Meridian Mail/Option 61 crash kit 1

[msteletech]

Hello, I can use some help in this area. I have approval to purchase a crash kit for Meridian Mail 13.14.2 and PBX Option 61 21.54 due that the Meridian Mail was down for 8 hours a few weeks ago. It took 4 hours for the service provider to arrive on site with hardware and including duplicates. We are located near Silicon Valley and all the bay area traffic jams including crossing over Santa Cruz mountains to reach our facility. Although we are aware of the end of life software program, management will not upgrade. I do have the go ahead to purchase emergency parts. Any suggestions on what hardware to have onsite for crash kit?

Any guidance in this area is greatly appreciated!
Technical user,
Scotts Valley,CA

 

[MagnaRGP]

Hard Drive and install tapes at a minimum. I would ensure that I had a replacement for anything with a moving part, all media and a power supply.

 

[EddieDuece]

I would also create a document that gives the step by step process for backups and restoration on the mail and PBX. It always helps to have a document handy when operating in crisis mode, and will minimize your down time. Keep a current backup on hand of both systems.

 

[MagnaRGP]

For that matter, if you're going to the effort of creating a crash kit, why not set up a maintenance window and pre-install the software on your spare HD? That way when your existing HD crashes (as they all do eventually), you can flip HD's, restore from your latest backup and be up and running in 3 or 4 fewer hours.

Being Proactive means anticipaing your HD will go in an average of 4 years.

 

[msteletech]

Good advise and I will check out with onsite tech and definately be prepared for the HD crash.