Sony's European arm unveiled the new Sony StorStation LIB-D81, an 8-slot Advanced Intelligent Tape 2 (AIT-2) tape autoloader for your backup needs. The StorStation LIB-D81 incorporates the latest AIT-2 tape drive, based on the AIT-2 Turbo format, offering simpler mechanism for tape rotation.

Sony claims a "user-friendly" design on the StorStation LIB-D81. With 8 cartridge slots, the LIB-D81 allows for daily backups all week, without having to change your tapes. Loading and unloading of the cartridges are simple, thanks to the large front door.

The interface provided is Ultra 160 SCSI LVD/SE, providing high data transfer rate - a full tape backup takes less than two hours. With a native capacity of 640GB, the LIB-D81 offers as much as three times more capacity than standard 6-slot DAT autoloaders available in the market today.

The MTBF on the LIB-D81 shows that it's pretty reliable (MTBF is stated at 300,000 hours). The entire unit occupies 17cm W x 22.4cm H x 35cm D, suitable for desktop use.

Available now, the Sony StorStation LIB-D81 seems to be a good addition for your backup needs.