Archive manager Merak launches new storage solution| Merak

Merak will bring your information at the right temperature

14-11-2016 - in Merak newsletter

Transport of backups

Magnetic data carriers and temperature fluctuations: It's a difficult marriage. The magnetic tape is composed of layers of various materials, which react differently to temperature. Large temperature differences can cause serious damage, which in the worst case will result in the loss of your backups.

Merak prevents that damage and extends the life of your tapes. Until recently, your tapes were travelling in courier vans with a traditional air conditioning system. In normal weather conditions, this is a good solution. But you know us: Good is not good enough. We want to protect your data in the same way in the event of the most extreme temperature fluctuations (severe frost or heat wave). Hence our continued investment in an intelligent climate control system for the Merak fleet.

Box@home boxes are stored in the warehouse

Your data travels in business class

In the Merak e-bunker we ensure the ideal storage conditions for your backups. Temperature control is an essential part of this. That storage temperature is lower than the operating temperature. Now it would be easy to place responsibility for the gradual transition from storage to operating temperature in the hands of the customer. But that wouldn’t be in line with our philosophy. That's why we deliver your carriers at operating temperature, even if the weather is excessively erratic. How do we do that? By making efficient use of the transport time: a smart climate control in our courier vehicles ensures a gradual change in temperature during the ride. On arrival, the magnetic tapes are almost ready for use. Even though the outside temperature reaches peaks of up to 30°C… in the shade.

Six months of tests

The new climate system was tested for six months to simulate the most extreme situations. The test vehicle with the 'smart' air conditioning was fitted with 'smart' insulation in the freight section: A full day in the blazing sun or in extreme cold? Its load stays perfectly at the right temperature. Following that positive evaluation, Merak fitted all courier vehicles with the same system. As a result, your backups are practically operational on arrival. Another worry off your hands. Excessive measure? No, because your information deserves more than just ‘ordinary’ treatment.