
ACL 4/52 Software Interface Guide
Document 6211225-03
Version 3.0
Chapter Overview
2-3
Chapter Overview
This chapter contains detailed discussions of the Medium Changer
Elements, Events, Operational Sequences, Configuration and Error
Recovery Procedures as well as System Performance and Diagnostic
Support issues.
Library Description
The ACL 4/52 library is the automated storage and retrieval
component of an automated tape library system. It is capable of
storing a maximum of 48 Digital Linear Tapes (DLT™) in a Fixed
Storage Array (FSA) within the library cabinet. An operator accessible
Load Port at the front of the cabinet can hold an additional four
DLT™s for a total of 52. A host computer communicates with the
library via a SCSI interface. The host controls the robotic equipment
using the SCSI-2 Medium Changer Command Set.
In a typical operation, the host commands the robotics to transfer
DLT™s between storage bins (in the FSA), one of the four (DLT™2000,
DLT™4000, or DLT™7000) tape drives or the Load Port. Each time a
DLT™ is transferred, a gripping mechanism is moved to the DLT™s
location where it “picks” the tape, moves it to the designated (new)
location and then “places” it.
The library has fully functional media changer capability as defined by
the SCSI-2 specification. The library robotics control is directed by the
host computer. The SCSI interface enables the robotics to be driven by
the same SCSI bus as the tape drives. By providing a standard control
interface and supporting standard tape drives, the ACL 4/52 enables
host software developers to adapt their software to drive the ACL
4/52.
The ACL 4/52 has a minimal connection to any installed tape drives.
The library knows the number of drives installed and the SCSI
addresses for the tape drives. The library does not know if the drives
are on the same SCSI bus or not. This information is only relevant to
the host computer.