ALTERNATIVE BACKUP METHODS
If you have broadband Internet access via DSL or cable modem, consider using online backup services offered by Connected or Xdrive. Your data will be safe once you’ve downloaded and installed their software, designated files, and determined backup frequency. These online services also store the data at a remote site in case of fire or theft. Some physicians, however, may feel uncomfortable keeping data on another server for security reasons.
The Mirra Personal Server, an alternative to off-site backup, can be connected to one computer or a network and can back up one or all computers. This server can also synchronize files between computers and allow access to them over the Internet.
For real-time backup, a RAID array2 (redundant array of inexpensive drives) is your only choice. With RAID level 1, two hard drives record simultaneously. When one drive fails, another continues to work and has the information. A RAID array requires a specialized drive controller card, which costs around $150, or specialized software.3 Controller cards are widely available on the Internet (use search terms “Mac Raid controller” or “PC raid controller”), and raid arrays are available for any platform.
THE FUTURE
As multimedia become integrated into medical records and software programs create more information, physicians will need more storage space. New storage technologies such as the HD-DVD and Blu-Ray4 offer up to 25 to 30 gigabytes per disc. Similar to the VHS-Betamax wars of the 1980s, manufacturers are vying to make these high-density storage devices the future storage standard. Also, perpendicular recording technology is increasing hard drive storage capacity.5
Disclosure
Dr. Luo reports no financial relationship with any company whose products are mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed by Dr. Luo in this column are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Current Psychiatry.