Protect cartridges from shock, vibration, moisture and magnetic fields.
•
Keep cartridges in protective cases and store vertically when not in use.
•
Ensure that no loose labels in the storage container stick to the bottom of the cartridge, covering the hub.
•
Never touch the tape or tape leader. Dust and oils from skin can contaminate the tape and affect performance.
•
Avoid direct sunlight – it can deform cartridge and/or ruin media.
•
Allow cartridge 24 hours to adjust to the present operating
temperature and humidity before use.
If You Drop Your Cartridge
•
Inspect case for any signs of cracks or protruding material.
•
Open cartridge door to check damage. See Spotting Damaged Cartridge
Section - Visual Inspection
•
If damage is present
Do not insert cartridge in tape drive.
Discard and/or contact the manufacturer.
•
If cartridge appears usable
Transfer data to a new cartridge and discard the old one.
Proper Storage Conditions
Media Type
Media Use
Proper Conditions
DLTtape
Super DLTtape
LTO Ultrium
Non-archival
Storage
• Between 60°F and 90°F (16°C and 32°C)
• Between 20% and 80% relative humidity
Archive Storage
(for one or more years)
• 73°F±9°F (23°C±5°C)
• Between 40% and 60% relative humidity
DAT/DDS
Non-archival Storage
• Between 41°F and 131°F (5°C and 55°C)
• Between 10% and 80% relative humidity
Archive Storage
(for one or more years)
• Between 41°F and 90°F (5°C and 32°C)
• Between 20% and 80% relative humidity
Media Usage/Durability
•
The usage or durability of your media is influenced by its care and handling as described in this document.
•
Many of the newer drives monitor the usage of the media and will alert you as to when to replace a cartridge. Refer to your drive documentation for available alerts or software utilities.
•
The table below shows the usage specifications for each media type. The actual amount can vary depending on drive wear, environmental factors and media handling.
Media Type
Full Tape Uses
Speci cation
DLT
Up to 200
Super DLT, DLT-S
Up to 260
LTO Ultrium
Up to 260
DAT/DDS
Up to 100
Labeling Your Cartridge
•
Never use non-standard adhesive labels or Post-it type notes.
•
Use barcode labels designed specifically for your cartridge.
•
To avoid drive/cartridge damage, make sure only one label is stuck to the designated label area of the cartridge. Multiple labels may cause jamming.
•
Do not write directly on the cartridge.
•
Write in pen, not pencil. Pencil can contaminate the tape path. Never use a grease pencil to write on the label.
Proper Storage Conditions
Media Type
Label Location
DLTtape &
Super DLTtape
Slide label ONLY into molded track on the back of the cartridge
LTO Ultrium
Stick label ONLY in the indented area on the back of the cartridge
DAT/DDS
Stick one label in the indented area on the back and/or top of the cartridge
