Fortuna Data

Qualstar Q8 Entry Level LTO Tape Library

Efficient, Scalable Data Storage for Modern Enterprises

Overview

The Qualstar Q8 Entry-Level LTO Tape Library is a compact, high-performance data storage solution, designed to support businesses in need of reliable, scalable, and efficient storage systems. With increasing demands on data management, the Q8 addresses the key needs of modern organisations through its innovative, space-efficient design. This 1U rackmount library provides a storage capacity of up to 144TB natively, expanding to an impressive 360TB when compressed. This significant storage power makes it ideal for data centres with limited space that still need a robust, flexible data backup solution.

Integrating the latest LTO-9 technology, the Q8 ensures high-speed data transfers, making it easier for organisations to back up and access critical information quickly and efficiently. Additionally, field-replaceable components offer easy maintenance, enabling seamless operations with minimal downtime.

The Qualstar Q8 includes a Remote Management Interface (RMI), which simplifies remote configuration and troubleshooting, allowing IT teams to oversee the storage system from virtually any location, and minimising onsite interventions.

Key Features & Benefits

Engineered for Reliability

  • User-installable tape drives for simple setup and maintenance
  • Field-replaceable components, including tape drives, power supply, and controller board, with standard tools
  • Rated for 2,000,000 tape load/unload cycles for long-lasting durability
  • Automated tape drive cleaning for uninterrupted performance

Compact, High-Density Storage

  • Fits 8 LTO cartridges in a 1U rack space
  • Provides up to 144TB of native storage capacity or 360TB (compressed)
  • Ideal for space-constrained data centres needing powerful storage solutions

High-Speed Performance

  • LTO-9 technology delivering transfer speeds of up to 300 MB/s for fast, efficient backups and data retrieval
  • Smooth, reliable performance for demanding data storage task

Effrtless Scalability

  • No need for complex upgrades or additional infrastructure—grow as you go!
  • Easily expandable with additional libraries to accommodate growing storage needs

Comprehensive User Interface

  • Built-in, menu-driven operator control panel that's easy to navigate
  • Browser-based Remote Management Interface (RMI) for remote configuration, management, and troubleshooting from anywhere

Data Security & Compliance

  • WORM (Write Once, Read Many) technology ensures data integrity—once written, it cannot be altered or deleted
  • AES 256-bit encryption keeps your data secure and compliant with the highest security standards

Efficient Media Control

  • Integrated barcode scanner for efficient media tracking and management
  • Configurable I/O port with options for 0 or 10 cartridges per module

Value & Cost Efficiency

  • LTO tape technology provides long-term data retention at a lower total cost of ownership than disk or cloud storage
  • Energy-efficient design reduces operational costs by consuming less power than traditional storage solutions
  • Backed by a three-year warranty for peace of mind

Highlights

  • Uses LTO tape drive technology
  • 8 cartridge slots, two 4-slot magazines
  • Single-slot I/O port
  • One half-height LTO-8 or LTO-9 tape drive
  • Up to 360TB with LTO-9 compression at 2.5:1
  • 1U height x 19-inch rack mount
  • Encryption capable
  • Barcode reader comes standard for fast inventory
  • Remote management simplifies IT administratio
  • Remote management via Ethernet
  • IPV6, SNMP with SSL & TLS
  • Encryption capable
  • Drive firmware update via remote management interface
  • Library firmware update via remote management interface or via control panel and USB thumb drive 

Specifications

Drive Type: LTO Ultrium 7, 8, or 9
Drive Interfaces: SAS or FC
Number of Tape Drives: 1
Number of Cartridge Slots:  8
I/O Port / Slots: 1
Native Capacity – LTO-9: 144TB
Max Compressed (2.5:1) Capacity LTO-9: 360TB
Native Capacity – LTO-8: 96TB
Max Compressed (2.5:1) Capacity LTO-8: 240TB
Native Capacity – LTO-7: 48TB
Up to Max Compressed (2.5:1) Capacity LTO-7: 120TB
Native Data Rate – LTO-9: 400 MB/s
Native Data Rate – LTO-8: 360 MB/s
Barcode Reader: Standard
Rack Mount Kit: Standard
Height: 1U (1.75" / 4.45 cm)
Width: 17.6" / 44.7 cm
Depth: 29.1" / 74.0 cm
Weight: 25 lb / 11.3 kg
Power: 100 – 240 VAC/80 W
Warranty: Three-years

Click here for the Qualtstar Q8 datasheet

The Qualstar Q8 LTO Tape Library offers a streamlined, reliable, and scalable data storage solution tailored to meet the growing demands of modern data centres. Its compact 1U design combined with high-capacity LTO-9 technology ensures substantial storage while maintaining efficient space usage. With features like remote management, robust data security, and field-replaceable components, the Q8 is built to simplify operations and reduce maintenance costs, offering long-term reliability. For businesses prioritising data integrity, performance, and expandability, the Q8 provides exceptional value, making it an ideal choice for secure, high-performance data storage.

Click Here for the Qualstar Q8 Datasheet