EMC, Softek announce LDMF software

HOPKINTON: EMC Corp and Softek Storage Solutions Corp today jointly announced the new EMC/Softek Logical Data Migration Facility (LDMF) software, the industry's first data migration software that relocates data non-disruptively at the dataset-level on storage arrays operating within mainframe environments.

Integrating technologies from both companies, the LDMF software transparently moves datasets on-line from one volume to another and automatically updates catalog information to reflect the change in location.

As an on-line alternative to performing manual copies or using other utilities, which require lengthy application downtime, the LDMF software enables mainframe administrators to efficiently relocate information onto new storage or storage tiers, to non-disruptively optimize volume utilization and performance and to consolidate datasets into fewer volumes to minimize resource consumption.

"Automating the process of converting data between volume sizes solves a huge problem for mainframe storage managers," said Dianne McAdam, senior analyst and partner, Data Mobility Group. "Today, converting from small 'Mod 3' to larger 'Mod 9' or 'Mod 27' volumes is a complex and error-prone process that requires significant application downtime. The demand for an on-line solution, such as LDMF, is very high across the mainframe user community."

"Applications remain on-line during the conversion process, which significantly reduces the overall project timeframe with less required staff resources. This reduces the potential for costly outages and added expenses of lease cost overruns," said Amena Ali, senior vice president, worldwide marketing and product strategy, at Softek.

In addition to migrating data to larger volumes and arrays, the LDMF software is useful for other complex processes such as reclaiming unit control blocks (UCBs) and dataset-level workload balancing.

The LDMF software is expected to be generally available in September. Softek will sell LDMF through its direct sales force in North America and Europe. Typical installations are expected to be priced in the low $100,000s. EMC and Softek will also collaborate on marketing and customer support activities.