Vicon iSCSI SAN-RAID

Vicon Industries, Inc., designer and producer of integrated IP video surveillance and access control systems, is replacing its line of RAID storage devices with new iSCSI SAN-RAID models that make use of newer networking and storage technology.

Like traditional RAID devices, the new models provide multiple, hot-swappable hard drives that provide highly secure storage of large quantities of recorded digital video. However, the new models are designed for use in a Storage Area Network, meaning that they no longer need to be directly, physically connected to and in close proximity to a DVR or NVR. Instead the SAN-RAID units exist as part of a network and can store video from one or multiple network recording devices regardless of their physical location. Compared to the traditional ‘one-RAID-per-NVR’ model, the SAN-RAID option therefore offers savings both in cost and physical space required by the units.

In addition, the new SAN-RAID devices make use of iSCSI protocol, allowing them to transmit and receive signals over regular Ethernet cabling (CAT-5 and other options). iSCSI protocol can transmit signals up to 25x farther than traditional SCSI connections used by the previous generation of RAIDs.

Vicon’s new SAN-RAID devices are available with 8, 14 or 42 bays and provide varying amounts of usable storage, ranging from 3.3 to 36 TB. They are available for shipment beginning mid July.

“Vicon’s commitment to IP-based, open platform video management is clearly evidenced by the range of products we continue to bring to market, from megapixel cameras to NVRs to these state-of-the-art SAN-RAID storage solutions,” stated Margie Gurwin, Vicon’s Director of Marketing.