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Computer peripherals industry

Linear Tape-Open (LTO) Technology Leaders Unveil Interchangeable Products at COMDEX Fall 2000

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Global technology leaders HP, IBM, and Seagate, along with licensees EMTEC Magnetics GmbH, Fuji Photo Film Company, Ltd., Imation Corporation, Overland Data, Inc., and Verbatim Corporation, showcased the first generation of interchangeable products for the LTO platform at COMDEX/Fall 2000 in Las Vegas. The Ultrium format, a single-reel, high-performance tape cartridge ideal for backing up, restoring, and archiving applications, was introduced as the next market-leading tape technology for ultra-high capacity storage.

The interchangeability of media, combined with its widespread availability and multiple product offerings, make Ultrium products the storage solution of choice for complex networking computing environments. The LTO program gives licensees wide latitude in implementing mechanical and electrical designs, but strict adherence to format specifications is required to ensure free interchangeability between products.

Key Takeaways:

  • The LTO program is an open tape format specification approach that fosters a pro-competitive environment, leading to faster-paced innovation and enhancements, lower prices, and data compatibility.
  • The Ultrium format uses a single-reel media with capacities of up to 100GB native/200GB compressed and data-transfer rates of up to 20MB/s native and 40MB/s compressed (assuming a 2:1 compression ratio).
  • The LTO program booth at COMDEX/Fall 2000 was located in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center in space L2343.
  • Linear Tape-Open (LTO) technology combines the advantages of linear multi-channel, bi-directional formats, with enhancements in servo technology, data compression, track layout, and error correction code, to maximize capacity, performance, and reliability.
  • HP, IBM, and Seagate are leading the charge in the development and adoption of LTO technology, with multiple licensees and partnerships to accelerate innovation and growth.
  • The LTO program has a well-defined four-generation roadmap for growth and scalability, with the Ultrium format being the first to market.

Statistics:

  • Up to 100GB native capacity per tape cartridge
  • Up to 200GB compressed capacity per tape cartridge
  • Data-transfer rates of up to 20MB/s native and 40MB/s compressed
  • Two-format roadmap for LTO technology, with the Ultrium format being the first to market

Sources:

  • Business Editors COMDEX Fall 2000
  • HP, IBM, and Seagate press release (Nov. 13, 2000)
  • LTO technology Web site (www.ltotechnology.com)

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