We're looking to do similar. I have nearly 6 TB total storage being backed up in three disparate systems. I'd like to consolidate into one, also using Backup Exec. The plan is to backup to disk nights/weekends then to tape for offsite storage. The biggest issue will probably be pulling all the data over the network to disk but then we're thinking off loading to a local LTO4 auto-changer should fly and not impact network performance.
After receiving some tips from the list I've priced out an SATA JBOD from PC-Pitstop. Their pricing is good and performance looks sufficient for backup purposes. 500GB Seagate drives (60-month warranty) are running $125 - that seems to be the sweet spot right not, but I'd prefer to start with 1TB drives in order to be more forward-looking. Quantum has an 8-slot changer for about $5800. I'll check into the Dell's as well. While we've semi-decided on Backup Exec, I'm also intrigued by DPM from Microsoft. All I've done is install it but since we don't have the disk array yet I really can't do anything to test it. Roger Wright Network Administrator Evatone, Inc. 727.572.7076 x388 ____ "There is no beter time than the present to be better than we were yesterday." - Gary Kelley, Television Weatherman From: Andy Shook [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, January 25, 2008 9:16 AM To: NT System Admin Issues Subject: disk vs tape backup device opinions List, Happy Friday from the Shookster... Anyway, I'm shopping for a new backup device(s) and trying to make sure I can meet the requirement of offsite media rotation. Here's my deal. Single physical site using BackupExec to LTO drive/VMWare Virtual consolidated backup to cheap Promise DAS via 320. Both backup devices are older and not under warranty but they work well. While I have mgmt OK to go get something, I'd like to get away from tape 100% but I've got to rotate media offsite and tape are so much more "travel friendly" than disk. I'm thinking of some new disk appliance/DAS/whatever and a Dell LTO4 autoloader (We're a Dell Premier Partner and me thinks I won't get a better price anywhere else) and a booty-load of new tapes. What would you do? Shook http://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshook ~ Upgrade to Next Generation Antispam/Antivirus with Ninja! ~ ~ <http://www.sunbelt-software.com/SunbeltMessagingNinja.cfm> ~
