Fujifilm has just unveiled a groundbreaking achievement in data storage with its latest innovation, the 50TB Native Capacity tape cartridge. Building upon the successes of previous tape generations, Fujifilm harnessed cutting-edge technologies to enhance both the areal recording density and the overall recording area.
Incorporating Nanoparticle Design Technology, Fujifilm developed fine hybrid magnetic particles by combining advancements from the next-generation Strontium Ferrite (SrFe) and the currently used Barium Ferrite (BaFe) magnetic particles. This approach led to a reduction in the size of magnetic particles and a significant improvement in their magnetic properties, thereby boosting the areal recording density.
The introduction of high-dispersion technology for magnetic particles further prevents the aggregation of ultrafine particles, ensuring an even dispersion across the tape surface. This enhancement is complemented by improved thin layer coating technology, resulting in a more uniform and smoother tape surface, ultimately improving the signal-to-noise ratio.
To maximise the tape’s capacity, Fujifilm employed a thinner and stronger base film, achieving a 15% longer tape per data cartridge compared to the previous fifth generation. This innovation is a testament to Fujifilm’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of tape technology.
In a statement, Kei Nagata, Deputy General Manager of the Industrial Products Division at Fujifilm, expressed pride in the breakthrough, stating, “With 50TB native capacity, 2.5 times the capacity of the previous highest-capacity tape cartridges, Fujifilm believes this breakthrough demonstrates the future potential of tape technology.”
Alistair Symon, Vice President of Storage Systems Development at IBM, acknowledged the significance of this advancement, noting, “The advanced technology in the IBM 3592 JF tape cartridge will enable customers to realise high densities, facilitating storage cost optimization while maintaining performance and time to data.”
The 50TB native capacity of the IBM 3592 JF tape cartridge, exclusively available on the new IBM TS1170 Tape Drive, opens up possibilities for ultra-high data storage, reaching up to 150TB with a 3:1 compression ratio. This marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of tape storage, making it a compelling choice for data protection, active archives, and long-term retention in various environments, from scientific and industrial data collection to cloud service providers. Fujifilm and IBM celebrate this milestone, emphasising the potential of tape technology in shaping the future of data storage.
