TeraMach Implements a Scalable and Robust Cluster Solution at MOSAID

MOSAID Technologies Inc. partnered with TeraMach to redesign its file server system in order to accommodate huge amounts of data gathered from semiconductor design and testing. The clustered file server implemented by TeraMach minimized server downtime and added much needed disk space to support incoming data.

SUMMARY

Based in Kanata, MOSAID Technologies Inc. is an independent semiconductor company with a 25-year history of design innovation. MOSAID's Semiconductor Division is a fabless provider of high-performance products for the networking market. As well, the company's Systems Division is a leading provider of engineering memory test and analysis systems that address memory device design and quality.

Information gathered on semiconductor design and testing abounds at MOSAID and historically, disk space doubles every year to compensate for incoming data. The company found itself in need of a new file server to better support its project data and software applications for semiconductor design.

MOSAID's original system relied on a network-attached storage solution and an aging server and disk array. To minimize downtime, the company was looking to replace this file server system. MOSAID proposed its server and storage requirements to a number of companies and TeraMach designed the winning solution, including a Hitachi Data Systems storage unit, and two HP L1000 server using MC/ServiceGuard cluster software.

A TRUE INTEGRATOR

Geoff Fleck, MOSAID's Manager of Information Systems, was quite impressed with TeraMach's commitment and expertise during the installation process, not only in configuring the file server system but remaining onsite during the equipment arrival. This commitment to a smooth integration illustrates TeraMach's dedication to system installation.

"TeraMach consultants came on site to help with the configuration, and since they have done this type of transition before, they brought invaluable experience to the table. TeraMach did a great job of mapping out the solution to make sure it worked as originally proposed. In addition, when we did run into some problems, it took only one call to have them back on site."

REAL VALUE

MOSAID's continued relationship with TeraMach is based on expertise, excellent equipment and reliable service. According to Mr. Fleck, TeraMach's willingness to fully understand MOSAID's working environment and technical requirements has solidified the partnership now, and into the future.

"When I look at other vendors, I consider TeraMach to be a real value-added reseller. A lot of companies claim to be but TeraMach is. The company is not just a flogger of hardware, but very knowledgeable. Although not required, they offered unexpected assistance when we were in need."

In one such instance, TeraMach became the principal information source for MOSAID's OpenMail messaging system, even though it was originally purchased from another company. As an HP Channel Partner, TeraMach had no difficulty in assisting with upgrades and other issues of the e-mail system. Mr. Fleck says these simple accommodations are the reason MOSAID maintains a close relationship with TeraMach.

"MOSAID will continue to deal with TeraMach because they have very strong technical skills and are quite knowledgeable about our environment. They really take responsibility to ensure we are happy with our systems."