Quantum has unveiled an expanded version of its Scalar i3 tape library that can now accommodate 800 usable slots in a 48‑U chassis, delivering up to 36 petabytes of native capacity when populated with LTO‑9 cartridges that hold 18 terabytes each (45 terabytes compressed). The new configuration supports 16 modules and maintains the library’s high‑density design, positioning it as a cost‑effective, high‑capacity solution for mid‑sized data centers that need to maximize floor space and budget.
The library’s density is reported to be 25 percent higher than competing tape libraries, a claim that is supported by the 800‑slot, 36‑PB native configuration in a 48‑U chassis. This expansion allows customers to scale their archival storage without expanding their data‑center footprint, a key advantage for organizations that are balancing capacity growth with space constraints.
Quantum’s announcement also introduces the Scalar iSCSI Bridge, a certified partnership with ATTO that enables SAS tape drives to connect to Ethernet networks via the iSCSI protocol. The bridge removes the traditional cabling distance limits of Fibre Channel, reduces hardware and power costs, and cuts maintenance requirements. ATTO estimates that the bridge can lower the total cost of ownership by up to 15 percent per drive, making Ethernet connectivity a more economical option for tape‑centric workloads.
Strategically, the expanded library and new connectivity fit into Quantum’s broader shift toward subscription‑based data‑management services and a focus on AI, media, and federal workloads. The high‑density, cost‑effective tape solution supports long‑term archival and ransomware protection, while the iSCSI Bridge expands deployment options for customers who prefer Ethernet‑based infrastructure. Together, these innovations reinforce Quantum’s position as a provider of scalable, secure, and low‑cost storage for the growing demand for unstructured data and AI workloads.
The product launch broadens Quantum’s competitive offering in the mid‑sized tape market, giving customers a more flexible and affordable path to scale their archival capacity. By combining higher density with Ethernet connectivity, Quantum enhances its value proposition for organizations that need to balance capacity, cost, and infrastructure simplicity, supporting the company’s transformation toward higher‑margin, recurring‑revenue services.
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