OT Network Storage

[Bob McClure Jr]

On Wed, May 18, 2005 at 09:34:27PM -0400, Vincent Jordan wrote:
> This is a bit off topic however someone here probably had run into this
> before. Where I work we receive tests in data format via ftp and flash
> memory chips that are mailed.
> 
> The raw data is zipped, when we get it our techs interpret the data and
> create a report. Now we have the original zipped file +-50mb, The processed
> file +-85mb and a report at about 5 meg. Until recently we have just moved
> the finished files compressed on a "tank" machine in the office. We have
> filled 4 80gig drives. More and more tests are coming in now and im running
> out of room to put stuff. I was thinking of a Network Area Storage device
> but then I got to thinking we are eventually going to fill it up too and
> backing up all this may prove to be quite a task. So now im guessing I
> should look towards a library / archival setup. 
> 
>  
> 
> Here is where things may get complicated. I can't just on a whim archive
> stuff. The data is for cardiac testing patients, we are required to keep all
> the files for at least 7-10 years. My technicians will need to go back 4-5
> months at any time to get the information if requested by insurance or the
> ordering doctor. We were quite small, performing maybe 4-5 tests a week, my
> boss bought out another company and we are now processing 75+ tests a week.
> Anyone have any idea of a ready-made solution? I've goggled for NAS and it
> does not seem to be a viable long term solution. 
> 
>  
> 
> Thank in advance,
> 
>  
> 
> Vinny

How about copying the files off onto CDs or DVDs?  DVD burners are
quite cheap as are the media, and you have a variety of ways to do it.

Cheers,
-- 
Bob McClure, Jr.             Bobcat Open Systems, Inc.
robertmcclure at earthlink.net  http://www.bobcatos.com
God is more interested in our availability than our ability.