M8 cartridges can be purchased as either pre-initialized (also referred to as “labeled and initialized”) M8
data cartridges or uninitialized M8 data cartridges (M8 WORM cartridges are not supported). For either
option, the bar code label is included. However, the uninitialized M8 data cartridge must first be initialized
in tape libraries that support the automatic initialization of uninitialized M8 cartridges while under the
control of ISV applications that recognize the “M8” bar code label.
A tape cartridge is initialized when it is first loaded into a compatible tape drive and data is written by
the ISV application at the beginning of tape (sometimes referred to as "labeling a tape" or "writing from
BOT"). The tape drive then establishes the density of the media.
If an uninitialized M8 cartridge is not initialized in a tape library that supports uninitialized M8 cartridges,
then the cartridge might inadvertently and silently be initialized at the L7 density (that is, at a 6 TB native
capacity) even if the bar code label states “M8”. This action might occur with the usage of stand-alone
LTO7 tape drives, stand-alone LTO8 tape drives, earlier LTO8 tape drive firmware, or earlier ISV software
that does not recognize that M8 cartridges must be mounted only in LTO8 tape drives. M8 cartridges that
are inadvertently initialized at the L7 density can continue to be read and written in LTO7 and LTO8 tape
drives. However, they remain limited to the 6 TB native capacity.
In any tape product with M8 cartridges, the minimum LTO8 tape drive firmware version is HB82.
Loading, unloading, and write-protecting cartridges
Use only LTO Ultrium format cartridges with your drive, as specified in the LTO Ultrium standard. Ensure
that only one label is stuck to the label area of the cartridge. Do not use nonstandard labels, and do not
stick anything to the cartridge other than in the label area.
Figure 18 on page 23 shows the LTO Ultrium data cartridge and its components.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Figure 18. LTO Ultrium data cartridge
1
LTO cartridge memory
4
Write-protect switch
2
Cartridge door
5
Label area
3
Leader pin
6
Insertion guide
Loading a tape cartridge
1. Ensure that the tape drive is powered on. The ready/activity LED is solid green.
2. Ensure that the write-protect switch (see
3
in Figure 18 on page 23) is properly set. See “Setting the
write-protect switch on tape cartridges” on page 24.
3. Grasp the cartridge so that the write-protect switch faces you.
Chapter 3. Using the tape drive 23
