Super DLT (Digital Linear Tape) is a high-capacity magnetic tape storage technology that was developed by Quantum Corporation. It is an extension of the earlier DLT format and was designed to provide reliable and cost-effective data backup and archiving solutions for businesses and organizations. Here are some key features and aspects of Super DLT:
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High Capacity: Super DLT cartridges offer a significant amount of storage capacity. Depending on the specific generation, Super DLT cartridges can store multiple terabytes (TB) of data. This high capacity makes them suitable for long-term data retention and backup purposes.
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Linear Tape: Like traditional magnetic tape formats, Super DLT uses a linear tape design, where data is written and read sequentially along the length of the tape. This design allows for consistent and reliable data access.
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Multiple Generations: Super DLT technology has gone through multiple generations, each offering increased capacity and data transfer rates. Generations include Super DLT (SDLT) 220, 320, 600, and 600A, among others.
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Data Transfer Rates: Super DLT drives provide relatively fast data transfer rates, allowing for efficient backup and restore operations. The exact data transfer rate varies depending on the generation and specific drive model.
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Compatibility: Super DLT drives are typically backward compatible with earlier DLT generations, which ensures that older tape cartridges can still be used with newer drives.
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WORM Cartridges: Some Super DLT cartridges are available as WORM (Write-Once, Read-Many) media. This means that data can be written to the tape once and then read multiple times, providing data integrity and compliance benefits.
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Reliability: Super DLT technology is known for its reliability and durability. It is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions and maintain data integrity over extended periods.
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Data Encryption: Some Super DLT drives offer hardware-based encryption, enhancing data security for sensitive information stored on tape.
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Backup Software Integration: Super DLT drives and libraries can be integrated with backup software solutions, enabling automated backup and data retention strategies.
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Scalability: Super DLT solutions are scalable, allowing organizations to add additional tape drives, cartridges, and libraries as their data storage needs grow.
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Archiving and Data Retention: Super DLT is commonly used for long-term data archiving and retention. Many organizations use Super DLT tapes for compliance purposes, where data must be retained for specific regulatory requirements.
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End of Life: It's important to note that as technology has advanced, Super DLT has been succeeded by other tape storage technologies like LTO (Linear Tape-Open), which have continued to evolve with even greater capacities and performance.
Super DLT technology has been utilized by businesses and organizations for many years as part of their data backup and archiving strategies. While newer tape technologies have emerged, Super DLT remains a reliable choice for organizations that require high-capacity and cost-effective data storage and retention solutions.