Nope, no one does that anymore.
It makes more sense to increase the backup
frequency for the first couple of months or so.
I still like the eight or nine drive raid configuration where even
if a drive does take a dump, NO data gets lost, and the replaced drive
gets the data image rebuilt automatically.
THAT is the most reliable method, and if this guy IS running a
business, and is setting up a server that he wants to be completely
reliable, this IS the best option.
SCSI and IDE raid controllers that perform that level of raid array
are not cheap though.
I am in the process of making a eight or nine drive raid level 3
array with laptop drives. I may even set it up for hot swap for
repairs on the fly.
Laptop form factors are the future of hard drives. 3.5" is on its
way out. Perpendicular technology will usher that in.
Less is more, and more fits on less! Couldn't be more perfect.