Just something else to consider on that topic - a single stream can move data pretty quickly if you are using async IO, and backing up to disk instead of tape, either via regular disk backup, e.g. to your flash recovery area, or through sbt_tape to a disk staging unit used by your Media Management software (e.g. Netbackup) before it actually writes to tape. -----Original Message----- From: oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Crisler, Jon If you must have RAC, then also consider Oracle RAC Standard Edition (as opposed to Enterprise). . . . Just make sure you can live without the certain features it omits- for large databases just the fact that RMAN is limited to a single stream can be a deal-breaker. Privileged/Confidential Information may be contained in this message or attachments hereto. Please advise immediately if you or your employer do not consent to Internet email for messages of this kind. Opinions, conclusions and other information in this message that do not relate to the official business of this company shall be understood as neither given nor endorsed by it. -- //www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l