Quantum's Scalar series are tape libraries, currently offered in 4 models (with multiple configurations per model) and scaling from entry-level to large enterprise deployments. Current models in the line range from the Scalar 24, with support for 1 or 2 tape drives; to the Scalar 10k with support for up to 324 drives.

All but the entry level tape library (the Scalar 24) feature the vendor's capacity on demand feature; where all slots are delivered (depending on the user's chosen configuration) but only those that the customer needs are initially activated. From then on, the additional slots can be activated via a software key in 46 (Scalar i500) or 100 (Scalar i2000, Scalar 10k) slot increments. When the base units are all activated, additional expansion modules can be installed to expand the library's capacity to its maximum potential.

Current entries in the Scalar series product lineup include:

- Scalar 24: The entry level offering, featuring 1 or 2 drives and supporting 21 (SDLT320 and 600) or 24 (LTO-2 or 3) tape cartridge slots. The 4U library utilizes a SCSI interface (SCSI LVD, HD68) and supports native Fiber or SNC connectivity.

- Scalar i500: Targeted to mid-range deployments, the i500 scales from 1 to 18 drives and 36 to 402 tape cartridges. The Scalar i500 is offered in one of 3 base systems (5, 14, and 23U) and an expansion module that adds a potential 92 slots (2 expansion modules can be used to raise the total potential slots to 402). The drives interface via SCSI-2/SCSI-3 LVD or 4Gb FC while the library itself can be accessed via SCSI-2/SCSI-3 LVD, SAS, or integrated FC.

Key features of the i500 include the vendor's iLayer management, with native partitioning, mixed media operation, drive hot swap, firmware management, remote monitoring, diagnostics, configuration protection, and direct support for third-party SRM (via SMI-S support); and a single, continuous robotics system.

- Scalar i2000: Scaling from 1 to 96 drives and 100 to 3,492 cartridges. The Scalar i2000 consists of a single Control Module (CM), which is itself 77 inches high and boasts from 1 to 12 drives and 100 to 300 slots; and from zero to seven Expansion Modules (EM), which each add up to 12 more drives and 456 more slots.

Like the i500, the i2000 features iLayer management, with drives and library interfaced via SCSI-2 LVD or FC.

- Scalar 10k: The top of the line model, scaling from 1 to 324 drives and up to 13,884 tape cartridges. Supported drive formats include both LTO-3 and IBM TS1120; and the library is connected via SCSI-2 LVD or an optional integrated FC interface (via an integrated Storage Network Controller).

Features include a redundant library architecture option with dual robotics, controllers, power, and library control paths; and an integrated SAN firewall.

New to the Scalar series is support for LTO-4 tapes in the i500 and i2000. The vendor states that LTO-4 support is planned for other tape systems later this year.

The Scalar Series tape libraries are available now. Visit the vendor's Web site for further information.