Autoloader Operating Modes; Overview; Random Mode (All Models); Sequential Mode (All Models) - HP StorageWorks Ultrium 960 User's And Service Manual

NOTE: If you changed the SCSI ID, you must also cycle power on the host server and reconfigure
your backup software before you can use the autoloader. Consult your hardware and software
manuals for more information.

Autoloader operating modes

Overview

The operating mode is set based on whether you have automation software controlling cartridges in
the autoloader, when it is in Random mode, or if you are manually loading and unloading
cartridges using the autoloader Operator's Panel controls, when it is in Stacker or Sequential mode.
The autoloader normally automatically detects the required mode; however, you can also change
the modes from the Configuration menu.
NOTE: With 1/8 Ultrium 960 and Ultrium 448 Tape Autoloader models you must go offline to run
commands from the Operator's Panel, change configurations, and run diagnostics.
• Automatic mode (Ultrium 960 and Ultrium 448): The default setting is Automatic mode, which
allows the autoloader to switch between Random and Sequential mode depending on the SCSI
command received. This means it is in Sequential mode until it detects certain SCSI commands
which put it in to Random mode. You can also configure the autoloader for Sequential or
Random mode. If you do this, it will remain in Sequential or Random mode until you revert to
Automatic mode on the Configuration menu, see page 40.
• All other models: The autoloader does not have a separate Automatic mode; it always operates
in Autodetect mode. In Autodetect, the autoloader automatically assumes you are not using
automation software to control cartridge or drive activity. This is Sequential mode. If the
autoloader detects that the automation software is controlling tape drive activity, it will
automatically switch to Random mode.

Random mode (all models)

Random mode is used when there is a full-featured or a robotics-aware backup application in use.
This is the most common mode of operation. In Random mode, the autoloader will not automatically
load tapes into the drive; it waits for commands from the software. Your backup software must
support autoloaders, which may require the additional installation of an autoloader/library
software module.

Sequential mode (all models)

Sequential mode is used when the backup software is NOT robotics-aware or was designed for
standalone drives only. Sequential mode is useful when a software application is not available. In
Sequential mode, the autoloader automatically loads and unloads tapes from the drive. The
operator determines a tape to load by loading the desired tape into the tape drive using the
autoloader front panel (see "Importing Tape Cartridges" on page 37 for instructions).
Ultrium 960, Ultrium 448, Ultrium 460, Ultrium 230, DLT VS80, SDLT 320 39