Xtend SAN is an iSCSI Initiator specifically for Mac computers; it enables Mac (OS X 10.4.x. 10.5.x) PCs to access iSCSI-based storage resources on the network via their existing Ethernet connections. The vendor states that the initiator is compatible with leading Ethernet switches and NICs, as well as the vendor's own IPBridge offerings that enable SCSI or Fibre Channel storage resources to be attached to a network and accessed through iSCSI communications (see related link below for more on the IPBridge product line). Xtend SAN is offered as a Universal Binary (supports PowerPC and Intel-based Macs).

Xtend SAN ships with both the iSCSI device driver as well as a GUI management interface, and is targeted for use on individual Mac PCs as well as Xservers. The device driver handles the internal operations of translating data from internal storage operations to Ethernet transport, with support for iSCSI error handling and recovery listed as a standard feature. The management interface provides a GUI with the ability to configure protocol options and manage target devices. The vendor states that the management interface additionally guides the user through the initial setup.

Additional features include support for CHAP-based (Challenge-Handshake Authentication Protocol) authentication; support for iSNS (Internet Storage Name Service), facilitating automated IP-based discovery of iSCSI devices; and support for Login Redirect, allowing for the automated redirection of traffic when intended targets have since changed their address.

New features in the latest Xtend SAN release include Mac Leopard support and support for use with HP StorageWorks Enterprise Virtual Arrays (EVAs).

Xtend SAN is available now; vendor pricing is listed at $195 per seat. Contact ATTO Technology for further information.

product submission by DPW Staff

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