Thanks for all the info Matt. Unfortunately I don't know the difference between RAID 1,3,5 or 6 and how they pertain to storing digital video.

The RAID might be a practical next step from having 2 or 3 Lacie's daisy-chained on my machine, so that's just a matter of time; but I'm still mentally attached to the idea of tangible, stable media with the original footage on it.

(The workflow & benefits of P2 still outweigh this challenge for me)

I found this little explanation very helpful as I've struggled to learn RAID myself.

http://www.wiebetech.com/raidfaq.php

One thing I think they could've covered better is 3 vs 5. I read somewhere else that 3 uses one of the drives as the "parity" drive and that 5 spreads the "parity" drive out amongst all the drives.

*I should also clarify that the Wiebetech will allow any type of raid up to 5 and the FW Depot drive will allow any type of Raid up to 6*

Take a look at what Firmtek has to offer.

So far my system has been reliable.

http://firmtek.com/seritek/

Recent review:
http://www.amug.org/amug-web/html/am...firmtek/2se2e/

Tape drive option...
 

Is this a reference to the Quantum 600A? If so, I'm currious about the slow comment. It should be able to retrieve at 3x realtime with DVCPRO HD. Plus, it is mxf aware and you can search it by timecode for retrieval.

I'll be showing this among other workflow solutions on Nov. 7th at our facility. Apple, Quantum, Focus Enhancements, and others will be there.

Allan Barnwell
Omega Broadcast Group
Austin, Texas