Waterfront Studios

Waterfront Studios -Maximum Throughput

When Condor Cape  and Waterfront Studios began investigating the implementation of a large scale centralized storage array, it became apparent that there would be no”quick-fix” solution. There were plenty of “almost theres” and “theoretically...”. It was going to be a long journey before any decisions could be made.

The first step was to decide between the numerous SAN vs NAS options, and they settled on choosing a NAS based on several factors. These included the fact that a NAS offers superior file system support, is more cost effective to add storage nodes and requires a lot less file management (The system administrators biggest nightmare).

Having established that Network Attached Storage suited their needs, they fine-tuned their research based on key criteria they needed. Obviously, a decent amount of usable storage was needed at the outset, which could easily be expanded to meet growing demand for both clients on the network and faster storage performance. Sustained throughput from the NAS to clients on the network was equally important. However, a big bucket of high performance storage wasn't their only need. They also needed it to function as a virtual VTR that could record and playout HD 4:4:4 RGB with full machine control and finally, it needed to integrate with their Autodesk Systems “stone” storage.

From an assurance perspective, the system also had to have a proven track record within the professional post industry with a broad user base, localised support and a price tag that wouldn't break the bank.

So what they ended up with after extensive research was the “Sledgehammer” media aware NAS server from Canadian Maximum Throughput. It not only provides them with 1.2GB/s throughput into the production network, but it also gives them a completely new workflow for the facility using MAXmedia and X-Stoner software, with all the relevant production data centralized for the facility users. The Virtual VTR also ties in seamlessly into the system with its own MAXmedia and X-Stoner applications. The whole system runs on a 10Gigabit Ethernet and Infiniband backbone, which ensures no bottle-necking when digital artists are performing their magic.

 

 

 

 

 

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