Archiving and disk to disk backup using Nearline disk drives

The use of data and its frequency of use changes over time. This can be roughly divided into "frequently accessed data" and "infrequently accessed data". Data having a high frequency profile will require to be fetched immediately and should be stored on high-performance storage devices. However, storing infrequently accessed data on high-performance storage devices generates unnecessary cost. To meet the growing demand for cost-effective high-capacity storage, for less frequently accessed data, Fujitsu provides high-capacity, highly-reliability, yet low-cost, Nearline disk drive options in its ETERNUS disk storage systems.
The combination of Onlline disk drives and Nearline disk drives in the same cabinet enables ETERNUS disk storage systems to cost effectively handle the following applications.

Backup volumes are generally used as both temporary storage and high-speed recovery storage following any unexpected storage event. Low-cost, high capacity and reliable Nearline disk drives provide the most appropriate storage space for such activities. ETERNUS disk storage systems are highly accessible and cost-effective backup environments through the use of ETERNUS Advanced copy functions. Even more cost effective space use and performance is support by "QuickOPC." This function only copies data changed on update, so minimizing the time required for copying.

Data, such as e-mail archives, image and sound files, CAD, R & D documents, history and regulatory compliance documents have similar requirements. That is the need to be fetched easily and simply on demand, despite having an infrequent access profile. This data is not only rapidly increasing, but also requires long-term retention. So when it comes to selecting the right storage medium, low-cost and high capacity Nearline disk drives are very appropriate.