Iomega announced the new REV Autoloader 1000 disk-to-disk autoloader. Designed to replace SCSI-based tape autoloaders and other backup devices in small- and medium-sized business networks, the REV Autoloader 1000 is said to deliver performance and reliability for network professionals at a lower cost.

It is a 2U single-drive desktop device featuring 10 slots for a native capacity of 350GB (700GB with 2:1 software compression), all managed with the bundled enterprise-strength BrightStor ARCserve Backup Standard Edition r11.1 plus Disaster Recovery Option software from CA.

Dual SCSI interfaces on the REV Autoloader 1000 allow the drive to connect to a server and a NAS (network-attached storage) device. Web-based configuration tools (via the optional remote management unit) and a front operator control panel give the user simple access to key settings, for configuring, controlling, monitoring, and updating the REV Autoloader.

"Until now, autoloaders have always involved some compromises due to the limitations of the tape format," said Chris McPherson, managing director, Asia Pacific, Iomega Pacific. "Iomega's solution is to reinvent the autoloader, using the REV drive and inexpensive 35GB REV disks as the core technology. A REV-based autoloader accomplishes two highly desirable goals in a single stroke: it eliminates the frustrations associated with tape, and it reduces the backup window for more efficient management of the network."