For one thing, more large networksnow rely on some form of automated tape library or automatic tape-loading device rather than standalone drives, says Peterson. Novell Inc. NetWare operating systems, has grown from 15 percent to about 25 percent over the past year, Peterson says. And 46 percent of those with Unix-based servers already have automated tape libraries. Other factors affecting tape use i nclude lower prices and significant increasesin data-transfer rates, capacities, andreliability. These capacities overwhelm the 4.5GB that DAT and other technologies can accommodate.
Organizations can expect to pay less for the tape drives and libraries they are buying.
AIT-based libraries show a similar spread. As the technology advances, lower prices are letting customers use tape in new applications and environments. Sony Entertainment's archival project is a case in point. In the past, Sony Entertainment has stored masters of music and movies in a variety of warehouses. We can then cross-copy and sort of turn the clock back.