History (1991): Laser Magnetic Storage International Introduces IBM 3480 Compatible Tape Drive

Laser Magnetic Storage International Company (Colorado Springs, CO) announced the availability of a low-cost half-inch cartridge tape solution for IBM AS/400 users.

The new Independence Tape Subsystem is IBM 3480-format compatible and targets system integrators and alternate channel markets.

According to LMS’s VP marketing, Roy Roque, “IBM’s AS/400 is a popular machine with an unpopular tape solution. We believe we have the answer that users have been looking for, highest competitive performance for about one-third the cost of IBM’s tape system. We’ve designed an Independence tape subsystem specifically for the AS/400 environment with direct plug-and-play to the IBM 2602 and 2607/2608 controller cards. We will also have direct plug-and-play to the IBM 2604 (FIPS channel) controller card in the 4Q91.“

The Independence subsystem provides 1.4GB of unattended backup with transfer rates of 1 to 3MB/s. The subsystem includes a formatter controller unit (FCU), tape cartridge unit (TCU), and a 7-cartridge stack loader (CLS) 1X1X1. Users may opt for 2 tape drives with a 2-cartridge autoloader 1X2X2 for 2.8GB of unattended backup.

The subsystem is a flush rackmounted unit measuring 10(H)x8.57(W)x26(D) inches. It is housed in an AS/400 cabinet that is available in standard colors.

All units attached to the 2602 and 2607/2608 controller card can be upgraded in the field with the 2604 attachment. IBM-compatible IDRC (Improved Data Recording Capability) will also be available as a field-upgradable feature in 2Q92. This feature will increase the subsystem capacity 2 times depending on data characteristics.

The 1X1X1 subsystem for 2602 and 2607/2608 is available at a suggested list price of $29,900.

This article is an abstract of news published on the former paper version of Computer Data Storage Newsletter on issue ≠41, published on June 1991.