Tape Image Storage on Disk for Backup Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disk-based backup systems require substantial server and network resources to transfer data from a disk-based storage device to a tape drive, as the data needs to be reformatted for tape storage, leading to inefficient use of resources and disruptions during the backup process.
Innovation Solution
Storing backed-up information in a tape format, such as a tape image (ANSI/ISO/ECMA DDS, DDS-DC, or DDS-2), on a disk-based storage device like a NAS or SAN, allowing direct transfer to a tape storage device without further processing by a computer, thereby reducing the need for server and network resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If data is stored in disk-based storage device in standard disk format, then storage capacity and accessibility are improved, but additional processing and server resources are required for transfer to tape drive
Solution Approach 1:
The disk-based storage device pre-formats the backed-up data in tape format before storing it. This preliminary formatting action eliminates the need for subsequent reformatting when transferring to tape, thereby reducing processing complexity while maintaining storage capacity benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a copy of the data in tape format on the disk-based storage device, which can then be directly transferred to tape without requiring the original data to be reprocessed. This copying approach reduces the computational burden while preserving storage efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If data is transferred through server for reformatting before tape storage, then compatibility with tape drive is improved, but server capacity and network bandwidth are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The disk-based storage device performs the reformatting operation in advance, converting data to tape format before storage. This preliminary action ensures tape drive compatibility while preventing the need for subsequent server processing, thereby conserving server resources
Solution Approach 2:
The disk-based storage device independently handles the data formatting and storage operations without requiring server intervention. This self-service capability maintains tape compatibility while eliminating the need to consume server capacity and network bandwidth for reformatting operations
3Productivity
If backup is performed to disk-based storage system first, then backup speed and server availability are improved, but additional transfer time and resources are required for tape conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-formats data for tape storage on the disk-based device before the backup completes. This preliminary action eliminates the need for post-backup reformatting, thereby reducing transfer time while maintaining the speed advantages of disk-based backup
Solution Approach 2:
The formatting and storage operations are merged into a single operation on the disk-based storage device. By combining these functions, the system eliminates sequential processing steps and reduces overall transfer time while preserving the productivity benefits of fast disk-based backup
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for facilitating the performance of data backups facilitates the storage of information being backed up on a non-tape storage device in a format that facilitates the subsequent transfer of the information to a tape storage device without substantial further processing by a computer.