Active Storage (http://www.activestorage.com), which specializes in high-performance storage solutions for media and creative professionals, has announced configurations and pricing for ActiveSAN, the high-performance metadata controller appliance for Xsan and StorNext networks.
Active Storage also announced plans to conduct live ActiveSAN demonstrations for the first time at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show next week in booth #SL5225. In addition, the company has collaborated closely with Quantum, the makers of StorNext, to address the needs of current Xsan users moving from Apple Xserve metadata controllers.
Migration strategies from Xserve-based Xsan networks to ActiveSAN were carefully crafted, including implementation of Access Control Lists (ACLs) for permission control, and the use of extended attributes, says Alex Grossman, CEO of Active Storage. ActiveSAN is a truly unique product that not only enhances current Xsan deployments, but also makes new deployments easier, he adds.
ActiveSAN systems will ship in matched metadata controller pairs for high-availability — two 1U ActiveSAN appliances, ready to use, out of the box — fully configured and optimized with the highest quality components available. ActiveSAN systems are designed to meet the needs and budgets of any-sized Xsan and StorNext deployment. All configurations of ActiveSAN are Innerpool ready, says Grossman.
Active Storage metadata appliance installation tools remove the complexities of the underlying Linux setup and StorNext tuning, and get customers up and running in minutes, he adds. ActiveSAN configurations are designed for video workgroup SANs. Through Dec 31, 2011, Xsan-only ActiveSAN configurations can support up to two StorNext FX clients as Xsan clients, provided the FX clients have current client maintenance agreements.
ActiveSANX8, up to eight Xsan or six Xsan and two StorNext FX clients: US$23,499;
ActiveSANX20, up to 20 Xsan and two StorNext FX clients; $25,999;
ActiveSANX8, unlimited Xsan and two StorNext FX clients; $28,999;
ActiveSANQNL for unlimited Xsan and StorNext clients: $33,999.
An ActiveSAN heterogeneous configuration supports an unlimited number of StorNext and Xsan clients. StorNext client licenses are available for Windows and Linux and must be purchased separately from Active. Additional client license details are available by contacting the company.
All configurations are delivered Innerpool ready and in pairs. Each appliance includes Linux OS, StorNext with dual channel 8Gb fibre channel card, ActiveSAN Admin software, ActiveStats software (when available), and a three-year warranty with 24/7/365 phone and email support.