[NTLUG:Discuss] CAS systems, Was: Re: CD Turning 25

[Robert Pearson]

On 8/18/07, Wayne Walker <wwalker at bybent.com> wrote:
> On Sat, Aug 18, 2007 at 09:34:16PM -0500, Robert Pearson wrote:
>
> > My goal is to build consensus and make CAS better and more viable.
> What CAS system(s) have you used that you liked?
>
> --
>
> Wayne Walker
>
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None.
Mostly because the expectations far, far exceed the realization.
You've heard the phrase "Not ready for prime time"?
I am still waiting for a "DIY" or "Roll Your Own" solution.

The CAS system used in the post I wrote was EMC Centera.
The Centera fits very nicely doing what it was designed for.
Expensive but works.

EMC was the "Politically Correct" solution then and now at that location.
It was not "Economically or Technically Correct".
The manager who has to sign off on the purchase did and still does
play golf and socialize with the EMC people. Not a slam, just a fact.

The system was also purchased before:
1) we really understood our needs
2) other option were available

I'm sure you have done your research but if you have time read:
[all light reading]
<<http://www.drunkendata.com/?p=449>>
<<http://www.infoworld.com/article/06/06/15/79250_25OPstorinside_1.html>>
<<http://searchstorage.techtarget.com/originalContent/0,289142,sid5_gci1152286,00.html>>

I would look at:
Caringo's CAStor product
<<http://www.caringo.com/>>
This is an all software approach but you need to determine what you
really need and how much you can afford. And any other software only
approaches you can find.
The software only approach leaves you free to be hardware independent.
More bang for the buck but there is a downside.

I would talk to vendors who have Storage systems that are attractive
to you and your environment.
In some cases you can "Cost Justify" CAS purchase for a "one off" situation.

HP has a CAS product. IBM and Sun have partnered to outsell HP. That
sounds like maybe a deal could be made to get a really good price.

Robert