The Magstar 3590 Tape Subsystem consists of a family of powerful integrated storage solutions that provide the highest levels of capacity, performance, and data reliability for stand alone and automated systems. Now, the Magstar 3590 Model E Tape Drive provides direct attachment to the growing number of open systems that support native Fibre Channel connection. |
Exceptional performance |
The Magstar 3590 Tape Subsystem provides industry-leading performance with a native drive data rate of up to 14 MB/sec. Using the LZ1 compression algorithm, sustained data rates of up to 34 MB/sec are possible with Ultra SCSI attachment.With the native Fibre Channel connection, Magstar 3590 E Models are capable of reaching maximum instantaneous data rates of 100 MB/sec and sustained data rates of 42 MB/sec. |
High capacity |
Using Extended High Performance Cartridge Tape, a Magstar 3590 Model E Tape Drive with extended length support can store up to 40 GB (120 GB with 3:1 compression) on a single cartridge. A Magstar 3590 Model B can store up to 20 GB of data (60 GB with 3:1 compression) on a cartridge. The result is less tape cartridge handling, improved automation slot utilization, and a reduction in floor space requirements.Magstar 3590 metal particle tape media is housed in a cartridge with the same physical size as 3490 cartridges, enabling coexistence in an IBM Magstar 3494 Tape Library. The Magstar 3494 Tape Library with Magstar 3590 drives provides access to as much as 748 TB (with 3:1 compression). |
Improved reliability and integrity |
The Magstar 3590 Tape Drive is designed for mission-critical data storage. Improved Error Correction Code (ECC) and servo tracks written on each tape cartridge help ensure high data integrity. Resident diagnostics dynamically monitor drive and media performance to detect potential problems and aid in resolution.In addition, the Magstar 3590 provides redundant data protection capabilities. Because data is systematically disbursed across the media as it is written and redundant parity checking bits are included, there is less chance of an information loss when a topical media error occurs. |
Leading-edge technology |
The Magstar 3590 Model E uses a bi-directional longitudinal serpentine recording technique and a fourth-generation magneto-resistive head that concurrently reads and writes 16 data tracks. This means that 256 tracks of data can be reliably written onto Magstar 3590 media. In addition, the electronics have been enhanced with a new digital channel technology that further increases data integrity. |
Investment protection |
Existing Magstar Model B11 and B1A Tape Drives (B Models) can be field-upgraded to the new E Models, which helps protect existing investments in Magstar 3590 technology. Media investments are also protected, because the new E Model drives can both read (128 track) and write (256 track) to existing cartridges. In addition, IBM continues to market Magstar 3590 B Models as well as the newer E Models.Support for the new Magstar 3590 Extended High Performance Cartridge Tape, which doubles storage capacity, is available on both the 3590 B and E models. All new Magstar 3590 Tape Drives feature this support, while existing drives can be field-upgraded.The E Models can be upgraded to provide Fibre Channel support. |
Cost effectiveness |
High-capacity media along with high-performance drives mean that less equipment and fewer cartridges and tape mounts are required. This translates into less floor space needed for tape drives, tape libraries, and tape cartridge storage.The resulting savings from reduced tape hardware and media requirements can help justify an investment in data automation. Over time, the lower cost of a Magstar 3590 Tape Drive implementation enables more data to be automated.A reusable storage asset, the Magstar 3590 protects existing investments and can be used as the foundation for a broad array of storage solutions. The Magstar 3590 also provides the capability to share tape drives through two Ultra SCSI or Fibre Channel ports. |
Ease of use |
The Magstar 3590 Models B11 and E11 incorporate a standard 10-slot ACF for high-capacity, stand alone unattended operation. The ACF can be used in random access mode as a mini-library. Cartridges are loaded into and unloaded from the ACF in a convenient, portable 10-cartridge magazine.The Magstar 3590 also features an operator/service display showing device status, activities, error conditions, and messages.The Magstar 3590 Models E11 and E1A now provide native Fibre Channel attachment for drives used in standalone configurations, with the Magstar 3494 Tape Library, or with a StorageTek Automated Cartridge System (ACS).Fibre Channel servers can be supported at distances of up to 500 meters from the Magstar 3590 Tape Drive,or up to 10km with the IBM 2109 Switch or 2103 Hub |
Service |
Magstar 3590 does not require scheduled preventive maintenance. IBM customer engineers use a built-in subsystem panel to perform service functions. |
Magstar 3590 models |
The Magstar 3590 is available in several configurations for Ultra SCSI and Fibre Channel attachment:
- The Magstar 3590 Models B11 and E11 are rack-mounted and incorporate a 10-cartridge ACF for high-capacity unattended operation. The Models B11 and E11 can be converted to Models B1A or E1A.
- The Magstar 3590 Models B1A and E1A have no ACF and are designed to be incorporated into the Magstar 3494 tape library.
- The Magstar Model C12 frame with one to four Model B1A or E1A Tape Drives provides attachment to the StorageTek 4410 and 9310 ACS.
|