Overland Storage AIT-LP2L119T/RB, AIT-LP2L219T/RB, AIT-LP3L119T/RB, AIT-LP3L219T/RB User & Installation Manual

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Overland Storage provides this manual as is, without warranty of any kind, either
expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchant­ability and fitness for a particular purpose. Overland Storage may make improvements or
changes in the product(s) or programs described in this manual at any time. These changes
will be incorporated in new editions of this publication.
Overland Storage assumes no responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, sufficiency, or
usefulness of this manual, nor for any problem that might arise from the use of the infor­mation in this manual

.

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San Diego, CA 92123
Toll Free: [phone]
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Preface

Purpose of This Manual

This manual provides step-by-step installation instructions, and information required for
ongoing use and maintenance of the PowerLoader tape drive system by Overland Storage,
Inc. This manual is written for the installer and user of this equipment.

Organization

The following information is contained in this manual:

Chapter 1: Introduction - Provides an introduction to the PowerLoader™

Storage

, along with a brief description of the benefits, features and tape

capacities, drives and also lists the models covered in this manual.

Chapter 2: Installation - Presents step-by-step procedures for unpacking and installing the

PowerLoader™ interface connections and a description of the PowerLoader™
configuration options.

Chapter 3: Operation - Describes front panel operations for the PowerLoader™, along with

inserting and removing tape cartridges, and tape requirements.

Chapter 4: Maintenance - Describes procedures for using and storing the cleaning

cartridge with the PowerLoader™, required slot location, along with running the
cleaning cartridge from the front panel, and the Auto Clean mode.

Chapter 5: Troubleshooting - Provides problem diagnosis, error recovery procedures, and

Fault Symptom Codes to aid in troubleshooting potential error conditions with
PowerLoader™

Appendix A: Specifications - Contains

information.

Appendix B: Spares & Accessories- Contains a list of PowerLoader™ spare parts and

accessories.

Index:

Index

- Provides a quick reference to useful features and information

about the PowerLoader.

units

.

PowerLoader specifications

and EMI compliance

by Overland

t

-i

-ii

u

Table of Contents

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

Models ....................................................................................................... 1-1

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Mail Slot .................................................................................................... 1-2

SCSI Interface ............................................................................................ 1-2

Multi-Server Data Sharing .................................................................. 1-3

Configurations ..................................................................................... 1-3

SCSI Bus Performance Considerations ..................................................... 1-3

Drives .................................................................................................. 1-3

Data Transfer Rate .............................................................................. 1-3

Internal Cabling Configuration ........................................................... 1-4

Bus Length Limitations ....................................................................... 1-4

Physical Configuration ........................................................................ 1-4

Shuttle Lockdown Mechanism ............................................................ 1-4

Features ............................................................................................... 1-5

Figure 1–1 PowerLoader™ Front View......................................... 1-5

Control Panel ....................................................................................... 1-5

Display ................................................................................................ 1-5

Power Supply ...................................................................................... 1-5

Tape Cartridge Magazine .................................................................... 1-6

Figure 1–2 Cartridge Magazine..................................................... 1-6

Integral Fan Cooling ............................................................................ 1-6

Robotics ............................................................................................... 1-6

Bar Code Reader ................................................................................. 1-6

Advanced Design Features ........................................................................ 1-7

Buffer .................................................................................................. 1-7

Compression ........................................................................................ 1-7

Capacity ............................................................................................... 1-8

Media Life ........................................................................................... 1-8

Unpacking .................................................................................................. 2-1

Releasing the Lockdown Mechanism ........................................................ 2-1

Figure 2–1 Lockdown Screw .......................................................... 2-1

Chapter 2 - Installation

To Release the Lockdown Mechanism ............................................... 2-3

Figure 2–2 Releasing the Lockdown Screw................................... 2-3

To Lock the Lockdown Mechanism .................................................... 2-3

Figure 2–3 Locking the Lockdown Screw...................................... 2-4

Setting Up the Desktop Model ................................................................... 2-4

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ABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D

Setting Up the Rack Mount Model ............................................................ 2-4

Remove Tabletop Cover ...................................................................... 2-5

Install Top Cover ................................................................................. 2-6

Install The Rack Slides ........................................................................ 2-7

Install the Panel Extensions ................................................................. 2-8

Installing Unit Into a Rack .................................................................. 2-9

Attach the AC Power Cord ................................................................ 2-12

Attaching Cables To SCSI Connectors ............................................. 2-13

Interface Cable Specifications ........................................................... 2-14

Configuring the PowerLoader™ ....................................................... 2-14

Configuration Example: Setting the SCSI ID ................................... 2-15

Configuring Multi-Module Systems ........................................................ 2-17

Master Module .................................................................................. 2-17

Slave Module ..................................................................................... 2-18

Setting Up Reserved Slots ....................................................................... 2-20

Reserved Slot Numbering ................................................................. 2-20

)

Precaution ....................................................................................... 2-4

Figure 2–4 Removing Desktop Cover............................................ 2-5

Figure 2–5 Installing the Top Cover ............................................. 2-6

Figure 2–6 Rack Slide Parts .......................................................... 2-7

Figure 2–7 Attaching Rack Slides ................................................. 2-8

Figure 2–8 Panel Extension Attachment ...................................... 2-8

Figure 2–9 Locking Tab ................................................................. 2-9

Figure 2–10 Sliding Module In Rack........................................... 2-10

Figure 2–11 Module In Rack........................................................ 2-11

Figure 2–12 Connectors, SCSI Terminator & Cables................. 2-13

Figure 2–13 Primary Default Screen .......................................... 2-15

Figure 2–14 Secondary Default Screen....................................... 2-15

Figure 2–15 Main Menu............................................................... 2-16

Figure 2–16 Configure Submenu................................................. 2-16

Figure 2–17 SCSI Options Submenu........................................... 2-16

Figure 2–18 SCSI Options Submenu........................................... 2-17

Configuring The Master Module: ................................................. 2-17

Figure 2–19 Main Menu............................................................... 2-17

Figure 2–20 Configure Submenu................................................. 2-18

Figure 2–21 Library Options Menu............................................. 2-18

Configuring The Slave Module .................................................... 2-18

Figure 2–22 Main Menu............................................................... 2-19

Figure 2–23 Configure Submenu................................................. 2-19

Figure 2–24 Library Options Submenu ...................................... 2-19

Figure 2–25 Library Options Submenu (Slave Address) ........... 2-20

Figure 2–26 Reserved Slot Numbering ....................................... 2-21

Reserving Slots ............................................................................. 2-21

Figure 2–27 Main Menu............................................................... 2-21

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ABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D

Figure 2–28 Configure Submenu................................................. 2-22

Figure 2–29 Library Options Submenu ...................................... 2-22

Figure 2–30 Reserved Slots Submenu......................................... 2-22

Configuration Options Description .......................................................... 2-22

SCSI Options ..................................................................................... 2-22

Library Options ............................................................................ 2-24

Barcode Options ........................................................................... 2-25

Set Element Base .......................................................................... 2-25

Set Serial Number ......................................................................... 2-25

Set Default .................................................................................... 2-25

Table 2-1 PowerLoader™ SCSI Options ...................................... 2-25

Table 2-2 PowerLoader Library Options ...................................... 2-26

Table 2-3 PowerLoader Barcode Options ..................................... 2-27

Table 2-4 PowerLoader Set Element Base Options ...................... 2-27

Table 2-5 PowerLoader Set Serial Number Option ...................... 2-27

Table 2-6 PowerLoader Set Default Option.................................. 2-27

Front Panel ................................................................................................. 3-1

Figure 3–1 PowerLoader™ Front Panel ....................................... 3-1

Power Switch ....................................................................................... 3-1

Buttons and Indicators ......................................................................... 3-1

)

Chapter 3 - Operation

Figure 3–2 Buttons & Indicators................................................... 3-2

Buttons ............................................................................................ 3-2

LED Indicators ............................................................................... 3-3

Front Panel & Media Locks ................................................................ 3-4

Startup Display Messages ............................................................... 3-5

Power-On Self Test Screen ............................................................ 3-5

Power-On Self Test (POST) Screen ............................................... 3-5

Figure 3–3 POST Screen................................................................ 3-5

Initialization Screens ...................................................................... 3-6

Figure 3–4 Initialization Screen.................................................... 3-6

Default Screen ................................................................................ 3-6

Figure 3–5 Default Screens............................................................ 3-6

Fault Screen .................................................................................... 3-7

Figure 3–6 Fault Screen................................................................. 3-7

Using PowerLoader™ Menus .................................................................... 3-8

Figure 3–7 PowerLoader™ Menu.................................................. 3-8

Using the Status Mode ........................................................................ 3-8

Figure 3–8 Status Menu................................................................. 3-8

Exiting the Status Mode ................................................................. 3-9

Exploring the Status Mode ............................................................. 3-9

Library Status ................................................................................. 3-9

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ABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D

Using the Menu Mode ....................................................................... 3-12

Load/Unload Menu ........................................................................... 3-13

Remove Magazine Menu .................................................................. 3-13

Maintenance Menu ............................................................................ 3-13

Configure Menu ................................................................................ 3-13

Security Menu ................................................................................... 3-14

Loading and Unloading ..................................................................... 3-15

Inserting and Removing Cartridges ................................................... 3-18

Removing the Magazine .................................................................... 3-18

Inserting Cartridges into the Magazine ............................................. 3-19

Inserting the Magazine ...................................................................... 3-19

Using the Mail Slot ........................................................................... 3-20

Tape Cartridge Requirements ............................................................ 3-20

)

Figure 3–9 Library Status Menu................................................... 3-9

Drive Status .................................................................................. 3-10

Figure 3–10 Status Menu............................................................. 3-10

Figure 3–11 Drive Status Menu .................................................. 3-10

Map Information Screen ............................................................... 3-11

Figure 3–12 Map Info Submenu .................................................. 3-11

Figure 3–13 Main Menu............................................................... 3-12

Figure 3–14 Panel Locked Screen ............................................... 3-12

Figure 3–15 Code Entry Submenu .............................................. 3-12

Exiting The Menu Mode .............................................................. 3-12

Navigating In Menu Structure ...................................................... 3-13

Figure 3–16 Security Menu.......................................................... 3-14

Figure 3–17 Code Select Submenu.............................................. 3-14

Figure 3–18 Code Accept Submenu............................................. 3-14

Figure 3–19 Panel Locked Screen ............................................... 3-15

Figure 3–20 Code Entry Submenu .............................................. 3-15

Figure 3–21 Code Validate Submenu.......................................... 3-15

Figure 3–22 Default Screen ......................................................... 3-15

Figure 3–23 Main Menu............................................................... 3-16

Figure 3–24 Load/Unload Initial Screen..................................... 3-16

Initial Screen - From Line ............................................................ 3-16

Initial Screen - To Line ................................................................. 3-16

Scroll List - To Line ..................................................................... 3-16

Figure 3–25 Load/Unload From Entry Screen............................ 3-17

Figure 3–26 Load/Unload To Entry Screen ................................ 3-17

Figure 3–27 Load/Unload To Entry Screen ................................ 3-17

Figure 3–28 Load/Unload In Progress Screen ............................ 3-17

Figure 3–29 Magazine In Place ................................................... 3-18

Figure 3–30 Tape Magazine With Cartridges Installed............. 3-19

Figure 3–31 Mail Slot Location ................................................... 3-20

Handling and Storing .................................................................... 3-20

vi

Write Protecting Cartridges .......................................................... 3-20

Figure 3–32 Tape Cartridge Write Protection Switch................ 3-21

Barcode Labels .................................................................................. 3-22

Figure 3–33 Barcode Label .......................................................... 3-22

Introduction ................................................................................................ 4-1

Running A Cleaning Cartridge .................................................................. 4-1

Automatically ...................................................................................... 4-1

Chapter 4 - Maintenance

Running A Cleaning Cartridge Using Auto Clean ......................... 4-2

Manually .............................................................................................. 4-2

Running A Cleaning Cartridge Manually ....................................... 4-2

Figure 4–1 Main Menu................................................................... 4-2

Figure 4–2 Maintenance Submenu ............................................... 4-2

Figure 4–3 Cleaning Submenu ...................................................... 4-3

Figure 4–4 Cleaning Confirmation Screen.................................... 4-3

Figure 4–5 Cleaning In Progress Screen....................................... 4-3

Removing the Cleaning Cartridge ....................................................... 4-3

Using the Demo Submenu ................................................................... 4-4

Pausing Demo 1 .............................................................................. 4-4

Stopping Demo 1 ............................................................................ 4-4

Introduction ................................................................................................ 5-1

Platform Problems ..................................................................................... 5-1

General Drive Errors .................................................................................. 5-1

Error Recovery ........................................................................................... 5-1

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ABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D

)

Chapter 5 - Troubleshooting

Figure 5–1 Troubleshooting Flow Chart ....................................... 5-2

Error Recovery Procedures (ERP) ...................................................... 5-2

Table 5-1 Error Recovery Procedures ............................................. 5-2

Fault Symptom Codes (FSC) .............................................................. 5-3

Table 5-2 Fault System Codes......................................................... 5-4

Specifications 1

Table A-1 Operational Performance .............................................. A-1

Table A-2 Reliability (Drives)........................................................ A-1

Table A-3 Reliability (Library Robotics)....................................... A-2

Table A-4 Power............................................................................. A-2

Table A-5 Mechanical .................................................................... A-2

Table A-6 Environmental ............................................................... A-3

Acoustic Emissions ............................................................................ A-4

Safety ............................................................................................. A-4

Table A-7 Acoustic......................................................................... A-4

Table A-8 Regulatory Agency Certifications................................. A-4

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ABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT’D

)

Installation Considerations ................................................................. A-4

Rack Mounting .............................................................................. A-4

Input Supply .................................................................................. A-4

Grounding ...................................................................................... A-5

Electromagnetic Emissions ................................................................ A-5

Notice ............................................................................................ A-5

Industry Canada ............................................................................. A-5

Industrie Canada ............................................................................ A-5

FCC Notice .................................................................................... A-5

Japanese Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI ....... A-5

Spares and Accessories 1

Table B-1 PowerLoader™ Spares and Accessories ........................B-1

Index 1

1

viii

List of Figures

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Figure 1–1 PowerLoader™ Front View.......................................................... 1-5

Figure 1–2 Cartridge Magazine ...................................................................... 1-6

Figure 2–1 Lockdown Screw............................................................................ 2-1

Chapter 2 - Installation

Figure 2–2 Releasing the Lockdown Screw.................................................... 2-3

Figure 2–3 Locking the Lockdown Screw....................................................... 2-4

Figure 2–4 Removing Desktop Cover ............................................................. 2-5

Figure 2–5 Installing the Top Cover............................................................... 2-6

Figure 2–6 Rack Slide Parts............................................................................ 2-7

Figure 2–7 Attaching Rack Slides................................................................... 2-8

Figure 2–8 Panel Extension Attachment ....................................................... 2-8

Figure 2–9 Locking Tab................................................................................... 2-9

Figure 2–10 Sliding Module In Rack ............................................................ 2-10

Figure 2–11 Module In Rack ......................................................................... 2-11

Figure 2–12 Connectors, SCSI Terminator & Cables.................................. 2-13

Figure 2–13 Primary Default Screen............................................................ 2-15

Figure 2–14 Secondary Default Screen ........................................................ 2-15

Figure 2–15 Main Menu ................................................................................ 2-16

Figure 2–16 Configure Submenu.................................................................. 2-16

Figure 2–17 SCSI Options Submenu............................................................ 2-16

Figure 2–18 SCSI Options Submenu............................................................ 2-17

Figure 2–19 Main Menu ................................................................................ 2-17

Figure 2–20 Configure Submenu.................................................................. 2-18

Figure 2–21 Library Options Menu .............................................................. 2-18

Figure 2–22 Main Menu ................................................................................ 2-19

Figure 2–23 Configure Submenu.................................................................. 2-19

Figure 2–24 Library Options Submenu........................................................ 2-19

Figure 2–25 Library Options Submenu (Slave Address)............................. 2-20

Figure 2–26 Reserved Slot Numbering......................................................... 2-21

Figure 2–27 Main Menu ................................................................................ 2-21

Figure 2–28 Configure Submenu.................................................................. 2-22

Figure 2–29 Library Options Submenu........................................................ 2-22

Figure 2–30 Reserved Slots Submenu .......................................................... 2-22

Figure 3–1 PowerLoader™ Front Panel......................................................... 3-1

Chapter 3 - Operation

Figure 3–2 Buttons & Indicators .................................................................... 3-2

Figure 3–3 POST Screen ................................................................................. 3-5

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IST OF FIGURES (CONT’D

Figure 3–4 Initialization Screen ..................................................................... 3-6

Figure 3–5 Default Screens............................................................................. 3-6

Figure 3–6 Fault Screen.................................................................................. 3-7

Figure 3–7 PowerLoader™ Menu ................................................................... 3-8

Figure 3–8 Status Menu.................................................................................. 3-8

Figure 3–9 Library Status Menu .................................................................... 3-9

Figure 3–10 Status Menu.............................................................................. 3-10

Figure 3–11 Drive Status Menu.................................................................... 3-10

Figure 3–12 Map Info Submenu ................................................................... 3-11

Figure 3–13 Main Menu ................................................................................ 3-12

Figure 3–14 Panel Locked Screen................................................................. 3-12

Figure 3–15 Code Entry Submenu................................................................ 3-12

Figure 3–16 Security Menu........................................................................... 3-14

Figure 3–17 Code Select Submenu ............................................................... 3-14

Figure 3–18 Code Accept Submenu .............................................................. 3-14

Figure 3–19 Panel Locked Screen................................................................. 3-15

Figure 3–20 Code Entry Submenu................................................................ 3-15

Figure 3–21 Code Validate Submenu ........................................................... 3-15

Figure 3–22 Default Screen........................................................................... 3-15

Figure 3–23 Main Menu ................................................................................ 3-16

Figure 3–24 Load/Unload Initial Screen ...................................................... 3-16

Figure 3–25 Load/Unload From Entry Screen............................................. 3-17

Figure 3–26 Load/Unload To Entry Screen.................................................. 3-17

Figure 3–27 Load/Unload To Entry Screen.................................................. 3-17

Figure 3–28 Load/Unload In Progress Screen.............................................. 3-17

Figure 3–29 Magazine In Place..................................................................... 3-18

Figure 3–30 Tape Magazine With Cartridges Installed .............................. 3-19

Figure 3–31 Mail Slot Location..................................................................... 3-20

Figure 3–32 Tape Cartridge Write Protection Switch ................................. 3-21

Figure 3–33 Barcode Label............................................................................ 3-22

)

Chapter 4 - Maintenance

Figure 4–1 Main Menu .................................................................................... 4-2

Figure 4–2 Maintenance Submenu................................................................. 4-2

Figure 4–3 Cleaning Submenu........................................................................ 4-3

Figure 4–4 Cleaning Confirmation Screen..................................................... 4-3

Figure 4–5 Cleaning In Progress Screen ........................................................ 4-3

Chapter 5 - Troubleshooting

Figure 5–1 Troubleshooting Flow Chart ........................................................ 5-2

Specifications 1
Spares and Accessories 1

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IST OF FIGURES (CONT’D

)

xi

L

IST OF FIGURES (CONT’D

)

xii

List of Tables

Installation

Table 2-1. PowerLoader™ SCSI Options..................................................... 2-25

Table 2-2. PowerLoader Library Options .................................................... 2-26

Table 2-3. PowerLoader Barcode Options ................................................... 2-27

Table 2-4. PowerLoader Set Element Base Options ................................... 2-27

Table 2-5. PowerLoader Set Serial Number Option ................................... 2-27

Table 2-6. PowerLoader Set Default Option................................................ 2-27

Troubleshooting

Table 5-1. Error Recovery Procedures ........................................................... 5-2

Table 5-2. Fault System Codes....................................................................... 5-4

Specifications 1

Table A-1. Operational Performance ............................................................. A-1

Table A-2. Reliability (Drives)........................................................................ A-1

Table A-3. Reliability (Library Robotics)....................................................... A-2

Table A-4. Power ............................................................................................. A-2

Table A-5. Mechanical .................................................................................... A-2

Table A-6. Environmental .............................................................................. A-3

Table A-7. Acoustic ......................................................................................... A-4

Table A-8. Regulatory Agency Certifications ................................................ A-4

Spares and Accessories 1

Table B-1. PowerLoader™ Spares and Accessories ...................................... B-1

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IST OF TABLES (CONT’D

)

xiv

Chapter 1:

Introduction

Introduction

Your PowerLoader™ is a tape library system combining Advanced Intelligent Tape™ (AIT)
drive technology with advanced robotics. Designed for high duty-cycle online and near
online applications, such as hierarchical storage management, it is a superior performer in
high-volume backup and archival service.

Figure 1-1. PowerLoader

The PowerLoader™ can be equipped with one or two tape drives, and has a 19-slot tape
cartridge magazine, with a mail slot.

Models

PowerLoader™ features and model configurations are listed in Table 1- 1 and Table 1-2.

Table 1-1 PowerLoader™ Features

Component AIT-2 Tape Drive AIT-3 Tape Drive

Scalability From 1 to 9 modules From 1 to 9 modules
Media Slots 19 + 1 Mail Slot

Up to 171 + 9 Mail

Slots with 9 modules.
SCSI Interface HVD, LVD/SE LVD/SE
Number of Drives 1 or 2 Sony SDX-500

LVD AIT- 2 drives
Tape Cartridges

(8mm)

50 GB native 100 GB native

19 + 1 Mail Slot
Up to 171 + 9 Mail

Slots with 9 modules.

1 or 2 Sony SDX-700
LVD AIT-3 drives

Introduction t

1-1

M

AIL SLOT

Mail Slot

Table 1-1 PowerLoader™ Features

Component AIT-2 Tape Drive AIT-3 Tape Drive

Mounting Tabletop (or

Rackmount with
conversion kit)

Table 1-2 PowerLoader™ Models

Model Number Configuration

AIT-LP2L119T/RB
AIT-LP2L219T/RB
AIT-LP3L119T/RB
AIT-LP3L219T/RB

1 Drive, AIT 2, Tabletop/Rackmount, LVD/SE SCSI
2 Drive, AIT 2, Tabletop/Rackmount, LVD/SE SCSI
1 Drive, AIT 3, Tabletop/Rackmount, LVD/SE SCSI
2 Drive, AIT 3, Tabletop/Rackmount, LVD/SE SCSI

Tabletop (or
Rackmount with
conversion kit)

If your host software permits, you can use the front slot in the magazine (the first slot you see
when you open the door) as a mail slot for inserting or removing a single cartridge without
interrupting host operations in progress. The mail slot is implemented using the SCSI
Import/Export commands.

SCSI Interface

The PowerLoader™ unit presents the following to the host:

•

A single SCSI medium changer device with a single SCSI Medium Transport element

•

A number of SCSI Storage elements equal to the total number of cartridge magazine
slots

•

A single SCSI Import/Export element

•

A number of SCSI Data Transfer elements equal to the total number of drives in the
system.

Multi-Server Data Sharing

A host computer with a SCSI controller connected to a bus is a SCSI Initiator. The
PowerLoader™ is a SCSI Target. SCSI rules permit multiple Initiators on a single bus.
Therefore, with the proper host software, it is possible to connect multiple hosts to a single
PowerLoader™ over a single SCSI bus. This allows multiple hosts to operate the library
robotics, loading and unloading cartridges as each host requires.

1-2

u Introduction

SCSI BUS P

In a system with many drives, it may be desirable to use multiple SCSI buses for the drives so
the data transfer rate of the drives is not limited by bus bandwidth. Individual drives can be
connected to separate hosts. Using special software, one of the hosts can act as a master server,
processing all robotics commands and permitting several hosts to share a common database.

ERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Configurations

The PowerLoader™ standard SCSI interface is:

•

Fast/Wide Low Voltage Differential (LVD)/Single-Ended (S/E)

The PowerLoader™ uses high-density 68-pin D-series connectors. For more information see
SCSI Interfaces in Chapter 2.

SCSI Bus Performance Considerations

Drives

With a standard Fast/Wide SCSI interface, each drive offers a sustained native data transfer
rate of 6 MB/sec. (AIT-2) or 12 MB/sec. (AIT-3). In a two-drive module, the total native rate is
twice these rates. The rates for compressed data are the native rates multiplied by the
compression factor, which depends on file content, but averages approximately 2:1.

Data Transfer Rate

The data transfer rate of the PowerLoader™ depends on the type of AIT drive, the number of
drives, and on how many drives are connected to the SCSI bus. The robotics impose minimal
loading on the bus.

•

AIT-2 Ultra/Wide @ 40 MB/sec. (burst)

•

AIT-2 Sustained @ 6 MB/sec. (native) / 12 MB (compressed)

•

AIT-3 Ultra/Wide @ 80 MB/sec. (burst)

•

AIT-3 Sustained @ 12 MB/sec. (native) / 24 MB (compressed)

Each AIT-2 drive has a maximum sustained rate up to 12 MB/sec. with compressed data. Each
AIT-3 drive has a maximum sustained rate up to 24 MB/sec. with compressed data. As a result,
the transfer rate of a two-drive module occupies the full bandwidth of the bus. The maximum
performance of the system is degraded by sharing a SCSI bus among more than two drives.

Internal Cabling Configuration

Each SCSI bus in the PowerLoader™ System is wired separately. The library robotics and
Drive 1 share one bus; Drive 2 is connected to a separate SCSI bus. SCSI jumper cables are
available to allow the drives and robotics of a module to be daisy-chained to a single SCSI bus.
For more detailed information, see SCSI Interfaces in Chapter 2.

Introduction t 1-3

SCSI BUS P

ERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Bus Length Limitations

If all devices and host adapter are LVD, length is 12 meters (1.5 meters in SE mode).

For customers using HVD, the high voltage differential Fast/Wide SCSI bus may be up
to 25 meters in length, including cabling within the modules.

Physical Configuration

PowerLoader™ comes configured as a tabletop or rack-mount model. The tabletop model can be
later converted for rack-mount usage. To convert a tabletop PowerLoader™ to a rack-mount
model, order the Overland Tabletop to Rackmount Conversion Kit (Part Number 106070-001).

Shuttle Lockdown Mechanism

Overland Data has installed a shuttle lockdown mechanism as a precautionary safety
mechanism to prevent damage to the PowerLoader™ during shipment from the factory. The
mechanism is a spring-loaded screw in the back of the PowerLoader™ that secures the shuttle
to a bracket.

You must release the shuttle lockdown mechanism before powering up the unit or it will
not operate. See the procedure in Chapter 2.

1-4

u Introduction

SCSI BUS P

ERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Features

This section describes and illustrates some of the external features of the PowerLoader™ by
Overland Data, Inc, including the control panel, power supply, tape cartridge magazine and
rear ports and connectors.

LP-0009

Figure 1–1. PowerLoader™ Front View

Control Panel

The control panel features a 4-line by 20-character backlit liquid crystal display, four LED
indicators and four buttons. The buttons enable the operator to navigate through the menu
structure to select and display operating modes, device status, diagnostic and maintenance
functions, device history and error statistics, and system configuration. The control panel is
described in detail in Chapter 3.

Display

The backlit 4-line by 20-character control panel display provides a highly intelligible
presentation of drive and loader status, menu choices and error messages. The scrolling feature
greatly expands the amount of information available to the operator.

Power Supply

The AC Power switch is located on the front panel of the module. The auto ranging power
supply adjusts automatically to either of two operating voltage ranges. The ranges are 100-120
VAC and 200-240 VAC. The power supply is capable of operating at 50 or 60 Hz without any
adjustment or modification. AC power is supplied to the power supply by a single IEC­compatible socket, which can be connected to any properly grounded outlet.

Introduction t 1-5

SCSI BUS P

ERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Tape Cartridge Magazine

The rugged polymer magazine, Figure 1–2 fits into an extruded track, which assures precise
positioning for the library robotics.

LP-0010

Figure 1–2. Cartridge Magazine

The front slot in the magazine is a Mail Slot, used to add or remove cartridges without
interrupting library operation. You can remove the magazine through the front door, but it is
protected from tampering in either of two ways:

•

An electronic combination lock, operated from the control panel

•

The host issuing a SCSI Prevent/Allow Medium Removal command.

For more information on inserting and removing the magazine, see Chapter 3.

Integral Fan Cooling

Each AIT drive contains a thermostat-controlled fan. In addition, a fan is mounted inside the
PowerLoader™ to prevent critical parts from overheating.

Robotics

The PowerLoader™ features Overland Data's Mainframe-Class™ Library Robotics. These
advanced robotics can load any of the cartridges stored in the magazine into any of the tape
drives.

Bar Code Reader

A standard barcode reader is mounted on the cartridge shuttle. It reads barcode labels attached
to each cartridge, and maintains the barcode data in memory as part of the library System Map.

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u Introduction

Advanced Design Features

Embedded Diagnostics

The PowerLoader™ provides three levels of embedded diagnostics:

1) Power-On Self Test (POST) - Performs various verification tests on the system's
configuration, host interface and device control functions, as well as memory tests when you
power on the unit.

2) User Diagnostics - Allow you to display and change configuration options. Select from front
panel.

3) CE Diagnostics - Advanced diagnostics used by Customer Engineers for servicing the
PowerLoader™. Select from front panel.

For more information on user diagnostics, see Chapter 2.

Error Checking

The drives used in the PowerLoader™ use read while write data checking and error-correction
code (ECC) technology such as is used in audio CD, DVD and laser discs.

A

DVANCED DESIGN FEATURES

Buffer

Drives are equipped with the following buffer size:

AIT-2: 10MB

AIT-3: 18 MB

Compression

The drives used in the PowerLoader™ use the Adaptive Lossless Data Compression (ALDC)
data compression algorithm developed by IBM.

Introduction t 1-7

A

DVANCED DESIGN FEATURES

Capacity

The PowerLoader™, with its 19-cartridge magazine, offers formatted capacities as shown in

Table 1-3.

Table 1-3 Capacity

Model Native Capacity

per Cartridge

AIT-2 36 GB on

SDX236C media

50 GB on

SDX250C media

AIT-3 100 GB on

SDX3-100C media

Per Cartridge

Compressed

(2:1)

72 GB

100 GB

200 GB 3800 GB

Full Magazine

Compressed

(2:1)

1,368 GB

1,900 GB

Media Life

The media used in the PowerLoader™ is rated by the media manufacturer at over 30,000 end­to-end passes, and a shelf life of at least 30 years.

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u Introduction

Chapter 2:

Chapter 2 Installation

This chapter describes installing the PowerLoader™ by Overland Data, Inc, including:

• Unpacking

• Releasing the Lockdown Mechanism

• Setting up the Desktop Model

• Setting up the Rackmount Model

• Setting up Cables and Interfaces

• Configuration

Unpacking

Installation

Follow the directions in the shipping container to unpack the PowerLoader™ and place it
in the desired physical location. Save the packing materials for reuse in case you need to
ship it.

Releasing the Lockdown Mechanism

Release the lockdown mechanism on the PowerLoader™, using the Lockdown Screw on
the back (lower right) of the unit, (Figure 2–1 and Figure 2–2).

Figure 2–1. Lockdown Screw

Installation t

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ELEASING THE LOCKDOWN MECHANISM

Lockdown
Screw

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ELEASING THE LOCKDOWN MECHANISM

To Release the Lockdown Mechanism

You should release the Lockdown Mechanism before powering up the PowerLoader™.

1) Make sure that the power cord is disconnected from line power.

2) If necessary, reposition the unit for easier access to the back panel.

3) Turn the spring-loaded lockdown screw on the back counter-clockwise.

The screw pops out and the lockdown mechanism releases from the shuttle.

4) Turn the power on.

Tu rn

Lockdown

Screw

Countercloc

kwise to

release the

Figure 2–2. Releasing the Lockdown Screw

To Lock the Lockdown Mechanism

To lock the lockdown mechanism, do the following:

1) Park the shuttle assembly:

a. From the Main Menu, select Maintenance Menu / Park.

The shuttle assembly moves to the park position, bringing the threaded hole into
alignment with the lockdown screw.

2) Turn off the unit.

3) Disconnect the power cord from line power.

4) If necessary, reposition the unit for easier access to the back panel.

5) Push in the spring-loaded lockdown screw on the back and turn it clockwise.

This secures the shuttle to a bracket and locks it in place.

Installation t 2-3

S

ETTING UP THE DESKTOP MODEL

Setting Up the Desktop Model

Tur n

Lockdown

Screw

Figure 2–3. Locking the Lockdown Screw

The PowerLoader™ desktop model requires no mechanical assembly for mounting. Place the
unit on a desk, table, server top, or other stable, horizontal surface. Make sure the cooling
grilles at the rear of the unit are not obstructed. Allow two inches of clearance behind the rear
panel.

Setting Up the Rack Mount Model

To convert a tabletop PowerLoader™ to a rack mount model, order the Overland Tabletop to
Rackmount Conversion Kit (Part Number 106070-001).

If your PowerLoader™ is already rack-mount configured, See “Installing Unit Into a Rack”.

Precaution

If you do mount the PowerLoader™ in a rack, be sure to take the following precaution:

CAUTION: TO PREVENT TIPPING, NEVER SLIDE MODULES OUT
OF THE RACK SO THAT MORE THAN 57 LB. OR 20% OF THE TOTAL
RACK WEIGHT IS EXTENDED AT ANY TIME

VORSICH: BITTE BEACHTEN, DAß WENN DIE LAUFWERSCHIENEN AUSGEZOGEN SIND, EINE
ZUSÄTZLICHE LAST VON MEHRALS 20% DES GESTALLGEWICHTES (225 KG), DIE STABILITÄT DES
GESTALLS GEFÄHRDED.

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u Installation

S

ETTING UP THE RACK MOUNT MODEL

Remove Tabletop Cover

Before installing the tabletop PowerLoader™ module in a rack it must be converted for use,
using the Rack Mount Adapter Kit. First remove the tabletop cover Figure 2–4).

1) Remove the four screws (M4 x 8mm) that attach the cover to the sides of the unit.

2) Slide the cover toward the rear until clear of the unit.

3) Save the hardware for re-use.

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Figure 2–4. Removing Desktop Cover

Installation t 2-5

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ETTING UP THE RACK MOUNT MODEL

Install Top Cover

With the tabletop cover removed, install a sheet metal top cover that protects the
PowerLoader™ interior components when mounted in a rack (Figure 2–5).

1) Place the top cover over the PowerLoader™ chassis top with each side flange to the outside of
the chassis.

2) Slide the cover forward until it is flush with the front panel.

3) Fasten the cover with two screws (4M x 8mm).

4) Remove the four rubber feet on the bottom of the PowerLoader™.

Slide Flanges

Side Flanges

Figure 2–5. Installing the Top Cover

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