This IDC study reports the performance of the worldwide tape drive and automation markets by system and server suppliers that rebrand tape products produced by others. Market share data is reported for the worldwide tape drive and automation markets by supplier. IDC has undertaken the branded analysis to gain a better understanding of the distribution model for tape products and the role server and system suppliers play in this market. The worldwide tape market is dominated by server and system suppliers that in many cases rebrand tape products produced by others. The reporting of the worldwide branded tape drive and automation markets is not meant to replace or supplant IDC's historical published research. However, the branded view was undertaken to gain a better understanding of the distribution model for tape products and the role server and system suppliers play in this market.

"We believe suppliers in the worldwide tape drive and automation markets will remain heavily reliant on top-tier server and storage system suppliers for the foreseeable future," says Robert Amatruda, research director, Tape and Removable Storage.