Linux server and workstation integrator Pogo Linux has launched a line of Linux-based appliances that combine iSCSI SAN (storage-attached network) with typical NAS (network-attached storage) functionality. The StorageDirector 3000-series appliances run Pogo's Linux-based StorageDirector OS, and target the SMB (small- to medium-sized business) market.

The StorageDirector series comprises three models, all in a 3U rackmount form-factor. The models range from 4TB to 12TB in capacity.

The devices offer 16 hot-swappable SATA (serial ATA) drive bays, and are said to support “ultra-dense 3U SATA 3G fast RAID.” They are based on an Intel 5000P chipset with a 1,333MHz front-side bus, and powered by a pair of Intel Dual Core Xeon 5130 processors with 4MB caches clocked at 2GHz. A pair of 1GB DDRII-667 buffered memory sticks come standard.

The StorageDirector OS itself boots from a laptop-sized 2.5-inch SATA drive. Other standard PC-style features and I/O include:

• Optional optical drive
• ATI ES1000 graphics card with 16MB of RAM
• AMC 3Ware RAID controller
• Dual gigabit Ethernet ports
• Parallel and serial ports
• 2 x USB 2.0 (rear)
• PS/2 keyboard/mouse ports
• Redundant 650 Watt hot-swappable power supplies
• 9 x fans
• 19 x 27.5 x 5.25 (3U)
• 80 pounds in default configuration

StorageDirector's Web-based GUI
(Click for slightly larger view)
The 3000-series devices' Linux-based StorageDirector OS provides a “simple” management GUI, according to Pogo, with built-in backup and disaster recovery, as well as monitoring and alerts. Other touted software features include:

• Multiple snapshots
• Remote mirroring
• UPnP/WSDL server
• LDAP client
• IP failover
• Access control list
• HW or SW RAID
• iSCSI initiator & target
• Error recovery
• Remote replication

Eric Logan, CTO, stated, “Our open architecture means Pogo Linux can significantly reduce costs, yet still provide a high-end feature set.”

Availability

The 3000-series devices are available now, and can be customized using Pogo's system configurator. Pricing ranges from $8400 to $15,500.

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