Qualstar Makes Tape Storage Interfacing With Atto ExpressSAS 12Gb H1280 GT PCIe 4 SAS HBA

Qualstar Corporation makes it easier to manage a tape-based storage solution with the addition of Atto Technology, Inc.’s ExpressSAS 12Gb H1280 GT SAS/SATA HBAs to its catalog.

This HBA is one of only two on the market that utilizes the x8 PCI Express 4.0 host interface, offering the fastest available direct connection to SAS storage devices.

The ExpressSAS H1280 GT 12Gb PCIe 4 SAS HBA provides 12Gb/s transfer speeds for SAS. It has 8 external ports, which can be configured for redundancy, and can support as many as 2,048 end devices. Built-in latency-reducing technology ensures a consistent stream of data to the storage device. This, in turn, speeds up write times and reduces tape wear because it will not need to make multiple passes due to data flow interruptions. Additionally, all 12Gb/s HBA adapters include Atto PowerCenter Pro, an integrated software RAID solution that brings the performance and protection of RAID to attached storage devices.

Qualstar tape libraries and autoloaders

“Qualstar is dedicated to continually expanding its range of products to address all of our customers’ potential needs,” says Arun Vaishampayan, VP, global sales, Qualstar. “Atto ExpressSAS HBAs provide the superior functionality that our customers have come to expect, and we are excited to be able to offer it directly to them through this partnership.”

Specifications aside, ExpressSAS H1280 GT is notable for its effortless, user-first design. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux and with intuitive but software tools provided by Atto. A low-profile design provides better airflow over the device and also makes installation easier. And if anything goes wrong, a bevy of diagnostic and monitoring tools can pinpoint the failure – even down to individual cables.

“ExpressSAS 12Gb/s HBAs are a great interfacing solution for customers managing tape-based data storage solutions,” says Tom Kolniak, senior director, marketing, product management, and alliances, Atto. “Given our 30-year proven track record and Qualstar’s commitment to excellence, this partnership is a natural fit.”