Are you supporting multiple tape systems for data backup and restore?
Companies with multiple tape-based batch processing and hierarchical storage management (HSM) systems are at a competitive disadvantage. The Mainframe Data Library (MDL) simplifies your datacenter.
Replace multiple tape technologies.
The MDL emulates 3480, 3490, and 3590 tape drives and handles IBM VTS and StorageTek VSM batch processing as well as IBM ATL and StorageTek SILO hierarchical storage management (HSM) equally well. The MDL also supports Fibre Channel 3590 tape attachment for incidental tape needs, so you can replace your entire tape infrastructure and still be able to send data tapes to third parties.
Stay ahead of shrinking backup windows.
A single MDL can provide over 1,000MB/s throughput, and multiple MDLs can be combined to achieve even greater performance. Dynamic scaling lets you add additional channels or backend storage without interrupting tape processing. And because the MDL is a true VTL for mainframe environments, you don't have to wait for an available tape drive or be slowed down by robotic mechanics and tape rewinds.
Accelerate the data recovery process.
Unlike tape, the MDL provides sub-second response time to mount requests-a key to efficient disaster recovery. You don't have to repeat the time-consuming process of locating a specific tape cartridge, finding the file within that cartridge, spinning the tape to that location, and reading the file you need.
Eliminate cache overruns.
Because MDL solutions provide unlimited cache through our partners' dedicated storage, you don't have to deal with the cache overruns-and subsequent tape recycles-that are inherent in today's VTS and VSM offerings.
Save CPU cycles with open data exchange.
Import or export data to and from open system platforms for applications such as data mining and data warehousing-without using valuable mainframe FTP cycles. Up to 1,536 available tape transports let you "write or read" the file as a tape and send and receive the data over your existing network via IP, so you don't have to write a tape and then read it into the open system platform.
Reclaim valuable data center real estate.
The MDL and associated storage typically reside in two 19-inch data center racks and can replace multiple SILOs (ATLs) or VTS/VSM engines. By consolidating your current tape infrastructure into an MDL solution, significant savings can be realized in space and environmental requirements, including electrical, air conditioning, and fire suppression.
Unify mainframe and open system backup processes.
Many small- and mid-sized data centers deploy separate mainframe and open system backup processes. Because the MDL is based on standard open system file structures, you can use backup products like Tivoli or Legato to access the associated disk files and combine them with your open system backups to create a unified disaster recovery process.