I'm interested in it for a couple reasons. One, we're getting to the point
we need to add an additional Networker server or storage node to balance the
load of our backups (We have the server and three storage nodes now).
Currently everything is SCSI connected into a single library with 6 LTO-1
drives, and we're looking at adding some SAN connected LTO-2 drives for the
existing storage nodes. The current LTO-1 drives then would be all connected
to the backup sever and additional storage node. All those systems, coupled
with a half dozen tape pools for different retention periods and/or specific
data is getting difficult to manage for our operators.

I like the sound of sharing the tape library and drives among all the backup
servers/storage nodes. One of the things I'm wondering in this regard is:
Does AlphaStore provide the drive sharing without having to invest in
Legato's dynamic drive sharing modules? Or does it rely on those to
function?

I've read about some reporting feature it contains. I've also been
considering Networker Operations and Management Console as possible
enhancements as well. But it sounds like there may be a lot of redundancy
across these three products. Is anyone familiar with all of these and this
might indeed be the case?

I'm curious about the number of messages for each tape operation that you
mention below. Is there a lot?

I want some training. The information I'm finding out about the product
online seems to be minimal at best.

I've only seen AlphaStore offered for a Windows platform, although I assume
the Networker servers can be on any platform. Is this a correct assumption?
Does AlphaStore run on any other platforms? This is a concern because I'm
gearing up to replace my Windows based Networker server with an AIX based
Windows server, hopefully before we add the new LTO-2 drives I mentioned
above.



Dave Herrmann


-----Original Message-----
From: Wood, R A (Bob) [mailto:WoodR AT chevrontexaco DOT com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 27, 2004 3:17 AM
To: Legato NetWorker discussion; Herrmann, Dave
Subject: RE: [Networker] Opinions on AlphaStore: Anyone using it?


Yes, I'm using AlphaStor, have been for 3 or 4 years.

Overall the experience is not bad but there are some quirks. These centre
around what happens when AlphaStor, Networker and reality have a
disagreement (once you've sorted the order that you put things straight life
gets bearable)

Right now we have a bit of a problem trying to get AlphaStor to see a new
Networker server (Solaris server and it doesn't create the device for the
auto-changer that AlphaStor requires to configure the library - but we're
working on that).

Once set up it is pretty straightforward to use (don't notice that it's
there half of the time). You soon get used to the number of messages that
are created for each tape operation.

I'd suggest getting some training before it goes in (mmm... I must get round
to that...)

If you have specific questions or concerns, post away, I'm sure there'll be
someone on this list who has the answer. :)

Regards
Bob


-----Original Message-----
From: Legato NetWorker discussion [mailto:NETWORKER AT LISTMAIL.TEMPLE DOT EDU]
On Behalf Of Herrmann, Dave
Sent: 26 April 2004 17:21
To: NETWORKER AT LISTMAIL.TEMPLE DOT EDU
Subject: [Networker] Opinions on AlphaStore: Anyone using it?


I'm considering Legato's AlphaStore product to provide enhanced tape
management to my Networker backup system. Is there anyone in here using it?
What are some of your opinions on it?



David D. Herrmann

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