The new device comes with leveraged transfer speeds, rugged chassis, and enhanced reliability and flexibility

Sep 11, 2008 10:12 GMT  ·  By

Sonnet Technologies announced today the launch of its new storage system, the Fusion F3 RAID. The new device packs inside two 3.5 inch SATA RAID drives, which offer capacities between 1TB and 3TB of storage space. The configuration of the two drives allows users to choose between a concatenated array which provides a maximum of space, RAID 0 which offers elevated speeds, or RAID 1 for those that need data protection.

In addition to the optional drive configuration, the new Sonnet device also offers a range of connections for both speed and flexibility, including eSATA interface, FireWire 800, FireWire 400, or USB2.0 outputs. When the RAID 0 configuration is used along with eSATA, the Fusion F3 RAID storage system is stated to reach transfer speeds as high as 165 MB/sec.

The chassis of Fusion F3 RAID includes two fans that have an automatic failover feature to provide more system reliability. According to Sonnet, the fans are “whisper quiet”, producing a very low level of noise. The chassis contains the power supply as well. It can operate at power levels ranging from 110V to 240V and 50Hz to 60Hz. Inside the rugged aluminum and steel case, each drive features individual shock-isolation, which eliminates cross-coupled vibration and possible data errors.

Sonnet's Fusion F3 RAID storage system can be used either as a stand alone device or included in a rack mount. An included stand is available for the F3 system to be held on edge if it’s used as a single device. The storage system can be placed or stacked on any flat surface. For those that have a rack, two systems can be stacked side by side across on spot. The device's switches for power and drive configuration are front-mounted along with indicators for drive activity, drive fault, and power, all making it perfect for rack accessibility.

“Fusion F3 is an exceptionally versatile system that provides leading performance with a smart design and is ideally suited to the needs of professional storage and editing applications,” said Robert Farnsworth, CEO of Sonnet Technologies. “This newest addition to our flagship Fusion product line features the look, feel, and accessibility of a high-end A/V system component; the reliability and performance of a professional RAID storage system; and the flexibility, durability, and package of a portable unit.”

All three versions of the new storage system, namely the Fusion F3 – 1TB, Fusion F3 – 2TB and Fusion F3 – 3TB, will become available in October. Pricing has not been detailed yet.