Caring For Cartridges; Using Cartridges; Storing Cartridges - HP J3278B - SureStore CD-ROM Server/Tower 7 NAS Server Administrator's Manual

Cartridges
file:///D|/ADMIN_~1/eng/tape/cart.htm (2 of 3) [5/3/2000 3:33:51 PM]
Do not use cartridges labeled "DAT" because the media is not certified and its
integrity cannot be guaranteed for data storage purposes. DAT cartridges have a
different mechanical specification that can cause them to jam in the mechanism. The
tape drive warranty does not cover damage caused by the use of DAT cartridges.

Caring for Cartridges

Under optimum environmental conditions, Hewlett-Packard DDS-4 cartridges are
currently specified to 2000 passes over any part of the tape. In operational terms, this
can be translated to about 100 backup operations. Under severe environmental
conditions, particularly where the tape drive is used at very low humidity or if certain
areas of the tape are accessed frequently, the number of backup operations should be
limited even further.
Caution: Ensure that only one label is stuck to the label area of the cartridge. Never
use non-standard labels, and never stick anything to the cartridge other than in the
label area.

Using Cartridges

Only use DDS cartridges in temperatures in the tape drive's operating range from 5°C
to 40°C (40°F to 104°F) and 20 to 80% relative humidity (noncondensing). If you
expose cartridges to temperatures outside the operating limits, stabilize them before
you use them. To do this, leave the cartridges in the operating environment for 24
hours.

Storing Cartridges

Tests show that data can successfully be stored on DDS cartridges for 30 years or
more if stored under proper conditions:
Store cartridges at temperatures between -4°C and 45°C (-40°F and 113°F )
with a relative humidity between 5 and 95%.
Always keep the cartridges in a clean environment.
Always store cartridges in their plastic cases when not in use.
Maximizing Tape Life
Do not touch the tape.
Do not attempt to clean the tape path or tape guides inside the cartridge.
Do not leave cartridge tapes in excessively dry or humid conditions.