Accusys ExaSAN B08S2-PS - Manual (Page 11)

1. Introduction
User Guide Page 1-1
1. Introducing ExaSAN PCIe2.0 Storage Systems
1.1 System Overview
Your new ExaSAN (pronounced “X-sa-SAN”) PCIe 2.0 Storage System “B08S2-PS” is one of a family
of PCI-express based storage and switch solutions from Accusys capable of transferring data at up to 20
Gb/sec. The small form factor B08S2-PS can be used on a desktop, rack, or in a transportable
environment as a DAS (Direct-Attached Storage) or SAN (Storage Area Network) storage solution for the
post production and broadcasting industries that require high bandwidth
1.1.1 What is the ExaSAN Solution
Developed by Accusys, Inc., a worldwide leader in RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)
storage systems, ExaSAN is a family of storage and switch products that take advantage of well known
PCIe (PCI Express) technology speeds, standards, and roadmap. The current ExaSAN products employ
PCIe2.0 protocol that provides a 5 Gb/sec per lane transfers. With 4 lane QSFP (Quad SFP) connectors
and cables, ExaSAN can transfer up to 20 Gb/sec using single port QSFP HBA’s. With a dual port
QSFP HBA, data transfers up to 40 Gb/sec are available to the connected workstation. The ExaSAN total
solution, including its complete line of rack mount systems, tower systems, PCIe switch systems and
accessories, puts the benefits of shared, scalable, and high-performance storage within easy reach of
organizations with limited IT resources and budgets.
Post production work including non-linear editing (NLE) requires high bandwidth storage to quickly
move the volume of data being processed, and ExaSAN storage solution meets those demands. The high
bandwidth provided by ExaSAN technology allows the client to complete editing tasks in a much shorter
time to save time and money. ExaSAN is available as a complete solution that includes the PCIe RAID
system, cable and HBA card in a DAS configuration.
Figure 1 below depicts the ExaSAN B08S2-PS system solution architecture in a DAS environment.
Figure 1: B08S2-PS DAS environment
Whether it’s collaborative video editing in a post-production workgroup, or a shared research project in a
university, the ExaSAN solution offers a range of performance levels and storage capacities that scale to
meet the needs of small-to-medium-sized organizations. Equally important and useful is its integrated
design, centralized administration and monitoring, and a suite of built-in management tools; which
eliminate the need for a staff of experts to install and maintain a SAN for the workgroups.