New Storage Options From Hewlett-PackardNew Storage Options From Hewlett-Packard

Hewlett-Packard on Wednesday unveiled the HP StorageWorks Modular Smart Array 1500, which is available in a version with bundled data-protection software. The system combines a single intelligent controller for both SCSI and lower-cost Serial ATA hard disk drives.

HP OpenView Data Protector Version 5.5 software could help customers continuously back up transaction log files. They could also mirror data across long distances while accessing local data very quickly.

HP also has released its StorageWorks Ultrium 960 tape drive, HP's first WORM (write once read many)-compliant technology that ensures the integrity of information stored in it.

The systems and software are all available by next week. The 1500 costs $8,995, the 960 tape drive costs $5,549, and the Data Protector starter kit software costs $1,196 for Windows and $5,605 for Unix.

An industry analyst says the offerings will appeal to small and midsize companies. Says Diane McAdam, co-founder and analyst at Data Mobility Group: "With these systems from HP, a small customer could have less to manage and still have data protected from corruption."