LTO tape cartridges

Only use the data and cleaning cartridges recommended here. By doing so you will extend the service life both of the cartridges and of the tape library. The use of other cartridges may result in the LTO drive malfunctioning.

Data cartridges

LTO-5 drives support LTO-3 (read only), LTO-4 and LTO-5 magnetic tape cartridges.
LTO-6 drives support LTO-4 (read only), LTO-5 and LTO-6 magnetic tape cartridges.
LTO-7 drives support LTO-5 (read only), LTO-6 and LTO-7 magnetic tape cartridges.

Cleaning cartridges

Only use the cleaning cartridges from Fujitsu Technology Solutions. The use of other cartridges may result in the LTO drive malfunctioning.

Using and maintaining tape cartridges

LTO-5 devices (FC variant) are addressed in the BS2000 system by means of:
device type: LTO-U5, device type code: CF, volume type: TAPE-U5, TAPE-U5E (encrypted).

LTO-6 devices are addressed in the BS2000 system by means of:
device type: LTO-U6, device type code: D1, volume type: TAPE-U6, TAPE-U6E (encrypted).

LTO-7 devices are addressed in the BS2000 system by means of:
device type: LTO-U7, device type code: D2, volume type: TAPE-U7, TAPE-U7E (encrypted).

Labeling tape cartridges

Attaching a barcode label to each tape cartridge enables the library and the data backupsoftware to identify the cartridge quickly, thereby speeding up inventory time. Make it a practice to use barcode labels on your tape cartridges. The data backup software may need to keep track of the following information via the associated barcode:

• Date of format or initialization

• Tape's media pool

• Data residing on the tape

• Age of the backup

• Errors encountered while using the tape (to determine if the tape is faulty).

CAUTION! The misuse and misunderstanding of barcode technology can result in backup and restore failures. To ensure that your barcodes meet manufacturers' quality standards, always purchase them from an approved supplier and never print barcode labels yourself.

Ultrium tape cartridges have a recessed area located on the front of the cartridge next to the write-protect switch. Use this area for attaching the adhesive-backed barcode label. Only apply labels as designated in the following figure:

Figure 32: Ultrium tape cartridge and proper barcode label placement

CAUTION!

The barcode label should only be applied as shown in the figure above with the alphanumeric portion facing the hub side of the tape cartridge. Never apply multiple labels onto a cartridge, as extra labels can cause the cartridge to jam in a tape.

Write-protecting tape cartridges

All rewritable tape cartridges have a write-protect switch to prevent accidental erasure or overwriting of data.

Barcode reader

The barcode reader provides inventory feedback to the host application and/or LCD screen by reading the cartridge barcode labels. The library stores the customized inventory data in memory.