Linux backup solution and small robot/tape changer

[TwoProc]

Hi, can anyone refer me to some sucessful implementations of using a Linux box as a storage server, combined with a small tape changer or small robot, and a software solution to drive it? I'm considering a solution for a small business, which would entail a Linux server with NFS drives to push projects to (non automated from their desktops of both Windows and Macintosh types), and a tape robot, or possibly and autochanger. I'd like to have a minimum online tape capacity of 4TB.

Could some members please suggest solutions of Linux OS, backup software that can fully control an autochanger or library robot through a backup and recovery operation with a gui interface, as well as a small tape library or autochanger? Examples of ones in use would be great as well.

Keep in mind that I'm hoping for lower cost options, as Data Protector really is too large a system for this application.

Thanks much!

[Ivan Ferreira · Accepted solution]

You could try Amanda:

http://amanda.sourceforge.net/

Amanda can be used with mtx:

http://mtx.badtux.net/

"mtx is a set of low level driver programs to control features of SCSI backup related devices such as autoloaders, tape changers, media jukeboxes, and tape drives."

I don't know the price but you may look arkeia:

http://www.arkeia.com/compatibility/

[Kodjo Agbenu]

Hi John,

For backup software, you should also try Bacula :

http://www.bacula.org

Good lcuk.
Kodjo

[Alexander Chuzhoy]

I suggest you to call your local reseller and ask him the same question.

[Alan_152]

Amanda doesn't work with some tape/robot combinations. I would recommend that you read the man pages on tar, dd, mt, mtx, and mc -- and come up with your own scritpted solution.

[TwoProc]

Does anyone have examples that they themselves are using? Thank YOU very much in advance.

[Alexander Chuzhoy]

I'm facing similar task nowadays.

I'm thinking to go for robot arcvault 24:
http://www.overlandstorage.com/products/arcvault24.html
and netbackup starter pack as backup software.
approximated total cost: 2900 $
the price includes 10 LTO3 drives+ 200 barcodes.

You have to think of support and mainanence for your software,your personal familiarity, future use.