Quantum Scalar i3 Doubles Storage Capacity and Unlocks Ethernet Tape Connectivity with Scalar iSCSI Bridge

Quantum Corporation announced enhancements to the Scalar i3 tape library, including increased capacity and extended connectivity into more environments thanks to new Ethernet connectivity enabled by the Scalar iSCSI Bridge.

These improvements make Scalar i3 an increasingly secure, scalable, and low-cost choice for mid-sized environments where floor space and budgets are major considerations.

“With these updates, the Scalar i3 now delivers the best combination of scalability, density, flexibility, and cyber protection in its class,” said Geoff Barrall, CPO, Quantum. “As competing libraries from Dell and Overland Tandberg reach end-of-life, Scalar i3 will continue to provide customers with a clear upgrade path that lowers costs and extends the value of tape for years to come.”

Scalability and Storage Density
The Scalar i3 now scales up to 16 modules in a 48U rack while still delivering 25% more density than other tape libraries in its class. With 800 usable slots and more than 14.4PB of native capacity using LTO-9 (native 18TB/cartridge), the Scalar i3 sets the standard for scalable, high-density, low-footprint storage. These scalability improvements are available to all current Scalar i3 customers.

Extending Scalar Tape Libraries into More Environments
In partnership with ATTO Technology, Inc., provider in high-performance network and storage connectivity solutions, the Scalar iSCSI Bridge delivers an integrated, scalable solution that connects SAS tape drives to Ethernet networks using the iSCSI protocol. This approach provides a lower-cost alternative to Fibre Channel (FC), reducing hardware expenses, power consumption, and ongoing maintenance. By extending SAS connectivity over Ethernet, the iSCSI Bridge eliminates previous cabling distance limitations. As data growth increases operating and capital costs, the iSCSI Bridge offers a simple, cost-effective way to connect Scalar i3 and Scalar i6 libraries into more environments.

“This is a prime example of how our high-performance connectivity technology enhances the performance of an already excellent product,” said Tim Klein, president and CEO, ATTO Technology. “Through this partnership with Quantum, we’re jointly extending the value of tape libraries to Ethernet-based infrastructures via an integrated solution that lowers costs and expands deployment options, paving the way for broader adoption.”

Features and Benefits of the Scalar iSCSI Bridge include:

• Tape Libraries over Ethernet: Expands deployment options beyond FC and SAS by enabling SAS tape drives to connect over Ethernet. Extends SAS connectivity distances, offering flexibility comparable to FC environments.
• Integrated Bridge: Integrated directly into the library chassis, the Scalar iSCSI Bridge minimizes rack space requirements and simplifies deployment with a smaller footprint.
• Lower-Cost Environment: Reduces total cost of ownership by up to 15% per drive. By using SAS tape drives, organizations eliminate the need for costly Fibre Channel drives and HBAs while lowering power and maintenance expenses.

Avilability
The Scalar i3 with higher density and the Scalar i3 iSCSI bridge are available.