Maxtor is set to launch a new alternative to NAS appliances next month, offering a quick and easy solution for small businesses in need of storage options. The Maxtor Shared Storage solution, a single hard drive with an external housing and Ethernet port, is designed to improve data backup and archiving capabilities for users.
According to Paul Streit, senior manager of branded marketing at Maxtor, the device will be available in 200-Gbyte and 300-Gbyte models with list prices of $300 and $400 respectively. The company plans to distribute the Maxtor Shared Storage solution through retailers, direct marketers, and distributors like Bell Microproducts and Ingram Micro, providing opportunities for solution providers to better serve their small-business clients.
Streit highlighted the versatility of the Maxtor solution, noting that it can benefit a range of businesses, including small graphics shops looking to enhance their network capabilities. Brian Lisse, owner of Madison Computer Works in Wisconsin, expressed enthusiasm for the product, predicting interest from several small-business accounts. While he acknowledged that the price may be steep for home users, he believes it is well-suited for small businesses in need of a reliable backup device.