SANStream from Huge Systems

By Dmitry Chulkov

Review contents:

Data storage systems for TV Application technology of the uniform disk arrays from Avid Technology Decisions of Ehance Tech company SANStream from Huge Systems DriveBox from JC System Integration VelocityQ and Storage Area Networks (SAN) Network decisions from Medea Palladium architecture SAN/NAS decisions from Raidtec Network storage decisions of Sanbolic Company Storage in the broadcast environment

Until recently, when it was spoken about technologies SAN (Storage Area Network) for the organization of teamwork with the general data file, it was meant, that the decision will be constructed on base Fiber Channel and the expensive server software for control of a database and distribution of processes. Thus the significant part of the companies did not presume to take advantage of similar systems not only because of their high cost, but also because of various technological difficulties.

However progress does not stand still, and today the decisions have appeared which are provided by advantages of traditional SAN-systems, but nevertheless, are based on some other technology ant are cheaper, that is important for users and consequently, may be used even in low-budget production.

One of such decisions is the completed integrated storage system SANStream developed by American company Huge Systems. Equipped with the normal network interface Gigabit Ethernet, allowing supporting up to 12 DV streams on 3.6 MB/sec, the system SANStream unites in itself three integrated components, allowing to organize the collective access to the built-in disk array for editing and storages of data.

SANStream is offered the following equipment:

• Gigabit Internet switcher with 6 or 12 ports with RG45 or optical connector for direct connection of working stations;
• Build-in server on base of single or double-processor RS-422 platform with RAM 3 GB, functioning under management of OS Linux, provided by external ports USB, RS-232, PS2 for mouse and keyboard and DB15 VGA-connector for monitor;
• Five hard disk array of IDE standard with an opportunity of fast “hot” replacement (hot-swap), configured in RAID-3 with 480…1000 GB which provides the data stream about 130 MB/sec and is provided by function of a data recover in a background mode that allows to not interrupt working process at emergency replacement of a disk.

Thus, system SANStream provides not only an opportunity of creation of network working groups, but also a high efficiency and reliability of the material storage.

Executed in a standard 2U cabinet, intended for installation(editing) in 19" rack, the SANStream system has external output Ultra 60SCSI for connection of the expansion disk modules of (the system volume can amount to 4 TB).

SANStream storage system

To start work with SANStream, it is necessary for user on his workstation simply to connect the system as any common network rigid disk. After that all volume of a disk array will be accessible to any network user as SANStream provides separation of access to files and teamwork of several users.

SANStream has own IP-address in network, and also the utility of remote administration Webmin which allows to operate by adjustments of the system.

The opportunity of expansion, and also simple installation and operation of system are doubtless advantages of SANStream, as well as its low price, uncharacteristic for the systems of similar level.

SANStream supports popular network reports NFS, SMB and AFP and works with the following operation systems:

• Windows 95, 98/98SE, NT, 2000, Me, XP;
• MAC OS 9.2, OS X;
• SGI IRIX;
• Linux;
• Solaris.

Being inexpensive alternative to traditional SAN-systems, the SANStream system may become some good decision for storage of a video material when to the user group is needed any common disk space for teamwork with video and audio data, that it can be perfectly applied in some directions of TV and video production, such as preparation of news program, creation of advertising rollers and so on.

Material provided by ProVideo Systems Company