Evolution of a high-performance storage system based on magnetic tape instrumentation recorders

In order to provide transparent access to data in network computing environments, high performance storage systems are getting smarter as well as faster. Magnetic tape instrumentation recorders contain an increasing amount of intelligence in the form of software and firmware that manages the processes of capturing input signals and data, putting them on media and then reproducing or playing them back. Such intelligence makes them better recorders, ideally suited for applications requiring the high-speed capture and playback of large streams of signals or data. In order to make recorders better storage systems, intelligence is also being added to provide appropriate computer and network interfaces along with services that enable them to interoperate with host computers or network client and server entities. Thus, recorders are evolving into high-performance storage systems that become an integral part of a shared information system. Data tape has embarked on a program with the Caltech sponsored Concurrent Supercomputer Consortium to develop a smart mass storage system. Working within the framework of the emerging IEEE Mass Storage System Reference Model, a high-performance storage system that works with the STX File Server to provide storage services for the Intel Touchstone Delta Supercomputer is being built. Our objective is to provide the required high storage capacity and transfer rate to support grand challenge applications, such as global climate modeling.