IBM Diamondback tape library addresses challenges midsize to large enterprises face in managing cloud storage.
A business’s data presents immense opportunities for seeking deeper insights, but the sheer volume of data requires the right technology to manage and utilize it efficiently. The IBM Diamondback tape library is designed to address the challenges midsize and large enterprises face in managing cloud storage. These challenges include exponential data growth, escalating storage costs, complex data migration processes, and simplified IT management amidst shrinking staff resources.
If interested, we published a news article about the Diamondback’s launch in December 2022 and IBM’s announcement of high-density tape drives in 2023.
The IBM Diamondback tape library incorporates the latest generation of Linear Tape-Open (LTO) technology, making it an ideal solution for organizations grappling with the demands of modern data environments. Its capabilities support many use cases, including big data analytics, cloud storage, media and entertainment workflows, ultra-high-definition video editing, digital video surveillance, Internet of Things (IoT) data storage, active file archiving, and reliable backup solutions.
| IBM Diamondback Tape Library at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Number of Drives | Up to 14 LTO 9 tape drives |
| Tape Drive Types | LTO 9 tape drives Fibre Channel SAS |
| Number of Frames per Library | Single-frame library |
| Increased Density | Up to 1584 LTO cartridge slots |
| Capacity* | LTO 9 cartridges: up to 27 PB (up to 69 PB with 2.5:1 compression) |
| Machine Types | MTM 4882-L9A: 1-year warranty plus ExpertCare options MTM 4883-L9A: 3-year warranty MTM 4884-L9A: 5-year warranty |
| Operating Systems Support | See the IBM System Storage Interoperation Center |
| *Capacity depends on the number of cartridges used and the compression ratio achieved. The listed capacity is physical. Usable capacity may be less. | |
IBM Diamondback Storage Density
A key feature of the Diamondback tape library is its exceptional storage density. Using LTO 9 cartridges, the Diamondback can house up to 27 petabytes (PB) of data in a single library frame, delivering high density and cost efficiency. This helps businesses manage data growth while preserving existing investments in IBM tape library products.
| Physical Characteristics of the Diamondback Model L9A | |
|---|---|
| Physical Characteristic | Measurement |
| Frame Height (without Top Rack) | 2025 mm (79.72 in) |
| Frame Height (with Top Rack) | 2295 mm (90.35 in) |
| Frame Width | 600 mm (23.62 in) |
| Frame Depth | 1225 mm (48.22 in) |
| Empty Weight of Frame (without Top Rack) | 413 kg (908 lb) |
| Empty Weight of Frame (with Top Rack) | 438 kg (964 lb) |
| Fully Loaded Weight of Frame (without Top Rack) | 785 kg (1,727 lb) |
| Fully Loaded Weight of Frame (with Top Rack) | 879 kg (1,933 lb) |
| Notes: – A Top Rack can optionally be installed on any IBM\u00ae Diamondback tape library, adding 5U of configurable rack space. Each optional IBM-supplied PDU adds 4.5 kg (10 lbs). – The empty weight assumes no tape drives or cartridges are installed, and the optional Top Rack is also empty. – The fully loaded weight assumes maximum LTO-9 tape drives (14) and cartridges (1548) are installed. Tape drives weigh 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) each, import/export magazines weigh 3.6 kg (8 lbs) each, and tape cartridges weigh 0.2 kg (0.44 lbs) each. – The optional Top Rack contains up to 5U of configurable space, with each U accommodating up to 13.63 kg (30 lbs). Fully loaded weight with the Top Rack assumes 68.18 kg (150 lbs) of components installed in the Top Rack. |
|
Integrated Tape and Media Management
The Diamondback tape library enhances operational efficiency with advanced management capabilities. Its integrated tape drive and media management features are accessible through a unified GUI, which is consistent with other IBM storage solutions. This intuitive interface provides critical tools for storage administrators, such as persistent library utilization and health status indicators, enabling at-a-glance monitoring and streamlined task management.
To mitigate risk and simplify management in cloud environments, the Diamondback tape library includes robust features such as:
- Automatic control-path and data-path fail-over: Ensures continuity in the event of a path failure.
- Tape-drive encryption: Enhances data security.
- Robotic accessor technology: Improves automation and efficiency.
- WORM (Write Once, Read Many) media support: Ensures data integrity by preventing overwriting stored information.
The Diamondback tape library offers:
- Persistent worldwide name and multipath architecture: For enhanced connectivity and reliability.
- Drive/media exception reporting and remote management: Simplifies monitoring and issue resolution.
- Host-based path fail-over: Improves resilience and business continuity.
The Diamondback’s Advanced Library Management System (ALMS) further enhances flexibility and performance by supporting dynamic storage management. This feature allows administrators to create and modify logical libraries and configure any drive within any logical library. The system also includes policy-based automatic media verification, helping to minimize data risks, and ensures business continuity through automated fail-over capabilities for both control and data paths.
IBM complements the Diamondback tape library with a suite of management software options, centralizing the administration of tape resources. These software solutions include:
- IBM Storage Archive: Provides direct access to files and directories stored on tape, allowing users and applications to interact seamlessly with data.
- IBM Diamondback tape library REST API: Facilitates access to library management commands for enhanced operational control.
- IBM Security Guardium Key Lifecycle Manager: Simplifies encryption key management through an intuitive user interface, bolstering data security.
With its innovative features, scalability, and cost efficiency, the IBM Diamondback tape library is an essential solution for enterprises looking to address the challenges of modern data storage and management while ensuring long-term value and performance.
Engage with StorageReview
Newsletter | YouTube | Podcast iTunes/Spotify | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | RSS Feed
