IBM TotalStorage 3494 Tape Library, Operator'S Manual

Page: 363 / 605

The Insert Unlabeled Cartridges operation is designed to allow you to insert
volumes into the Library Manager database that do not have an external
device-readable label. These volumes may be used in the same manner that
regular, properly labeled volumes are used, except for operations requiring an
external device-readable label. To insert unlabeled cartridges, perform the
following steps:
1. Ensure that the convenience I/O station is empty.
2. In the spaces in the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges window (Figure 218 on page
338), enter the volsers and the cartridge type of all the cartridges you want to
insert.
Note:
If a volume with a device-readable label is inserted with a different
volser entered in the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges window, problems will
occur during a subsequent Inventory or Inventory Update operation.
3. Place the cartridges in the convenience I/O station in the same sequence as
represented in the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges window, then close the
convenience I/O station door.
4. Select the OK push button.
Each volser entered is checked to ensure that it is a valid number and that no
other cartridge in the 3494 Tape Library has the same number. The validity of
the cartridge type is also checked. Valid characters for an unlabeled cartridge
volser are alphanumeric characters plus the following special characters: – # &
$ @
. The cartridges are then inserted into the 3494 Tape Library. After all the
cartridges are inserted into the 3494 Tape Library, you may repeat the
operation.
If the misplaced or inaccessible flags are set for an existing volser in the 3494
Tape Library, the cartridge is inserted and the flags are cleared.
5. Select the Cancel option to cancel the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges operation.
You can use the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges function to insert empty stacked
volumes for a VTS. To be successful, the volser must fall into a stacked volume
volser range (see Figure 218 on page 338), and the media type must be J or K .
However, IBM recommends that you DO NOT use the Insert Unlabeled Cartridges
function for stacked volumes in normal operations. You should use it only for
reinserting volumes that have a damaged external label.
Chapter 6. Advanced Operating Procedures
337