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StorageWorks SDLT Tape Drive by Compaq Reference Guide
Operating the SDLT Drive
Cartridge Handling and Storage
For longer life of recorded or unrecorded cartridges,
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Store cartridges in a clean environment.
•
Use cartridges in temperatures between 10°C and 40°C (50°F to 104°F).
•
If a cartridge has been exposed to extreme heat or cold, stabilize the cartridge at
room temperature for the same amount of time it was exposed for up to 24 hours.
•
Do not place cartridges near electromagnetic interference sources, such as
terminals, motors, and video or X-ray equipment. Doing so may cause data on the
cartridge to be altered.
•
Store cartridges in a dust-free environment where the relative humidity is between
20 percent and 80 percent. For longer cartridge life, store the cartridge at
40 percent to 60 percent relative humidity.
•
If a cartridge is dropped or damage is suspected, gently shake the cartridge:
— If it rattles, it is damaged. Restore the data on the cartridge by some means
other than by using the SDLT drive, and discard the damaged cartridge.
— If it doesn't rattle, check the tape leader
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inside the cartridge. To do this,
open the door on the rear of the cartridge by releasing the door lock
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. The
tape leader should be in the position shown in Figure 3-5.
Figure 3–5: Checking the tape leader
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