Quantum Corporation announced enhancements to the Scalar® i3 tape library, including increased capacity and extended connectivity into more environments thanks to new Ethernet connectivity enabled by the Scalar iSCSI Bridge. These improvements make Scalar i3 an increasingly secure, scalable, and low-cost choice for mid-sized environments where floor space and budgets are major considerations.
“These updates deliver an unmatched combination of scalability, density, flexibility, and cyber protection,” said Geoff Barrall, Chief Product Officer at Quantum.
As alternative libraries in the market approach end-of-life, the improved Scalar i3 provides a long-term, cost-effective upgrade path that extends the value and relevance of modern tape storage.
Best-In-Class Scalability And Density
The Scalar i3 now scales to 16 modules within a standard 48U rack, delivering up to 25% greater density than other tape libraries in its class. With 800 usable slots and more than 14.4 PB of native capacity using LTO-9 cartridges, the platform sets a new benchmark for high-density, low-footprint data storage. These improvements are available to both new and existing Scalar i3 users.
Extending Tape To More Environments
Through a partnership with ATTO Technology, the Scalar iSCSI Bridge connects SAS tape drives to Ethernet networks using the iSCSI protocol. This provides a lower-cost alternative to Fibre Channel, reducing hardware, power, and maintenance expenses while extending SAS connectivity over longer distances. The result is expanded deployment flexibility for organizations looking to connect tape libraries across more varied infrastructure environments.
“This partnership extends the value of tape into Ethernet-based infrastructures,” said Tim Klein, President and CEO at ATTO Technology.
“Together, we’re delivering an integrated solution that lowers costs while broadening deployment possibilities.”
Key Benefits Of The Scalar iSCSI Bridge
The new bridge enables tape libraries to operate over Ethernet, extending beyond traditional Fibre Channel and SAS configurations. It is integrated directly into the library chassis, minimizing rack space usage and simplifying implementation. By enabling the continued use of SAS tape drives, organizations can cut total cost of ownership by up to 15% per drive while also reducing power and maintenance requirements.
The enhanced Scalar i3 and the new iSCSI Bridge are available immediately.

Quantum delivers end-to-end data management solutions designed for the AI era. With more than four decades of experience, its technologies support high-performance data ingest, massive, durable data lakes, and cost-efficient storage infrastructure across sectors such as government, life sciences, media, research, and industrial technology.
https://security.world/introducing-iris-cloud-connected-camera-control/
https://www.quantum.com/scalar-i3
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What has changed in the Scalar i3 tape library?
The library now supports higher density, more modules per rack, and offers extended connectivity through the new iSCSI Bridge.
2. How much storage can the upgraded Scalar i3 support?
It delivers more than 14.4 PB of native storage using LTO-9 cartridges with 800 usable slots.
3. What is the Scalar iSCSI Bridge used for?
It enables SAS tape drives to connect over Ethernet using iSCSI, expanding deployment options and reducing costs.
4. Does the update lower infrastructure costs?
Yes. The solution can reduce total cost of ownership by up to 15% per drive by eliminating Fibre Channel hardware requirements.
5. Is the upgrade available to existing customers?
Yes. Current Scalar i3 users can benefit from the new density and scalability enhancements.
