1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper use, handling, and maintenance of your IBM LTO-8 Ultrium Data Cartridge, model 01PL041. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the data cartridge.
2. Product Overview
The IBM LTO-8 Ultrium Data Cartridge (Part # 01PL041) is designed for high-capacity data storage and archiving. It offers a native storage capacity of 12 terabytes (TB) and a compressed capacity of up to 30 terabytes (TB), depending on the data compressibility. This cartridge is compatible with LTO Ultrium Generation 8 tape drives.
Figure 1: IBM LTO-8 Ultrium Data Cartridge 01PL041. This image displays the front view of the IBM LTO-8 Ultrium data cartridge, highlighting its compact form factor and labeling.
3. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to prepare and load the data cartridge into a compatible LTO-8 tape drive:
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the data cartridge from its packaging. Avoid touching the tape surface or the leader pin.
- Inspection: Before use, visually inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage. Do not use a damaged cartridge.
- Loading: Insert the cartridge into the LTO-8 tape drive's loading slot. Ensure it is oriented correctly according to the drive's instructions. The drive will automatically pull the leader pin and load the tape.
- Initialization: Allow the tape drive to initialize the cartridge. This process may take a few moments. Refer to your tape drive's manual for specific initialization procedures.
4. Operating Instructions
Once the LTO-8 data cartridge is loaded and recognized by the tape drive and host system, you can perform data backup and restore operations.
- Backup Operations: Use your backup software to initiate data backup to the LTO-8 cartridge. Ensure that the software is configured to use the correct tape drive and media.
- Restore Operations: To restore data, load the appropriate LTO-8 cartridge into the drive and use your backup software's restore function.
- Ejecting Cartridge: Always eject the cartridge through your backup software or the tape drive's control panel. Never forcibly remove a cartridge while the drive is active.
- Write Protection: The LTO-8 cartridge features a write-protect switch. Slide the switch to the 'locked' position to prevent accidental data overwrites. Ensure it is in the 'unlocked' position for writing data.
5. Maintenance and Storage
Proper maintenance and storage are crucial for the longevity and reliability of your LTO-8 data cartridges.
- Handling: Always handle cartridges by their casing. Avoid dropping them or exposing them to excessive shock.
- Storage Environment: Store cartridges in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment. Ideal storage conditions are between 16°C and 32°C (60°F and 90°F) with relative humidity between 20% and 80% (non-condensing).
- Away from Magnetic Fields: Keep cartridges away from strong magnetic fields, which can corrupt data.
- Cleaning: The LTO-8 data cartridge itself does not require cleaning. However, regularly clean your LTO-8 tape drive using a compatible LTO cleaning cartridge as recommended by the drive manufacturer.
- Labeling: Use appropriate labels to identify the contents of each cartridge. Avoid writing directly on the cartridge shell with permanent markers, as chemicals may affect the plastic.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your IBM LTO-8 data cartridge, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Cartridge Not Recognized:
- Ensure the cartridge is fully inserted into the drive.
- Verify that the tape drive is powered on and properly connected to the host system.
- Check the tape drive's status indicators or software logs for error messages.
- Try a different LTO-8 cartridge to rule out a drive issue.
- Read/Write Errors:
- Clean the tape drive using an LTO cleaning cartridge. Dirty read/write heads are a common cause of errors.
- Ensure the cartridge is not write-protected if you are attempting to write data.
- Check for physical damage to the cartridge.
- Verify that your backup software and operating system drivers are up to date.
- Slow Performance:
- Ensure the tape drive and host system are configured for optimal data transfer rates.
- Check for network congestion if backing up over a network.
- Confirm that the data being written is compressible if expecting compressed performance.
If problems persist, consult your tape drive's user manual or contact IBM support.
7. Specifications
| Brand | IBM |
| Model Number | 01PL041 |
| Media Type | LTO Ultrium 8 |
| Native Storage Capacity | 12 TB |
| Compressed Storage Capacity | Up to 30 TB (data dependent) |
| Item Weight | 7 ounces (approximate, packaged) |
| Product Dimensions | 19.69 x 19.69 x 11.02 inches (approximate, packaged) |
| Color | Red (if applicable to specific cartridge markings) |
8. Warranty and Support
For information regarding the warranty of your IBM LTO-8 Ultrium Data Cartridge, please refer to the warranty documentation provided at the time of purchase or visit the official IBM support website. IBM provides comprehensive support resources, including technical documentation, FAQs, and contact information for customer service.
IBM Support Website: www.ibm.com/support
When contacting support, please have your product model number (01PL041) and any relevant error messages or details readily available.
