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Appendix A
LTO TAPE DRIVE USAGE – MUST READ !!!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO PREVENT DATA LOSS
LTO tape with the LTFS file system is the most modern way to archive valuable data.
When proper procedure is followed you will have a fast, reliable backup.
Not following the guidelines could result in a corrupt file system (which can be
repaired, but takes time) or, at worst, a total loss of all data on the tape.
Although your tape, with LTFS, now functions like a USB flash drive (mounts like a
drive, presents file hierarchy like a drive) – it's NOT A HARD DRIVE so don't expect
it to perform like one.
Tape is a LINEAR media, not random access. By definition this means there will be
SEEK TIME (imagine fast forward and rewind on your old VCR). You will need to be
patient with certain operations (when you insert or remove tape, for example, or wait
for the tape to seek to empty space when initiating a copy or read after long idle time).
A.1 Please follow these guidelines to ensure data integrity
1.
DO NOT SHUT DOWN the computer with a tape in the drive.
If there's a tape in the computer, Windows will warn you by asking if you wish to
Force Shut Down. CANCEL this. Eject tape, then Shut Down.
Forcing a shut-down can corrupt the file system on the tape.
To eject, right-click on the tape drive letter and select "eject" from the menu. With
LTFS the physical eject button is disabled.
2.
Before inserting a tape, look in "My Computer" for the Tape Drive (drive letter,
e.g. T: if we've set it up for you) to make sure LTFS is running. If it is not there
run the IBM LTFS Configuration utility to assign a drive letter first.
When inserting a tape, WAIT for all activity to complete and a solid green light
3.
before doing anything else, including ejecting the tape.
4.
Tape is ready for use when Free Space and Total Size appear under the Drive
letter in the My Computer window.
If Yellow ! appears by drive letter in "My Computer" window, the tape is in an
5.
inconsistent state. You will need to either repair the file system on the tape (by
running "Check" tape utility) or Format the tape to begin anew.
To run the Tape Check utility, right-click the drive letter and select "Properties" and
click "Check".
511015 Rev. 07-01-19
LTFS Tape Operations
LTFS Tape Operations
Appendix A-1
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