Automated storage specialist Data Robotics introduced the DroboPro
FS, the newest member of the Drobo family of automated storage
products. Building on the Drobo FS solution introduced in April 2010,
the DroboPro FS with the newly integrated Drobo Sync application is
designed to help enable small to medium-size businesses (SMBs) deploy
network storage and offsite backup. DroboPro FS is currently available
from select partners worldwide at a starting price of $2,1000,
according to company information.
DroboPro FS is based on BeyondRAID redundant storage technology, which
fits in the same place of the software stack as traditional RAID
between the file system and the driver. BeyondRAID chooses the correct
RAID algorithm based on data protection needs at any given moment.
Since the technology works at the block level, it can write blocks of
data that alternate between data protection methodologies. The feature
also allows IT managers to switch from single to dual disk redundancy
with one click.
"We are reinventing storage solutions that meet the specific
requirements of small business owners," said Tom Buiocchi, CEO of Data
Robotics. "Your typical small business needs data storage and
protection, but has limited budget and technical resources. We provide
the smart alternative to the overly complex and expensive solutions
being offered. The DroboPro FS delivers ease of use, functionality, and
affordability that many small businesses did not know could exist in a
single solution."
Businesses can also insert a new SATA hard drive or by replacing the
smallest drive with a larger one, even when all eight drive bays of the
DroboPro FS are full. The DroboPro FS connects directly to any Gigabit
Ethernet network for a plug in and share set-up experience, supporting
Microsoft, Apple, and Linux computer systems.
Liz Conner, senior research analyst for storage systems and personal
storage at IT research firm IDC, said there is a significant need for
simple, expandable storage solutions that address the relentless data
growth happening within personal and small to medium business markets.
"Data Robotics has had success in addressing the personal and SOHO
storage market with its Drobo FS,” she said. “The company is aiming to
meet the increasingly rigid requirements for data availability with its
DroboPro FS by enabling off-site backups while preserving its
simple-to-use nature that can scale with the capacity needs of its
users."
Every DroboPro FS includes the new Drobo Sync application that will
automatically backup (locally or remotely) all data to another DroboPro
FS. The solution also provides two Gigabit Ethernet ports with network
protection mode and provides automated and perpetual thin provisioning.
"SMBs need a storage solution that is cost-effective, easy to use and
flexible. DroboPro FS addresses these needs by combining key features
including expandibility, self-healing data protection, and offsite
backup and recovery," said Joe Fagan, group product marketing manager
at CMS Peripherals. "We're delighted to be the preferred launch partner
for the DroboPro FS in the UK."
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