AIT-1
The AIT-1 format, introduced in 1996, offers a data capacity rate of 25GB (65GB compressed), and a 10MB/s data transfer rate (compressed). An extended length tape for the AIT-1 drive was introduced to offer additional capacity of 35GB (90GB compressed) with compression ratio of 2.6:1.

AIT-2
An important contributor to AIT technology growth has been the AIT-2 product line, introduced in volume shipments in March of 1999. AIT-2 now represents a notable percentage of total AIT unit output. AIT capacity and data transfer rates are anticipated to double every two years, and AIT-2 accomplishes this with a data capacity of 50GB (130GB compressed), and a 15MB/s data transfer rate (compressed).

AIT-3
AIT-3 is the third generation AIT technology implementation, doubling the capacity and performance of the prior generation. AIT-3 is fully backward read and write compatible with all AIT-2 and AIT-1 media, and offers a native capacity of 100GB (260GB with compression) and a native data transfer rate of 12MB/s (31MB/s compressed) in a compact 3.5" form-factor. The increased capacity of AIT-3 was obtained by doubling the number of recording tracks per inch of tape compared to the AIT-1 and AIT-2, while the doubling of the data transfer rate was achieved by simultaneously utilizing 2 recording heads on-tape. The AIT-3 continues the AIT reputation of providing the best capacity and performance within a 3.5" form-factor, while the compact 8mm media size allows AIT-3 automation solutions to be one of the highest density and most cost-effective available in the market.

AIT-4
AIT-4 is now in development planning. In keeping with the original plan of doubling capacity and transfer rate, this format would offer 200GB of native capacity (520GB compressed), with a data transfer rate of 62MB/s (compressed).

AIT-5
AIT-5 is now in development planning. In keeping with the original plan of doubling capacity and transfer rate, this format would offer 400GB of native capacity (1.04TB compressed), with a data transfer rate of 124MB/s (compressed).

AIT-6
AIT-6 is now in development planning. In keeping with the original plan of doubling capacity and transfer rate, this format would offer 800GB of native capacity (2.08TB compressed), with a data transfer rate of 248MB/s (compressed).

Any tape technology's migration path should offer high performance and capacity, while still offering backward read and write capability with prior tape formats. AIT is committed to providing read and write compatibility with its prior formats for as long as technically feasible. At minimum, AIT will be fully read compatible with prior generation models.

If you would like to request additional information about AIT technology, solutions, or AIT products, please contact us at .