How GRAU DATA Became a Software Expert Over the Course of 30 Years
The first step
Where it all began: Tape Robotik in Böhmenkirch
In 1988, GRAU DATA—then still known as GRAU Automation—made its debut with a mainframe-based magnetic tape robotic system, which was unveiled at CeBIT in Hanover. The system was called ABBA (Automatic Tape Operation Archive), later AML (Automated Media Library), and set new standards in terms of scalability, reliability, and multimedia capabilities.
A Forward-Looking Reorientation
A New Beginning for New Data Worlds
Storage AG. Early on in this phase, they recognized that Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) and archiving would become an emerging megatrend alongside traditional network backup. The INFINISTORE product family marked a milestone: one of the first archive appliances (NAS/Archive) consisting of a server, a disk system, and a magnetic tape robot system.
The focus is shifting
The hardware era is coming to an end; solutions are now software-based
The OEM agreement for HPE’s File System Extender (FSE) in 2005 marked the beginning of the complete transition to a pure-play software company. In 2007, GRAU DATA discontinued the production of magnetic tape robots and positioned itself as a pure-play software provider for archiving, data protection, and metadata analysis.
Our Milestones
The magnetic tape robot's first trade show appearance
At the time still operating under the name GRAU Automation and based in Böhmenkirch, the company took its first step into the world of data storage at CeBIT 1988.
Founding of GRAU Data Storage AG
Herbert Grau and Ulrich Lechner founded GRAU Data Storage AG. Early on in this phase, they recognized that Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) and archiving would become a major emerging trend alongside traditional network backup.
Software OEM Agreement with HPE
The OEM agreement for HPE's File System Extender (FSE) in 2005 marked the beginning of the company's full transition to a pure-play software firm.
End of robotics production, focus on software
In 2007, GRAU DATA ceased production of magnetic tape robots and repositioned itself as a software-only provider specializing in archiving, data protection, and metadata analysis.
Partnerships & New Software Products
A global focus and metadata analysis as further innovations.
Generational Transition - Dual Leadership
Since early 2024, the dual leadership team of Herbert Grau and his daughter Adriana Grau has been jointly managing the company.
New partnerships, new software products
A global focus and metadata analysis as further innovations
2022:
Strategic partner SVA System Vertrieb Alexander takes over sales for the Metadata Hub.
2023:
Establishment of GRAU DATA US LLC to serve the North and South American markets
2024:
Partnership with COMBACK GmbH to offer integrated end-to-end solutions combining XtreemStore (S3-to-Tape) and Comback tape libraries.
Data Management with Heart and Mind
Our very first robot used magnetic tapes with 200 MB of data. Today, our solutions manage billions of objects and petabytes to exabytes of data. Technology can be fun, too.
Years of Experience
Over 35 years in the world of data—from tape robots to metadata for AI.
Agility & Family Values
As a medium-sized company, we are fast, personal, and responsible.
Innovative Strength
We never stand still. From archiving software and data protection to metadata analysis for AI.
Global Focus
Based in Schwäbisch Gmünd, we serve international markets while remaining “Made in Germany.”