Our second Editors' Choice in this category, the Quantum SDLT 320, impresses us with its versatility in both data backup and restore operations.

Though it's not as fast as the HP Ultrium 460e at backup or the Sony SDX-D700C at restoring data, the SDLT 320 turned in the most well-rounded performance, scoring above average on both tests.

This single-tape drive uses new technologies such as Laser Guided Magnetic Recording (LGMR) and a Pivoting Optical Servo (POS). LGMR and POS allow for a higher data capacity (160GB native, 320GB compressed) by storing servo-positioning information on the previously unused back side of the tape.

The drive comes with two diagnostic utilities: GSLink, which runs on laptops, and Pocket GSLink, which runs on Pocket PCs. These applications collect statistics and other information through the drive's built-in IR port. An additional utility, Density Select, lets administrators configure the SDLT 320 to write to SDLT 220 data cartridges. The drive is also read-compatible with all older DLT standards.

For administrators who choose to go with SDLT technology and whose backup and restore needs are equally important, the Quantum SDLT 320 is the way to go.