Atto FastStream SAS/SATA RAID Controllers

ATTO Technology, Inc. introduced their latest shared RAID Storage Controllers. ATTO’s FastStream RAID Storage Controller are independent external RAID storage controllers that provide 8Gb Fibre Channel or 6Gb SAS host connectivity to multiple tiers of SAS/SATA disk storage enclosures.

FastStream offers a low cost-per-video stream for the media and entertainment industry and enables users to connect existing direct-attached storage without the addition of complex Fibre Channel SAN equipment. All models, including the 5550, 8250 and the 8550 are available with updated features and benefits.

FastStream storage controllers connect workstations or a SAN to low-cost JBOD disk storage, providing managed latency for high-performance workflows. The FastStream is well-suited for applications in digital audio/video and IT infrastructures, including digital film production, high-definition video post production, imaging, digital pre-press, disk-to-disk backup, audio production and transaction-based environments.

The FastStream SC 8550 is a high performing controller, with transfer speeds of up to 1500MB/s while providing parity RAID protection to multiple tiers of disk enclosures. It is engineered to run six streams of 10-bit uncompressed HD video or 30 streams of DVCPro HD video simultaneously for up to four users without the aid of a switch.

In the event of drive failures, FastStream’s RAID protection continues to supply full system bandwidth to applications while a RAID group rebuilds effectively removing the downtime found in traditional storage array restoration. In addition, FastStream does not require a SAN IT specialist for setup, management or maintenance and is compatible with Windows, Linux and Mac OS X.

All ATTO FastStream models come equipped with proprietary technology that helps end-users get the most out of their storage arrays. Advanced Data Streaming assures the integrity of stream counts and low latency while DriveAssure technology helps reduce management time by eliminating the need to replace storage drives prematurely. CacheAssure technology protects cached information without batteries and reduces maintenance costs. In addition, FastStream offers MultiPath Director that allows for maximum uptime with multiple redundant connections and load balancing to storage.

"ATTO’s 20-year history of providing the highest-performing products for the media and entertainment industry is evident in our FastStream controllers," said Jim U’Ren, Product Manager at ATTO Technology, Inc. "Our latest models provide enterprise-class features normally found in competitive products costing up to 10 times more. ATTO’s proprietary technology available with FastStream helps end users increase productivity while keeping administrative costs low."

The FastStream line is also available as an embeddable microATX form factor for OEMs and system integrators and supports up to 64 storage devices internally. With flexibility to meet a range of storage needs, embeddable FastStream units are designed with an optional external wide-port miniSAS connector giving customers the option of connecting to additional storage arrays providing a combination of internal and external storage.