Loading Tape Cartridges; Preparing Tape Cartridges; Labeling Tape Cartridges - HP StorageWorks ESL E-Series Installation Manual

3

Loading tape cartridges

Before configuring the library you need to load the appropriate tape cartridges. For information
about tape cartridges needed for each tape drive type, please see HP StorageWorks Tape Libraries
Media and Bar Code Labels flyer.
This chapter includes the following sections:
• Preparing tape
• Library storage locations and slot
NOTE: Tape cartridges and cleaning cartridges must be ordered specifically. They are not
included in the purchase of an ESL E-series Tape Library.

Preparing tape cartridges

CAUTION: Handle tape cartridges with care. Do not drop or mishandle them, or place them near
sources of electromagnetic interference. Rough handling can damage the cartridge, making it
unusable and potentially hazardous to the tape drives.

Labeling tape cartridges

CAUTION: The misuse and misunderstanding of bar code technology can result in backup and
restore failures. To ensure that your bar codes meet HP's quality standards, always purchase them
from an approved supplier and never print bar code labels yourself. For more information, see the
order form provided with the library, as well as the Bar Code Label Requirements, Compatibility and
Usage white paper available from http://www.hp.com/support.
NOTE: For information on ordering tape cartridges and bar code labels, see the ordering sheet
that shipped with your library.
Attaching a bar code label to each tape cartridge enables the library and application software to
identify the cartridge quickly, thereby speeding up inventory time. Make it a practice to use bar
code labels on your tape cartridges. Your host software may need to keep track of the following
information and the associated bar code:
• Date of format or initialization
• Tape's media pool
cartridges, page 57
numbering, page 62
ESL E-Series Tape Library unpacking and installation guide 57