Sony Rolls Out Low-End Tape Drives

Sony Electronics Inc. Monday announced new low-end tape drives for remote users and small businesses.

As part of the StorStation family, an external model called AITe90-UL connects to servers and workstations with USB or Firewire, while two internal models, AITi90-A/S and AITi130-A/S, connect via ATAPI ports, officials said.

Compared to backing up with recordable CDs, DVDs, or lower-capacity tapes, "convenience is what's important," said Michael Nixon, senior manager, storage solutions, for San Jose, Calif.-based Sony.

AIT drives have larger capacities, so fewer are needed. In most cases they're also faster than other entry-level tape formats.

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