EMI/RFI Compliance United States – FCC WARNING: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
EN 45014 Advanced Digital Information Corporation 10201 Willows Road Redmond, Washington 98052 U.S.A. VLS Series Library VLS AIT EN 50081-1, EN-55022 Class A EN 50082-1, IEC 801-2, IEC 801-3, IEC 801-4 EN 60950 2/28/97 Date 21-23 Av. Saint-Fiacre...
Safety Warnings This symbol should alert the user to the presence of "dangerous voltage" inside the product that might cause harm or electric shock. All safety and operating instructions should be read before this product is operated, and should be retained for future reference. This unit has been engineered and manufactured to assure your personal safety.
Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the product beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel. Precautions • Do not use oil, solvents, gasoline, paint thinners or insecticides on the unit. •...
Table of Contents Copyright Notice ... ii Copyright Notice (Europe) ... iii EMI/RFI Compliance ... iv Safety Warnings... vi Precautions... vii Quickstart... xi Chapter 1 Getting Started... 1 Introduction ... 2 Requirements ... 2 Unpacking and Inspecting ... 3 Equipment Description ... 4 The VLS Unit ...
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On-Line Mode... 23 Sequential-Access Mode Configuration ... 23 Diagnostics Menu... 24 Write EEPROM Mode ... 25 Chapter 4 Operation and Maintenance... 27 AIT Media ... 28 Inserting the Data Cassettes into the Magazine ... 29 Inserting the Magazine into the VLS ... 30 Loading the Magazine ...
Quickstart T h i s S e c t i o n … ❐ provides a quick start guide for experts who are familiar with installing computer hardware and software.
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❐ Confirm that poer is off and that you have a SCSI interface (either a separate board as offered by ADIC or integrated on the mother-board) installed in the host computer. Consult your computer manual. ❐ Place the ADIC VLS near the host computer to which it will be connected. ❐...
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❐ Place the magazine on the carriage by slipping it over the left “magazine position” pin and then rotating toward the right and pressing into place on the right “magazine position” pin. ❐ If the application has not already done so, load the magazine by pressing first the ALT button and then the LOAD button.
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❐ Install or confirm the backup software (to run the VLS) on the host computer. ❐ Run any diagnostic tests provided with the backup software to make sure the VLS is communicating correctly with the host computer. You are now ready to run the VLS at a system level. Quickstart...
Getting Started T h i s C h a p t e r … ❐ covers what you need (and what you need to know) to install the ADIC Virtual Library System. Read this section before you begin installation. Chapter...
Introduction ADIC has designed the Virtual Library System (VLS) for high-capacity, near and off-line storage applications, such as backup, hierarchical storage management (HSM) and video/design/data file libraries. For the most part, installation is simply a matter of checking all necessary SCSI connections, installing the software (backup or otherwise) and applying power.
Unpacking and Inspecting If the operating environment differs from the storage environment by 15° C (30° F) or more, let the unit acclimate to the surrounding environment for at least 12 hours. ❐ Unpack all items from the carton. Save the packing materials in case you need to move or ship the system in the future.
When operating with two AIT-2 tape drives and assuming an average data compression ratio of 2:1, the VLS AIT can store up to 1.1 Terabytes of information on 11 AIT-2 data cassettes (SDX2-50C). It can reach a sustained maximum data transfer rate of over 720 MB per minute (also assuming 2:1 compression).
– voiding your warranty). The magazine for the VLS holds eleven AIT cassettes. It includes a clear dust cover to protect the cassettes and for ease of storage. Figure 1 shows an AIT cassette and a filled magazine with the cover in place.
Media Four types of AIT data cassettes are available for the VLS AIT: SDX1-25C, SDX1-35C, SDX2-36C, and SDX2-50C. The SDX1-25C and SDX2-36C are 170 meters in length, while the SDX1-35C and SDX2-50C are 230 meters in length and all use Sony’s Advanced-Metal Evaporated (AME) tape.
Figure 3. AIT Cleaning Cassette System Software A variety of backup and data storage software is available for use with the VLS. Please check with ADIC sales or Customer Assistance if you have a question on the compatibility of a particular software package.
Preparing the Host Computer System Power Off the Computer Confirm and/or Install the SCSI Host Interface The VLS must be connected to either an integrated SCSI host or a SCSI host adapter installed in the computer – either directly to the I/O connector on the card or as part of an existing SCSI chain.
Connecting the VLS T h i s C h a p t e r … ❐ provides instructions for physically connecting your VLS to your host system. ❐ steps you through the final phase of the installation process. Chapter...
Connecting the Interface Cables Make sure the interface cable you are using has the appropriate connectors on each end. If the host computer's SCSI connector is different from that on the VLS, you will need to obtain a different cable than the one supplied with the unit. Consult your dealer or ADIC Customer Assistance if you need help.
❐ Plug the other end of the SCSI interface cable into the external connector on the SCSI port card. Secure firmly. ❐ If this is the only unit you are installing, insert an external terminator plug into the second SCSI connector at the rear of the VLS. If you plan to connect another unit on the same SCSI channel, see the next section.
Each VLS unit contains more than one SCSI device and may require more than one SCSI ID (depending on the mode of use and number of drives). The first chart below shows various configurations and the number of SCSI IDs required. The second chart illustrates how many VLS units you can attach to one SCSI channel (if there are no other devices on the channel).
A display similar to the following will appear on the VLS display: The top line of the LCD is logically divided into a Drive A side (left), and a Drive B side (right). When the VLS is in the On-Line mode, the LCD displays the current status of the drives on the top line.
Equipment Description T h i s C h a p t e r … ❐ describes the switches, indicators and connectors on the front and rear of the VLS. ❐ describes the various functions available via the front panel buttons. ❐...
Once your VLS has been connected to your host computer system and the software has been installed, the VLS is ready for use. Just turn on the power switch, place a magazine on the carriage and press ALT and then LOAD. Note If you need to change certain operating functions, you can use the front panel buttons (as described in the next section).
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In the locked position, you cannot open the door to the VLS or access Lock any functions of the keypad. The two-line 16-character LCD display shows current drive status, and Display displays error messages. Lights when power is on. Power LED (green) Lights when door is locked.
Rear Panel Switches and Connectors Switches and connectors on the rear of the VLS are shown in Figure 7. S C S I I/O C o nn ectors F an F ilter R ea r A ccess P anel A C P o w er C o nn ector an d P o w er S w itch Power Turns on the AC power to the VLS.
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Configuration Menu Buzzer Configuration ErrAlarm Kybd SCSI ID Config Drive A Drive B SCSI Parity Parity Check Off-line Time Max time Drive Configuration Drv A Drv B On-line Mode Sequential Mode Cfg First* Last* Loopback* *Available only when VLS is configured as a single-drive unit. Diagnostics Menu Error Counters Yes/No...
To access the Off-Line menu, press the MENU button. The display will appear as follows: Use the UP or DOWN displayed item. Use the RIGHT line. To exit the Off-Line menu press the MENU button. Configuration Menu The Configuration Menu allows you to select the following operating parameters: •...
If you wish to change the status of the keyboard beep, use the RIGHT Kybd field. Use UP or DOWN or "N" to disable the beep. Press ENTER to make the changes effective or press ESC to return to previous menu item. SCSI ID Config Lets you select the SCSI ID for drive A, drive B and the robotics on the VLS.
Off-Line Time Lets you set the number of minutes the VLS will remain in the Off-Line mode. If someone leaves the VLS in an Off-Line mode, after the pre-set number of minutes the VLS will automatically return On-Line. This assures that your automatic backup will be done even if the VLS has accidentally been left Off-Line.
You can logically divide cassette usage to satisfy particular data storage needs. For example, you can assign one or more cassettes to specific data functions (such as certain directories or network servers), or you can assign specific cassettes to individual users.
Use LEFT or RIGHT First cassette you wish the VLS to insert into the drive. "L" is the number of the Last cassette you wish the VLS to insert into the drive. The Loopback (LPBK) mode determines what happens when the last cassette has been filled. If you select "Y"...
We highly recommend that these diagnostic functions be used only by a qualified service technician (or on the instruction of a qualified technician). Some of these functions assume that the unit has been set up correctly and thus many of the normal built-in safety checks are turned off.
Operation and Maintenance T h i s C h a p t e r … ❐ describes normal operation features of the VLS. ❐ provides details on the media and magazine ❐ explains normal maintenance procedures. Chapter...
The VLS is a highly sophisticated unit composed of one or two drives along with the electro- mechanical robotics that control the drive(s), magazine media. No modifications have been made to the drive(s). The built-in drive warning LEDs function as the manufacturer has specified.
Inserting the Data Cassettes into the Magazine The magazine for the VLS AIT holds 11 data cassettes. It includes a clear dust cover to protect the cassettes and for easy storage. See Figure 8. Insert each cassette into a slot of the magazine making sure that the write-protect switch is toward the bottom, facing the closed side of the magazine (as illustrated).
• • • • Inserting the Magazine into the VLS ❐ Remove the magazine cover. You can remove the cover by pressing the middle of both ends (where it is labeled PUSH) and lifting up (see Figure 9). Operation and Maintenance Notes Note Figure 9.
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❐ Open the VLS door. (The pick arm must be in the "out" position before you try inserting a magazine.) ❐ Holding the magazine by the thumbhole handle, and at a 45° angle to the carriage, slip the magazine onto the left side of the carriage, over the magazine position pin (see Figure 10).
The magazine will snap into place. If you don't hear a click, make sure that the slot on the right side of the magazine has slipped around its magazine position pin and is not just sitting on top of it (the magazine will not load correctly in this position). Loading the Magazine Once you have placed the magazine on the carriage, the VLS must initiate a loading process.
Attempting to Load the Magazine with a Cassette Already in Drive Random-Access Mode: If the cassette was loaded manually, it must be unloaded manually – before you attempt to have the VLS load the magazine. Refer to the next section for manual removal of a cassette.
❐ Press the Magazine Release on the carriage. See Figure 13. The magazine will release from the holding pins. ❐ Grab the thumb handle on the magazine and pull the right side of the magazine toward you. The magazine will come out at a 30-40 degree angle. ❐...
❐ Open the VLS door. Remove the magazine from the carrier. ❐ Press the eject button on the drive (see Figure 12). It may take 30 seconds or more for the drive to eject the cassette. If you wish to remove the magazine but there is a cassette in the drive, do the following: ❐...
Manually Removing a Cassette Loaded in the Drive ❐ Press ALT and then UNLOAD. This will place the magazine in the unload position. ❐ Open the VLS door. Remove the magazine from the carrier. ❐ Press the eject button on the drive (see Figure 12). It may take 30 seconds or more for the drive to eject the cassette.
Storing the Magazine Store magazines in a dry, cool environment. Always keep the dust cover on the magazine. The removable magazine allows for long-term archiving or off-site safety storage of groups of cassettes. You can duplex multiple VLS units so your system can mirror data backups on each separate unit.
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As a visual reminder, the drive LEDs will display the Media Caution indication during cassette load/unload operations after approximately 30 hours of tape motion since the last cleaning. The left and right LEDs (on the drive) will flash rapidly and the middle LED will flash irregularly.
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❐ Check the usage record on the label of the cleaning cassette to make sure that there is at least one cleaning cycle remaining. If there are no cleaning cycles remaining, discard the cleaning cassette and use a new one. Figure 15 shows a sample cleaning cassette with the label to write the date of each use.
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Figure 16. Inserting the Cleaning Cassette into the Drive. ❐ When the cleaning is finished the drive will automatically eject the cassette. Remove the cleaning cassette and write the date on the label so you have a record of how many times it has been used and when.
Note Cleaning the Enclosure The outside of the enclosure can be cleaned with a damp towel. If you use a liquid all-purpose cleaner, apply it to the towel. Do not directly spray the enclosure. Operation and Maintenance...
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics T h i s C h a p t e r … ❐ contains some general suggestions to aid you in solving problems – should you ever run into them. ❐ includes information on error codes and the built-in diagnostics. Chapter...
VLS Error Messages If any component of the VLS is not communicating correctly, a warning message will appear on the front display. A list of error messages follows below. If the error you see is not on this list, please call ADIC’s Customer Assistance Center.
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Error Name Description Drive failed to eject The VLS attempted to return a cartridge to a magazine slot, but media the drive had not previously ejected it. Unexpected Gripper The VLS sensed that the Gripper Arm Sensor was blocked when Arm Sensor break it should not have been.
Error Name Flash RAM write failure NV-RAM selection failure NV-RAM write failure Boot ROM checksum failure Unknown error code Drive Warning Signals The Sony AIT drives use front panel LEDs that are set up to provide a pattern of warning signals.
LED Indicators Figure 18 shows the drive’s front panel, Table 1 shows the possible states of the 3 LEDs, Table 2 defines each of the drive’s LED indications, and Figures 19 through 22 are timing diagrams of each of the flashing modes and codes. BUSY TAPE STATUS Figure 18 Drive Front Panel LEDs and Eject Button Location LED State...
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0.25 sec. sec. 0.25 sec. 0.25 sec. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics 0.25 sec. Flashing Mode 1: 0.25 sec ON/0.25 sec OFF Figure 19 Flashing Mode 1 Timing Diagram sec. Flashing Mode 2: 3.5 sec ON/0.5 sec OFF Figure 20 Flashing Mode 2 Timing Diagram 1.25 Flashing Code 1: One Pulse Figure 21 Flashing Code 1 Timing Diagram...
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Table 3 shows the possible LED indications for each drive state/condition: State Activity Cartridge None None SCSI None Drive Loading/ Unloading Drive Loading/ Unloading None Loaded Cleaning Tape None Loaded SCSI Loaded SCSI/Drive Loaded Loaded Other Busy None None None Flashing - Mode 1 Write...
Environmental Considerations For best performance of your VLS, please observe the following guidelines: ❐ If you expose cassettes to temperatures outside the operating limits – 40-113°F (5-40°C) – stabilize them by leaving the cassettes in the operating temperature for a minimum of two hours before you use them.
• Your name and your Company's name • Model number • Serial number of unit (located on the rear face by the power switch) • Software version numbers – device driver – archive/restore • Hardware configuration, including firmware version, date and number. •...
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• If the item is NOT in warranty, you will be charged for the repairs. Therefore, the Customer Assistance personnel will need a P.O. number at the time the RMA number is issued. Until credit information can be obtained by your reseller’s accounting department, the system may be shipped back COD to first-time customers.
Installing the Ferrite Bead T h i s A p p e n d i x … ❐ describes how to install a ferrite bead (supplied) on the SCSI cable to assure compliance with EMI/RFI suppression specifications with dual VLS installations.
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If you are using two or more VLS units on the same SCSI channel, you must install a ferrite bead on the interface cable between the units. ❐ Clip the clamp-on bead on the cable at any point between the two units. Refer to Figure Ferrite Bead SCSI...
One of the most valuable features of the VLS is the extensive built-in diagnostics. In this Appendix we discuss each of the Diagnostic functions available through the front panel keypad. ❐ To access the Diagnostics Menu, press the MENU button. The display will read as follows: ❐...
nnnnnnnn Counter name. ccccc Counter value (0 - 65535) Event Counters Provides a listing of the various VLS operations and how many times they have occurred. nnnnnnnn Counter name. ccccc Counter value (0 - 65535) Operation Log Provides a chronological logging (beginning with the latest) of up to 255 operations. These operations can be SCSI commands, operator requested operations, errors, and status operations.
Load magazine Unload magazine Door opened Door closed Position drive d (d = Drive A or B) Position magazine to slot ss (ss = 01- 11) Load from slot ss to drive d Unload from d to slot ss ERROR: Can’t unload, media in drive(s) ERROR: Source location empty ERROR: Unexpected Gripper Arm Sensor brk Retrying operation...
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Provides a record of the unit's unique hardware serial number. This information is vital for trouble shooting problems. Be prepared to provide this information to your reseller's Customer Assistance personnel if you ever need to talk with them. The following chart shows what each character in the sequence means.
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Load Medium The Load Medium function is used to line up the magazine with a particular drive at a particular magazine slot and load that cassette. ❐ Use LEFT or RIGHT or DOWN This option is usually used for diagnostics only by a trained technician. Unload Medium The Unload Medium function is used to line up the magazine with a particular drive at a particular slot so that the cassette will be placed in that slot when ejected.
Unload Drives The Unload Drives function provides a message prompting the operator to manually eject media from the drive(s) and then returns the media to the magazine, or informs the operator that the drive(s) are empty. If the VLS thinks that media is present in the drive(s) it will perform the following steps: 1.
Appendix Downloading New Firmware T h i s A p p e n d i x … ❐ explains the procedure for upgrading your VLS firmware.
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Another of the special features built into the VLS series of ADIC products is the ability to upgrade firmware and built-in diagnostics at your installation site. The process is simple. As upgrades become available upgrade diskettes will be provided along with all necessary instructions.
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Glossary T h i s A p p e n d i x … ❐ contains terms and definitions of expressions commonly used with the VLS and the Sony SDX-300C. Appendix...
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8 bits of digital data Celsius (Centigrade) A storage medium item. A cassette is sometimes called a tape or cartridge and is capable of storing vast amounts of magnetically-written data. Some cassettes can store more than 50 gigabytes of data.
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The item that holds the tape cassettes for use by the VLS SDX. The SDX magazine holds 11 cassettes. The magazine also provides long- term covered storage of cassettes. megabyte (1 MB = 1,024 Kilobytes) Memory In Cassette is a design innovation developed by Sony.
sequential-access mode Sony SDX-300C drive slot terminator unload Glossary The cassettes in the magazine are inserted into the drive in a sequential manner, i.e. number 1 is first, number 2 is second, etc. When the last cassette is ejected from the drive, the sequence will either stop and the VLS will issue an error message, or loop back to the first cassette.
Specifications T h i s A p p e n d i x … ❐ contains specification information on the VLS and the AIT-1 and AIT-2 tape drives. Appendix...
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Specifications Drive: Data Capacity: Type: Data Transfer Rate: Load Time: Changer: Magazine: Media type: Cassette Change: Indicators/Controls: Interface: Cassette Data Capacity: Capacity: Reliability Maintenance: MSBF: Specifications Up to 100 GB per cassette (AIT-2 tape drive) (compressed mode) Up to 1.1 TB per 11 cassette magazine (compressed mode) Sony model SDX-300C (AIT-1) or SDX-XXXC (AIT-2) (Optional dual drives available)
Environment Electrical: 100-240 VAC Automatic AC line voltage selection Temperature: 10° C to 40° C (Operating) -40° C to 70° C (Storage/Shipping) Humidity: 20% to 80% (Operating) 5% to 95% (Storage/Shipping) Vibration: 0.25g (5-500 Hz) (Operating) 0.5g (5-500 Hz) (Storage/Shipping)
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