Control Mode - HP STORAGEWORKS SSL1016 Reference Manual

Installation and Configuration

Control Mode

You can set the autoloader to either Random, Mixed, Sequential, or Seq Cycle
Mode. The default control mode is Random.
Note:
Mode.
The Sequential mode supports certain backup applications that do not manage
media. During backup, when one cartridge is read or written to the end of the tape,
the autoloader automatically returns that cartridge to its slot and loads the
cartridge from the next higher numbered slot to the tape drive to be read or written
to. This continues until the backup software stops accessing the drive or until all
the cartridges have been sequentially accessed.
In Random control mode you can specify which cartridge you want to use and
where you want it to go. You will probably use this mode the most.
In Mixed mode, the autoloader supports both Sequential and Random mode
functions. This mode can be useful in network environment.
Note:
mode operation.
In Seq Cycle mode, the autoloader automatically starts over with magazine slot 1
when the last cartridge is used (slot 16 or highest filled slot). If this control mode
is not set, the autoloader stops when the last cartridge available has been used. In
Seq Cycle mode, the autoloader continues to cycle until a user stops it.
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If the I/E slot is enabled, the autoloader cannot be used in Mixed or Sequential
Do not use Mixed mode unless you are certain all applications support Mixed
Caution: Seq Cycle mode could cause data to be overwritten. Only use Seq
Cycle mode if you are sure that the size and frequency of your backups will not
prematurely overwrite your data.
SSL1016 Tape Autoloader Reference Guide