DUKE%MECVX8@draper.com (Kerry Duke) (12/16/88)
I am new to the `unix wizard' list so I do not know whether this subject has been addressed here before or if it is new; however I need some help so let me explain. I have been helping another group within our company set up a small network of SUN4 systems. One piece of equipment I think they need is a 8mm Exabyte helical scan tape backup system. I have looked around now, and am confused over my choices. There seems to be two camps; 1) the system integrators (or those who just sell the Exabyte drive, cables, and/or controller); and 2) the system manufactures (or those who sell the Exabyte drive, plus their own software). Can anyone tell me: 1. Whether it is a better decision to go with the system integrators and relay on the SUN provided -- standard (but not supported) software or go with the system manufactures and hope they maintain revisions that stay in step with the SUNOS? There is also the question of software compatibility from revision to revision. 2. What questions show I be asking the manufactures or integrators? 3. What kind of experience have you had with these sort of systems and why did you purchase the sort of system you did? Kerry Duke Staff Engineer C. S. Draper Laboratories