Quantum Corp has recently made headlines in the data storage sector by announcing support for the new LTO Ultrium format Gen 10 full-height tape drives across its Scalar tape libraries. This includes its prominent products: the Scalar i7 RAPTOR, Scalar i6, and Scalar i6000 systems. This move not only highlights Quantum’s commitment to advancing tape technology but also reinforces its position as a leader in high-density, secure, and cost-effective archival storage solutions.
What Does LTO-10 Bring to the Table?
The introduction of LTO-10 drives significantly enhances the storage capabilities available to businesses and organizations. Each LTO-10 cartridge boasts a massive native capacity of 30TB, which can expand up to 75TB when compressed at 2.5:1. This level of capacity is crucial in today’s data-driven world, where the need for long-term data preservation has never been more critical. Quantum’s Scalar tape automation and intelligent management software further elevate this offering by enabling customers to achieve the highest storage density, minimizing the total cost of ownership, and providing robust cyber protection.
Integration with Quantum Solutions
Quantum has engineered its Scalar i7 RAPTOR tape library to deliver unparalleled storage density on the market, capable of accommodating up to 60PB (native LTO-10) within a single rack. This impressive density results in more than three times the storage capacity of competing systems, translating into operational cost reductions of 70% through savings in floor space, power, and cooling. The Scalar platform also includes advanced security features such as Ransom Block, Tape Blocking, and Active Vault, which provide a robust defense against ransomware and cyber threats, ensuring vital data remains safe and accessible.
As noted by Fred Moore, president of Horison Information Strategies, “The introduction of LTO-10 marks a major leap forward in tape technology. Its capacity, performance, and architectural improvements make it the most compelling choice for petabyte-scale, long-term data retention.” This statement emphasizes the growing role of tape technology within data management strategies across various industries.
Performance and Connectivity Enhancements
The LTO-10 drives come equipped with multiple interface options, including 32Gb Fibre Channel (FC) and 12Gb Serial Attached SCSI (SAS), which facilitate data transfer speeds of up to 400MB/s. Noteworthy is the support for active optical connectivity in LTO-10 SAS drives, allowing cable distances to extend from 10 to 100 meters. This option provides businesses with greater flexibility in deployment scenarios, addressing various facility requirements.
In addition to performance improvements, LTO-10 eliminates the need for media calibration, thus streamlining operations and boosting overall efficiency. This aspect is particularly beneficial for organizations aiming to optimize their data management processes.
Market Availability and Future Directions
Quantum is currently accepting orders for its LTO-10-based solutions, including the Scalar i7 RAPTOR, Scalar i6, Scalar i6000, and the ActiveScale object storage platform. Expected shipments are set to begin later this quarter, positioning Quantum to meet the rising demand for reliable data storage options that align with contemporary needs.
In concert with developments from the LTO Consortium—a group that also includes industry leaders like IBM and HPE—Quantum’s LTO-10 technology is set to play a central role in the evolution of data storage solutions. These advancements cater to an era where businesses require integrated cold storage tiers, automated archival systems, and long-term data retention capabilities, particularly in environments dominated by artificial intelligence, compliance regulations, and high-volume data generation.
Conclusion: A Competitive Edge in Data Management
As organizations increasingly turn to scalable and efficient storage solutions, Quantum’s addition of LTO-10 support in its Scalar tape libraries exemplifies the intersection of technological innovation and market needs. With heightened storage capacities, enhanced security features, and seamless integration with existing Quantum solutions, LTO-10 is poised to redefine data management strategies. The ongoing advancements in tape technology will play a significant role in shaping how businesses navigate the complexities of data storage in the coming years.
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Native Capacity | 30TB per LTO-10 cartridge |
| Compressed Capacity | Up to 75TB at 2.5:1 |
| Data Transfer Speed | Up to 400MB/s |
| Operational Cost Savings | 70% lower through space and power efficiency |
| Integration | Works with ActiveScale, StorNext, and DXi |
| Shipment Start Date | Expected later this quarter |
For more detailed information about LTO-10 drives, visit the Quantum LTO-10 drives and media page.