Size Meets Speed: GB Labs Launches Space+

UK manufacturer GB Labs nnounced a high specification tier 1 shared storage product that is designed to support the fastest possible file-based workflows.

The arrival of Space+ with its high capacity and performance will help prepare facilities for the roll-out of 4K and 8K networks. Innovations implemented include dual 40GbE network adapters and 8TB disks, as well as the latest generation of high speed CPUs.

The net result of adopting these new technologies is an increases in networking speeds and higher capacity online and nearline storage. This tier 1 device now features a 128TB RAID storage; as such, a single nearline volume can now exceed 6PB.

At the same time, advances in central processor units means that Space+ can now deliver files to the network at 50% higher bitrates compared with its stablemate, Space. This enhanced performance and capacity allow for data rates suitable for online UHD editing.

“Next generation video formats need faster shared storage, higher capacity central arrays and greater network bandwidth. Technologies like dual 40GbE adapters and 8TB disks are vital to give UltraHD workgroups the scope to share files and work on projects collaboratively, direct from storage. We are proud to be among the innovators, with a reputation for deploying the very latest technologies and developing next-generation storage,” commented Ben Pearce, sales and marketing director, GB Labs.

For customers planning the transition to 4K workflows, GB Labs supplies dual 10GbE adapters as standard. This gives users the option to install Space+ onto existing Ethernet networks, ready to upgrade in stages to faster data rates.

The use of HyperSpace in tandem with Space+ enables workgroups to complete the move to a completely online 4K workflow.

HyperSpace is an SSD acceleration unit for Space HDD tier 1 storage arrays. Delivering in excess of 3,000MB/s data rates to client workstations, it facilitates 4K project sharing without the need to replace cost-effective HDD media with an expensive all-SSD array.

The system has already been adopted by the likes of Technicolor and US commercials house Drive Thru for use in its Flame and DaVinci workgroups.