Qualstar RLS-4470, Technical & Service Manual

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2-10 Description and Theory of Operation
501510 Rev. S
• Drive Cartridge 1 & 2
The emitters are located on the Sensor Slave PCBA, and the detectors are
located on the Sensor Master PCBA. These are operated by the Sensor
Master PCBA. They are used to detect cartridges in the Tape Drives. Dur-
ing inventory, if a cartridge is present, then the corresponding sensor
beam will be blocked, and the library will mark the location as occupied
in its inventory data base.
2.2.3 Barcode Reader
An integrated Barcode Reader (BCR) is optional on all RLS models. The BCR can
uniquely identify each barcode labeled cartridge, thus saving the system from reading
each cartridge in a Tape Drive. Preprinted barcode labels, which are both human- and
machine-readable, are available from a number of sources including Qualstar.
The Barcode Reader consists of an LED light source and a Charge-Coupled Device
(CCD) sensor (similar to that used in a video camera) and associated electronics. It is
mounted on the carriage and contains no moving parts. The Barcode Reader can scan
all cartridges within the RLS (except those loaded inside Tape Drives). Barcode data
is stored internally in the changer’s non -volatile RAM (the internal inventory data-
base) and is available to the host computer upon request.
2.2.4 Barcode Labels
Pre-printed barcode labels, which are both human- and machine-readable, are availa-
ble from a number of sources including Qualstar.
Barcode labels must conform to ANSI/AIM BCI-1995, Uniform Symbology Specifica-
tion Code 39. Please refer to PIN-040 at www.qualstar.com (click on Support tab) for
more information.
By default, the RLS expects a modulus 43 check character at the end of each label.
The use of a check character helps assure that labels are read error-free. The RLS
configuration must be changed before using barcode labels without a check character.
All of the labels within the RLS must match the check character configuration: either
all with or all without a check character.
2.2.5 Capacity on Demand (COD)
The Capacity on Demand (COD) feature allows the storage capacity of RLS-8204,
8204D, 8404 and 8404D models to be field expanded from 12 tape cartridges up to 44
in increments of eight. The RLS-8202 may be expanded from 12 tape cartridges up to
36 in increments of eight. To order an upgrade kit, contact an authorized Reseller, or
Qualstar Sales at 805-583-7744 x 773. Necessary information about ordering and in-
stalling COD can be found in PIN-044 available at www.qualstar.com (click on the
Support tab).