Discovery Communications Selected a Tape Library From Spectra Logic

Spectra Logic announced that Discovery Communications, a nonfiction media company and parent company of such networks like the Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, selected a Spectra T950 tape data archive/library to increase its data availability and data center efficiency in its Latin American operations, based in Miami, Florida.

Discovery chose the Spectra T950 because it is very easy to use, saves a great deal of space and maximizes uptime with its ability to store spare library components on-site for easy installation as required.

With programming in 35 languages and more than 175 countries and territories worldwide, Discovery Communications archives more than 24,000 hours of MPEG2 video content. Like many companies with large data volumes, limited space and demanding operational requirements, Discovery needed an efficient, highly available data protection solution. With the Spectra Logic solution, the company is able to accomplish the task in only 20 square feet – or approximately five raised floor tiles – of data center floor space – and with lower energy requirements. The Spectra T950 library consumes an average of 61 percent less data center floor space due to its intelligent use of interior space, and requires 63 percent less power than its competitors.

“Our new Spectra Logic archive is always available, and the file-based environment has improved both productivity and efficiency in our storage process,” said Joe Walker, vice president of engineering, Discovery Communications. “The Spectra T950 offers high density, superior technology, and an on-site part replacement program for maximum uptime.”

The Spectra T950, with 2,200 LTO-4 cartridges, was installed in January 2009 and offers a scalable, modular, robust archive system that easily meets growth requirements in minimum floor space.

“Spectra Logic continues to invest in research and development of new, advanced products and features to better meet the needs of the Media and Entertainment market,” said Hossein ZiaShakeri, Spectra Logic’s senior vice president of strategic alliances and business development. “Features such as Media Lifecycle Management, Hardware Health Monitor, and Assisted Self Maintenance provide proactive tools to protect customers’ content and to maximize the availability of the archived data. Our uncompromising commitment to reliability and availability has made Spectra Logic the digital assets archive provider of choice for hundreds of broadcast businesses worldwide.”