MAID

Massive array of idle disks

The MAID concept extends the functionality of the traditional storage array. In essence a MAID array is one that allows the disk drives to spin down so as to reduce the power consumption, and therefore cost, associated with it.

Options for MAID include setting a time to invoke spin-down if the disk is unused for a pre-set time and may even park the head if a second time threshold is met. This is an ideal approach for saving cost of operation when data is not required on a 7*24 basis.

An ideal application for this type of technology would be in storage libraries where data is stored near-line where it is persistent but is very infrequently used. Another application of the technology could be for backup arrays, again where data is stored and almost forgotten.

Due to the nature of the technology, that is the drive stops or is almost stopped, companies that store data on these devices should ensure their SLA's reflect access times to the data, otherwise SLA breaches may occur.