Guidelines For Handling Tape Cartridges; Inspect A Tape Cartridge - Oracle SL150 Library Manual

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Guidelines for Handling Tape Cartridges

Properly handle tapes to prevent damage and data loss.
Caution:
Improperly handling tape cartridges can cause loss of data or damage the
library.
• Keep tapes clean and inspect for damage before each use.
• When unwrapping the plastic from a new cartridge, use the string or pull tab. Do
not use letter openers, knives, box cutters, scissors, or other sharp instruments.
• Never open a tape cartridge housing.
• Do not handle tape that is outside the cartridge; the tape edge might be damaged.
• Do not expose the tape or cartridge to direct sunlight, moisture, excessive
temperatures, or magnetic fields.
• Transport cartridges in shock resistant cases

Inspect a Tape Cartridge

Always inspect a tape before you insert it into a drive or a library to prevent damage.
Never use a damaged tape. A defective or dirty tape can damage the tape drive. Look
for:
• Dirt or debris
• Cracked or broken housing
• Damaged hub-wheel teeth
• Damaged write-protect switch (front left of cartridge, see below). The switch
should slide easily.
• Damaged leader door or pin (located on near rear of cartridge, see below). The
door should open cleanly and snaps shut when released. The pin should be
straight.
Suspect — the last time the tape was unloaded, the drive presented one
or more "suspect" tape alerts. These alerts are shown in the Tapes table.
Guidelines for Handling Tape Cartridges
Chapter 6
6-7