Quantum DLT 2000 Handbook page 164

Storage Requirements. As noted above, DLTtape media is ideal for
long-term archiving, with a storage life of 30 years or more. To
achieve its maximum shelf life, a DLTtape cartridge must be stored
in its protective case on its side and kept within a reasonable tem-
perature and humidity range. The ideal archival environment for
storing DLTtape cartridges is at a temperature range of 64°F to
79°F and relative humidity of 40 to 60 percent.
Avoid Temperature Extremes. DLTtape cartridges should be accli-
mated to your operating environment before use. A good rule of
thumb is to allow tape to adjust to room temperature for approxi-
mately as long as it was exposed to extreme temperatures. Even
though the temperature of the cartridge housing may feel normal,
the tape inside takes much longer to acclimatize. So, for instance, if
you left a tape in your car overnight and the temperature dropped
below freezing, you should let the tape warm up for the same
amount of time it was left outside.
When To Retire Your DLTtape Cartridges. As noted above, DLTtape
cartridges last a very long time. DLTtape media is pre-burnished at
the factory to provide a smooth, debris-free recording surface. In
addition, our tape goes through stringent quality control and test-
ing during manufacturing. No media is perfect, but half-inch
DLTtape cartridges come close, especially when combined with the
multi-level error detection and correction systems built into every
DLTtape drive. Note: if your Use Cleaning Tape light comes on
repeatedly, it may be time to retire a tape. A weak signal from a
damaged tape can cause this light to come on. It should also be
noted that the Use Cleaning Tape light may also come on from time
to time during the drive's initial break-in period.
DLTtape Drives Do's and Don'ts
You should treat your DLTtape drive like you do any piece of high
performance computer equipment. Your DLTtape drive contains
16.4 USING THE DLTtape SYSTEM