Modern day data centers looking to accelerate their IBM i backup and recovery operations and improve operational efficiencies can now use the Universal Backup Device (UBD) from LaserVault in a virtual environment to eliminate the associated managerial, transport, and storage costs that come with using physical tape.

UBD is compatible with VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V, and other popular hypervisors. A dedicated server for UBD is no longer required. With the VM integration option, businesses save by not having to invest in new hardware, the only purchase being the UBD software which comes with the necessary Fibre Channel card.

A D2D tape emulation solution, UBD empowers IBM i (iSeries, AS/400, System i) users to automate their backup process and eliminate or reduce the use of physical tape for their data protection. Expedited data recovery with UBD becomes a simple task completed in a fraction of the time restoring from tape requires. Granular recovery provides the ability to recover files in seconds.

In addition, UBD can be used on multiple VM’s. For those with existing virtual machines, deployment is simple: create a new VM, install the Atto interface board, and install the UBD software.

“For the IBM i shop wanting to move away from tape but not wanting the expense of additional hardware, UBD offers a powerful solution,” says Brad Jensen, CEO at Electronic Storage Corporation, makers of LaserVault products. “And if they currently use virtual machines in their operation, then adding UBD as a replacement for tape is a cinch. Our technically-trained solutions engineers are on hand at every step to help as needed throughout the install process.”

To ensure full data recovery in case of a disaster, large or small, companies need a stable and reliable backup solution, like UBD. With its seamless integration with the IBM i, UBD requires less management and lower costs than tape, especially when it’s implemented in a virtual environment. Using the same tools and commands already in place, such as SAVLIB, SAVOBJ, Option 21, etc., there is no learning curve required for the operator.

Jensen adds, “In most cases, our customers begin using UBD on day one; many during hour one. By freeing up personnel who no longer have to manage and monitor a manual tape process, our customer instantly benefits. Their overall IT operations improve and they get an immediate positive ROI for the company.”

UBD can be configured for a company’s unique data protection needs. This makes it well-suited for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with limited budgets, or any company that wants a cost-effective solution that when deployed has an instantaneous positive impact on their processes and costs.

In addition to VM integration, these other new features are available with UBD to provide improved data protection over using tape alone:

• Automated Remote Second-Copy
• Automated Tape-Out w/AES-256 Encryption
• Win2012 R2 / 2016 Server Deduplication & Replication Interface
• WORM Tape-Images
• Automated Tape-Image Retention
• Automated Email Notifications including full library listings
• Export of Tape-Image Inventory to PDF/Excel/CSV for auditing ease

UBD is available now. For more details and to see a technical demo, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 800-444-6283, ext. 1. Software only pricing starts at $8500. A reseller program is available.

Electronic Storage Corporation, founded in 1989, is the creator of LaserVault document management and backup and recovery software products, designed for seamless integration, ease of use, scalability and affordability. LaserVault software gives your business instantaneous access to critical business records and secure data protection. LaserVault solutions are used by small to large businesses representing many industries, including: hospitality, financial, insurance, manufacturing, distribution, telecommunications, government, wholesale, retail, hospitals, pharmaceutical, construction, education, and utility companies.