• Mass storage for scientific data (LSDF Online Storage)

  • The service "LSDF Online Storage" offers users of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology access to a large scale disk data storage which is intended in particular for the storage of scientific measurement data and simulation results of data-intensive scientific disciplines. The LSDF Online Storage is operated by Scientific Computing Center.

    Several protocols can be used to access the data: SCP, NFS, CIFS, WebDAV. The data is backed up and protected in a state-of-the-art manner from various types of disasters (without direct user access to the backed up copies).

    The service is not suitable for storing personal, commercial or other non-scientific data.

In order to use the LSDF Online Storage Service, interested users must first register for the service. Registration takes place via bwIDM web interface.

Registration is only possible if a special Entitlement has been assigned to the user previously. Users usually receive this Entitlement after consultation with their responsible ITB or group representative or, if no project has yet been set up, by a separate request to the service operator.

If you have any questions regarding registration, requesting a new storage project or further questions, please contact the service provider via the BW support portal.

The setup and size of the available storage space is determined by agreements between the users and the service provider and technically realized by quotas. For new projects a Data Management Plan (DMP) is developed and stored in coordination with the Institute of the Users and the representatives of the service provider. The DMP contains at least

  • the name of the institution or body
  • the name of the project
  • a short description of the project for which the storage is to be used
  • one or more contact persons with contact details of the contact persons
  • the amount of data expected over the next 3 years
  • the expected storage period

The DMPs are used for reporting and applying for funding to operate, maintain and expand the LSDF. The storage space of the LSDFOS is currently usually available free of charge.

Further information on the range of services and the usage of the service can be found in the user manual and the current terms of use.