Protected Data Archive
Storage Resources
The Protected Data Archive (PDA) uses a Spectra Logic TFinity robotic tape library with a capacity of over 200 PB.
| Storage Subsystem | Current Capacity | Hardware |
|---|---|---|
| Disk Cache | Over 800 TB | 2 Seagate 5U84 Storage arrays |
| Long-Term Storage | Over 200 PB | LTO-9 Robotic Tape Library |
All files stored on the Protected Data Archive appear in at least two separate storage devices:
- Two copies is permanently on tape.
Both primary and secondary copies of larger files reside on separate tape cartridges in the robotic tape library. After a period of inactivity, HPSS will migrate files from disk cache to tape.
The PDA writes two copies of every file either to two tapes, or to disk and a tape, to protect against medium errors. Unfortunately, HPSS does not automatically switch to the alternate copy when it has trouble accessing the primary. If it seems to be taking an extraordinary amount of time to retrieve a file (hours), please contact support. We can then investigate why it is taking so long. If it is an error on the primary copy, we will instruct the PDA to switch to the alternate copy as the primary and recreate a new alternate copy.
Link to section 'Sensitive and Restricted Data on the Protected Data Archive' of 'Protected Data Archive Overview' Sensitive and Restricted Data on the Protected Data Archive
The Protected Data Archive is suitable for sensitive and restricted datasets. Example datasets that have been reviewed and approved include NIH Database of Genotypes and Phenotypes (dbGaP), licensed datasets such as the UK Biobank, and deidentified human genomic data. The PDA is not approved for export controlled data subject to ITAR, or CUI.
Link to section 'Protected Data Archive Storage Quota' of 'Protected Data Archive Overview' Protected Data Archive Storage Quota
There is currently no quota on PDA disk use. Archive users will receive a monthly email report showing your current PDA usage.
Files belonging to deleted accounts will also be retained, but inaccessible except by special request after the accounts have been terminated. The files will be kept for no more than ten years or the usability of the media on which they are stored, whichever comes first.
Link to section 'Proteced Data Archive File Recovery' of 'Protected Data Archive Overview' Proteced Data Archive File Recovery
Data on the PDA is not backed up elsewhere in a traditional sense. New and modified files in the disk cache are migrated to tape within 30 minutes, and Fortress maintains two copies of every file on different media to protect against media failures, but there is no backup protecting against accidental deletions.
If you remove or overwrite a file on the PDA, it is gone. You cannot request to have it retrieved.