Hybrid NAS/iSCSI SAN for SMBs From MicroNet

MicroNet Technology introduced its first unified NAS/iSCSI ipSAN-ready storage solution for the SMB market. The MicroNet MaxNAS combines best-in-class NAS file serving performance with iSCSI storage access for an easy-to-use, centralized repository capable of storing up to five terabytes of image, video, Word, Excel, PDF, database files and more.

Beyond the typical file server, the MicroNet MaxNAS is a high-performance network attached RAID with both NAS and iSCSI support to provide an all-in-one solution for SMB storage requirements. The MaxNAS unit features dual Gigabit Ethernet ports featuring enterprise-grade fault tolerance features such as load balancing, IP multi-pathing, and failover/failback capabilities. Performance and best-in-class power efficiency are provided by Ultra-Low Voltage Intel Processors, delivering enhanced performance and increased speed with greater efficiency. MaxNAS interoperates with Microsoft Networks (CIFS/SMB), Apple Filing Protocol (AFP 3.1), Network File System (NFS v3), File Transfer Protocol (FTPs), and Secure Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTPs). Three USB and one eSATA expansion port for portable storage and printer sharing round out the MaxNAS to deliver the performance and flexibility needed for business.

MicroNet MaxNAS features include:

• Two Gigabit Ethernet ports with load balancing and failover
• Selective iSCSI target mode
• RAID 0/1/5/6/10/JBOD/SPAN with hot swap/hot plug drive modules
• 3 USB expansion ports and one eSATA port for storage and printer sharing
• Selective USB host mode
• iTunes compatible streaming audio server
• Installation Wizard for PC/Mac
• Embedded Synchronization/Backup Utility (NSYNC)

Framingham, Mass.-based research firm IDC predicts worldwide shipments of total terabyte storage capacity will grow more than 50 percent annually through 2010. The research firm also notes that the worldwide market for Internet Protocol (IP)-based storage systems (NAS and iSCSI SAN combined) will grow more than 20 percent annually and will reach $9.2 billion by 2010.

For users looking for the advantages of a Storage Area Network (SAN) but seeking alternatives because of the cost, MaxNAS offers block-level access to storage, as in a typical Fibre SAN solution. However, the unit utilizes Gigabit Ethernet instead of expensive Fibre Channel components, allowing for both block and file storage capabilities that deliver fast access to both files and database information.

The MaxNAS unified NAS/iSCSI storage solution is a next-generation storage solution that integrates several key technologies to simplify the storage, management and sharing of all types of digital content for SMBs. By consolidating file and database files into a single, easy-to-use, web-based management utility it has never been easier for SMBs to ensure critical data files are available to network users on demand.

In addition to its hybrid design, MaxNAS is at the forefront of energy-efficient SMB NAS design, consuming 35 percent less power than conventional file servers. Efficiencies include disk drives that spin-down when not in use, programmable start-up/shut down and an energy efficient Ultra Low Voltage Intel Processor .

“MaxNAS is another innovation from MicroNet, extending the company’s reputation for delivering reliable storage solutions to SMBs,” said Terry Paoli, Director of Marketing at MicroNet. “MaxNAS is a testament to our precision engineering team and quality manufacturing, helping organizations address the complexities of network storage.”

The MaxNAS is available immediately with an MSRP of $1,349 for a 2.5 terabyte configuration, $1,699 for the 5 terabyte model and $2,499 for the 7.5 terabyte appliance.