Dell Powervault LTO6 User Manual

Dell™P o werVault™LTO Tape User's Guide

User's Guide

Note!

Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the general information under Notices in the Dell
PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide.

NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your system.

NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.

CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

© 2012 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.

© International Business Machines Corporation, 2012. All rights reserved.

Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, and PowerVault, are trademarks of Dell Inc. Microsoft and Windows
are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks
and names or their products. Dell Inc. disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than
its own.

v Internal Drive Model Numbers: LTO Ultrium 6-H, LTO Ultrium 5-H, LTO Ultrium 4-H, LTO Ultrium 3-H

v External Drive Model Numbers: CSEH 001, LTO4-EH1, LTO3-EH1

v Rack Mount Model Number: 2U Storage Rack A

Initial release: November 2012

Contents

Figures ...............v

Tables ...............vii

Chapter 1. Introduction .......1-1

Overview ...............1-1

Encryption ..............1-2

Specifications and Features .........1-3

Tape Backup Software ..........1-4

Front Panel ..............1-4

Rear Panel ..............1-6

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive 2-1

Pre-installed Internal Drives ........2-1

Installing Internal Drives .........2-1

Installing the Internal Drive - Step-By-Step

Instructions .............2-1

Installing External and Rack Mount Drives . . . 2-5

Installing the External Drive - Step-By-Step

Instructions .............2-5

Verifying Drive Operation ........2-7

Loading Device Drivers .........2-7

Ethernet Service Port Procedures ......2-8

Chapter 3. Using the Tape Drive . . . 3-1

Operating the Drive ...........3-1

Loading, Unloading, and Write-Protecting

Cartridges ..............3-2

Caring for Tape Cartridges .........3-5

Cleaning the Tape Mechanism ........3-7

Obtaining Drivers and Firmware Upgrades . . . 5-1
Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function . . 5-1

General Guidelines ...........5-8

Methods of Receiving Errors and Messages . . . 5-9

Descriptions and Corrective Actions .....5-10

Drive Status .............5-13

Drive Maintenance ...........5-14

Fixing SAS Connectivity Problems ......5-15

Resolving Media-Related Problems ......5-16

Removing an Internal SAS Tape Drive .....5-16

TapeAlert ..............5-17

Recovering a Tape Cartridge ........5-20

Chapter 6. Specifications ......6-1

General Specifications ...........6-1

Internal Drive .............6-1

External Drive .............6-2

Rack Mount Drive ............6-3

Chapter 7. Getting Help .......7-1

Technical Assistance ...........7-1

Dell Enterprise Training and Certification ....7-3

Problems with Your Order .........7-3

Product Information ...........7-3

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit . . 7-3

Before You Call .............7-3

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell ......8-1

Appendix. Regulatory Information . . A-1

Chapter 4. Using the Tape Backup

Software..............4-1

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting .....5-1

Glossary .............B-1

Index ...............X-1

iii

iv Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Figures

1-1. PowerVault Internal Model ......1-1

1-2. PowerVault External Model ......1-2

1-3. PowerVault Rack Mount Model .....1-2

1-4. Front Panel............1-4

1-5. Rear Panel of Internal SAS Tape Drive 1-6
1-6. Rear Panel of External SAS Tape Drive 1-6
1-7. Rear Panel of the Rack Mount Tape Drive 1-7

2-1. Air Intake Area ..........2-2

2-2. Install the Drive ..........2-3

2-3. Mounting Holes on Tape Drive .....2-4

2-4. Attaching SAS Cable ........2-4

2-5. Secure the Drive ..........2-5

2-6. Connecting the SAS cable .......2-6

2-7. Connecting two SAS Hosts to one Tape

Drive..............2-7

3-1. Turning on the External Drive .....3-1

3-2. Turning on the Rack Mount Drive 3-1

3-3. Resetting the Drive .........3-2

3-4. LTO Ultrium Data Cartridge ......3-3

3-5. Loading .............3-4

3-6. Setting the Write-Protect Switch .....3-5

5-1. Drive Status page .........5-14

5-2. Drive Status page - details ......5-14

5-3. Drive Maintenance page .......5-15

v

vi Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Tables

1-1. LTO Generation Specifications .....1-3

1-2. SCD, Ready/Activity LED, and Fault LED

Descriptions ...........1-5

3-1. Supported Functions of Compatible Media

Types..............3-2

3-2. Environmental Specifications ......3-6

5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes

and Descriptions ..........5-2

5-2. General Troubleshooting .......5-8

5-3. Methods of Receiving Errors and Messages 5-10
5-4. Descriptions and Corrective Actions 5-10
5-5. TapeAlert Flags and Descriptions 5-17

6-1. General specifications ........6-1

6-2. Internal Drive specifications ......6-1

6-3. External Drive specifications ......6-3

6-4. Rack Mount drive specifications.....6-3

7-1. Diagnostics Checklist ........7-4

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viii Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 1. Introduction

v “Overview”

– “Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) Interface” on page 1-2

v “Encryption” on page 1-2

v “Specifications and Features” on page 1-3

v “Tape Backup Software” on page 1-4

v “Front Panel” on page 1-4

v “Rear Panel” on page 1-6

Overview

The LTO PowerVault tape drive is a high-performance, high-capacity tape storage
device that is designed to back up and restore data and archive and retrieve files
in an Open Systems environment. The drive can be integrated into a system
(internal model) or can be provided as a separately packaged desktop unit
(external model). There are six generations of the Dell PowerVault tape drives in
the LTO series of products.

Figure 1-1 shows the internal model of the tape drive. Figure 1-2 on page 1-2
shows the separately purchased external model of the tape drive. Figure 1-3 on
page 1-2 shows the rack mount model.

Figure 1-1. PowerVault Internal Model

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1-1

Figure 1-2. PowerVault External Model

Figure 1-3. PowerVault Rack Mount Model

Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) Interface

A drive with a SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) interface can be linked directly to
controllers. The SAS interface offers the following advantages over the traditional
SCSI interface:

v SAS enables multiple devices (up to 128) of different sizes and types to be

connected simultaneously with thinner and longer cables.

v Its full-duplex signal transmission supports up to 6.0 Gb/s.

v SAS drives can be hot-plugged.

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Encryption

The Tape Drive has Application Managed Encryption (AME) functionality. You
must have an application that supports encryption to use the drive's encryption
capability. For more details, consult your application support documentation.

1-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Specifications and Features

Specifications

Table 1-1. LTO Generation Specifications

Specification LTO6 LTO5-140 LTO4-120 LTO3-80

Native Capacity 2500 GB 1500 GB 800 GB 400 GB

2.5:1
Compressed
Capacity

2:1 Compressed
Capacity

Maximum
Native Data
Transfer

Compressed
Maximum Data
Transfer*

Media
Partitioning**

Data Safe
Mode**

Encryption
Status LED

PowerVault Generation

6250 GB NA NA NA

5000 GB 3000 GB 1600 GB 800 GB

160 MB/s 140 MB/s 120 MB/s 80 MB/s

400 MB/s 280 MB/s 240 MB/s 160 MB/s

X X NA NA

X X NA NA

X X NA NA

* Assumes compression. The capacity and transfer rate you realize in practice
depends on the data set, which affects the actual compression ratio. LTO6 supports

2.5:1 compression. LTO5-140 and below support 2:1 compression.

** This feature must be supported by your tape backup software.

Features

The tape drive has the following features:

v Built-in read-after-write verification for a high level of data integrity

v Burst data transfer rate of 600 MB per second

v 512 MB of read/write cache memory

v Intelligent LTO-DC dual-mode compression algorithm

v Failsafe leader capture mechanism with pin pick error recovery

v Reads cartridge memory in LTO cartridges

v TapeAlert support for improved diagnostic and troubleshooting

v Two 6 Gb Serial Attached SCSI interface

v Speed matching (The drive can slow down to match the system data rate.)

v Sleep mode for energy conservation

v Backward read and write compatibility dependent on generation

v Compatible with all cartridges dependent on generation that bears the official

Ultrium LTO logo. See Table 1-1 for more information.

Chapter 1. Introduction 1-3

v Will interchange tapes with other LTO tape drives that bear the official Ultrium

LTO logo

v Support for WORM (Write Once Read Many) using WORM media

v Data encryption capability using LTO Ultrium 4, 5 and 6 media

v Ethernet interface for transferring drive firmware and dumps only (not an iSCSI

interface)

v Diagnostics of the drive over the ethernet service port (not an iSCSI interface)

Tape Backup Software

You need backup software that supports the Dell PowerVault tape drive. As a
general rule, native backup applications (such as NTBackup and tar) do not
provide the required data streaming rate to get the full performance of your tape
drive. It is recommend that you use a backup application that provides better
memory management as well as other useful features, such as TapeAlert. For the
latest supported software versions, go to the Dell support website at
http://support.dell.com or visit the support site of your backup software vendor.

Front Panel

2

1

Figure 1-4. Front Panel

6

3

4

3

5

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1 Eject button 4 Single-character display (SCD)

2 Ready/Activity LED 5 Single dot

3 Fault LED 6 Encryption Status LED

1. Eject button. The eject button enables you to perform several functions. These
functions are described in detail in Chapter 3, “Using the Tape Drive,” on page
3-1.

2. Ready/Activity LED. The front panel of your Dell PowerVault LTO tape drive
has a green Ready/Activity LED providing information about the state of the
tape drive. The LED can be solid on or flashing when lit. See Table 1-2 on page
1-5 for more descriptions.

3. Fault LED. The front panel of your Dell PowerVault LTO tape drive has an
amber fault LED indicating the drive has encountered an error, is not in a
normal operational status, or needs cleaning. See Table 1-2 on page 1-5 for more
detailed description.

1-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

4. Single-character display (SCD). This LED presents a single-character code for

C

C

C

diagnostic/maintenance functions, error conditions, and informational
messages.

5. Single dot. This single-character display is blank during normal operation.
When a single dot illuminates and flashes on the display, the drive has created
a dump of vital technical data to drive memory.

6. Encryption status LED. This white LED indicates all data (except for the label
information) on the cartridge is encrypted. (LTO5 and LTO6 cartridges only).

Table 1-2. SCD, Ready/Activity LED, and Fault LED Descriptions

Condition of
green
Ready/
Activity LED

Off Off Off Off Off The tape drive has no power or is

On Solid Off Off

Flashing once
per second

Off On/Solid Off On Solid On/Off The tape drive is in maintenance mode

Off On Solid Off Flashing once

Off Flashing

Condition
of amber
Fault LED

Off On or Off Off Off The tape drive is reading from the

once per
second

Condition
of white
encryption
LED

Off On Solid Off An error occurred and the tape drive

Condition of
the SCD Panel

Off or

per second

Condition of
the SCD Dot

Off The tape drive is powered on or (if a

On/Off Executing the selected option while in

Meaning of LEDs and SCD Panel and
SCD Dot

powered off.

solid
character display) needs cleaning.

tape, writing to the tape, rewinding the
tape, locating data on the tape, loading
the tape, or unloading the tape. The
Encryption LED will be On if all the
data on the cartridge is encrypted
during these drive operations. The
Ready/Activity LED also flashes green
if the tape drive contains a cartridge
during the power on cycle. In this case,
the drive completes POST and slowly
rewinds the tape (this process may take
approximately 13 minutes). The
Ready/Activity LED stops blinking
when the drive completes the recovery
and is ready for a read or write
operation. To eject the cartridge, press
the unload button.

or is displaying an error code on the
SCD in maintenance mode option 9.

maintenance mode.

or media may require service or drive
may require cleaning.

displays in the single

Note the code on the single character
display, and then go to the error code
table in the troubleshooting section to
determine the meaning of the error
codes.

If a
cleaning cartridge must be loaded.

appears on the SCD, a

Chapter 1. Introduction 1-5

Table 1-2. SCD, Ready/Activity LED, and Fault LED Descriptions (continued)

Condition of
green
Ready/
Activity LED

Condition
of amber
Fault LED

Off Flashing

Condition
of white
encryption
LED

Condition of
the SCD Panel

Condition of
the SCD Dot

Off Off Off The drive is updating firmware.
twice per
second

Off Flashing

Off Off Off The drive detected an error and is
once every
2 seconds

Rear Panel

Meaning of LEDs and SCD Panel and
SCD Dot

performing a firmware recovery. It will
reset automatically.

2

1

4

3

Figure 1-5. Rear Panel of Internal SAS Tape Drive

1 SAS connector 3 Library interface

2 Ethernet - not iSCSI - for

4 LED controls for library drive sled

transferring firmware
and dumps only

3

1

2

4

Figure 1-6. Rear Panel of External SAS Tape Drive

1 Power connector 3 SAS connectors

2 Fan enclosure 4 Ethernet - not iSCSI - for transferring

firmware and dumps only

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1-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

33

4

1

4

2

Figure 1-7. Rear Panel of the Rack Mount Tape Drive

1 Power connector 3 SAS connectors

2 Fan enclosure 4 Ethernet - not iSCSI - for transferring

firmware and dumps only

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Chapter 1. Introduction 1-7

1-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive

v “Pre-installed Internal Drives”

v “Installing Internal Drives”

– “Installing the Internal Drive - Step-By-Step Instructions”

v “Installing External and Rack Mount Drives” on page 2-5

– “Installing the External Drive - Step-By-Step Instructions” on page 2-5

v “Verifying Drive Operation” on page 2-7

v “Loading Device Drivers” on page 2-7

v “Ethernet Service Port Procedures” on page 2-8

Pre-installed Internal Drives

Dell performs the installation and setup of internal tape drives that are shipped as
part of a system. If tape backup software is included in your system, refer to the
installation instructions included with the software.

For the latest supported software versions, go to the Dell support website
http://support.dell.com or visit the support site of your backup software vendor.

Installing Internal Drives

If your internal tape drive is not pre-installed, the installation instructions are
described in the following sections:

Installing the Drive — Prerequisites

The Dell PowerVault tape drive isa6GbSASdevice with a burst transfer rate of
600 MB per second. It is recommended that you use a dedicated SAS host bus
adapter for this tape drive.

Mounting Bay

You need one industry-standard, 5 1/4 inch, half-height bay in which to install the
PowerVault tape drive. The only supported mounting configurations are
horizontally with the base of the drive parallel to the ground, or vertically with
either the left or right side of the drive parallel to the ground.

Install and configure the drive according to the instructions provided in the Dell
documentation for your system.

Mounting Hardware

Most systems use trays or rails to mount the tape drive. If the mounting hardware
is pre-installed, you can simply slide the drive into the mounting bay. Some
systems do not use slides or rails and drives must be fixed in place with screws.

Installing the Internal Drive - Step-By-Step Instructions

Procedure

1. Unpacking the Drive

2-1

Unpack the tape drive and store the packaging. You may need the packaging if
you return the unit for service.

A period of time is required if the temperature of the drive when unpacked is
different than the temperature of its operating environment (measured at the
front of the bezel near the air intake area; see 1 in Figure 2-1). The
recommended time is 4 hours after the drive has been unpacked or 1 hour after
any condensation that you can see has evaporated, whichever is greater. To
allow the drive to adjust to its new environment, apply the following measures:

v If the drive is colder than its operating environment and the air contains

sufficient humidity, condensation may occur in the drive and damage it.
When the drive has warmed to the operating temperature range (greater
than 10 degrees C or 50 degrees F) and no danger of condensation is present
(the air is dry), warm the drive more quickly by powering it on for 30
minutes. Use a scratch tape to test the drive before inserting a tape that
contains data.

v If the drive is hotter than its operating environment, the tape can stick to the

drive head. When the drive has cooled to the operating temperature range
(less than 40 degrees C or 104 degrees F), cool the drive more quickly by
applying airflow for 30 minutes. Power on the drive and use a scratch tape
to test it before inserting a tape that contains data.

If you are uncertain about whether the temperature of the drive is within the
recommended operating range or the humidity is sufficient to cause
condensation, allow the drive to adjust to its new environment for the full 4
hours.

1

Figure 2-1. Air Intake Area

1 Air Intake Area

2. Removing Power from the System

a. Power-off the system.

b. Disconnect the power cord from both the electrical outlet and the system.

2-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

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3. Preparing the Mounting Bay in Your System

CAUTION:
To avoid personal injury or damage to the system or tape drive, ensure that
the system power cord is disconnected before you install the drive.

Refer to your system's documentation for instructions on how to prepare the
mounting bay to receive the tape drive.

4. Attaching Mounting Hardware

If your system requires special rails or other hardware to install the tape drive,
mount them on the tape drive in this step.

If your system does not require special mounting hardware, proceed to step 5.

5. Installing the Drive

Slide the tape drive into the open bay, aligning the tray or rails with the slots in
the bay, as shown in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-2. Install the Drive

6

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If your system does not use mounting hardware, check that the holes in the
chassis are aligned with the holes in the side of the tape drive (see Figure 2-3
on page 2-4).

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive 2-3

1

Figure 2-3. Mounting Holes on Tape Drive

1 M-3 mounting screw holes

Do not secure the drive with screws at this point because you may have to
move the drive to get the cables in place.

6. Attaching SAS Cable

Attach the system SAS cable to the drive SAS connector, as shown in
Figure 2-4.

1

10

1

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Figure 2-4. Attaching SAS Cable

1 SAS cable

2 Power cable

7. Securing the Drive

The tape drive can now be secured to the system as shown in Figure 2-5 on
page 2-5. There are several ways to secure the drive. If the drive is on rails or
in a sled, then push it in place. Some systems require the drive to be inserted
into a media bay and attached directly to the system with screws.

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2

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2-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Figure 2-5. Secure the Drive

8. Connecting Host System Power and Testing Power to the Tape Drive

Connect the power cord to the system and to the electrical outlet. To ensure
that the drive is receiving power, watch for the following indicators while
turning on the power to the system:

a. The single-character display presents a series of random characters.

b. The single-character display becomes blank (not lit).

c. The Fault LED briefly turns on, then the ready/activity LED turns on solid.

Installing External and Rack Mount Drives

Installing the Drive — Prerequisites

The SAS tape drive has a burst transfer rate of 600 MB per second. It is
recommended that a dedicated host bus adapter is used for the tape drive.

Your system must have a properly installed and configured SAS host adapter or a
SAS controller on the motherboard (if available) with driver software that supports
the tape drive. Do not connect to a RAID controller channel; RAID controller
channels are for disk drives only.

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Installing the External Drive - Step-By-Step Instructions

Procedure

1. Positioning the Tape Drive

Position the tape drive convenient to the system. The only restrictions are the
length of the power cord and the length of the SAS cable. The following
locations are recommended:

v Away from high-traffic areas, especially if the floor is carpeted.

v Out of copy rooms to avoid toner and paper dust. Do not store paper

supplies next to any unit.

v Away from moving air, such as doorways, open windows, fans, and air

conditioners.

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive 2-5

v Off the floor.

v Where the tape cartridge can easily be inserted.

Only the following mounting positions are supported:

v In a horizontal or vertical position for external drives.

v In a horizontal position for rack mounted drives.

Notice: The external tape drive should not be stacked. Do not place anything

on top of the unit.

2. Connecting Power

An external Dell PowerVault Tape Drive will operate using any voltage in the
range 100–240 volts (50–60 Hz). No adjustment is needed. To connect your
drive to the power supply, proceed as follows:

a. Plug the power cable securely into the socket on the rear panel of the drive.

b. Plug the other end of the power cable into a grounded power outlet.

c. Power on the tape drive by pressing the power on/off button. The tape

drive runs the POST, which checks all hardware except the drive head.

3. Connecting the SAS Cable

Attach one end of the SAS cable to the SAS host adapter card installed in the
system. Attach the other end of the SAS cable to the SAS connector on the rear
panel of the tape drive. The cable can be up to 5 m (16.4 ft) long. This
configuration is shown in Figure 2-6.

Figure 2-6. Connecting the SAS cable

1 System 4 Drive SAS connector

2 SAS host adapter card 5 Tape Drive

3 SAS cable

To connect a second system to the tape drive, attach one end of the second SAS
cable to the SAS host adaptor installed in the second system. Attach the other
end of the second SAS cable to the other SAS port on the rear panel of the tape
drive. This configuration is shown in Figure 2-7 on page 2-7.

2-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

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4

5

3

2

5

4

Figure 2-7. Connecting two SAS Hosts to one Tape Drive

1 Tape Drive 4 SAS host adapter card

2 Drive shaft connector 5 System

3 SAS cable

3

Note: Unlike SCSI, the SAS architecture does not support daisy changing.

4. Configuring the Tape Drive to the Host

Power on the tape drive. Refer to your system and application software
manuals to configure the tape drive for use.

Verifying Drive Operation

After you install the drive hardware, verify that it is functioning properly before
you store your valuable data. Turn on the system. For external drives, turn on the
drive before you turn on the system.

The tape drive will run its Power-On Self Test (POST), which checks all hardware
except for the drive head. The single-character display will present a series of
random characters, and then become blank (not lit). The fault LED will flash once,
then the Ready/Activity LED will turn on solid.

1

2

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Verify that the tape drive installation was successful. Following the instructions
given with your Tape Backup Software application, write test data to a tape, read
the test data from the tape, and compare the data read from the tape with the
original data on disk.

Loading Device Drivers

Microsoft Windows Server

This section describes how to install the Microsoft®Windows Server®Device
Drivers for the tape drive.

Notice: Some backup software applications do not require device drivers to be

loaded and, in some cases, installing device drivers could interfere with
proper functioning of the application. See the documentation for the
respective application prior to loading these drivers. The latest drivers are
available at http://support.dell.com.

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive 2-7

Ethernet Service Port Procedures

To update the drive’s firmware using the ethernet interface:

Note: The drive uses a limited version of FTP protocol to communicate on the

ethernet interface. It is recommended to use a simple, command line FTP
session, such as the DOS command prompt, when communicating with the
drive. This product is not intended to be connected directly or indirectly by
any means whatsoever to interfaces of public telecommunications networks.
When the IP address has been changed to the customer LAN or DHCP has
obtained a new address, the default address of the tape drive will still be
available. This does not create a LAN conflict as the customer LAN address
takes operational preference. The default address will not conflict with other
drives having the default address. When the drive comes online the drive
checks if the default address is on the LAN and will not become active
while another drive is active. This is acceptable operation and at times a
multi-drive LAN may see different drives with accessible default address.

1. Obtain the latest drive firmware from the web. Go to http://support.dell.com.

2. Connect an ethernet patch cable to the drive’s ethernet interface and to a

computer. In order to meet electromagnetic immunity requirements, a shielded
ethernet cable is required.

3. Create an FTP session between the drive and the computer. The drive’s default
IP address: 169.254.0.3.

4. At the user prompt, type guest and press Enter.

5. At the password prompt, press Enter. No response is needed.

6. Type bin to set the communication mode to binary.

7. Type put firmware name to transfer the firmware to the drive. Replace firmware

name with the actual firmware file name. The drive will reset automatically
when the transfer is complete and the FTP session will be lost. Type quit to end
the FTP session.

8. After the drive resets, the new firmware will be loaded on the drive.

9. Remove the ethernet patch cable from the drive’s ethernet interface.

Capturing a drive dump using the ethernet interface

Another way to capture a drive dump is using the ethernet port. To capture a
dump on the drive using the ethernet interface follow the steps below.

Note: The drive uses a limited version of FTP protocol to communicate on the

ethernet interface. It is recommended to use a simple, command line FTP
session, such as the DOS command prompt, when communicating with the
drive. This product is not intended to be connected directly or indirectly by
any means whatsoever to interfaces of public telecommunications networks.

1. Connect an ethernet patch cable to the drive’s ethernet interface and to a
computer. In order to meet electromagnetic immunity requirements, a shielded
ethernet cable is required.

2. Create an FTP session between the drive and the computer. The drive’s default
IP address: 169.254.0.3.

3. At the user prompt, type guest and press Enter.

4. At the password prompt, press Enter. No response is needed.

5. Type bin to set the communication mode to binary.

6. Type mget *.dmp to transfer a drive dump to the computer. If a dump already

exists, the drive will show you the dump name and ask if you want to transfer

2-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

it to the computer. Type y to transfer the existing dump or n to skip this dump
file. Then the drive will ask if you want a forced dump. Type y to force a dump
and to transfer the forced dump to the computer, or type n to skip forcing a
dump.

7. Type quit to end the FTP session.

8. Remove the ethernet patch cable from the drive’s ethernet interface.

Chapter 2. Setting Up the Tape Drive 2-9

2-10 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 3. Using the Tape Drive

v “Operating the Drive”

v “Loading, Unloading, and Write-Protecting Cartridges” on page 3-2

v “Caring for Tape Cartridges” on page 3-5

v “Cleaning the Tape Mechanism” on page 3-7

Operating the Drive

Turn on the external drive by pushing the power on/off button on the front panel
(Figure 3-1). Turn on the rack mount drive by pushing the power on/off button on
the front panel (Figure 3-2).The tape drive runs its Power-On Self-Test (POST). At
the end of the hardware self-test, the ready/activity LED must be solid green.

Figure 3-1. Turning on the External Drive

1

30

a80hd0

1 Power On/Off Button

Figure 3-2. Turning on the Rack Mount Drive

Resetting the Drive

You can reset the drive without powering off the drive and system. This may be
necessary if the drive stops responding. To do this, press and hold the eject button
on the front panel of the tape drive for 10 seconds (Figure 3-3 on page 3-2). The
drive forces a dump of vital technical data to drive memory and overwrites the
existing dump. The drive then reboots to allow communication.

3-1

1

Figure 3-3. Resetting the Drive

1 Eject Button

Loading, Unloading, and Write-Protecting Cartridges

Use only LTO Ultrium format cartridges with your drive, as specified in the LTO
Ultrium standard. Ensure that only one label is stuck to the label area of the
cartridge. Do not use nonstandard labels, and do not stick anything to the
cartridge other than in the label area.

a80hd008

The Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive is compatible (see Supported Functions of
Compatible Media Types) with the cartridges of its predecessors. Below is a

description of the functions that are supported on the different compatible media
types:

Table 3-1. Supported Functions of Compatible Media Types

LTO

Cartridge

Generation

6 846 2500 6250 Yes No No No

6 WORM 846 2500 6250 Yes No No No

5 846 1500 3000 Yes Yes No No

5 WORM 846 1500 3000 Yes Yes No No

4 820 800 1600 RO Yes Yes No

4 WORM 820 800 1600 RO Yes Yes No

3 680 400 800 No RO Yes Yes

3 WORM 680 400 800 No RO Yes Yes

2 609 200 400 No No RO Yes

1 609 100 200 No No No RO

1 319 50 100 No No No RO

1 203 30 60 No No No RO

1 97 10 20 No No No RO

Tape

Length

(nominal)

(m)

Data Capacity

(native) (GB

Data Capacity
(compressed

1

)

(GB

1

)

PowerVault

2

Generation

)

LTO 6

PowerVault

Generation

LTO 5

PowerVault

Generation

LTO 4

PowerVault

Generation

LTO 3

3-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

1

1 GB = 1 000 000 000 bytes.

2

Compression Ratio

v 2.5:1 = LTO6

v 2:1 = LTO5, LTO4, and LTO3

3

RO = Read Only

Figure 3-4 shows the LTO Ultrium Data Cartridge and its components.

4

6

2

3

5

Figure 3-4. LTO Ultrium Data Cartridge

1 LTO cartridge memory 4 Insertion guide

2 Label area 5 Cartridge door

3 Write-protect switch 6 Leader pin

Loading a Tape Cartridge

1. Ensure that the tape drive is powered on. (The ready/activity LED is solid
green.)

2. Ensure that the write-protect switch (see 3 in Ultrium LTO Data Cartridge)is
properly set. (See “Setting the Write-Protect Switch on Tape Cartridges” on
page 3-4.)

3. Grasp the cartridge so that the write-protect switch faces you.

4. Slide the cartridge into the tape load compartment (see Figure 3-5 on page 3-4).

The tape drive automatically loads the cartridge.

v If the cartridge is already in the ejected position and you want to reinsert it,

remove the cartridge and then insert it again.

v If the cartridge is already loaded and you cycle the power (turn it off, then

on), the cartridge does not automatically eject. When the drive powers back
on, the cartridge is brought back to the loaded position.

1

Chapter 3. Using the Tape Drive 3-3

Figure 3-5. Loading

a80hd009

1 Write-Protect Switch

Unloading a Tape Cartridge

1. Ensure that the tape drive is powered on. (The ready/activity LED is solid
green.)

2. Press the eject button (see 1 in Figure 3-3 on page 3-2). The drive rewinds the
tape and ejects the cartridge. The ready/activity LED flashes green while the
tape rewinds, then goes out before the cartridge ejects.

3. After the cartridge ejects, grasp the cartridge and remove it.

Whenever you unload a tape cartridge, the tape drive writes any pertinent
information to the cartridge memory.

Notice: Do not remove a tape cartridge while the drive activity indicator is on.

Setting the Write-Protect Switch on Tape Cartridges

Notice: Write-protection will not prevent a cartridge from being erased by

bulk-erasure or degaussing. Do not bulk-erase Ultrium format cartridges.
This will destroy prerecorded servo information and render the cartridge
unusable. Always use the long or quick erase command in your backup
software to erase cartridges.

The position of the write-protect switch (Figure 3-6 on page 3-5) on the tape
cartridge determines whether you can write to the tape:

v If the switch is set to locked (locked padlock), data cannot be written to the tape.

v If the switch is set to unlocked (unlocked padlock or black void), data can be

written to the tape.

3-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Figure 3-6. Setting the Write-Protect Switch

1 Write-Protect Switch

To set the switch, slide it left or right to the desired position.

Notice: Always set the write protection tab prior to loading the cartridge into the

drive. Sliding the tab after loading will cause unpredictable results and
could result in drive errors or backup failure.

Caring for Tape Cartridges

Notice: Do not insert a damaged tape cartridge into your tape drive. A damaged

cartridge can interfere with the reliability of the drive and may void the
warranties of the drive and the cartridge. Before inserting a tape cartridge,
inspect the cartridge case, cartridge door, and write-protect switch for
breaks.

Incorrect handling or an incorrect environment can damage the LTO Ultrium Tape
Cartridge or its magnetic tape. To avoid damage to your tape cartridges and to
ensure the continued high reliability of your tape drive, use the following
guidelines.

Provide Training

v Post procedures that describe proper media handling in places where people

gather.

v Ensure that anyone who handles tape has been properly trained in handling and

shipping procedures. This includes operators, users, programmers, archival
services, and shipping personnel.

v Ensure that any service or contract personnel who perform archiving are

properly trained in media-handling procedures.

v Include media-handling procedures as part of any services contract.

v Define and make personnel aware of data recovery procedures.

Ensure Proper Packaging

v When you ship a cartridge, ship it in its original or similar packaging.

v Always ship or store a cartridge in a jewel case.

v Use only a recommended shipping container that securely holds the cartridge in

its jewel case during transportation.

Chapter 3. Using the Tape Drive 3-5

v Never ship a cartridge in a commercial shipping envelope. Always place it in a

box or package.

v If you ship the cartridge in a cardboard box or a box of a sturdy material, ensure

the following:

– Place the cartridge in polyethylene plastic wrap or bags to protect it from

dust, moisture, and other contaminants.

– Pack the cartridge snugly; do not allow it to move around.

– Double-box the cartridge (place it inside a box, then place that box inside the

shipping box) and add padding between the two boxes.

Provide Proper Acclimation and Environmental Conditions

v Before you use a cartridge, let it acclimate to the normal operating environment

for 1 hour. If you see condensation on the cartridge, wait an additional hour.

v Ensure that all surfaces of a cartridge are dry before inserting it.

v Do not expose the cartridge to moisture or direct sunlight.

v Do not expose recorded or blank cartridges to stray magnetic fields of greater

than 100 oersteds (for example, terminals, motors, video equipment, X-ray
equipment, or fields that exist near high-current cables or power supplies). Such
exposure can cause the loss of recorded data or make the blank cartridge
unusable.

v Maintain the following environmental conditions outlined in Table 3-2.

Table 3-2. Environmental Specifications

Environmental
Factor

Temperature 10° to 45°C

Relative
humidity
(noncondensing)

Wet bulb
temperature

1

Operational storage equals less than 1 year.

2

Archival storage equals 1 to 10 years.

Operating Operational

Storage

16° to 35°C

(50° to 113°F)

10% to 80% 20% to 80% 20% to 50% 5% to 80%

26°C (79°F) 26°C (79°F) 26°C (79°F) 26°C (79°F)

(61° to 95°F)

1

Archival
Storage

16° to 25°C
(61° to 77°F)

2

Shipping

-23° to 49°C
(-9° to 120°F)

Perform a Thorough Inspection

v Inspect the cartridge's packaging to determine potential rough handling.

v When inspecting a cartridge, open only the cartridge door. Do not open any

other part of the cartridge case. The upper and lower parts of the case are held
together with screws; separating them destroys the usefulness of the cartridge.

v Inspect the cartridge for damage before using or storing it.

v Inspect the rear of the cartridge (the part that you load first into the tape load

compartment) and ensure that there are no gaps in the seam of the cartridge
case. If there are gaps in the seam, the leader pin may be dislodged.

v Check that the leader pin is properly seated.

v If you suspect that the cartridge has been mishandled but it appears useable,

copy any data onto a good cartridge immediately for possible data recovery.
Discard the mishandled cartridge.

v Review handling and shipping procedures.

3-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Handle the Cartridge Carefully

C

C

7

7

v Do not drop the cartridge. If the cartridge drops, slide the cartridge door back

and ensure that the leader pin is properly seated in the pin-retaining spring
clips.

v Do not handle tape that is outside the cartridge. Handling the tape can damage

the tape's surface or edges, which may interfere with read or write reliability.
Pulling on tape that is outside the cartridge can damage the tape and the brake
mechanism in the cartridge.

v Do not stack more than six cartridges.

v Do not degauss a cartridge that you intend to reuse. Degaussing makes the tape

unusable.

Cleaning the Tape Mechanism

Dell PowerVault drives have been developed to have a minimal cleaning

requirement. The tape drive will display a
the fault LED will flash amber when the drive needs cleaning. Only insert a

cleaning cartridge into the tape drive when the

Notice: Only use LTO cleaning cartridges that are labeled "universal." The tape

drive is only compatible with the LTO Ultrium universal cleaning
cartridges. Use of any other type of cleaning cartridge or method can
damage the read/write head in your drive. If you load any other type of

cleaning cartridge, the tape drive displays a
the cartridge until it is ejected manually by pressing the Eject button.

An LTO Ultrium universal cleaning cartridge is supplied with each tape drive. Do
not use swabs or other means of cleaning the heads. The cleaning cartridge uses a
special tape to clean the tape heads.

Though the number may vary according to the manufacturer, the universal
cleaning cartridge is generally valid for 50 separate cleaning operations. If you try
to use the cleaning cartridge beyond 50 separate cleaning operations, an error code

of
one.

To use the LTO Ultrium universal cleaning cartridge:

1. Insert a cleaning cartridge into the tape drive. The tape drive performs the

2. Remove the cleaning cartridge from the drive.

will be displayed. Eject the cleaning cartridge and replace it with a new

cleaning automatically. When the cleaning is finished, the drive ejects the
cartridge.

on the single-character display and

is displayed.

in the SCD and retains

Chapter 3. Using the Tape Drive 3-7

3-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 4. Using the Tape Backup Software

See the User's Operating Guide supplied with your Tape Backup application for
more information about using the Tape Backup software. For the latest supported
software versions, go to the Dell support website at http://support.dell.com or
visit the support site of your backup software vendor.

4-1

4-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting

v “Obtaining Drivers and Firmware Upgrades”

v “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function”

v “General Guidelines” on page 5-8

v “Methods of Receiving Errors and Messages” on page 5-9

v “Descriptions and Corrective Actions” on page 5-10

v “Drive Status” on page 5-13

v “Drive Maintenance” on page 5-14

v “Fixing SAS Connectivity Problems” on page 5-15

v “Resolving Media-Related Problems” on page 5-16

v “Removing an Internal SAS Tape Drive” on page 5-16

v “TapeAlert” on page 5-17

v “Recovering a Tape Cartridge” on page 5-20

Obtaining Drivers and Firmware Upgrades

Notice: When updating firmware, do not power off the tape drive until the update

is complete, or the firmware may be lost.

For information on the latest versions of firmware, see the Dell support website at
http://support.dell.com.

Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function

The tape drive can run diagnostics, test write and read functions, test a suspect
tape cartridge, and perform other diagnostic and maintenance functions. The drive
must be in maintenance mode to perform these functions. To place the drive in
maintenance mode and select a diagnostic or maintenance function, see the
Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions table.

Note: The host interface on this tape drive is Serial Attached SCSI (SAS). This

interface presents SCSI protocol to the tape drive. In this User's Guide,
references to SCSI relate to SCSI protocol, not the serial interface that it is
transmitted over.

Note: You cannot perform maintenance functions concurrently with read or write

operations. While in maintenance mode, the tape drive does not accept SCSI
commands from the system. Close all tape drive applications before entering
maintenance mode.

5-1

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions

1

1

C

C

P

1

0

F

Function Code1-RunTapeDrive Diagnostics

Causes the tape drive to run self tests.

Attention: Insert only a scratch data cartridge for this test. Data on the cartridge will be overwritten.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function,

the drive runs diagnostics for approximately 90 seconds, then
waiting for a cartridge.

5. Within 60 seconds, insert a scratch data cartridge that is not write-protected.
Note: If you wait longer than 60 seconds to load a cartridge, the drive automatically exits maintenance mode. If

you insert a write-protected cartridge, the tape drive displays a
ejected. When the cartridge is ejected and removed, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

After you insert the cartridge,

v The diagnostic test takes approximately 5 minutes to run. The tape drive will unload and load the cartridge

during the test. Do not try to remove the cartridge when it unloads the first time. Wait for the test to
complete.

v If the diagnostic completes successfully, the cartridge ejects, the single-character display flashes a

goes blank, and the drive exits maintenance mode. If the diagnostic fails, the fault LED flashes and an error
code displays. When the cartridge is manually ejected and removed, the tape drive automatically exits
maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic and terminate the test, press the eject button twice anytime during the test. The drive

flashes and the test begins.

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle past1,

flashes,

flashes. When

and retains the cartridge until it is manually

flashes, the drive is

, then

acknowledges the request by slowing the flash rate of the
second to once per second. The tape drive rewinds and unloads the cartridge and then exits maintenance
mode.

Function Code 2 — RESERVED (Service Function)

Function Code 3 — RESERVED (Service Function)

on the single-character display from twice per

5-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

8

8

0

9

0

0

Function Code 4 — Force a Dump of Vital Data to Tape Drive Memory

Causes the tape drive to perform a collection (or dump) of vital technical data and save it to drive memory. (A
drive dump is also known as a save of the firmware trace.)
Notice: When an error code is displayed in maintenance mode, the tape drive also displays a dot to remind you
that a dump already exists. If you perform Function Code 4, it will overwrite the dump and cause the error
information to be lost.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function,

followed by

You can also perform this operation when the tape drive is in normal operating mode. Simply press and hold the
eject button for 10 seconds.

Function Code5-RESERVED (Service Function)

Function Code6-RESERVED (Service Function)

Function Code7-RESERVED (Service Function)

Function Code8-RESERVED (Service Function)

Function Code9-Display Error Code Log

Causes the tape drive to display the last ten error codes, one at a time. (The codes are ordered; the most recent is
presented first and the oldest (tenth) is presented last.)

To view the drive error log:

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge is in the drive.

2. Within a 2 second interval press the eject button three times. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which means

that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until

4. Press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds to view the most recent error code.

5. Refer to “Descriptions and Corrective Actions” on page 5-10 to determine the meaning of the code and the

action to take.

6. Press the eject button to view the next error code. (The codes are ordered; the most recent is presented first and
the oldest (tenth) is presented last.)

. The single-character display then goes blank, and the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle past8,

displays,

appears in the single-character display.

7. Continue to press the eject button until

been encountered or the log has just been cleared, a
maintenance mode. A maximum of ten error codes are stored.

To redisplay the error codes, repeat steps 1 through 7.

appears, indicating that no more error codes exist. If no errors have

will appear immediately and the drive will exit

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-3

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

A

0

6or7

E

C

C

E

6or7

Function Code A - Clear Error Code Log

Causes the tape drive to erase the contents of the error code log.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function, the tape drive

erases all errors from the error code log, displays

Function Code C - Insert Cartridge Into Tape Drive

This function cannot be selected by itself. It relates to other maintenance functions (such as Run Tape Drive
Diagnostics) that require a scratch tape cartridge that is not write protected.

Function CodeE-TestCartridge & Media

Causes the tape drive to perform a Write/Read test (on the edge bands) to ensure that a suspect cartridge and its
magnetic tape are acceptable. The tape drive takes approximately 15 minutes to run one loop of the test. The test
loops ten times before completing.

v If no error is detected, the test begins again and runs for a maximum of ten times. After the tenth loop, the test

stops and the drive automatically exits maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected, the tape drive displays

manually ejected and removed, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic at the end of the current 15 minute test loop, press the eject button once. The drive

acknowledges the request by slowing the length of time that the currently displayed character flashes on the
single-character display (from twice per second to once per second). The diagnostic continues to the end of its
loop and then stops. The tape drive then rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic immediately and terminate the test that is running, press the eject button twice. The tape

drive rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastA,

, then exits maintenance mode.

in the single-character display. Once the cartridge is

Attention: Data on the suspect tape will be overwritten.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function,

When

the tape drive exits maintenance mode). After you insert the cartridge,

v If no error is detected, the test begins again and runs for a maximum of ten times. After the tenth loop, the

test stops and the drive automatically exits maintenance mode. To halt the test, press the eject button. The

tape drive then rewinds and unloads the cartridge, displays0, and exits maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected, the tape drive displays

removed, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

flashes, the drive is waiting for a cartridge. Within 60 seconds, insert the suspect data cartridge (or

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastE,

flashes.

flashes and the test begins.

. Once the cartridge is manually ejected and

5-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

F

C

C

F

Function CodeF-Write Performance Test

Causes the tape drive to perform tests to ensure that the drive can read from and write to tape. This diagnostic
performs fewer tests than the Run Tape Drive Diagnostics test (Function Code 1). The tape drive takes
approximately 3 minutes to run the test. The Fast Read/Write Test is not as comprehensive a test and is not
recommended for isolating errors between the drive and the media.

Attention: Data on the suspect tape will be overwritten.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function,

When

the tape drive exits maintenance mode). After you insert the cartridge,

v If no error is detected, the test begins again and runs for a maximum of ten times. Each loop takes

approximately 3 minutes to run. After the tenth loop, the test stops and the drive automatically exits
maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected, the tape drive displays an error code. Once the cartridge is manually ejected and

removed, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic at the end of the current 3 minute test loop, press the eject button once. The drive

acknowledges the request by slowing the length of time that the currently displayed character flashes on the
single-character display (from twice per second to once per second.) The diagnostic continues to the end of its
loop and then stops. The tape drive then rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic immediately and terminate the test that is running, press the eject button twice. The

tape drive rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

flashes, the drive is waiting for a cartridge. Within 60 seconds, insert the suspect data cartridge (or

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastF,

flashes and the test begins.

flashes.

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-5

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

H

C

C

H

5

Function Code H - Test Head

Causes the tape drive to perform the Head Resistance Measurements test and a Write/Read test (on the center of
the tape). The drive runs these tests to ensure that the tape drive's head and tape-carriage mechanics are working
correctly. The tape drive takes approximately 10 minutes to run the test.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. To select the function, press and hold the eject button for 3 seconds. After you select the function,

When

tape drive exits maintenance mode). After you insert the cartridge,

v If no error is detected, the test begins again and runs for a maximum of ten times. Each loop takes

approximately 10 minutes to run. After the tenth loop, the test stops and the drive automatically exits
maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected, the tape drive displays

v To halt the diagnostic at the end of the current 10 minute test loop, press the eject button once. The drive

acknowledges the request by slowing the length of time that the currently displayed character flashes on the
single-character display (from twice per second to once per second). The diagnostic continues to the end of its
loop and then stops. The tape drive then rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

v To halt the diagnostic immediately and terminate the test that is running, press the eject button twice. The

tape drive then rewinds, unloads the cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

flashes, the drive is waiting for a cartridge. Within 60 seconds, insert a scratch data cartridge (or the

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastH,

flashes and the test begins.

, unloads the tape cartridge, and exits maintenance mode.

flashes.

5-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

P

7

Function Code J - Fast Read/Write Test

Approximate Run Time=5minutes

Total Number of Loops = 10

J

Function Code

The diagnostic loops ten times. Press the eject button to stop the diagnostic and exit maintenance mode. Pressing
the eject button once will abort the test at the end of the current test loop. Pressing the eject button twice will abort
the test immediately.

Attention: For this test, insert only a scratch (blank) data cartridge or a cartridge that may be overwritten. During
the test, the drive overwrites the data on the cartridge.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. Press and hold the eject button for three or more seconds, then release it to select the function. The

single-character display changes to a flashingC.

5. Within 60 seconds, insert a scratch data cartridge that is not write-protected.
Note: If you wait longer than 60 seconds to load a cartridge, the drive will automatically exit maintenance

performs tests to ensure that the drive can read from and write to tape.

J

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastJ,

mode. If you insert a write-protected cartridge, the tape drive will display a
is manually ejected. Once the cartridge is ejected and removed, the tape drive will exit maintenance mode.

After you insert the cartridge, the single-character display changes to a flashing
tests.

Note: If you inserted an invalid cartridge, error code
retains the cartridge until it is manually ejected. Once ejected, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

v If no error is detected, the test will loop and begin again. To stop the loop, press the eject button for one second

and release. When the loop ends, the drive rewinds, unloads the tape, and exits maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected, the fault LED flashes amber, then the tape drive posts an error code to the single-character

display. To determine the error, locate the code in “Descriptions and Corrective Actions” on page 5-10. Once the
cartridge is manually ejected and removed, the tape drive exits maintenance mode.

appears in the single-character display. The tape drive

and retain the cartridge until it

J

, and the tape drive runs the

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-7

Table 5-1. Diagnostic and Maintenance Function Codes and Descriptions (continued)

L

L

P

L

0

7

7

Function Code L - Load/Unload Test

Approximate Run Time = 15 seconds per loop

Total Number of Loops = 10

Function Code

The diagnostic loops ten times. To stop the diagnostic and exit maintenance mode, press the eject button once to
abort the test.

Attention: The diagnostic loops ten times. To stop the diagnostic and exit maintenance mode, press the eject
button once to abort the test.

1. Ensure that there is no cartridge in the drive.

2. Press the eject button three times within an interval of 2 seconds. The fault LED becomes solid amber, which

means that the drive is in maintenance mode.

3. Press the eject button once per second until
continue to press the eject button until it reappears.

4. Press and hold the eject button for three or more seconds, then release it to select the function. The

single-character display changes to a flashingC.

5. Within 60 seconds, insert a scratch data cartridge that is not write-protected.
Note: If you wait longer than 60 seconds to load a cartridge, the drive will automatically exit maintenance

mode. If you insert a write-protected cartridge, the tape drive will display a
is manually ejected. Once the cartridge is ejected and removed, the tape drive will exit maintenance mode.

After you insert the cartridge, the single-character display changes to a flashing

v If no error is detected, the test will loop and begin again. To stop the loop, press the eject button for one second

tests the drive's ability to load and unload a tape cartridge.

appears in the single-character display. If you cycle pastL,

and retain the cartridge until it

. The tape drive runs the tests.

and release. When the loop ends,
tape and unloads the cartridge. The drive then exits maintenance mode.

v If an error is detected the test stops,

in “Descriptions and Corrective Actions” on page 5-10. The drive unloads the tape cartridge and exits
maintenance mode. To clear the error, turn the tape drive power off, then on again.

Function Code P or U - RESERVED (Service Function)

temporarily appears in the single-character display. The drive rewinds the

appears in the single-character display. To determine the error, locate

General Guidelines

If you encounter problems when running the Dell PowerVault Tape Drive, refer to
Table 5-2 for common problems. If the problem is not identified, refer to “Methods
of Receiving Errors and Messages” on page 5-9. The color and condition of the
LEDs may also indicate a problem.

Table 5-2. General Troubleshooting

If the problem is this... Do this...

A code displays on the single-character display and the
fault LED flashes amber.

The tape drive detected an error or is directing you to an
informational message. See “Methods of Receiving Errors
and Messages” on page 5-9.

5-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-2. General Troubleshooting (continued)

If the problem is this... Do this...

The ready/activity LED or single-character display never
turns on.

The tape drive does not load a tape cartridge. One of the following has occurred:

The tape drive does not unload the tape cartridge. The tape cartridge is stuck or is broken. Press the eject

The system received TapeAlert flags. See Table 5-5 on page 5-17.

The system reported system problems (such as selection
or command time-outs, or parity errors).

Codes display on the single-character display, but the
ready/activity LED does not turn on.

The tape drive does not respond to system commands. Press and hold the eject button on the drive for 10

The tape drive has no power. Check the power at the
power source. Connect power to the tape drive. If the
problem persists, contact Dell technical support.

v A tape cartridge is already loaded. To remove the

cartridge, press the eject button. If the cartridge does
not eject, turn off the power to the tape drive, then
turn it back on. After the ready/activity LED becomes
solid green, press the eject button to eject the cartridge.

v The cartridge tray may not be in the correct position.

Press the eject button to return the tray to the correct
position.

v The tape cartridge was loaded incorrectly. To properly

load a cartridge, see the Loading section in “Loading,
Unloading, and Write-Protecting Cartridges” on page
3-2.

v The tape cartridge may be defective. Load another

tape cartridge. If the problem exists for multiple
cartridges, the tape drive is defective. Contact Dell
technical support.

v The tape drive has no power. Connect power to the

tape drive.

button. If the cartridge does not eject, turn off the power
to the tape drive, and then turn it back on. (Note that the
mid-tape recovery could take up to 10 minutes to
complete.) If the cartridge still does not eject, manually
remove it (see “Recovering a Tape Cartridge” on page
5-20).

See “Fixing SAS Connectivity Problems” on page 5-15.

The tape drive is defective. Contact Dell technical
support.

seconds to force a drive dump. The drive will save the
dump and then reboot to allow communication to the
drive to occur. Do not cycle power, as this will erase the
contents of the dump.

Methods of Receiving Errors and Messages

Use Table 5-3 on page 5-10 as a guide for identifying error codes and message
codes reported by the tape drive, its computer (if applicable), or the system.

Note: The codes on the single-character display have different meanings,

depending on whether they display during normal operations or while the
drive is in maintenance mode. Codes that occur during normal operations
are defined in “Descriptions and Corrective Actions” on page 5-10. Codes
that occur while in maintenance mode are defined in “Selecting a Diagnostic
or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-9

Table 5-3. Methods of Receiving Errors and Messages

0

0

1

If the error or message was presented by... Do this...

The system's display (if the tape drive is enclosed in a
library or autoloader)

The tape drive's single-character display and the fault
LED flashes amber

The tape drive's single-character display and the fault
LED is solid amber

SCSI log sense data (such as TapeAlert flags) or SCSI
drive sense data

The tape drive's error log See “Descriptions and Corrective Actions.”

Refer to the documentation for the system.

See “Descriptions and Corrective Actions.” To determine
the meaning of the LED, see the “Front Panel” on page
1-4 section in the Introduction.

See “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on
page 5-1. To determine the meaning of the fault LED
activity, see the “Front Panel” on page 1-4 section in the
Introduction.

See Table 5-5 on page 5-17 or “Descriptions and
Corrective Actions.”

Descriptions and Corrective Actions

Table 5-4 gives descriptions of the errors and messages that pertain to the tape
drive, and tells what to do when you receive them.

Notice: If the tape drive detects a permanent error and displays an error code

other than

, it automatically performs a dump of vital data to drive
memory. If you force a dump, the existing dump will be overwritten and
data will be lost. After you force a dump, do not turn off the power to the
tape drive or you may lose the dump data.

Table 5-4. Descriptions and Corrective Actions

The single-character display clears if you power-off the drive.

Code Cause and Action

No error occurred and no action is required. This code displays:

v When power is cycled (turned off, then on) to the tape drive

v When diagnostics have finished running and no error occurred

Note: The single-character display is blank during normal operation of the tape drive.

Cooling problem. The tape drive detected that the recommended operating temperature was
exceeded. Perform the following action:

1. If a fan is present in the system, ensure that it is rotating and is quiet. If not, replace the
fan. (For instructions about replacing the fan, see your system's documentation.)

2. Remove any blockage that prevents air from flowing freely through the tape drive.

3. Ensure that the operating temperature and airflow is within the specified range (see

Chapter 6, “Specifications,” on page 6-1).

4. If the proper voltages are being applied but the problem persists, contact Dell technical
support.

The error code clears when you power-off the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode.

5-10 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-4. Descriptions and Corrective Actions (continued)

8

3

8

5

6

Power problem. The tape drive detected that the externally supplied power is either
approaching the specified voltage limits (the drive is still operating) or is outside the
specified voltage limits (the drive is not operating). Perform the following action:

1. Ensure that the power connector is properly seated.

2. Ensure that the proper DC voltages are being applied within the tolerances allowed (see

Chapter 6, “Specifications,” on page 6-1).

3. If the proper voltages are being applied but the problem persists, contact Dell technical
support.

The error code clears when you power-off the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode.

Firmware problem. The tape drive determined that a firmware error occurred. Perform the
following action:

1. Power the tape drive off and on, then retry the operation that produced the error. The
error code clears when you power-off the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode.

2. If the problem persists, download the latest firmware and retry the operation.

Firmware or tape drive problem. The tape drive determined that a firmware or tape drive
hardware failure occurred. Perform the following action:

1. Power the tape drive off and on, then retry the operation that produced the error. The
error code clears when you power-off the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode.

2. If the problem persists, download the latest firmware and retry the operation; if new
firmware is not available, contact Dell technical support.

Tape drive hardware problem. The drive determined that a tape path or read/write error
occurred. To prevent damage to the drive or tape, the drive will not allow you to insert a
cartridge if the current cartridge was successfully ejected. The error code may clear when you
cycle power to the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode. If the problem persists,
contact Dell technical support.

Tape drive or media error. The drive determined that an error occurred, but it cannot isolate
the error to faulty hardware or to the tape cartridge. Perform the appropriate action, as
described below.

v If the operation succeeds, the original cartridge was defective. Copy data from the

defective cartridge and discard it.

v If the operation fails and another drive is available, insert the cartridge into the other drive

and retry the operation.

– If the operation fails, discard the defective cartridge.

– If the operation succeeds, insert a scratch cartridge into the first drive and run the tape

drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance
Function” on page 5-1).

- If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

- If the diagnostics succeed, the error was temporary.

v If the operation fails and another drive is not available, insert a scratch cartridge into the

drive and run the tape drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a Diagnostic or
Maintenance Function” on page 5-1).

– If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

– If the diagnostics succeed, discard the cartridge.

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-11

Table 5-4. Descriptions and Corrective Actions (continued)

6

7

For Problems with Writing Data:

, continued

If the problem occurred while the drive was writing data to the tape, and if you know the
volume serial number (located on the cartridge label) of the tape cartridge loaded in the drive
when the problem occurred, retry the operation with a different cartridge:

If the problem occurs with multiple tape cartridges or if you do not know the tape cartridge's
volume serial number, run the tape drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a
Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1):

v If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

v If the diagnostics succeed, run the Test Head diagnostic (see Function Code H in “Selecting

a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1).

– If the Test Head diagnostic fails, contact Dell technical support.

– If the Test Head diagnostic succeeds, replace the cartridges that caused the problem.

The error code clears when you remove the tape cartridge or place the drive in maintenance
mode.

If the problem occurred while the drive was reading data from the tape, and if you know the
volume serial number of the tape cartridge, perform one of the following procedures:

v If another drive is available, insert the cartridge into the other drive and retry the

operation:

– If the operation fails, discard the defective cartridge.

– If the operation succeeds, insert a scratch cartridge into the first drive and run the tape

drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance
Function” on page 5-1):

- If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

- If the diagnostics succeed, the error was temporary.

v If another drive is not available, insert a scratch cartridge into the drive and run the tape

drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance
Function” on page 5-1)

– If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

– If the diagnostics succeed, discard the cartridge

For Problems with Reading Data:

If the problem occurs with multiple tape cartridges or if you do not know the tape cartridge's
volume serial number, run the tape drive diagnostics (see Function Code 1 in “Selecting a
Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1):

v If the diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support.

v If the diagnostics succeed, run the Test Head diagnostic (see Function Code H in “Selecting

a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1).

– If the Test Head diagnostic fails, contact Dell technical support.

– If the Test Head diagnostic succeeds, replace the cartridges that caused the problem.

The error code clears when you remove the tape cartridge or place the drive in maintenance
mode.

A high probability of media error. The tape drive determined that an error occurred because
of a faulty tape cartridge. Try another tape cartridge. If the problem occurs with multiple tape
cartridges, see “Resolving Media-Related Problems” on page 5-16. This error will also appear
if you are loading an expired cleaner cartridge.

The error code clears when you remove the tape cartridge or place the drive in maintenance
mode.

5-12 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-4. Descriptions and Corrective Actions (continued)

8

9

A

b

C

d

E

F

P

Tape drive or interface failure. The tape drive determined that a failure occurred in the tape
drive's hardware or in the bus. See “Fixing SAS Connectivity Problems” on page 5-15. The
error code clears 10 seconds after the drive detected the error or when you place the drive in
maintenance mode.

Library to drive interface (RS-422) error. This interface is not used in the PowerVault tape
drive.

Tape drive hardware problem. The tape drive determined that a problem occurred that
degraded the operation of the tape drive, but it did not restrict continued use. If the problem
persists, contact Dell technical support. The drive is usable, though the single-character
display continues to indicate an error and the fault LED flashes amber.

The error code may clear when you cycle power to the tape drive or place it in maintenance
mode.

No error or message is assigned.

The tape drive needs to be cleaned. Clean the tape drive. See the “Cleaning the Tape
Mechanism” on page 3-7 section.

The error code clears when you clean the tape drive or place it in maintenance mode.

No error or message is assigned.

Not applicable for a SAS drive.

J

Drive Status

Not applicable for a SAS drive.

Incompatible media. The tape drive detected that an unsupported cartridge was loaded.
Verify that the generation of the loaded cartridge is supported on the tape drive.

Write protect. A write operation has been attempted to a write-protected cartridge or an
overwrite has been attempted to a WORM cartridge. These operations are not allowed.

Encryption Error. The drive detected a configuration or setup error prior to an encryption
operation.

The eject button is depressed. Verify that the button pushes freely.

Mid-Tape Recovery. The SCD flashes one segment at a time to complete one figure-eight
motion, then flashes the number 9, then flashes one segment at a time to complete one
figure-eight motion, then flashes the number 8. This continues until the number 1 flashes and
the drive completes. You can eject the cartridge once the count down has ended by hitting
the eject button.

1. Connect an ethernet cable to the LTO6 drive or bridgebox.

2. Using a web browser, connect to http://169.254.0.3. The drive status page will

be displayed.

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-13

Figure 5-1. Drive Status page

3. Check the appropriate box(es) to get information on that topic.

a67ru053

Figure 5-2. Drive Status page - details

Note: The page format can be changed to text-only mode by checking the box

at the top of the page.

4. Use the web browser refresh button to update the page with the current drive
status.

Drive Maintenance

1. Connect an ethernet cable to the LTO6 drive or bridgebox.

5-14 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

a67ru054

2. Using a web browser, connect to http://169.254.0.3/service.html. The drive
maintenance page will be displayed.

Figure 5-3. Drive Maintenance page

3. Check the appropriate radio button, then press Run to run that maintenance
function. If the drive is in a library, many of the maintenance functions are
disabled. To cancel the maintenance function press Cancel. These are the same
maintenance functions that are executed via the unload button on the drive's
front panel.

Note: For more information on Maintenance Function details, see “Selecting a

Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1.

Fixing SAS Connectivity Problems

If there appears to be a problem connecting or communicating with the drive,
follow this procedure.

1. Ensure that the power is on to the tape drive.

2. Replace the SAS cable and interposers, if any, and retry the failing operation.

a67ru052

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-15

3. If these measures do not correct the problem, contact Dell customer support.

6or7

Resolving Media-Related Problems

To resolve problems that are related to media, the tape drive's firmware includes:

v Test Cartridge & Media diagnostic that verifies whether a suspect cartridge and

its magnetic tape are acceptable for use.

v Statistical Analysis and Reporting System (SARS) to assist in isolating failures

between media and hardware. To determine the cause of failure, SARS uses the
cartridge performance history that is saved in the cartridge memory (CM) and
the drive performance history that is kept in the drive's Vital Product Data
(VPD) area in Non Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM). Any failures
that SARS detects are reported as TapeAlert flags on the system (see Table 5-5 on
page 5-17).

If you encounter a media-related problem, use the following procedure:

Notice: When you run the Test Cartridge & Media diagnostic, data on the suspect

tape is overwritten. If valuable data is on the tape, be sure to copy the
data before running this test.

1. If possible, run the tape cartridge in a different tape drive. If the operation in

the other tape drive fails and
operation succeeds, run the Test Cartridge & Media diagnostic (see Function
Code E in “Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1).

2. If the Test Cartridge & Media diagnostic fails, replace the media. If it runs
successfully, clean the tape drive and run the tape drive diagnostics (see the
“Cleaning the Tape Mechanism” on page 3-7 section and Function Code 1 in
“Selecting a Diagnostic or Maintenance Function” on page 5-1).

3. If the tape drive diagnostics fail, contact Dell technical support. If the tape
drive diagnostics run successfully, perform the operation that produced the
initial media error.

Removing an Internal SAS Tape Drive

To remove an internal SAS tape drive from the system, perform the following
steps:

1. Ensure that the tape drive does not contain a tape cartridge.

2. De-configure the drive from the system. (For instructions, see your system's

documentation.)

3. Turn off the power to the system. Disconnect the power cable from the system
and the electrical outlet.

4. Remove the system cover.

5. Disconnect the internal SAS cable from the tape drive (see number 1 in

Figure 1-5 on page 1-6).

6. Remove the tape drive from the system and remove any mounting screws or
rails from the side or bottom of the tape drive.

7. To reassemble, reverse these steps.

displays, replace the media. If the

5-16 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

TapeAlert

TapeAlert is a patented technology and standard of the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) that defines conditions and problems that are
experienced by tape drives. The technology enables a system to read TapeAlert
flags from a tape drive through the SCSI interface. The system reads the flags from
Log Sense Page 0x2E.

TapeAlert Flags

Table 5-5 lists the TapeAlert flags that are supported by the Dell PowerVault Tape
Drive.

Table 5-5. TapeAlert Flags and Descriptions

TapeAlert Flags Supported by the Tape Drive

Flag

Number

3 03h Hard error Set for any unrecoverable

4 04h Media Set for any unrecoverable

5 05h Read failure Set for any unrecoverable

6 06h Write failure Set for any unrecoverable

8 08h Not data grade Set when severe servo errors

Flag Parameter

(in hex)

Flag Description Action Required

read, write, or positioning
error. (This flag is set in
conjunction with flags 4, 5, or

6.)

read, write, or positioning
error that is due to a faulty
tape cartridge.

read error where isolation is
uncertain and failure could
be due to a faulty tape
cartridge or to faulty drive
hardware.

write or positioning error
where isolation is uncertain
and failure could be due to a
faulty tape cartridge or to
faulty drive hardware.

occur while loading a tape
cartridge.

See the Action Required
column for Flag 4, 5, or 6 in
this table.

Contact Dell technical
support.

If Flag 4 is also set, the
cartridge is defective. Contact
Dell technical support. If Flag
4 is not set, see error code 6
in “Descriptions and
Corrective Actions” on page
5-10.

If Flag 9 is also set, make
sure that the write-protect
switch is set so that data can
be written to the tape (see
the “Setting the Write-Protect
Switch on Tape Cartridges”
on page 3-4 section.) If Flag 4
is also set, the cartridge is
defective. Replace the tape
cartridge. If Flag 4 is not set,
see error code 6 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

Replace the tape cartridge. If
this error occurs with
multiple tapes, see error code
6 in “Descriptions and
Corrective Actions” on page
5-10.

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-17

Table 5-5. TapeAlert Flags and Descriptions (continued)

TapeAlert Flags Supported by the Tape Drive

9 09h Write protect Set when the tape drive

detects that the tape
cartridge is write-protected.

10 0Ah No removal Set when the tape drive

receives an UNLOAD
command after the system
prevented the tape cartridge
from being removed.

11 0Bh Cleaning media Set when you load a cleaning

cartridge into the drive.

12 0Ch Unsupported format Set when you load an

unsupported cartridge type
into the drive or when the
cartridge format has been
corrupted.

15 0Fh Cartridge memory chip

failure

16 10h Forced eject Set when you manually

18 12h Tape directory

corrupted in the
cartridge memory

20 14h Clean now Set when the tape drive

21 15h Clean periodic Set when the drive detects

22 16h Expired clean Set when the tape drive

23 17h Invalid cleaning tape Set when the drive expects a

Set when a cartridge memory
(CM) failure is detected on
the loaded tape cartridge.

unload the tape cartridge
while the drive was reading
or writing.

Set when the drive detects
that the tape directory in the
cartridge memory has been
corrupted.

detects that it needs cleaning.

that it needs routine cleaning.

detects a cleaning cartridge
that has expired.

cleaning cartridge and the
loaded cartridge is not a
cleaning cartridge.

Make sure that the
cartridge's write-protect
switch is set so that the tape
drive can write data to the
tape (see the “Setting the
Write-Protect Switch on Tape
Cartridges” on page 3-4
section).

Refer to the documentation
for your system's operating
system.

No action required.

Use a supported tape
cartridge.

Replace the cartridge. If this
error occurs on multiple
tapes, see error code 6 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

No action required.

Reread all data from the tape
to rebuild the tape directory.

Clean the tape drive. See the
“Cleaning the Tape
Mechanism” on page 3-7
section.

Clean the tape drive as soon
as possible. The drive can
continue to operate, but you
should clean the drive soon.
See the “Cleaning the Tape
Mechanism” on page 3-7
section.

Replace the cleaning
cartridge.

Use a valid cleaning
cartridge.

5-18 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Table 5-5. TapeAlert Flags and Descriptions (continued)

TapeAlert Flags Supported by the Tape Drive

30 1Eh Hardware A Set when a hardware failure

occurs that requires that you
reset the tape drive to
recover.

31 1Fh Hardware B Set when the tape drive fails

its internal self tests.

32 20h Interface Set when the tape drive

detects a problem with the
SCSI or LDI (RS-422)
interface.

33 21h Eject media Set when a failure occurs that

requires you to unload the
cartridge from the drive.

34 22h Download fail Set when a field microcode

replacement (FMR) image is
unsuccessfully downloaded
to the tape drive via the SAS
interface.

36 24h Drive temperature Set when the drive's

temperature sensor indicates
that the drive's temperature
is exceeding the
recommended temperature of
the system (see Chapter 6,
“Specifications,” on page
6-1).

37 25h Drive voltage Set when the drive detects

that the externally supplied
voltages are either
approaching the specified
voltage limits or are outside
the voltage limits (see
Chapter 6, “Specifications,”
on page 6-1).

39 27h Diagnostics required Set when the drive detects a

failure that requires
diagnostics to isolate the
problem.

51 33h Tape directory invalid

at unload

Set when the tape directory
on the tape cartridge that
was previously unloaded is
corrupted. The file-search
performance is degraded.

If resetting the drive does not
recover the error, use the
error code from the
single-character display,
library user interface, or SCSI
drive sense data. See
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

Use the error code on the
single-character display,
library user interface, or SCSI
drive sense data. See
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

Locate error code 8 or 9 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

Unload and reload the tape
cartridge.

Ensure that it is the correct
image. Download the FMR
image again.

See error code 1 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

See error code 2 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

See error code 6 in
“Descriptions and Corrective
Actions” on page 5-10.

Rebuild the tape directory by
reading all the data.

Chapter 5. Troubleshooting 5-19

Table 5-5. TapeAlert Flags and Descriptions (continued)

TapeAlert Flags Supported by the Tape Drive

52 34h Tape system area write

failure

53 35h Tape system area read

failure

Recovering a Tape Cartridge

If problem-determination procedures identify the tape drive as the source of the
problem and you are unable to eject the tape cartridge using the eject button,
perform the following steps to reset the drive to recover the cartridge:

1. Press and hold the eject button for 10 seconds, then release.

v The fault LED turns on and the drive starts through its hardware test

process.

v When the hardware test completes, the ready/activity LED turns on.

v If a cartridge is in the drive, the ready/activity LED flashes green and the

SCD flashes moving in a figure eight pattern until the cartridge is rewound.

v The ready/activity LED turns on solid and the SCD stops flashing in a figure

eight pattern when the rewind is complete and the tape drive is ready.

Set when the tape cartridge
that was previously
unloaded could not write its
system area successfully.

Set when the tape system
area could not be read
successfully at load time.

Copy the data to another
tape cartridge, then discard
the old cartridge

Copy the data to another
tape cartridge, then discard
the old cartridge

Note: Allow at least 10 minutes for the rewind process to complete.

2. To eject the cartridge, push the eject button one more time. If the tape cartridge
still will not eject, contact trained service personnel for assistance.

Notice: If you are not a trained service person, do not attempt to open the

drive for repairs as this will void your warranty.

5-20 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 6. Specifications

v “General Specifications”

v “Internal Drive”

v “External Drive” on page 6-2

v “Rack Mount Drive” on page 6-3

General Specifications

Table 6-1. General specifications

General

Manufacturer Manufactured for Dell

Model Number (Internal, External, RackMount Dell PowerVault Tape Drive

LTO Ultrium 6-H, LTO Ultrium5-H

LTO Ultrium 4-H

LTO Ultrium 3-H

CSEH 001, LTO4-EH1, LTO3-EH1

2U Storage Rack A

Interface Type 6Gb SAS interface

Internal Drive

Table 6-2. Internal Drive specifications

Physical Specifications

Width (without bezel) 146.0 mm (5.75 in)

Width (with bezel) 148.0 mm (5.83 in)

Length (without bezel) 205.0 mm (8.09 in)

Length (with bezel) 210.0 mm (8.29 in)

Height (without bezel) 41.0 mm (1.63 in) without bezel

Height (with bezel) 42.7 mm (1.69 in) with bezel

Weight (without a cartridge) 1.61 kg (3 lb 9 oz)

Power Supply Requirements

Tolerance + 5 VDC and + 12 VDC (plus or minus 10%)

Steady State Current for 5 VDC 1.9 A minimum/3.4 A maximum

Steady State Current for 12 VDC 0.2 A minimum/1.1 A maximum

Peak supply current for 5 VDC 3.6 A for 100 ms (18 W)

Peak supply current for 12 VDC 4.1 A for 2 ms (49.2 W)

Power Usage

Idle mode with no cartridge 6.5 W

Idle mode with a cartridge loaded 6.5 W

Reading and writing 24 W

6-1

Table 6-2. Internal Drive specifications (continued)

Physical Specifications

Performance

Interfaces 6Gb SAS

Recording format LTO Ultrium Generation

Media LTO Ultrium

Capacity LTO6-2500 GB (Native) 6250 GB (compressed, assuming

2.5:1 compression)

LTO5-1500 GB (Native) 3000 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO4-800 GB (Native) 1600 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO3-400 GB (Native) 800 GB (compressed, assuming 2:1
compression)

Data transfer rate (maximum) LTO6-160 MB/sec Native

LTO5-140 MB/sec Native
LTO4-120 MB/sec Native
LTO3-80 MB/sec Native

Burst transfer rate up to 600 MB/sec for SAS

Operating Limits

Temperature 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F)

Humidity 20% to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

Non-operating Limits (Storage)

Temperature -40° to 60° (-40° to 140°F)

Humidity 10% to 90% relative humidity (noncondensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

External Drive

Table 6-3. External Drive specifications

Physical Specifications

Width 22.2 cm (8.74 in)

Length 32.7 cm (12.87 in)

Height 6.5 cm (2.56 in)

Weight 4.4 kg (9.7 lb)

Power Requirements

AC line voltage 100 - 240 VAC

Line frequency 50–60 Hz, auto-ranging

Line current at 100 VAC 0.48 A

Line current at 240 VAC 0.20 A

6-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

External Drive Specifications, continued

Performance

Interface 6Gb SAS

Recording format LTO Ultrium Generation

Media LTO Ultrium

Capacity LTO6-2500 GB (Native) 6250 GB (compressed, assuming

2.5:1 compression)

LTO5-1500 GB (Native) 3000 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO4-800 GB (Native) 1600 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO3-400 GB (Native) 800 GB (compressed, assuming 2:1
compression)

Data transfer rate (maximum) LTO6-160 MB/sec Native

LTO5-140 MB/sec Native
LTO4-120 MB/sec Native
LTO3-80 MB/sec Native

Burst transfer rate up to 600 MB/sec for SAS

Operating Limits

Temperature 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F)

Humidity 20% to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

Non-operating Limits (Storage)

Temperature -40° to 60° (-40° to 140°F)

Humidity 10% to 90% relative humidity (noncondensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

Rack Mount Drive

Table 6-4. Rack Mount drive specifications

Physical Specifications

Width 48.3 cm (19.0 in)

Length 44.0 cm (17.32 in)

Height 9.0 cm (3.54 in)

Weight 10.23 kg (22.55 lb) Chassis empty

Power Requirements

AC line voltage 100–240 VAC

Line frequency 50–60 Hz, auto-ranging

Line current at 100 VAC 1.9 A

Line current at 240 VAC 0.8 A

Performance

Interface 6Gb SAS

Recording format LTO Ultrium Generation

Chapter 6. Specifications 6-3

Table 6-4. Rack Mount drive specifications (continued)

Physical Specifications

Media LTO Ultrium

Capacity LTO6-2500 GB (Native) 6250 GB (compressed, assuming

2.5:1 compression)

LTO5-1500 GB (Native) 3000 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO4-800 GB (Native) 1600 GB (compressed, assuming
2:1 compression)

LTO3-400 GB (Native) 800 GB (compressed, assuming 2:1
compression)

Data transfer rate (maximum) LTO6-160 MB/sec Native

LTO5-140 MB/sec Native
LTO4-120 MB/sec Native
LTO3-80 MB/sec Native

Burst transfer rate up to 600 MB/sec

Operating Limits

Temperature 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F)

Humidity 20% to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

Non-operating Limits (Storage or Shipping)

Temperature -40° to 60° (-40° to 140°F)

Humidity 10% to 90% relative humidity (noncondensing)

Maximum wet bulb temperature 26°C (79°F)

6-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 7. Getting Help

v “Technical Assistance”

v “Dell Enterprise Training and Certification” on page 7-3

v “Problems with Your Order” on page 7-3

v “Product Information” on page 7-3

v “Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit” on page 7-3

v “Before You Call” on page 7-3

Technical Assistance

If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following steps:

1. Complete the procedures in "Troubleshooting Your System."

2. Run the system diagnostics and record any information provided.

3. Make a copy of the Diagnostics Checklist, and fill it out.

4. Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support at

support.dell.com for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures. For
more information, see "Online Services."

5. If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, call Dell for technical
assistance.

Note: Call technical support from a phone near or at the system so that

technical support can assist you with any necessary procedures.

Note: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your
Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support
personnel. If you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell
Accessories folder, double-click the Express Service Code icon, and
follow the directions.

For instructions on using the technical support service, see "Technical
Support Service" and "Before You Call."

Note: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations

outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell representative for
information on availability.

Online Services

You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the
WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT page, and fill in the requested details to access
help tools and information.

You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:

v World Wide Web

www.dell.com/

www.dell.com/ap/ (Asian/Pacific countries only)

www.dell.com.cn (China only)

7-1

www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)

www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

www.dell.com/la (Latin American countries)

www.dell.ca (Canada only)

v Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

ftp.dell.com/

Log in as user:anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.

v Electronic Support Service

[e-mail]

[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific countries only)

[e-mail] (China only)

support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)

support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)

v Electronic Quote Service

[e-mail]

[e-mail] (Asian/Pacific countries only)

[e-mail] (Canada only)

v Electronic Information Service

[e-mail]

AutoTech Service

Dell's automated technical support service AutoTec hprovides recorded answers to
the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their portable and
desktop computer systems.

When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that
correspond to your questions.

The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also
access this service through the technical support service. See the contact
information for your region.

Automated Order-Status Service

To check on the status of any Dell products that you have ordered, you can go to
support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A recording
prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. See
the contact information for your region.

Technical Support Service

Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to
answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our technical support staff use
computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.

To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Before You Call" and then see the
contact information for your region.

7-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Dell Enterprise Training and Certification

Dell Enterprise Training and Certification is available; see www.dell.com/training
for more information. This service may not be offered in all locations.

Problems with Your Order

If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or
incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip available when you call. See the contact information for your region.

Product Information

If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you
would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com . For the
telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the contact information
for your region.

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit

Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:

1. Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it
clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

For the telephone number to call, see the contact information for your region.

2. Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.

3. Include a copy of any diagnostic information (including the Diagnostics

Checklist) indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported
by the system diagnostics.

4. Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (such as
power cables, media such as CDs and diskettes, and guides) if the return is for
credit.

5. Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing
materials.

You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for
insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect-on-delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.

Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at
our receiving dock and returned to you.

Before You Call

Note: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's

automated-support telephone system direct your call more efficiently.

Remember to fill out the Table 7-1 on page 7-4. If possible, turn on your system
before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the
computer. You may be asked to type some commands at the keyboard, relay
detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible
only at the computer system itself. Ensure that the system documentation is
available.

Chapter 7. Getting Help 7-3

CAUTION:
Before servicing any components inside your computer, see your System
Information Guide for important safety information.

Table 7-1. Diagnostics Checklist

Diagnostics Checklist

Name:

Date:

Address:

Phone number:

Service Tag (bar code on the back of the computer):

Express Service Code:

Return Material Authorization Number (if provided by Dell support technician):

Operating system and version:

Peripherals:

Expansion cards:

Are you connected to a network? Yes No

Network, version, and network card:

Programs and versions:

See your operating system documentation to determine the contents of the system's
start-up files. If possible, print each file. Otherwise, record the contents of each file before
calling Dell.

Error message, beep code, or diagnostic code:

Description of problem and troubleshooting procedures you performed:

7-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell

To contact Dell electronically, you can access the following websites:

v http://www.dell.com

v http://support.dell.com

v http://www.dell.com/regulatory compliance

For specific web addresses for your country, find the appropriate country section in
the table below.

Note: Toll-free numbers are for use within the country for which they are listed.

Note: In certain countries, support specific to Dell

a separate telephone number listed for participating countries. If you do not
see a telephone number listed that is specific for XPS computers, you may
contact Dell through the support number listed and your call will be routed

appropriately.
When you need to contact Dell, use the electronic addresses, telephone numbers,
and codes provided in the following table. If you need assistance in determining
which codes to use, contact a local or an international operator.

Note: The contact information provided was deemed correct at the time that this

document went to print and is subject to change.

™

XPS™computers is available at

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Anguilla General Support toll-free: 800-335-0031

Antigua and Barbuda General Support 1-800-805-5924

Argentina (Buenos Aires)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 54

City Code: 11

Aruba General Support toll-free: 800-1578

Australia (Sydney)

International Access Code:

0011

Country Code: 61

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: www.dell.com.ar

E-mail: [e-mail]

E-mail for desktop and portable computers:
[e-mail]

®

E-mail for servers and EMC
[e-mail]

Customer Care toll-free: 0-800-444-0730

Technical Support toll-free: 0-800-444-0733

Technical Support Services toll-free: 0-800-444-0724

Sales 0-810-444-3355

Website: support.ap.dell.com

E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus

General Support 13DELL-133355

storage products:

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

City Code: 2

8-1

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Austria (Vienna)

International Access Code:

900

Country Code: 43

City Code: 1

Bahamas General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6818

Barbados General Support 1-800-534-3066

Belgium (Brussels)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 32

City Code: 2

Bermuda General Support 1-800-342-0671

Bolivia General Support toll-free: 800-10-0238

Brazil

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 55

City Code: 51

British Virgin Islands General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6820

Brunei

Country Code: 673

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Home/Small Business Sales 0820 240 530 00

Home/Small Business Fax [phone]

Home/Small Business Customer Care 0820 240 530 14

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Customer Care 0820 240 530 16

Support for XPS 0820 240 530 81

Home/Small Business Support for all other Dell
computers

Preferred Accounts/Corporate Support 0660 8779

Switchboard 0820 240 530 00

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Tech Support for XPS 02 481 92 96

Tech Support for all other Dell computers 02 481 92 88

Tech Support Fax [phone]

Customer Care 02 713 15 65

Corporate Sales 02 481 91 00

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 02 481 91 00

Website: www.dell.com/br

Customer Support, Tech Support 0800 90 3355

Technical Support Fax [phone]

Customer Care Fax [phone]

Sales 0800 90 3390

Technical Support (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4966

Customer Care (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4888

Transaction Sales (Penang, Malaysia) 604 633 4955

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

0820 240 530 17

8-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Canada (North York,
Ontario)

International Access Code:

011

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Online Order Status: www.dell.ca/ostatus

AutoTech (automated Hardware and Warranty

toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Support)

Customer Service (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

Customer Service (med./large business, government) toll-free: 1-800-326-9463

Customer Service (printers, projectors, televisions,

toll-free: 1-800-847-4096

handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)

Hardware Warranty Support (Home Sales/Small

toll-free: 1-800-906-3355

Business)

Hardware Warranty Support (med./large bus.,

toll-free: 1-800-387-5757

government)

Hardware Warranty Support (printers, projectors,

1-877-335-5767

televisions, handhelds, digital jukebox, and wireless)

Sales (Home Sales/Small Business) toll-free: 1-800-387-5752

Sales (med./large bus., government) toll-free: 1-800-387-5755

Spare Parts Sales & Extended Service Sales 1 866 440 3355

Cayman Islands General Support 1-800-805-7541

Chile (Santiago)

Sales and Customer Support toll-free: 1230-020-4823

Country Code: 56

City Code: 2

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-3

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

China (Xiamen)

Country Code: 86

City Code: 592

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Technical Support website: support.dell.com.cn

Technical Support E-mail: [e-mail]

Customer Care E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support Fax [phone]

™

Technical Support (Dell

Technical Support (OptiPlex
Precision

™

)

Dimension™and Inspiron) toll-free: 800 858 2968

™

, Latitude™, and Dell

toll-free: 800 858 0950

Technical Support (servers and storage) toll-free: 800 858 0960

Technical Support (projectors, PDAs, switches,

toll-free: 800 858 2920

routers, and so on)

Technical Support (printers) toll-free: 800 858 2311

Customer Care toll-free: 800 858 2060

Customer Care Fax [phone]

Home and Small Business toll-free: 800 858 2222

Preferred Accounts Division toll-free: 800 858 2557

Large Corporate Accounts GCP toll-free: 800 858 2055

Large Corporate Accounts Key Accounts toll-free: 800 858 2628

Large Corporate Accounts North toll-free: 800 858 2999

Large Corporate Accounts North Government and

toll-free: 800 858 2955

Education

Large Corporate Accounts East toll-free: 800 858 2020

Large Corporate Accounts East Government and

toll-free: 800 858 2669

Education

Large Corporate Accounts Queue Team toll-free: 800 858 2572

Large Corporate Accounts South toll-free: 800 858 2355

Large Corporate Accounts West toll-free: 800 858 2811

Large Corporate Accounts Spare Parts toll-free: 800 858 2621

Colombia General Support 980-9-15-3978

Costa Rica General Support 0800-012-0435

Czech Republic (Prague)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 420

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support 22537 2727

Customer Care 22537 2707

Fax [phone]

Technical Fax [phone]

Switchboard 22537 2711

8-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Denmark (Copenhagen)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 45

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support for XPS 7010 0074

Technical Support for all other Dell computers 7023 0182

Customer Care (Relational) 7023 0184

Home/Small Business Customer Care 3287 5505

Switchboard (Relational) 3287 1200

Switchboard Fax (Relational) 3287 1201

Switchboard (Home/Small Business) 3287 5000

Switchboard Fax (Home/Small Business) 3287 5001

Dominica General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6821

Dominican Republic General Support 1-800-148-0530

Ecuador General Support toll-free: 999-119

El Salvador General Support 01-899-753-0777

Finland (Helsinki)

International Access Code:

990

Country Code: 358

City Code: 9

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support 0207 533 555

Customer Care 0207 533 538

Switchboard 0207 533 533

Sales under 500 employees 0207 533 540

Fax [phone]

Sales over 500 employees 0207 533 533

Fax [phone]

France (Paris) (Montpellier)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 33

City Codes: (1) (4)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Home and Small Business

Technical Support for XPS 0825 387 129

Technical Support for all other Dell computers 0825 387 270

Customer Care 0825 823 833

Switchboard 0825 004 700

Switchboard (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 00

Sales 0825 004 700

Fax [phone]

Fax (calls from outside of France) 04 99 75 40 01

Corporate

Technical Support 0825 004 719

Customer Care 0825 338 339

Switchboard 01 55 94 71 00

Sales 01 55 94 71 00

Fax [phone]

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-5

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Germany (Langen)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 49

City Code: 6103

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support for XPS 069 9792 7222

Technical Support for all other Dell computers 069 9792-7200

Home/Small Business Customer Care 0180-5-224400

Global Segment Customer Care 06103 766-9570

Preferred Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9420

Large Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9560

Public Accounts Customer Care 06103 766-9555

Switchboard 06103 766-7000

Greece

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 30

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support 00800-44 14 95 18

Gold Service Technical Support 00800-44 14 00 83

Switchboard 2108129810

Gold Service Switchboard 2108129811

Sales 2108129800

Fax [phone]

Grenada General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Guatemala General Support 1-800-999-0136

Guyana General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Hong Kong

International Access Code:

001

Country Code: 852

Website: support.ap.dell.com

Technical Support E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) 2969 3188

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell

2969 3191

Precision)

Technical Support (PowerApp
PowerConnect

™

, and PowerVault™)

™

, PowerEdge™,

2969 3196

Customer Care 3416 0910

Large Corporate Accounts 3416 0907

Global Customer Programs 3416 0908

Medium Business Division 3416 0912

Home and Small Business Division 2969 3105

India E-mail: [e-mail]

[e-mail]
[e-mail]

Technical Support 1600338045

Sales (Large Corporate Accounts) 1600 33 8044

Sales (Home and Small Business) 1600 33 8046

8-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

and 1600448046

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Ireland (Cherrywood)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 353

City Code: 1

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Sales

Ireland Sales 01 204 4444

Dell Outlet 1850 200 778

Online Ordering HelpDesk 1850 200 778

Customer Care

Home User Customer Care 01 204 4014

Small Business Customer Care 01 204 4014

Corporate Customer Care 1850 200 982

Technical Support

Technical Support for XPS 1850 200 722

Technical Support for all other Dell computers 1850 543 543

At-Home-Service - Technical Support Queries 1850 200 889

General

Fax/Sales Fax [phone]

Switchboard 01 204 4444

U.K. Technical Support (dial within U.K. only) 0870 353 0800

U.K. Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) 0870 353 0202

Corporate Customer Care (dial within U.K. only) 0870 353 0240

U.K. Sales (dial within U.K. only) 0870 353 4000

Italy (Milan)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 39

City Code: 02

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Home and Small Business

Technical Support 02 577 826 90

Customer Care 02 696 821 14

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 02 696 821 12

Corporate

Technical Support 02 577 826 90

Customer Care 02 577 825 55

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 02 577 821

Jamaica General Support (dial from within Jamaica only) 1-800-682-3639

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-7

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Japan (Kawasaki)

International Access Code:

001

Country Code: 81

City Code: 44

Korea (Seoul)

International Access Code:

001

Country Code: 82

City Code: 2

Latin America Customer Technical Support (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4093

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.jp.dell.com

Technical Support (servers) toll-free: 0120-198-498

Technical Support outside of Japan (servers) 81-44-556-4162

Technical Support (Dimension and Inspiron) toll-free: 0120-198-226

Technical Support outside of Japan (Dimension and
Inspiron)

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and
Latitude)

Technical Support outside of Japan (Dell Precision,
OptiPlex, and Latitude)

Technical Support (PDAs, projectors, printers,
routers)

Technical Support outside of Japan (PDAs,
projectors, printers, and routers)

Faxbox Service 044-556-3490

24-Hour Automated Order Status Service 044-556-3801

Customer Care 044-556-4240

Business Sales Division (up to 400 employees) 044-556-1465

Preferred Accounts Division Sales (over 400
employees)

Public Sales (government agencies, educational
institutions, and medical institutions)

Global Segment Japan 044-556-3469

Individual User 044-556-1760

Switchboard 044-556-4300

E-mail: [e-mail]

Support toll-free: 080-200-3800

Support (Dimension, PDA, Electronics and
Accessories)

Sales toll-free: 080-200-3600

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 2194-6000

Customer Service (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-3619

Fax (Technical Support and Customer Service)
(Austin, Texas, U.S. A.)

Sales (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4397

SalesFax (Austin, Texas, U.S.A.) 512 728-4600

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

81-44-520-1435

toll-free:0120-198-433

81-44-556-3894

toll-free: 0120-981-690

81-44-556-3468

044-556-3433

044-556-5963

toll-free: 080-200-3801

512 728-3883

8-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

or 512 728-3772

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Luxembourg

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 352

Macao

Country Code: 853

Malaysia (Penang)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 60

City Code: 4

Mexico

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Support 342 08 08 075

Home/Small Business Sales [phone]

Corporate Sales 26 25 77 81

Customer Care [phone]

Fax [phone]

Technical Support toll-free: 0800 105

Customer Service (Xiamen, China) 34 160 910

Transaction Sales (Xiamen, China) 29 693 115

Website: support.ap.dell.com

Technical Support (Dell Precision, OptiPlex, and

toll-free: 1 800 880 193

Latitude)

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and

toll-free: 1 800 881 306

Electronics and Accessories)

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

toll-free: 1800 881 386

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

Customer Care toll-free: 1800 881 306 (option

Transaction Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 202

Corporate Sales toll-free: 1 800 888 213

Customer Technical Support 001-877-384-8979

6)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 52

Sales 50-81-8800

or 001-877-269-3383

or 01-800-888-3355

Customer Service 001-877-384-8979

or 001-877-269-3383

Main 50-81-8800

or 01-800-888-3355

Montserrat General Support toll-free: 1-866-278-6822

Netherlands Antilles General Support 001-800-882-1519

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-9

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Netherlands (Amsterdam)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 31

City Code: 20

New Zealand

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 64

Nicaragua General Support 001-800-220-1006

Norway (Lysaker)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 47

Panama General Support 001-800-507-0962

Peru General Support 0800-50-669

Poland (Warsaw)

International Access Code:

011

Country Code: 48

City Code: 22

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support for XPS 020 674 45 94

Technical Support for all other Dell computers 020 674 45 00

Technical Support Fax [phone]

Home/Small Business Customer Care 020 674 42 00

Relational Customer Care 020 674 4325

Home/Small Business Sales 020 674 55 00

Relational Sales 020 674 50 00

Home/Small Business Sales Fax [phone]

Relational Sales Fax [phone]

Switchboard 020 674 50 00

Switchboard Fax [phone]

Website: support.ap.dell.com

E-mail: support.ap.dell.com/contactus

General Support 0800 441 567

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support for XPS 815 35 043

Technical Support for all other Dell products 671 16882

Relational Customer Care 671 17575

Home/Small Business Customer Care 23162298

Switchboard 671 16800

Fax Switchboard 671 16865

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Customer Service Phone [phone]

Customer Care 57 95 999

Sales 57 95 999

Customer Service Fax [phone]

Reception Desk Fax [phone]

Switchboard 57 95 999

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

8-10 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Portugal

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 351

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support 707200149

Customer Care 800 300 413

Sales 800 300 410

or 800 300 411

or 800 300 412

or 21 422 07 10

Fax [phone]

Puerto Rico General Support 1-800-805-7545

St. Kitts and Nevis General Support toll-free: 1-877-441-4731

St. Lucia General Support 1-800-882-1521

St. Vincent and the

General Support toll-free: 1-877-270-4609

Grenadines

Singapore (Singapore)

NOTE: The phone numbers in this section should be
called from within Singapore or Malaysia only.

International Access Code:

005

Country Code: 65

Website: support.ap.dell.com

Technical Support (Dimension, Inspiron, and
Electronics and Accessories)

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell

toll-free: 1 800 394 7430

toll-free: 1 800 394 7488

Precision)

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

toll-free: 1 800 394 7478

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

Customer Care toll-free: 1 800 394 7430

Slovakia (Prague)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 421

(option 6)

Transaction Sales toll-free: 1 800 394 7412

Corporate Sales toll-free: 1 800 394 7419

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support 02 5441 5727

Customer Care 420 22537 2707

Fax [phone]

Tech Fax [phone]

Switchboard (Sales) 02 5441 7585

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-11

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

South Africa (Johannesburg)

International Code: 09/091

Country Code: 27

City Code: 11

Southeast Asian and Pacific
Countries

Spain (Madrid)

International Access Code: 34

City Code: 91

Sweden (Upplands Vasby)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 46

City Code: 8

Switzerland (Geneva)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 41

City Code: 22

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Gold Queue 011 709 7713

Technical Support 011 709 7710

Customer Care 011 709 7707

Sales 011 709 7700

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 011 709 7700

Technical Support, Customer Service, and Sales
(Penang, Malaysia)

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Home and Small Business

Technical Support 902 100 130

Customer Care 902 118 540

Sales 902 118 541

Switchboard 902 118 541

Fax [phone]

Corporate

Technical Support 902 100 130

Customer Care 902 115 236

Switchboard 91 722 92 00

Fax [phone]

Website: support.euro.dell.com

Technical Support for XPS 0771 340 340

Technical Support for all other Dell products 08 590 05 199

Relational Customer Care 08 590 05 642

Home/Small Business Customer Care 08 587 70 527

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Support 020 140 14 44

Technical Support Fax [phone]

Sales 08 590 05 185

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support for XPS 0848 33 88 57

Technical Support (Home and Small Business) for all
other Dell products

Technical Support (Corporate) 0844 822 844

Customer Care (Home and Small Business) 0848 802 202

Customer Care (Corporate) 0848 821 721

Fax [phone]

Switchboard 022 799 01 01

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

604 633 4810

0844 811 411

8-12 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

Taiwan

International Access Code:

002

Country Code: 886

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.ap.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, Inspiron,
Dimension, and Electronics and Accessories)

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

toll-free: 00801 86 1011

toll-free: 00801 60 1256

PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

Customer Care toll-free: 00801 60 1250

(option 5)

Transaction Sales toll-free: 00801 65 1228

Corporate Sales toll-free: 00801 651 227

Thailand

International Access Code:

001

Country Code: 66

Website: support.ap.dell.com

Technical Support (OptiPlex, Latitude, and Dell
Precision)

Technical Support (PowerApp, PowerEdge,
PowerConnect, and PowerVault)

toll-free: 1800 0060 07

toll-free: 1800 0600 09

Customer Care toll-free: 1800 006 007

(option 7)

Corporate Sales toll-free: 1800 006 009

Transaction Sales toll-free: 1800 006 006

Trinidad/Tobago General Support 1-800-805-8035

Turks and Caicos Islands General Support toll-free: 1-866-540-3355

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-13

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

U.K. (Bracknell)

International Access Code: 00

Country Code: 44

City Code: 1344

Uruguay General Support toll-free: 000-413-598-2521

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Website: support.euro.dell.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

Customer Care website: support.euro.dell.com/uk/

en/ECare/form/home.asp

Sales

Home and Small Business Sales 0870 907 4000

Corporate/Public Sector Sales 01344 860 456

Customer Care

Home and Small Business Customer Care 0870 906 0010

Corporate Customer Care 01344 373 185

Preferred Accounts (500–5000 employees) Customer
Care

Global Accounts Customer Care 01344 373 186

Central Government Customer Care 01344 373 193

Local Government & Education Customer Care 01344 373 199

Health Customer Care 01344 373 194

Technical Support

Technical Support for XPS 0870 366 4180

Technical Support (Corporate/Preferred
Accounts/PAD [1000+ employees])

General

Technical Support for all other products 0870 908 0800

Home and Small Business Fax [phone]

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

0870 906 0010

0870 908 0500

8-14 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Country (City) International
Access Code Country Code
City Code

U.S.A. (Austin, Texas)

International Access Code:

011

Country Code: 1

Department Name or Service Area, Website and

E-Mail Address

Area Codes, Local Numbers,

and Toll-Free Numbers

Automated Order-Status Service toll-free: 1-800-433-9014

AutoTech (portable and desktop computers) toll-free: 1-800-247-9362

Hardware and Warranty Support (Dell TV, Printers,

toll-free: 1-877-459-7298

and Projectors) for Relationship customers

Americas Consumer XPS Support toll-free: 1-800-232-8544

Consumer (Home and Home Office) Support for all

toll-free: 1-800-624-9896

other Dell products

Customer Service toll-free: 1-800-624-9897

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Financial Services website:

www.dellfinancialservices.com

Financial Services (lease/loans) toll-free: 1-877-577-3355

Financial Services (Dell Preferred Accounts [DPA]) toll-free: 1-800-283-2210

Business

Customer Service and Support toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Support for printers, projectors, PDAs, and MP3

toll-free: 1-877-459-7298

players

Public (government, education, and healthcare)

Customer Service and Support toll-free: 1-800-456-3355

Employee Purchase Program (EPP) Customers toll-free: 1-800-695-8133

Dell Sales toll-free: 1-800-289-3355

or toll-free: 1-800-879-3355

Dell Outlet Store (Dell refurbished computers) toll-free: 1-888-798-7561

Software and Peripherals Sales toll-free: 1-800-671-3355

Spare Parts Sales toll-free: 1-800-357-3355

Extended Service and Warranty Sales toll-free: 1-800-247-4618

Fax toll-free: 1-800-727-8320

Dell Services for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, or

toll-free: 1-877-DELLTTY

Speech-Impaired

(1-877-335-5889)

U.S. Virgin Islands General Support 1-877-673-3355

Venezuela General Support 8001-3605

Chapter 8. Contacting Dell 8-15

8-16 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Appendix. Regulatory Information

Regulatory Information for Taiwan

Figure 17. Taiwan Contact Information Statement

A-1

A-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Glossary

This glossary defines the special terms, abbreviations, and acronyms that are used
in this publication. If you do not find the term you are looking for, refer to the
index or to the Dictionary of Computing, 1994.

Numbers

2.5:1 compression

The relationship between the quantity of data that can be stored with
compression as compared to the quantity of data that can be stored
without compression.

2:1 compression

The relationship between the quantity of data that can be stored with
compression as compared to the quantity of data that can be stored
without compression. In 2:1 compression, two and a half times as much
data can be stored with compression as can be stored without compression.

A

A. See ampere.

ampere (A).

A unit of measure for electric current that is equivalent to a flow of one
coulomb per second, or equivalent to the current produced by one volt
applied across a resistance of one ohm.

adapter.

A circuit board that adds function to a computer.

adapter card.

A circuit board that adds function to a computer.

B

backups.

The short-term retention of records used for restoring essential business
and server files when vital data has been lost because of program or server
errors or malfunctions.

backward compatible.

Capable of being used with a previous product that was designed for a
similar purpose. For example, a tape cartridge that is designed to be used
with a modern tape drive but can also be used with certain older tape
drives. Synonymous with downward compatible.

bezel. The removable frame that fits over the front of the tape drive.

burst data transfer rate.

The maximum speed at which data is transferred.

byte. A string that consists of a certain number of bits (usually 8) which are

treated as a unit and represent a character. A byte is a fundamental unit of
data.

C

C. See Celsius.

B-1

capacity.

The amount of data that can be contained on storage media and expressed
in bytes.

cartridge.

See tape cartridge.

cartridge door.

On a tape cartridge, the hinged barrier that can be opened to access, or
closed to protect, the magnetic tape within the cartridge.

cartridge memory.

See LTO cartridge memory.

Celsius (C).

Having a thermostatic scale on which the interval between the freezing
point and the boiling point of water is divided into 100 degrees, with 0
degrees representing the freezing point and 100 degrees representing the
boiling point.

cleaning cartridge.

A tape cartridge that is used to clean the heads of a tape drive. Contrast
with data cartridge.

clockwise.

In the direction that the hands of a clock rotate, as viewed from the front.

compression.

The process of eliminating gaps, empty fields, redundancies, and
unnecessary data to shorten the length of records or blocks.

configure.

To describe to a server the devices, optional features, and programs
installed on the system.

counterclockwise.

In a direction opposite to that in which the hands of a clock rotate, as
viewed from the front.

current.

The quantity of charge per unit of time. Current is measured in amperes.

cycle power.

To apply and remove electrical power to a device within a short time span.

D

data. Any representations such as characters or analog quantities to which

meaning is, or might be, assigned.

data cartridge.

A tape cartridge dedicated to storing data. Contrast with cleaning cartridge.

data compression.

See compression.

data transfer rate.

The average number of bits, characters, or blocks per unit of time that pass
between corresponding equipment in a data transmission system. The rate
is expressed in bits, characters, or blocks per second, minute, or hour.

DC. See direct current.

B-2 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

degauss

To make a magnetic tape nonmagnetic by exposing the tape to electrical
coils which carry currents that neutralize the magnetism of the tape.

device.

Any hardware component or peripheral, such as a tape drive or tape
library, that can receive and send data.

device driver.

A file that contains the firmware that is needed to use an attached device.

diagnostic.

A software program that is designed to recognize, locate, and explain faults
in equipment or errors in programs.

direct current (DC).

An electric current flowing in one direction only and substantially constant
in value.

drive. A data-storage device that controls the movement of the magnetic tape in a

tape cartridge. The drive houses the mechanism (drive head) that reads
and writes data to the tape.

drive dump.

The recording, at a particular instant, of the contents of all or part of one
storage device into another storage device, usually as a safeguard against
faults or errors, or in connection with debugging.

drive head.

The component that records an electrical signal onto magnetic tape, or
reads a signal from tape into an electrical signal.

drive sense data.

See SCSI drive sense data.

dump. See drive dump.

E

eject. To remove or force out from within.

enclosure.

A device, such as a desktop unit, tape cartridge autoloader, or tape library,
into which you can install the tape drive.

error log.

Maintained by the tape drive, a list that contains the ten most recent error
codes. The codes identify errors that pertain to the drive.

F

F. See Fahrenheit.

Fahrenheit (F).

Of or relating to a temperature scale that registers the freezing point of
water as 32 degrees and the boiling point as 212 degrees at one atmosphere
of pressure.

file. A named set of records stored or processed as a unit.

firmware.

The proprietary code that is usually delivered as part of an operating
system. Firmware is more efficient than software that is loaded from an
alterable medium, and is more adaptable to change than pure hardware

Glossary B-3

circuitry. An example of firmware is the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS)
in read-only memory (ROM) on a PC motherboard.

G

GB. See gigabyte.

Generation 1.

The informal name for the Ultrium tape drive, which is the predecessor of
the tape drive (Generation 2). The Generation 1 drive has a native storage
capacity of up to 100 GB per cartridge and a native sustained data transfer
rate of 15 MB per second.

Generation 2.

The informal name for the Ultrium 2 Tape Drive, which is the
second-generation version of the Ultrium tape drive (Generation 1). The
Generation 2 drive has a native storage capacity of up to 200 GB per
cartridge and a native sustained data transfer rate of 35 MB per second.

Generation 3.

The informal name for the Ultrium 3 Tape Drive, which is the
third-generation version of the Ultrium tape drive (Generation 1, 2). The
Generation 3 drive has a native storage capacity of up to 400 GB per
cartridge and a native sustained data transfer rate of 80 MB per second.

Generation 4.

The informal name for the Ultrium 4 Tape Drive, which is the
fourth-generation version of the Ultrium tape drive (Generation 1, 2, 3).
The Generation 4 drive has a native storage capacity of up to 800 GB per
cartridge and a native sustained data transfer rate of 120 MB per second.

Generation 5.

The informal name for the Ultrium 5 Tape Drive, which is the
fifth-generation version of the Ultrium tape drive (Generation 1, 2, 3, 4).
The Generation 5 drive has a native storage capacity of up to 1500 GB per
cartridge and a native sustained data transfer rate of 140 MB per second.

Generation 6.

The informal name for the Ultrium 6 Tape Drive, which is the
sixth-generation version of the Ultrium tape drive (Generation 1, 2, 3, 4, 5).
The Generation 6 drive has a native storage capacity of up to 2500 GB per
cartridge and a native sustained data transfer rate of 160 MB per second.

gigabyte.

1,000,000,000 bytes.

ground.

An object that makes an electrical connection with the earth.

H

hardware.

The physical equipment or devices that form a computer.

head. See drive head.

Head Resistance Measurements test.

Part of the Test Head diagnostic, a procedure that determines whether the
tape drive's head works correctly. The test measures the head's ability to
withstand cracks and other defects.

B-4 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

host. The controlling or highest-level system in a data communication

configuration. Synonymous with server.

I

ID. Identifier.

in. See inch.

inch. A unit of length equal to 1/36 yard or 25.4 mm.

input/output (I/O)

Data that is provided to a computer or data that results from computer
processing.

insertion guide.

On the surface of the tape cartridge, a large, notched area that prevents
you from inserting the cartridge incorrectly.

install.

(1) To set up for use or service. (2) The act of adding a product, feature, or
function to a server or device either by a singular change or by the
addition of multiple components or devices.

interposer.

An adapter-like device that allows a connector of one size and style to
connect to a mating connector of a different size and style. Data provided
to the computer or data resulting from computer processing.

I/O. See input/output.

J

jumper.

(1) A tiny connector that fits over a pair of protruding pins in a connector.
A jumper can be moved to change electrical connectors. When in place, the
jumper connects the pins electrically. (2) To place a jumper on a connector
pin.

L

label. A slip of paper with an adhesive backing that can be written on and

affixed to a tape cartridge as a means of identification or description.

label area.

On the LTO Ultrium Tape Cartridge, a recessed area next to the
write-protect switch where a bar code label must be affixed.

leader block.

Located within the tape drive, the part that engages the steel pin which is
attached to the tape in an LTO Ultrium Tape Cartridge. Once engaged, the
leader-pin block pulls the tape from the cartridge into the drive.

leader pin.

On the tape cartridge, a small metal column that is attached to the end of
the magnetic tape. During tape processing the leader pin is grasped by a
threading mechanism, which pulls the pin and the tape out of the
cartridge, across the drive head, and onto a takeup reel. The head can then
read or write data from or to the tape.

LED. See light-emitting diode.

Glossary B-5

light-emitting diode.

A semiconductor diode that emits light when subjected to an applied
voltage and that is used in an electronic display.

Linear Tape-Open (LTO)

A type of tape storage technology originally developed by the IBM
Corporation, Hewlett-Packard, and Seagate. LTO technology is an "open
format" technology, which means that its users have multiple sources of
product and media. The "open" nature of LTO technology enables
compatibility between different vendors' offerings by ensuring that vendors
comply with verification standards.

load. Following the insertion of a tape cartridge into the tape load compartment,

the act of positioning the tape (performed by the tape drive) for reading or
writing by the drive's head.

log sense data.

See SCSI log sense data.

loop. (1) A series of instructions that is repeated until a terminating condition is

reached. (2) To connect so as to complete a loop.

LTO. See Linear Tape-Open.

M

magnetic tape.

A tape with a magnetizable surface layer on which data can be stored by
magnetic recording.

maintenance mode.

The state of operation in which the tape drive must be before it can run
diagnostics, verify write and read operations, verify a suspect tape
cartridge, update its own firmware, and perform other diagnostic and
maintenance functions.

MB. See megabyte.

media.

The plural of medium.

medium.

A physical material in or on which data may be represented, such as
magnetic tape.

megabyte (MB).

1,000,000 bytes.

N

network.

A configuration of data processing devices and software that is connected
for information interchange.

O

oersted.

The unit of magnetic field strength in the unrationalized
centimeter-gram-second (cgs) electromagnetic system. The oersted is the
magnetic field strength in the interior of an elongated, uniformly wound
solenoid that is excited with a linear current density in its winding of one
abamper per 4 pi centimeters of axial length. .

B-6 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

offline.

The operating condition that the tape drive is in when the server's
applications cannot interact with it.

online.

The operating condition that the tape drive is in when the server's
applications can interact with it.

Open Systems.

Computer systems whose standards are not proprietary.

operating environment.

The temperature, relative humidity rate, and wet bulb temperature of the
room in which the tape drive routinely conducts processing.

P

parity. The state of being even-numbered or odd-numbered. A parity bit is a

binary number that is added to a group of binary numbers to make the
sum of that group always odd (odd parity) or even (even parity).

parity error.

A transmission error that occurs when the received data does not have the
parity that is expected by the receiving system. This usually occurs when
the sending and receiving systems have different parity settings.

port. (1) A system or network access point for data entry or exit. (2) A connector

on a device to which cables for other devices such as display stations and
printers are attached. (3) The representation of a physical connection to
hardware. A port is sometimes referred to as an adapter; however, there
can be more than one port on an adapter.

power connector.

Located at the rear of the tape drive, the connector to which the internal
power cable of an enclosure connects.

power cord.

A cable that connects a device to a source of electrical power.

power-off.

To remove electrical power from a device.

power-on, powered-on.

(1) To apply electrical power to a device. (2) The state of a device when
power has been applied to it.

R

read. To acquire or interpret data from a storage device, from a data medium, or

from another source.

reboot.

To reinitialize the execution of a program by repeating the initial program
load (IPL) operation.

record.

The smallest distinct set of data bytes that is supplied from a server for
processing and recording by a tape drive, and the smallest distinct set of
data to be read from tape, reprocessed, and made available to a server by a
tape drive.

Glossary B-7

relative humidity.

The ratio of the amount of water vapor actually present in the air to the
greatest amount possible at the same temperature.

reset. To return a device or circuit to a clear state.

S

SAS. Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) Interface.

scratch cartridge.

A data cartridge that contains no useful data, but can be written to with
new data.

SCSI. See Small Computer Systems Interface.

SCSI connector.

Located at the rear of the tape drive, the connector that facilitates
commands to and from the server, and to which the internal SCSI cable of
an enclosure connects.

SCSI drive sense data.

In response to inquiry from the server about an error condition, a packet of
SCSI sense bytes that contains information about the error and that is sent
back to the server by the drive.

SCSI log sense data.

In response to inquiry from the server about the tape drive's error logs and
counters, a packet of SCSI sense bytes which contains that information and
which is sent back to the server by the drive. Log sense data is used to
diagnose problems, especially if the problems are intermittent.

second.

One sixtieth of a minute.

sense data.

Data that describes an I/O error. Sense data is presented to a server in
response to a Sense I/O command.

server. A functional unit that provides services to one or more clients over a

network. Examples include a file server, a print server, or a mail server.
Synonymous with host.

single-character display.

Located at the front of the tape drive, an LED that presents an alphabetical
or numeric code which represents a diagnostic or maintenance function,
error condition, or informational message.

sleep mode.

A power-management function that causes the tape drive's electronics to
automatically enter a low-power mode by which to conserve energy.

Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

A standard used by computer manufacturers for attaching peripheral
devices (such as tape drives, hard disks, CD-ROM players, printers, and
scanners) to computers (servers). Pronounced "scuzzy." Variations of the
SCSI interface provide for faster data transmission rates than standard
serial and parallel ports (up to 160 megabytes per second). The variations
include:

v Fast/Wide SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus, and supports data rates of up to 20

MBps.

v SCSI-1: Uses an 8-bit bus, and supports data rates of 4 MBps.

B-8 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

v SCSI-2: Same as SCSI-1, but uses a 50-pin connector instead of a 25-pin

connector, and supports multiple devices.

v Ultra SCSI: Uses an 8- or 16-bit bus, and supports data rates of 20 or 40

MBps.

v Ultra2 SCSI: Uses an 8- or 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 40 or 80

MBps.

v Ultra3 SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 80 or 160

MBps.

v Ultra160 SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 80 or 160

MBps.

software.

Programs, procedures, rules, and any associated documentation pertaining
to the operation of a computer system.

speed matching.

A technique used by the tape drive to dynamically adjust its native
(uncompressed) data rate to the slower data rate of a server. Speed
matching improves system performance and reduces backhitch.

T

TapeAlert.

A patented technology and ANSI standard that defines conditions and
problems that are experienced by tape drives.

TapeAlert flags.

Status and error messages that are generated by the TapeAlert utility and
display on the server's console.

tape cartridge.

A removable storage case that houses belt-driven magnetic tape that is
wound on a supply reel and a takeup reel.

tape drive.

A data-storage device that controls the movement of the magnetic tape in a
tape cartridge. The Dell PowerVault tape drive houses the mechanism
(drive head) that reads and writes data to the tape. Its native data capacity
is 1500 GB per cartridge; with 2:1 compression, its capacity is up to 3000
GB.

tape path.

Within a tape drive, the channel in which the media moves.

V

VDC. Volts DC (direct current).

volt. The SI (international) unit of potential difference and electromotive force.

Formally defined as the difference of electric potential between two points
of a conductor that carries a constant current of one ampere when the
power dissipated between these points is equal to one watt.

W

wet bulb temperature.

The temperature at which pure water must be evaporated adiabatically at
constant pressure into a given sample of air in order to saturate the air
under steady-state conditions. Wet bulb temperature is read from a wet
bulb thermometer.

Glossary B-9

write. To make a permanent or transient recording of data in a storage device or

on a data medium.

write protected.

Applicable to a tape cartridge, the condition that exists when some logical
or physical mechanism prevents a device from writing on the tape in that
cartridge.

write-protect switch.

Located on the tape cartridge, a switch that prevents accidental erasure of
data. Pictures of a locked and unlocked padlock appear on the switch.
When you slide the switch to the locked padlock, data cannot be written to
the tape. When you slide the switch to the unlocked padlock, data can be
written to the tape.

Write/Read test.

Part of the Test Head diagnostic, a procedure that determines whether the
tape drive can correctly read from and write to tape.

B-10 Dell PowerVault LTO Tape Drive User's Guide

Index

A

acclimation 3-5
Application Managed Encryption

(AME) 1-2

B

back up software 1-4

C

Cartridge capacity 1-3
cartridge care 3-5
cartridge compatibility 3-2
Cartridge compatibility 1-3
cartridge generations 3-2
cartridge handling 3-5
cartridge memory (CM) 5-16
cartridge, recover 5-20
cleaning cartridge 3-7
Cleaning, tape drive 3-7
components, front panel 1-4
components, rear panel 1-6
connectivity problems 5-15
corrective actions 5-10

D

data capacity 3-2
descriptions, front panel 1-4
descriptions, rear panel 1-6
device drivers 2-7
Diagnostic descriptions 5-1
Drive Installation 2-1
drive maintenance 5-14
drive status 5-13
drive, communication problems 5-15
drive, verify 2-7
driver upgrade 5-1

E

encryption 1-2
Error messages 5-9
ethernet interface 2-8
ethernet, capture drive dump 2-8
ethernet, firmware update 2-8
External Drive 6-2
external drive, install 2-5

F

firmware upgrade 5-1
Function codes 5-1

G

general guidelines 5-8
General specifications 6-1
General troubleshooting 5-8
glossary B-1

I

Install 2-1
Internal Drive 6-1
internal drive, install 2-1
Internal drive, install 2-1
Internal Drive, pre-installed 2-1

L

loading cartridges 3-2
LTO specifications 1-3
LTO Ultrium cartridges 3-2

M

Maintenance 5-1
maintenance, drives 5-14

N

Non Volatile Random Access Memory

(NVRAM) 5-16

O

operating drive 3-1
operations 2-7
Overview, specifications 6-1

P

packaging cartridges 3-5
Power-On Self Test (POST) 2-7
Problem codes 5-10
problem descriptions 5-10
problem determination 5-8, 5-9

Problems, media-related 5-16

R

Rack Mount drive 6-3
rack mount drive, install 2-5
Rack mount drive, install 2-5
Remove internal SAS drive 5-16

S

SAS connectivity 5-15
SAS drive, remove 5-16
software, tape backup 4-1
Specifications 6-1
Specifications, general 6-1
Statistical Analysis and Reporting System

(SARS) 5-16

status, drive 5-13

T

Tape backup 1-4
Tape cartridge 5-20
Tape Drive 2-1
Tape Drive, external 2-5
Tape Drive, install 2-1, 2-5
Tape drive, operating 3-1
Tape Drive, using 3-1
Tape drive, verify functions 2-7
TapeAlert 1-4, 5-17
TapeAlert flags 5-16, 5-17
Test Cartridge & Media 5-16
Troubleshooting overview 5-1
turn drive on/off 3-1

U

unloading cartridges 3-2
upgrade 5-1

V

Vital Product Data (VPD) 5-16

W

Windows Server 2-7
write-protect switch 3-2

X-1