A distributed file and tape management system for the LEP experiments at CERN

The problems in handling the data generated by the latest round of experiments at CERN are expected to be enormous: some 70TB of data are expected by 1993. To cope with these problems, a system known as FATMEN (file and tape management: experimental needs) was developed. This system is unique in that it was designed to be fully distributed, both in the local- and wide-area sense. Clean interfaces between the various components of the system allow new systems or capabilities to be incorporated quickly. The system is sufficiently powerful and flexible to last for many years, by which time mature standard mass-storage systems may be available.<>