5.0 Chapter 5. Using the Media
Observe the following guidelines for using media with the 7208 Tape Drive Model 341:
Attention: Do not use video-grade cartridges, as they are hazardous to the 7208 Tape Drive and will void your warranty.
Before using a cartridge, let it acclimate to the operating environment for as long as it has been away from the environment or for 24
hours, whichever is less.
Use only IBM 8mm cartridges with the 7208 Tape Drive Model 341. The 7208 Tape Drive:
- Reads from and writes to advanced metal-evaporated (AME) cartridges
- Reads from metal particle (MP) cartridges
To order tape cartridges, see "Ordering Tape Cartridges" in topic 5.5.
Attention: Clean the 7208 Tape Drive tape drive:
- After you use an MP tape cartridge prior to using an AME cartridge
- Whenever you replace a worn tape
- Whenever you replace a defective tape
- Whenever the CLEANING message displays
For more information, see "Cleaning the Tape Drive" in topic 3.5.
Do not write to previously written software distribution tapes. Often these tapes will not support being rewritten without modifications to
the cartridge. If the cartridge is modified, it is possible to cause tape jams or tape misalignment.
Back up and then discard any tape that repeatedly produces error messages. (The error information is in the System Error Log.)
Do not open the door that covers the tape in the data cartridge. This door protects the magnetic tape from dirt, dust, and damage.
Do not touch the tape material. Any substance transferred to the tape by touching could cause loss of data.
Do not operate the 7208 Tape Drive in a dusty environment.
Do not store tape cartridges or the 7208 Tape Drive in a dusty environment.
Store tape cartridges vertically.
Subtopics
5.1 Types of Tape Cartridges
5.2 Storage and Shipping Environments
5.3 Operating in Harsh Environments
5.4 Setting the Write-Protect Switch
5.5 Ordering Tape Cartridges
7208 Model 341 Setup and Operator Guide
Chapter 5. Using the Media
¦ Copyright IBM Corp. 1997
5.0 - 1
