Tivoli Storage Manager for Tandem

Advances in data storage hardware and data management software have made centralized storage management a reality. Network backbones now connect distributed systems with channel level performance, allowing server-based applications to deliver functions and services previously dispersed upon individual client systems. ETI-NET has developed a family of connectivity solutions that capitalize on cross-platform opportunities. For over a decade ETI has been providing Tandem users with high quality, easy to use products, which merge Tandem/Compaq benefits with those from IBM and Microsoft.

BackHome is a Tandem application that automates the transfer of backup and restore activity across network facilities into non-Tandem storage servers. The Client API for Tivoli Storage Manager, running in the Tandem, links Tandem to Tivoli server software running in UNIX, Windows NT, MVS, or other popular server environments. BackHome TSM also supports TM/MP tape services, such as audit tape creation and online dump activity. The functionality of BackHome has been evolving since 1988, when ETI first provided support for IBM MVS tape creation across multiplexed 9600 bps communications lines.

 

Today, using TCP/IP or APPC, connections of 100 Mbps and greater are more normal, and BackHome TSM performance makes network attachments transparent. Users will appreciate the array of storage devices supported by Tivoli Servers, and the cost-effectiveness of sharing robotic tape subsystems with other Tandem or non-Tandem platforms. Disaster recovery procedures also benefit from the centralized administration that is adopted with Tivoli Storage Manager.

BACKUP/RESTORE

BackHome allows bi-directional transfer of backup or restore objects to and from the server. Transfer integrity is controlled by integrated modules in the API. High throughput and high line utilization are achieved through data compression and advanced i/o buffering techniques.

 

CATALOG

Information about files can be stored in an ETI-provided catalog at backup time. Commands are available through the BINT (BACKHOME user interface) for locating and updating information in the catalog. This provides significant improvements in BackHome ease of use

 

FAST RESTORE

FastRestore minimizes the amount of data needing to transit the network during restores. At Backup time a catalog entry is created for each file, and a BackupID and Position Number is recorded. At Restore time, the user builds the restore request, the Position Number is retrieved from the catalog on Tandem and passed to the server holding the backup set. The server starts transmitting the files to restore from the Position Number, bypassing unnecessary files.

CHECKPOINT RESTART

BackHome provides the capability to process a backup as multiple transactions, where each transaction can be ‘committed’ in the form of a checkpoint. The Tivoli server provides roll-back processing to the last checkpoint when the in-process transaction fails.

 

TIVOLI API

The Tivoli TSM API on Tandem NSK operates at D38 or higher, and supports connection to every Tivoli Storage Manager server. ETI provides testing modules to allow the TSM API-to-TSM server conversation to be diagnosed independent of BackHome.

 

EVENT LOGGING

Logging of all activity is written to dual alternating log files. Users may interactively access these event messages through the BackHome interactive user interface or they can be sent to the Tandem EMS system. TSM stored objects and back-up sets can be also be reviewed through TSM API commands on Tandem.

 

BENEFITS

Standardizes Tandem within enterprise-wide storage management approach Allows access to best cost/performing storage media and subsystems available industry wide. Improves utilization of storage by sharing resources. Simplifies disaster recovery planning. Normalizes tape media for improved archiving and vaulting. Reduces tape quantity through advanced reclamation techniques

INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

Installation is easy. The system can be operational within less than four hours. Training and onsite support is available. Maintenance support and product updates are provided as part of a standard license agreement with each product installation.

 

FEATURES BACKHOME

Non-disruptive installation Interactive, batch, and programmatic interfaces. Conditional completion cascading. Auto Restart. Optional TMF support Selectable data compression. Compatibility with job schedulers and security systems. Satisfied customers.

 

TSM API

Version 2.1 or Higher MVS, UNIX, Windows NT Supports all API verbs TCP/IP or APPC Servernet UNIX-like set-up Independent test modules Open or closed registration Password authentication Scalable storage pools