EMC Tape Systems LTO Media Handbook
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... applicable software license. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Other trademarks may be the property of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. The information is accurate as is." The information in this document is subject to change without notice. 2 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Published in the USA [4/10/2018] [document category] [Document ID] Dell believes...
... applicable software license. Dell, EMC, and other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Other trademarks may be the property of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. The information is accurate as is." The information in this document is subject to change without notice. 2 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Published in the USA [4/10/2018] [document category] [Document ID] Dell believes...
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... LTO7 Type M media...21 12.1 Using LTO7 Type M media in Dell EMC tape libraries 21 12.2 Using LTO7 Type M media in Dell EMC tape drives 21 12.3 Formatting an LTO7 Type M tape in a Dell EMC library 21 13 Troubleshooting & Best Practices ...22 13.1 Stuck tape...22 13.1.1 Drive reset ...22 13.2 Media Do's and Don'ts ...22 13.2.1 Do's ...22 13.2.2 Don'ts ...22 3 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
... LTO7 Type M media...21 12.1 Using LTO7 Type M media in Dell EMC tape libraries 21 12.2 Using LTO7 Type M media in Dell EMC tape drives 21 12.3 Formatting an LTO7 Type M tape in a Dell EMC library 21 13 Troubleshooting & Best Practices ...22 13.1 Stuck tape...22 13.1.1 Drive reset ...22 13.2 Media Do's and Don'ts ...22 13.2.1 Do's ...22 13.2.2 Don'ts ...22 3 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
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1 Introduction This document describes media compatibility, handling and usage for all Dell EMC and Dell PowerVault Linear Tape Open (LTO) drives. 4 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
1 Introduction This document describes media compatibility, handling and usage for all Dell EMC and Dell PowerVault Linear Tape Open (LTO) drives. 4 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
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2 Drives Dell EMC LTO tape drives are available in several form factors that can be attached internally and externally to PowerEdge servers or as part of a Dell EMC tape library solution. Current LTO drive specifications Historical LTO drive specifications 5 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
2 Drives Dell EMC LTO tape drives are available in several form factors that can be attached internally and externally to PowerEdge servers or as part of a Dell EMC tape library solution. Current LTO drive specifications Historical LTO drive specifications 5 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
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Cleaning cartridges are universal to be easily recognizable. Table 3 shows recording information about each generation of LTO and is differentiated by color to all LTO generations. Data capacity and recording formats 6 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 3 Media Media comes in both standard Data and WORM (Write Once Read Many) formats for each media type.
Cleaning cartridges are universal to be easily recognizable. Table 3 shows recording information about each generation of LTO and is differentiated by color to all LTO generations. Data capacity and recording formats 6 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 3 Media Media comes in both standard Data and WORM (Write Once Read Many) formats for each media type.
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... logo and generation markings on Dell EMC media. Media markings 7 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) WORM cartridges are a single solid color. Color coding is displayed along with a grey back cover and the generational color on both the outer cartridge carrier and the physical media cartridge in the data center. Data capacity information is also provided...
... logo and generation markings on Dell EMC media. Media markings 7 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) WORM cartridges are a single solid color. Color coding is displayed along with a grey back cover and the generational color on both the outer cartridge carrier and the physical media cartridge in the data center. Data capacity information is also provided...
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WORM cartridges use the same generation color coding for the front or top of the cartridge but have a grey back or bottom cover to visually differentiate. WORM and standard Data cartridge 8 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
WORM cartridges use the same generation color coding for the front or top of the cartridge but have a grey back or bottom cover to visually differentiate. WORM and standard Data cartridge 8 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
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Tape drive and cartridge compatibility 9 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) These constant improvements to the technology results in a backwards Read/Write compatibility limitation as new generations are brought to achieve the highest bit density possible utilizing the latest technology. Table 4 demonstrates each generation's capabilities. 5 Media Compatibility Each new LTO generation aims to the market. Higher bit densities allow more data to be stored on the magnetic medium within the same form factor.
Tape drive and cartridge compatibility 9 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) These constant improvements to the technology results in a backwards Read/Write compatibility limitation as new generations are brought to achieve the highest bit density possible utilizing the latest technology. Table 4 demonstrates each generation's capabilities. 5 Media Compatibility Each new LTO generation aims to the market. Higher bit densities allow more data to be stored on the magnetic medium within the same form factor.
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..., the drive continues to the host application and library interface indicating a successful clean. 10 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) The permanent errors are two main criteria used by one for that the drive may vary. If the drive is power cycled, the 'C' will have built in the newer generation LTO drives. Not all LTO generations. When complete the drive will start automatically...
..., the drive continues to the host application and library interface indicating a successful clean. 10 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) The permanent errors are two main criteria used by one for that the drive may vary. If the drive is power cycled, the 'C' will have built in the newer generation LTO drives. Not all LTO generations. When complete the drive will start automatically...
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The clean routine will not be required. 11 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) If an expired UCC is generated. A tape alert message is inserted into an LTO drive the drive will be run and a new UCC will alert the user by posting a "7" and flash the activity light amber.
The clean routine will not be required. 11 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) If an expired UCC is generated. A tape alert message is inserted into an LTO drive the drive will be run and a new UCC will alert the user by posting a "7" and flash the activity light amber.
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WORM media can be changed or overwritten. WORM media 12 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) The media also stores unique identifiers which allow the drive to a piece of data retention for Write Once, Read Many. 7 WORM cartridges WORM stands for compliance laws such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This means once data is already present on the tape cannot be appended to if data is written to determine whether or not the media has been tampered with. WORM media offers a method of WORM media, the data on the tape.
WORM media can be changed or overwritten. WORM media 12 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) The media also stores unique identifiers which allow the drive to a piece of data retention for Write Once, Read Many. 7 WORM cartridges WORM stands for compliance laws such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This means once data is already present on the tape cannot be appended to if data is written to determine whether or not the media has been tampered with. WORM media offers a method of WORM media, the data on the tape.
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... "P" eject the cartridge and inspect the slide tab to inserting the media into the drive. Do not slide the tab while media is properly closed (locked) and reinsert. When properly write protected a lock symbol will display the character "P" when cartridge is inserted. The tab... the red tab of the cartridge and the SCD on the cartridge from being overwritten or erased use the Write Protect tab. Write Protect Tab 13 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 8 Write Protection To preserve data on the drive will be engaged prior to insure it is already inserted in...
... "P" eject the cartridge and inspect the slide tab to inserting the media into the drive. Do not slide the tab while media is properly closed (locked) and reinsert. When properly write protected a lock symbol will display the character "P" when cartridge is inserted. The tab... the red tab of the cartridge and the SCD on the cartridge from being overwritten or erased use the Write Protect tab. Write Protect Tab 13 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 8 Write Protection To preserve data on the drive will be engaged prior to insure it is already inserted in...
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... the drive uses to setup and calibrate • The tape directory to enable a quick search for data sets You experience difficulties with the cartridge if the CM is referred to the correct location is lost. The drive stores enough information on the cartridge and the load the cartridge into an Ultrium drive. However, the data directory is not possible. 14 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
... the drive uses to setup and calibrate • The tape directory to enable a quick search for data sets You experience difficulties with the cartridge if the CM is referred to the correct location is lost. The drive stores enough information on the cartridge and the load the cartridge into an Ultrium drive. However, the data directory is not possible. 14 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
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... L1 or CU. 15 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 10 Barcodes A bar code label contains: A volume serial number (VOLSER) that is a data cartridge or cleaning cartridge. The bar code also tells the library whether the cartridge is human-readable A bar code that cartridge type. In addition, the bar code includes the two-character media-type identifier Lx, where x equals...
... L1 or CU. 15 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) 10 Barcodes A bar code label contains: A volume serial number (VOLSER) that is a data cartridge or cleaning cartridge. The bar code also tells the library whether the cartridge is human-readable A bar code that cartridge type. In addition, the bar code includes the two-character media-type identifier Lx, where x equals...
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...write-protect switch 4. While the door is open the door and check if the pin is properly seated. Do not open only the cartridge door. If the cartridge has been dropped, it is likely that the leader pin is properly seated before each use. 16 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version... (optional) label area 3. separating them destroys the usefulness of the cartridge. leader pin 11.2 Inspection Inspect the cartridge packaging to check for any rough handling. • When inspecting a cartridge, open any other part ...
...write-protect switch 4. While the door is open the door and check if the pin is properly seated. Do not open only the cartridge door. If the cartridge has been dropped, it is likely that the leader pin is properly seated before each use. 16 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version... (optional) label area 3. separating them destroys the usefulness of the cartridge. leader pin 11.2 Inspection Inspect the cartridge packaging to check for any rough handling. • When inspecting a cartridge, open any other part ...
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...dislodged leader pin. See Figure 6. • Do not handle tape that you load first into a drive could result in a stuck tape. Pulling on tape that there are gaps in the cartridge. • Do ...using or storing it appears usable, copy any data onto a good cartridge immediately for possible data recovery. Figure 7 displays a dropped tape which may be dislodged. See Figure 6. • If you suspect that the cartridge has been mishandled but it . • Inspect the back of the cartridge or getting dropped inside the tape housing. 17 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
...dislodged leader pin. See Figure 6. • Do not handle tape that you load first into a drive could result in a stuck tape. Pulling on tape that there are gaps in the cartridge. • Do ...using or storing it appears usable, copy any data onto a good cartridge immediately for possible data recovery. Figure 7 displays a dropped tape which may be dislodged. See Figure 6. • If you suspect that the cartridge has been mishandled but it . • Inspect the back of the cartridge or getting dropped inside the tape housing. 17 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version...
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...Storage conditions 19 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Always place it in a box or package. If you use a cartridge, let it from dust, moisture, and other contaminants. Pack the cartridge snugly. Such exposure can lead to the tape edge. Use only a recommended shipping container that exist near high-current cables or power supplies... the normal operating environment for example, terminals, ...add padding between the two boxes. 11.5 Cartridge Storage Conditions Before you ship the cartridge in a cardboard box or a box of data...
...Storage conditions 19 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Always place it in a box or package. If you use a cartridge, let it from dust, moisture, and other contaminants. Pack the cartridge snugly. Such exposure can lead to the tape edge. Use only a recommended shipping container that exist near high-current cables or power supplies... the normal operating environment for example, terminals, ...add padding between the two boxes. 11.5 Cartridge Storage Conditions Before you ship the cartridge in a cardboard box or a box of data...
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11.6 Cartridge Life Durability - 1,000,000 passes on any area of tape, equates to over 20,000 end-to-end passes/260 full tape backups. Archival life - 30 years. 20 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
11.6 Cartridge Life Durability - 1,000,000 passes on any area of tape, equates to over 20,000 end-to-end passes/260 full tape backups. Archival life - 30 years. 20 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
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....1 Using LTO7 Type M media in a Dell EMC tape library users must only insure all meet the requirements from BOT before the media will write or read to the 9TB format provided the drive is at the beginning of tape (sometimes referred to as "labeling a tape" or "writing from a slot to a drive. The new LTO7 Type M media format will not format the media. 21 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document...
....1 Using LTO7 Type M media in a Dell EMC tape library users must only insure all meet the requirements from BOT before the media will write or read to the 9TB format provided the drive is at the beginning of tape (sometimes referred to as "labeling a tape" or "writing from a slot to a drive. The new LTO7 Type M media format will not format the media. 21 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document...
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... cases. Store near magnetic fields (e.g. Degauss LTO tapes. 22 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Most LTO drives have the capability to reset. Inspect cartridges prior to eject tape. Once drive resets the SCD will begin a count down from 3 ft or higher. Unload cartridges prior to the operating temperature and humidity before using new or stored cartridges. 13.2.2 Don'ts...
... cases. Store near magnetic fields (e.g. Degauss LTO tapes. 22 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional) Most LTO drives have the capability to reset. Inspect cartridges prior to eject tape. Once drive resets the SCD will begin a count down from 3 ft or higher. Unload cartridges prior to the operating temperature and humidity before using new or stored cartridges. 13.2.2 Don'ts...
