Operation
Using LTO Cartridges
28
Figure 9.
Ultrium Cartridge Showing Write-protect Switch
Cartridge Care and Maintenance
To protect the data on your Ultrium data cartridges, observe the following precautions:
•
Always remove the cartridge from the drive when not in use and store it in its protective case.
•
Do not expose cartridges to dirt, dust or moisture.
•
Do not touch the tape media within a cartridge.
•
Do not use data cartridges outside the specified operating conditions: 10
o
C to 40
o
C, 10%
to 80% relative humidity.
If a data cartridge has been exposed to temperature or humidity changes within the limits listed
above, allow the tape cartridge to acclimate to its surroundings for at least one hour before use.
Then retention the tape (as described below) to allow the tape pack to become stable, for better per-
formance.
If, during storage and/or transportation, a data cartridge has been exposed to conditions outside
the above range, it must be conditioned before use in the operating environment. The conditioning
process requires exposure to the operating environment for a time equal to, or greater than, the time
away from the operating environment, up to a maximum of 24 hours.
•
Keep the cartridge away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as radiators, heaters or
warm air ducts.
•
Keep the cartridge away from sources of electromagnetic fields, such as telephones, computer
monitors, dictation equipment, mechanical or printing calculators, motors, magnetic tools, and
bulk erasers.
•
Avoid dropping the cartridges. This can damage components inside the cartridge, possibly
rendering the tape unusable. If a tape is dropped it is advisable to open the cartridge door
and make sure that the leader pin is in the correct position. A dropped cartridge should be
retensioned before use.
•
Do not bulk erase Ultrium cartridges. Bulk-erased cartridges cannot be reformatted by the tape
drive and will be rendered unusable.
