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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.”