Version 8.5 brings a range of updates to improve the user experience for both Mac and Windows users.
Other World Computing (OWC) has unveiled OWC SoftRAID 8.5, the latest iteration of its RAID management software for macOS and Windows. It is designed to enhance data protection, functionality, and system stability for many users. This update, now available as a free upgrade for current subscribers, introduces numerous improvements aimed at creative professionals and IT administrators.
Enhanced Mac Compatibility with macOS 15.4
OWC SoftRAID 8.5 integrates seamlessly with macOS 15.4, featuring a new driver that improves the resilience of RAID 4 and RAID 5 volumes, especially when dealing with failing HDDs or SSDs. By marking disks as failed upon the first detection of read or write errors, the system leverages RAID redundancy to maintain uninterrupted performance through dynamic data reconstruction.
Key improvements for Mac users include:
- Disk Failure Handling: Enhanced detection and management of read/write errors when a drive in a RAID 4 or RAID 5 volume fails, reducing potential data loss.
- Disconnected Disk Management: Increased system stability even when multiple disks or enclosures are disconnected while volumes remain mounted.
- Improved Administrator Tools: Expanded command-line functionality, allowing administrators to perform more SoftRAID tasks through Terminal or scripting.
Windows Users Benefit from Improved Stability and Compatibility
On the Windows side, OWC SoftRAID 8.5 brings critical updates that expand its functionality and improve reliability, aligning it more closely with the Mac version’s capabilities.
Highlighted features include:
- Cross-Platform Support: Windows users can now mount, read, and write non-RAID volumes initially created on SoftRAID for Mac, improving workflow flexibility.
- Enhanced RAID 1+0 Management: Users can adjust primary disks and remove member disks from RAID 4, RAID 5, and RAID 1+0 (10) volumes with greater control.
- Improved Diagnostics: Upgraded troubleshooting tools improve problem identification and resolution.
- Optimized TRIM Handling: Efficiency improvements for RAID 4 and RAID 5 SSD volumes.
- Event Logging Enhancements: More detailed logs provide better insight into system events and issues.
- New Compatibility: Added support for Windows Volume Shadow Copy Service, allowing users and applications to create backup copies of files or entire volumes.
- Stability Improvements: Updates to volume validation and automatic rebuild processes contribute to a more reliable RAID management experience.
OWC SoftRAID 8.5 Availability
OWC SoftRAID 8.5 is now available as a free update for current subscribers and can be purchased by new users through the OWC Software store. Additional information and downloads are accessible via the official OWC SoftRAID webpage.
OWC Archive Pro Ethernet
Also announced is the OWC Archive Pro Ethernet, a high-speed network-based LTO backup and archiving solution designed for media and entertainment professionals, government agencies, and businesses requiring secure, scalable data storage. Featuring ATTO XstreamCORE 8100T technology, the Archive Pro Ethernet supports up to four SAS tape drives over a 10Gb iSCSI Ethernet network, providing efficient data transfer rates of up to 400MB/s (native) and 1000MB/s (compressed).
With a tape shelf life of 30 years and storage capacities of up to 45TB per tape, OWC claims this will translate to substantial cost savings and enhanced reliability compared to HDD-based systems. General availability is expected in April 2025, starting at $7,799.
OWC Thunderbolt 5 Solutions
Additionally, OWC will showcase its latest Thunderbolt 5 storage and connectivity solutions at NAB 2025, led by the OWC ThunderBlade X12—a high-performance production shuttle RAID providing up to 96TB of storage with optimized support for RAID 0/5/10. Capable of handling 4K to 12K RAW video and complex VR workflows, the ThunderBlade X12 is scheduled for general availability in late April 2025.
OWC will also showcase its Thunderbolt 5 Hub, OWC Atlas Memory Cards and Readers, Envoy Ultra portable SSD, Express 1M2 USB4 SSD, and ThunderBay Flex 8. These innovations enhance productivity for creative professionals and enterprises needing reliable, high-speed storage solutions.
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