RE: Informix OnLine backup alternative

>From: Shen Shane Jen <ssjen@IPHASE.COM> >Subject: Informix OnLine backup alternative ? >Date: Fri, 3 Sep 1993 19:45:42 GMT >Is there any other backup alternative available for Informix OnLine ? >We are running Informix OnLine 5.01 on Sun 490 using raw partition and >having been using the online backup utility happily (if it could let you >backup and restore selected tables ...) from the first day we got it. >The problem is my boss like the idea of doing Informix backup the same >way we do other systems' backup through the Legato Networker backup >system, or something similar so we don't have to change tape every day >and every backup is done the same way (at least from the operator's point >of view). >Is there any backup system out there that will backup the raw disk partition >and also preserve the database's integrity at the same time ? >Richard Jen >MIS Sr. Programmer/DBA >Interphase Corp. TEL : (214) 919-9305 >13800 Selac Drive FAX : (214) 919-9200 >Dallas, TX 75234 Richard, You dilemma is exactly why we bought the following unit. Plus we have hopes of totally eliminating the operator. We will see... : You might check with a hardware solution...We have just purchased, and not yet tried out, an 8mm 2 Gig tape drive from PCS Technologies which uses its own software to essentially "volcopy" raw, non-raw, all disk spaces specified, to tape quickly. They can be restored as disk spaces, files or file systems very quickly. The system must be inactive and unmounted when this is being done. But that would mean you could back up all your files and raw partitions on one unattended tape (depending of course on how big your system is and which model tape drive you buy). It costs less than $7K for our Unisys 5000 system, (quoting from flyers..): "uses Helical Scan technology to read/write, uses std. 8mm tape cartridges, uses a SCSI interface, writes at 10.3 to 15 MB per minute and can restore a single Unix file, file system, or raw partition." You can contact PCS at 215-226-2220 (Philly,PA). I think (at least their sales staff says so!) that the software which doesn't use Unix tools to back up, is what makes their product unique. I know there are several PCS Flashback units in use throughout the Army Reserve. Since I have not personally used it, and cannot speak for Uncle Sam, all disclaimers must apply. Ann Barnes