Redundant power
Two DC power supplies (
3
and
4
) provide power to two drive canisters (
7
) through a Rack Mount Card
or RMC (
5
).
The RMC allows both power supplies to share the load to the two drive canisters. If one power supply
fails, the RMC selects the remaining power supply to provide power to both drive canisters.
The power cables provide redundant AC power to each pair of power supplies, and in turn, to each pair of
drive canisters.
The dual AC power sources, power cables, and dual DC power supplies provide redundant AC and DC
power paths so that any single failure does not affect the drive canister performance.
Subsystem initialization
Subsystem initialization includes initial microprogram load (IML), power sequencing, and subsystem
diagnostic tests.
Initial microprogram load (IML)
During an initial microprogram load (IML), a microcode image that permits the subsystem to become
functional is loaded into the RAM.
Anytime the unit is initially powered ON, the 3592 attempts to complete an IML from nonvolatile storage.
Power sequencing
When power is applied, internal diagnostic tests check the voltages. After the voltages are checked, the
logic is reset. Finally, a basic function test of the logic is completed. Errors that are detected during the
power-ON sequence are displayed on the service panel.
Subsystem diagnostic tests
When power sequencing is complete, the power-on self test (POST) checks out memory, electronic
circuits, and sensors. Then, it ensures that the microcode can be loaded into memory.
You can use the service panel to monitor the progress and activity during initialization. For information
about the service panel, see “Virtual Operator panel menus” on page 87.
Field microcode update
The 3592 subsystem can accept microcode updates from many sources.
• Download from the host (with tapeutil, ntutil, or ITDT)
• CE laptop-to-drive with drive Ethernet port
• Microcode cartridge (FMR)
Note: See “Microcode maintenance” on page 217 for details.
Special tools and customer supplies
Use the special tools that are shipped, purchased, or ordered to repair or maintain the tape drive. Table
18 on page 36 contains a list of the special tools. See “Tools” on page 169 for information.
Introduction 35
