Draft Document for Review February 7, 2020 3:15 pm 8464ch02_Architecture.fm 2.1 TS7700 architecture The architectural design of the IBM TS7700 and many of its capabilities are described in this  section. A short description of the original IBM Virtual Tape Server (VTS) architecture is  included to help you understand the differences. The TS7700 family now includes the following different models: Although some differences exist between these models, the underlying architecture is the  same. Any function or feature that is unique or behaves differently for a specific model is  clearly stated. If this distinction is not made, assume that it is common across all models.  Note:  Consider the following points: GLYPH<SM590000> IBM TS7770, including the IBM TS7770D, IBM TS7770T, and IBM TS7770C GLYPH<SM590000> IBM TS7760, including the IBM TS7760D, IBM TS7760T, and IBM TS7760C GLYPH<SM590000> When the TS7700 is referenced, it implies all models and types, including the TS7770,  TS7760 and all D, T and C submittals.  GLYPH<SM590000> When the function is applicable to models that are disk-only, TS7700D is used.  GLYPH<SM590000> If the functions are applicable to all tape attached models only, TS7700T is used.  GLYPH<SM590000> If the functions are applicable to all cloud storage tier-supported TS7700s, TS7700C is  used.  GLYPH<SM590000> If the function is applicable to only a specific version of the TS7700, such as the  TS7770, TS7770D, TS7770T, TS7770C, TS7760, TS7760D, TS7760T, or TS7760C,  the product name or names are referenced. 2.1.1 Monolithic design of an exiting IBM Virtual Tape Server 2.1.2 Modular design of the TS7700  IBM virtual tape existed since 1997. The first three generations of the IBM 3494 VTS (B16,  B18, and B10/20) performed all functions within a single IBM System p server, including  handling all RAID function.  Peer-to-peer (PTP) functions were created for the B18 and B10/20 models by using more  hardware components. The complex design reached an architectural limit that made it difficult  to add enhancements, especially around three or more site-based business continuances. A  fundamental architecture change was required.  IBM decided that it was time to create a next-generation solution with a focus on scalability  and business continuance. Many components of the original VTS were retained, although  others were redesigned.  The result was the TS7700 Virtualization Engine, which was released in 2006. The modular design of the TS7700 separates the functions of the system into smaller  components. These components feature well-defined functions that are connected by open  interfaces. The platform enables components to be scaled up from a small configuration to a  large one. This feature provides the capability to grow the solution to meet your business  objectives. 14  IBM TS7700 Release 5.0 Guide