Question : Problem: Compression Ratio with Backup Exec

I am running Backup Exec 9.1 on a PIV, 1.5 GHz, 512 MB RAM. I am backing up about 14.0 GB of data. Tape drive is a Seagate 20/40. Tapes I am currently using are 12/24. The compression ratio I am getting is 1.08:1, which in my opinion, sucks! I am backing up 13.3 GB on 1st tape, and 700 MB on 2nd tape.

I am currently trying to test whether Hardware or Software compress gives me a better rate, but I was told that because our files are CAD files primarily, compression on the drive won't help much. Is this true? Any ideas?

I do daily backups, so I would hate to have to use 2 tapes per day, so if the compression ratio is average for CAD files, I guess going to a 20/40 tape. Once I get over 20 GB, it's time to change drives??? Thanks.

James

Answer : Problem: Compression Ratio with Backup Exec

Another suggestion - consider getting a Windows 2003 server as their file server and using Volume Shadow Copy - I implemented that at my current position and it's helped quickly recover files on two occasions in the last month or so.