Table of Contents
Advertisement
Drive operation and maintenance
Data compression
Loading revised firmware from Seagate firmware cartridges
Flash memory
Firmware download process
Default operation for the Scorpion 40 drive is to have data compression enabled—
the drive automatically compresses all data written to tape and decompresses all
compressed data read from tape.
The degree of compression varies due to the type of data being processed.
Data with high degrees of redundancy, such as structured database files or graphics
files, can be compressed most efficiently, often at a ratio of 2:1 or more. Data with
little redundancy, such as executable programs, can be compressed the least.
The SCSI Mode Select command can switch the drive into compressed or
uncompressed mode for writing data regardless of the position of the jumper
position. When reading, the drive automatically selects compressed or
uncompressed mode, depending on the data that is read.
Another technological advancement incorporated into the Scorpion 40 drive is flash
memory, which is useful if the drive's SCSI firmware needs to be upgraded. With the
permanently installed, electrically upgradeable flash memory, revised SCSI firmware
for the drive can be loaded using any one of three methods: 1) Seagate OEM
firmware cartridges; 2) through the host SCSI bus; or 3) through the drive serial port.
The flash memory feature enables qualified OEMs who need to revise Scorpion 40
SCSI firmware to do so quickly and easily. Flash memory also prolongs the life cycle
of a drive because many new techniques—such as increasing the capacity of the
drive through support for longer tapes—may require only a firmware upgrade.
To load a firmware upgrade tape, follow these steps.
1.
Power on the host system with the Scorpion 40 drive installed.
2.
Make sure that there are no applications running that may try to communicate to
the drive during the firmware upgrade process. Close any such applications
before inserting the firmware upgrade cartridge.
3.
Insert the firmware upgrade cartridge.
!
Caution. Once the firmware upgrade cartridge is inserted into the drive,
it is important that no power interruption occurs while the
firmware is loading. Do not power off the drive . If a power
interruption occurs, the firmware may not be loaded correctly,
and the drive may not operate properly.
33
Hide quick links:
Advertisement
Table of Contents
