IBM 440 manual Tape backup

A detailed discussion on performance tuning disk subsystems in xSeries servers is available in the redbook Tuning IBM ^xSeries Servers for Performance, SG24-5287.

3.3.3 Tape backup

As with your disk subsystem, you need to carefully analyze backup requirements before a tape solution is selected. Considerations when selecting a backup solution should include:

￿Currently implemented backup solutions

If you are consolidating a number of servers onto a single x440 solution, for example, you may want to take the opportunity to move from differing and distributed tape technologies (such as DDS and DLT) and consolidate those into a single, high-performance, automated solution. An example is the IBM Ultrium Autoloader.

￿Current and projected capacity requirements

Select a solution that has the ability to scale as capacity requirements increase.

￿Performance requirements

You need to consider the backup window available, as well as the amount of data being backed up when determining what your backup performance requirements will be. It is also important to consider the need for quick access to data committed to tape when selecting a solution.

￿Connection requirements

Will the tape solution be connected to an existing SAN fabric and if so, will this require additional fabric hardware?

￿Hardware and software compatibility

If you implement a new tape solution, you need to ensure that current backup and management software is still suitable. Disaster recovery procedures may also need to be revised.

IBM offers a full range of high-performance, high-capacity and automated tape solutions for xSeries servers. For detailed information on these products, go to:

http://ibm.com/pc/ww/eserver/xseries/tape.html

Note: The x440 and RXE-100 support 3.3 Volt PCI adapters only. Make sure any SCSI adapters you use to connect your tape subsystem are 3.3 V or dual voltage adapters.

Chapter 3. Planning 89