rate. The sustained data rate with maximum compression is 6.6 MB/sec. Automatic caching of data enables balancing system read/write speed and the drive is designed to provide high performance in both streaming and start/stop operations. These characteristics are exciting new technical breakthroughs in an industry that has historically only seen innovation in the form of increased cartridge capacity and data rate.
High Reliability:
The IBM Magstar MP provides outstanding reliability. In the area of reading and writing, IBM provides leading-edge technology. Data write is provided by an exclusive thin-film write module that is designed for extremely accurate recording. Data read is provided by IBM's leading magneto-resistive (MR) head based on IBM Magstar technology. The head is a highly-tuned 4-track MR head that is designed for high read reliability, long life, and future growth. In addition, the 4-track head provides data redundancy and servo tracking to ensure superior data integrity in the mid-range tape marketplace. It offers technology that was previously affordable only in the large systems environment.
A New Cartridge:
IBM has been awarded numerous patents for the innovative new cartridge technology. It features two tape spools with the tape load point positioned at the mid-point of the tape to provide fast access to data, while still providing unmatched capacity for backup needs. The Magstar MP Fast Access Linear Tape cartridge has an uncompacted capacity of 5GB (15GB with 3:1 Lempel-Ziv compression) and contains major enhancements over conventional data recording cartridges. A rugged case, designed for repetitive handling by automated pickers, protects the tape in an enclosed environment. The cartridge contains advanced metal particle tape media developed for high capacity and durability. The tape never leaves the cartridge because the cartridge contains the tape path itself. The tape medium is protected from being harshly handled by external pickers, rollers, or external guides. The unique tape path eliminates tape thread time, reduces complexity, and enables higher reliability. The internal tape path also allows quick load time, and, combined with the mid-point load, provides leading-edge tape performance.
Product Positioning
The IBM Magstar MP 3570 Tape Drive Model B1A is designed for field installation in an IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library Dataserver, to meet the demanding needs of the mid-range and network server marketplace. Fast time to data, multiple drive capability, and a wide choice of data storage capacity allow customers to tailor the libraries to their specific needs. Magstar MP tape technology offers superior reliability and performance, standing up to the demands of multiple users and automated tape handling. Customers with data-intensive applications will appreciate the performance of the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library in heavy usage, backup/restore, and archive/retrieval applications.
