Hitachi Data Systems Inc has built new technology into its 7700E Freedom Storage disk arrays that offers what it claims is the first point-in-time copying facility for large amounts of data not to disrupt applications. Hitachi is currently in the process of applying for a patent for the technology, which it calls NanoCopy.
Mainframe users – and eventually Unix and NT users – will be able to carry out regular point-in-time saves, for backup, Y2K testing, business intelligence applications etc, across multiple volumes and DASD systems and subsystems. Currently, users of Snapshot and other comparable remote copy utilities face down time of between five and 30 minutes, during which time write activity cannot take place. The patent will detail advanced trigger technology, which enables replication across DASD subsystems to be carried out simultaneously across the system.
NanoCopy is based on Hitachi’s Asynchronous Remote Copy technology, which enables data to be transported over Escon channels at distance of up to 43 kilometers. It has been implemented in microcode on the 7700E, and works in conjunction with a new point-in-time backup software utility from BMC Corp, the first fruits of an alliance the two formed in May.
