SONY AITI390, AITI520 User Manual

AIT Drive

User’s Guide

4-679-249-17(1)

AIT-4 TAPE DRIVE

AITi520

AIT-3 Ex TAPE DRIVE

AITi390

AIT-3 TAPE DRIVE

AITi260

AIT-2 TAPE DRIVE

AITi130

AIT-1 TAPE DRIVE

AITi90

 2003 Sony Corporation

This document contains proprietary
information which is protected by
copyright.

All rights reserved. No part of this
document may be photocopied,
reproduced or translated to another
language without prior written consent
of Sony.

The information contained in this
document is subject to change without
notice.

SONY MAKES NO WARRANTY
OF ANY KIND WITH REGARD TO
THIS DOCUMENT.

Sony shall not be liable for errors
contained herein, indirect, special,
incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the furnishing,
performance or use of this document.

Your AITi90, AITi130 is assigned a
Model No. ATDNA2 for regulatory
compliance certifications.
Your AITi260 is assigned a Model No.
ATDNA3 for regulatory compliance
certifications.
Your AITi390, AITi520 is assigned a
Model No. ATDNA4 for regulatory
compliance certifications.
The number is indicated on the model
number label on your drive along with
the rated voltage and current.

VORSICHT

Für Kunden in Deutschland

Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die
Europäischen EMC-Bestimmungen für
die Verwendung in folgender /
folgenden Umgebung(en):

• Wohngegenden

• Gewerbegebiete

• Leichtindustriegebiete
(Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die

Bestimmungen der Norm EN55022,
Klasse B.)

2

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

For your protection, please read these
safety instructions completely before
operating the appliance, and keep this
manual for future reference.

Carefully observe all warnings,
precautions and instructions on the
appliance, or the one described in the
operating instructions and adhere to
them.

USE

Power Sources – This unit should be
operated only from the type of power
source indicated on the marking label.
If you are not sure of the type of
electrical power, consult your dealer or
local power company.

For the unit with a three-wire
grounding type ac plug:

If you are unable to insert the plug into
the outlet, contact your electrician to
have a suitable plug installed. Do not
defeat the safety purpose of the
grounding plug.

AC Power cord: (for AC mains
operating unit only)

The AC power cord should have
appropriate safety approvals or
marking for the country in which the
equipment will be used. Consult your
dealer or local power company.

Cleaning – Unplug the unit from the
wall outlet before cleaning or
polishing it. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
Use a cloth lightly dampened with
water for cleaning the exterior of the
unit.

Object and Liquid Entry – Never
push objects of any kind into the unit
through openings as they may touch
dangerous voltage points or short out
parts that could result in a fire or
electric shock. Never spill liquid of
any kind on the unit.

3

INSTALLATION

Water and Moisture – Do not use
power-line operated units near water ­for example, near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry
tub, in a wet basement, or near a
swimming pool, etc.

Power-Cord Protection – Route the
power cord so that it is not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed
upon or against them, paying
particular attention to the plugs,
receptacles, and the point where the
cord exits from the appliance.

Accessories – Do not place the unit on
an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
or table. The unit may fall, causing
serious injury to a child or an adult,
and serious damage to the unit. Use
only a cart stand tripod, bracket, or
table recommended by the
manufacturer.

Ventilation – The slots and openings
in the cabinet are provided for
necessary ventilation. To ensure
reliable operation of the unit, and to
protect it from overheating, these slots
and openings must never be blocked or
covered.

• Never cover the slots and openings
with a cloth or other materials.

• Never block the slots and openings
by placing the unit on a bed, sofa,
rug or other similar surface.

• Never place the unit in a confined
space, such as a bookcase, or built­in cabinet, unless proper ventilation
is provided.

SERVICE

Damage Requiring Service – Unplug
the unit from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service
personnel under the following
conditions:

• When the power cord or plug is
damaged or frayed.

• If liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the unit.

• If the unit has been exposed to rain
or water.

• If the unit has been subject to
excessive shock by being dropped,
or the cabinet has been damaged.

• If the unit does not operate normally
when following the operating
instructions. Adjust only those
controls that are specified in the
operating instructions. Improper
adjustment of other controls may
result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the
unit to normal operation.

• When the unit exhibits a distinct
change in performance - this
indicates a need for service.

Servicing – Do not attempt to service
the unit yourself as opening or
removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer to all servicing to qualified
service personnel.

4

Contents

Overview .................................................................................................................. 6

Introduction .............................................................................................................. 7

About AIT Drives ............................................................................................ 7

Precautions .....................................................................................................10

Installation ..............................................................................................................12

SCSI Connection/Setting the SCSI ID ...........................................................12

Option Switches (DIP Switch) .......................................................................13

Mounting Holes..............................................................................................17

Reconfiguring from 5.25" Model to 3.5" Model............................................19

Orientation......................................................................................................20

Attaching and Removing the Dust Cover ...............................................................21

Attaching the Dust Cover ............................................................................... 21

Removing the Dust Cover ..............................................................................23

Operation ................................................................................................................24

Location of 3 LEDs ........................................................................................24

Drive Operation..............................................................................................25

Emergency Tape Removal Procedure ............................................................28

WORM Function ....................................................................................................30

Interface Implementation........................................................................................32

Supported SCSI Messages ............................................................................. 32

Supported SCSI Commands...........................................................................32

Specifications ......................................................................................................... 33

Product Specifications....................................................................................33

Sony Contacts .........................................................................................................35

• Sony cannot accept liability for data written to cartridges lost as a result of using this product.

• Sony bears no responsibility for any financial damages, lost profits, or claims made by third
parties arising from the use of this product.

5

Overview

The Sony AITi520, AITi390, AITi260, AITi130 and AITi90 drives are
high capacity data storage devices using Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT)
technology. The AITi260, AITi130 and AITi90 drives achieve high data
reliability through third-level Error Correction Code (second-level Error
Correction Code for the AITi520 and AITi390).

The Sony AITi520, AITi390, AITi260, AITi130 and AITi90 drives store
data on tape using standard formats called AIT (Advanced Intelligent Tape)
and ALDC formats.

6

Introduction

About AIT Drives

The AITi520 is an internal AIT drive unit that uses data cartridges
conforming to the AIT-4 format. The AITi390 is an internal AIT drive unit
that uses data cartridges conforming to the AIT-3 Ex format. The AITi260
is an internal AIT drive unit that uses data cartridges conforming to the
AIT-3 format. The AITi130 is an internal AIT drive unit that uses data
cartridges conforming to the AIT-2 format. The AITi90 is an internal AIT
drive unit that uses data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1 format. The
AITi520 supports AIT-4 format. The AITi390 supports AIT-1 (Read only),
AIT-2 (Read only), AIT-3 and AIT-3 Ex formats. The AITi260 supports
AIT-1, AIT-2 and AIT-3 formats. The AITi130 supports AIT-1 and AIT-2
formats. The AITi90 supports only AIT-1 format.

Features

The AIT Drive Unit AITi520 has the following features:

• Supports reading and writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-4
format.

• The second-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability
writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-4 format.

• Data compression provides 520 gigabytes of storage on SDX4-200C.
The native capacity is 200 gigabytes of storage on SDX4-200C.

• Stored data are automatically checked for compression.

• Ultra 160 SCSI LVD/SE interface is fully supported for host computer
access.

*1

*1

This is assuming 2.6 : 1 compression ratio.
The degree of data compression attained while recording data varies according to
system environment and data type.

7

The AIT Drive Unit AITi390 has the following features:

• Supports reading and writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-3
and AIT-3 Ex formats.

• Supports reading from data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1 and
AIT-2 formats.

• The second-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability
writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-3 Ex format.

• The third-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability
writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1, AIT-2 and AIT-3
formats.

• Data compression provides 390 gigabytes of storage on SDX3X-150C.
The native capacity is 150 gigabytes of storage on SDX3X-150C.

• Stored data are automatically checked for compression.

• Ultra 160 SCSI LVD/SE interface is fully supported for host computer
access.

The AIT Drive Unit AITi260 has the following features:

• Supports reading and writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1,
AIT-2 and AIT-3 formats.

• The third-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability.

• Data compression provides 260 gigabytes of storage on SDX3-100C.

*1

The native capacity is 100 gigabytes of storage on SDX3-100C.

• Stored data are automatically checked for compression.

• Ultra 160 SCSI LVD/SE interface is fully supported for host computer
access.

*1

The AIT Drive Unit AITi130 has the following features:

• Supports reading and writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1
and AIT-2 formats.

• The third-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability.

• Data compression provides 130 gigabytes of storage on SDX2-50C.
The native capacity is 50 gigabytes of storage on SDX2-50C.

• Stored data are automatically checked for compression.

• Wide Ultra SCSI LVD/SE interface is fully supported for host computer
access.

*1

This is assuming 2.6 : 1 compression ratio.
The degree of data compression attained while recording data varies according to
system environment and data type.

8

*1

The AIT Drive Unit AITi90 has the following features:

• Supports reading and writing to data cartridges conforming to the AIT-1
format.

• The third-level error correction code guarantees high data reliability.

• Data compression provides 91 gigabytes of storage on SDX1-35C.

*1

The native capacity is 35 gigabytes of storage on SDX1-35C.

• Stored data are automatically checked for compression.

• Wide Ultra SCSI LVD/SE interface is fully supported for host computer
access.

*1

This is assuming 2.6 : 1 compression ratio.
The degree of data compression attained while recording data varies according to
system environment and data type.

9

Precautions

Installation

Avoid placing the drive in a location subject to:
– high humidity
– high temperature
– mechanical shock and vibration
– direct sunlight

*

For details, see “Specifications” on page 33.

Operation

• Do not move the drives while they are operating. It may cause
malfunctions.

• Avoid exposing the drives to sudden changes from low to high
temperatures. This may cause condensation to collect inside the drives. If
the ambient temperature should suddenly rise while the drives are turned
on, turn them off and wait at least one hour before turning them back on.
If you attempt to operate the drives immediately after a sudden increase
in temperature, malfunctions may occur.

• Turning off the power to the drives while they are writing to tape may
cause the tape to become unreadable. All previously negotiated
parameters will be lost, whenever power to the drives is cycled.

Transportation

• Keep the original packing materials to facilitate safe transportation of the
drive.

• Always remove the tape/media cartridge before moving the drive. After
removing the drive from the computer, repack the drive into its original
packing.

Backup Application

Make sure to use a backup application that is confirmed to operate with an
ISV.

10

Usable Cartridges

r

The AITi520 can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-4 logo.
The AITi390 can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-1 (read

only), AIT-2 (read only), AIT-3 or AIT-3 Ex logo.
The AITi260 can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-1, AIT-

2 or AIT-3 logo.
The AITi130 can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-1 or

AIT-2 logo.
The AITi90 can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-1 logo.

Note

• Be sure to use only the cartridges designed specifically for AIT.

• Do not use anything but AIT cartridges with this system, as doing so can
damage the AIT drive. Although commercially available 8mm videotapes
resemble AIT cartridges in appearance, they have entirely different
specifications and cannot be used.

SCSI Termination

The AITi520, AITi390, AITi260, AITi130 and AITi90 conform to the
Microsoft PC97 standard, which requires the internal (naked) drive to be
terminated with an external terminator.

Microsoft PC97 SCSI requirements

SCSI peripherals must not terminate the bus. Both internal and external
cable ends are instead terminated by plug-in connectors.

Host Computer Wide SCSI

68p cable

Example of SCSI setup

Te r minato

This drive

11

Installation

SCSI Connection/Setting the SCSI ID

The following figures apply to the AITi520 model.

SCSI ID

210

SCSI ID

0

1

2

3

P.D.

N.C.

3

SCSI 68pin Connector

4

Jumpers

Power Connector

5

5 V

6

7

SCSI ID 3

SCSI ID 2

SCSI ID 1

SCSI ID 0

10

1

8

9

1

Parity Disable

No Connection

Parity

Disable

Enable

12

13

Note :

14

= CLOSED/Jumper

OPEN/Jumper not

=

installed

=

t care

Don’

15

Parity Disable Jumper

Parity check function can be disabled by Jumper. Parity check is disabled
while left end jumper is installed. Parity generate function is always
enabled.

1234

GND GND 12 V

12

Option Switches (DIP Switch)

DIP Switch Positions

Default (AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)

ON
OFF

12345678

DIP Switch

1 Drive Mode (OFF)
2 Drive Mode (OFF)
3 Drive Mode (OFF)
4 Drive Mode (OFF)
5 Terminator Power (ON)
6 Periodic Cleaning Req

(OFF)
7 DC Control (1) (ON)
8 DC Control (2) (OFF)

Default (AITi390, AITi520)

ON
OFF

12345678

1 DR (Disaster Recovery)

Mode (OFF)
2 Emulation Mode (OFF)
3 AIT Library Interface Mode

(ON)
4 Reserved (OFF)
5 Terminator Power (ON)
6 Periodic Cleaning Req

(OFF)
7 DC Control (1) (ON)
8 DC Control (2) (OFF)

13

DR (Disaster Recovery*) Mode

ON
OFF

12345678

AITi90, AITi130, AITi260

1 Drive Mode (ON)
2 Drive Mode
3 Drive Mode
4 Drive Mode
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

*

In Disaster Recovery (DR) Mode, the drive enters the DR Standby Mode
15 seconds after you insert a write-protected tape into the drive, and all
the drive LEDs blink. If you restart the drive while the LEDs are blinking,
it starts as a CD-ROM device.

For details about the Disaster Recovery Mode, refer to the instruction
manual that came with the application software you are using.

Emulation Mode

*

(AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)

ON
OFF

12345678

*

Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field
of Inquiry of the AITi260.

SDX-700C

*

Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field

of Inquiry of the AITi130.

SDX-500C

*

Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field
of Inquiry of the AITi90.

SDX-400C

AITi390, AITi520

1 DR (Disaster Recovery) Mode (ON)
2 Emulation Mode
3 AIT Library Interface Mode
4 Reserved
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

1 Drive Mode (ON)
2 Drive Mode (ON)
3 Drive Mode (ON)
4 Drive Mode (ON)
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

14

Emulation Mode* (AITi390, AITi520)

ON
OFF

12345678

*

Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field
of Inquiry of the AITi520.

SDX-700C

*

Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field
of Inquiry of the AITi390.

SDX-700C

Cleaning Request Mode

Periodic cleaning requests can be enabled by a DIP switch.

ON
OFF

1 DR (Disaster Recovery)

Mode
2 Emulation Mode (ON)
3 AIT Library Interface Mode
4 Reserved
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

12345678

AITi90, AITi130, AITi260

1 Drive Mode
2 Drive Mode
3 Drive Mode
4 Drive Mode
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req (ON)
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

When switch 6 is ON, cleaning requests are enabled. When enabled, the
“CLEANING REQUEST” LED on the front panel lights after every 100
hours of operation.

When this LED lights, clean the drive with a cleaning cartridge.

Note

To maintain the drive in optimum condition in environments affected by dust and other
contaminants, we recommend keeping cleaning requests enabled.

AITi390, AITi520

1 DR (Disaster Recovery) Mode
2 Emulation Mode
3 AIT Library Interface Mode
4 Reserved
5 Terminator Power
6 Periodic Cleaning Req (ON)
7 DC Control (1)
8 DC Control (2)

15

Terminator Power Control DIP switch

This DIP switch determines whether terminator power is supplied to the
SCSI bus. To enable terminator power, set position 5 [Terminator Power]
switch to ON.

Data Compression Control DIP switch

Data compression can be selected by DIP switches. Data compression is
enabled when position 7 [DC Control (1)] is ON. Control by host can be
disabled when position 8 [DC Control (2)] is ON.

16

Mounting Holes

The following figures apply to the AITi520 models. However, the locations
of the mounting holes for the other models are the same.

For 3.5" Standard Height

_

+

4.8 0.5mm

_

+

[0.19" 0.02"]

_

+

41.2 0.5mm

_

+

[1.62" 0.02"]

_

+

7.6 0.5 mm [0.3" 0.02"]

6-M3 (depth 2.5mm [0.10"] max.)

6-M3 (depth 2.5mm [0.10"] max.)

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

90.0 0.3mm [3.54" 0.01"]

60.0 0.3mm

[2.36" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

21.0 0.3mm

[0.83" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

_

+

7.4 0.6mm [0.29" 0.02"]

_

+

_

+

9.8 0.6 mm

[0.39" 0.02"]

_

+

_

+

155.0 0.5mm [6.10" 0.02"]

_

+

94.0 0.5mm [3.70" 0.02"]

_

+

101.6 0.5mm [4.00" 0.02"]

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

42.0 0.3mm

[1.65" 0.01"]

70.0 0.3mm [2.76" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

31.0 0.3mm

[1.22" 0.01"]

17

For 5.25" Half Height

7.0mm

[0.28"]

_

+

_

+

79.2 0.3mm [3.12" 0.01"]

_

+

9.9 0.5mm

_

[0.39" 0.02"]

+

_

+

21.8 0.5mm

_

+

[0.86" 0.02"]

_

+

41.2 0.5mm

_

+

[1.62" 0.02"]

_

+

7.6 0.5 mm [0.3" 0.02"]

6-M3

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

79.2 0.3mm [3.12" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

47.5 0.3mm

[1.87" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

_

+

155.0 0.5mm [6.10" 0.02"]

42.0 0.3mm

[1.65" 0.01"]

70.0 0.3mm [2.76" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+

9.8 0.6 mm

[0.39" 0.02"]

_

+

7.4 0.6mm [0.29" 0.02"]

_

+

31.0 0.3mm [1.22" 0.01"]

_

+

94.0 0.5mm [3.70" 0.02"]

139.6 0.5mm [5.50" 0.02"]

146.0 0.5mm [5.75" 0.02"]

149.0 0.5mm [5.87" 0.02"]

4-M3

_

+

_

+

79.2 0.3mm [3.12" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+

47.5 0.3mm

[1.87" 0.01"]

_

+

_

+
_

+
_

+

_

+

_

+

_

+
_

+

18

Reconfiguring from 5.25" Model to 3.5" Model

You can reconfigure the 5.25" model to the 3.5" model yourself.

1 Remove the 2 screws for each side rail.
2 Take the side rail off.

Side Rail (L)

Side Rail (R)

19

Orientation

10

10

10

10 10

10

10

10

20

Attaching and Removing the Dust Cover

Attaching the Dust Cover

1 Align the dust cover’s hinge clips (one on each side) with the

pins of the drive bezel.

• The dust cover should be positioned so that the magnets
on the cover’s back face the drive bezel.

*

This magnet does not affect the tape of the cartridge.

• Holding the dust cover at an angle as shown in the figure below,
set the hinge clips on top of the bezel pins, positioning them so that
they bracket the pins.

*

21

2 Press down at an angle on each side in turn until you hear

the hinge clips click into place.

Caution

Do not press the dust cover in horizontally from the front. Doing so
could cause the dust cover to break.

3 Close the dust cover.

This completes attachment of the dust cover.

22

Removing the Dust Cover

1 Open the dust cover.
2 Holding the dust cover at both corners, carefully raise the

dust cover.

The dust cover hinge clips and drive bezel pins uncouple.

Note

We recommend that you use the drive with the dust cover.

23

Operation

Location of 3 LEDs

There are three LED indicators (TAPE MOTION LED, CLEANING
REQUEST LED, REPLACE TAPE LED) and an EJECT button on the
front panel of the unit.

Front Panel (for 3.5" Standard Height)

Advanced
Intelligent
Tape

LED

TAPE

MOTION

CLEANING
REQUEST

REPLACE

TAPE

EJECT button

LED Indication for Drive Status

The LED indicators are defined as follows.

LED

TAPE CLEANING REPLACE

MOTION REQUEST TAPE

Independent Independent Tape Loaded
Independent Independent Tape Access in Progress (write/read)

Independent Independent Tape Access in Progress (others)
Independent Independent Cleaning is requested
Independent Independent Cleaning is Not Completed
Independent Independent Media Error Occurred

H/W Error Occurred

on

Slow

1 pulse (0.9 sec on/0.3 sec off)

Fast

1 pulse (0.3 sec on/0.3 sec off)

Sense

24

Drive Operation

Loading a Cartridge

Note

While setting the data cartridge, do not turn off the host computer. This
may cause a malfunction or damage data.

1 Turn on the host computer. Check that the drive’s TAPE

MOTION LED, CLEANING REQUEST LED and REPLACE
TAPE LED go off.

2 Open the dust cover.

3 Set the AIT data cartridge orientation as shown here and

insert it into the data cartridge slot.

By inserting the data cartridge to the extent, it is automatically set in
the drive and the TAPE MOTION LED lights.

25

Unloading a Cartridge

The cartridge can be removed from the AITi520, AITi390, AITi260,
AITi130 and AITi90 either in response to a SCSI Unload Command, or by
pressing the EJECT bottom.

By pressing EJECT button, the tape is rewound and the cartridge ejected
from the slot.

Write-protecting a Cartridge

Cartridges can be write-protected by sliding the tab on the back of the
cartridge. In this state, data can be read from the tape but not written onto it.

AIT-1 AIT-2

AIT-3
AIT-3 Ex
AIT-4

Using your fingernail, push the switch in the
direction of the arrow to protect the tape from
writing or accidental erasure.

Return the switch to its original position to
re-enable writing.

26

Using a Cleaning Cartridge

To keep the AIT drive in top condition, clean the drive unit as needed using
a cleaning cartridge with the AIT logo. When the drive unit needs cleaning,
the CLEANING REQUEST indicator lights. (For the AITi390 and the
AITi520, use the AITi390 and the AITi520 cleaning cartridge respectively.)

Use the cleaning cartridge made exclusively for each model.

Cleaning cartridge to use

AITi520 SDX4-CL

AITi390 SDX3X-CL

AITi260, AITi130, AITi90 SDX1-CL

How to Clean

1 Load the cleaning cartridge into the AIT drive.

Cleaning starts automatically.

2 Cleaning takes about 15 seconds and the cartridge is

automatically ejected when finished (AITi90, AITi130,
AITi260).
Cleaning takes from a few seconds to a minute for the
AITi390 and the AITi520, * and the cartridge is automatically
ejected when finished.

* The cleaning time varies depending on the condition of the drive (AITi390,

AITi520).

Caution

Do not rewind the cleaning cartridge and reuse it. When you reach the
end of the cartridge, dispose it and buy a new cleaning cartridge with
the AIT logo.

27

Storage Precautions

• Keep cartridges in their cases when not in the drives.

• Avoid storing cartridges in dusty locations, in direct sunlight, near heaters
or air conditioners, or in humid locations.

• Do not place cartridges on dashboards or in car storage trays.

Emergency Tape Removal Procedure

1 Remove the drive from the chassis or enclosure to allow

access to the bottom of the drive.

2 Remove the drive’s top cover.
3 Locate the small opening in the bottom of the drive and

insert the tip of a precision screwdriver so that the Loading
motor shaft can be rotated.

4 Rotate the motor shaft clockwise to bring the threading

mechanism back to the initial position.

28

Reel motor

Loading motor

Emergency Tape Removal Procedure

Caution

Stop rotating the motor shaft immediately, when Guide B gets to the
area below the line C-C (This line is defined by 2 circular tape guide
surfaces of the cartridge). Otherwise, the gear of the drive can be
damaged.

A

Tape guide surface Tape guide surface

C

Detail A

Guide B

The Initial Position of the Threading Mechanism

Cartridge

5 Before the manual ejection procedure, tape slack must be

removed in order to prevent tape damage. Rotate the gear
mechanism located on the bottom of the drive
counterclockwise to tighten the tape.

6 After the tape slack has been removed, continue to turn the

Loading motor shaft located on the bottom of the drive
clockwise with a precision screwdriver until the tape
cartridge is lifted out of the drive mechanism and is ejected.

7 Return the drive to Sony for repair.

C

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WORM Function

The AITi520, AITi260 and AITi130 support the WORM function. This
section explains the WORM function.

What is “WORM”?

“WORM” is an acronym for “Write Once Read Many”, a function that
allows data to be written to the same place on a tape only once, but permits
that data to be read from the tape for any number of times. The AITi520,
AITi260 and AITi130 support WORM cartridges. When a WORM
cartridge is used with an application that supports the WORM function,
data that has been written to a tape can not be accidentally deleted or
overwritten.

A WORM drive operates in the same manner as a non-WORM drive when
used with a non-WORM cartridge (henceforth referred to as “regular
cartridge”).

The operation of a WORM drive and a non-WORM drive differs according
to the type of cartridge that is being used.

Tape Drive Cartridge

Non-WORM drive

WORM drive

Regular Cartridge

(without WORM logo)

Read/Write Enabled

Read/Write Enabled

WORM Cartridge

(with WORM logo)

Waiting for Eject

Read/Append-Write Enabled

WORM Cartridges

WORM cartridges can be distinguished from regular cartridges by their
WORM logo and red shutters.

AIT-2 WORM cartridge: SDX2-50W
AIT-3 WORM cartridge: SDX3-100W
AIT-4 WORM cartridge: SDX4-200W

30

Red

WORM logo

How to Write Data onto a WORM Cartridge

As with a regular cartridge, there is no limit on how many times data can be
read from a WORM cartridge. When writing data to a WORM cartridge,
the data can not be written to a portion of the tape that has already been
written.

When writing data onto a WORM cartridge, it is appended after data that
has already been written onto the cartridge. Accordingly, move to the EOD
area before writing data onto the cartridge.

SCSI Commands Supported by the WORM Drive

The WORM drives support the same SCSI commands that are supported by
non-WORM drives. However, if an attempt is made to write to a portion of
a tape where data has already been written, the following error information
is returned:
“Sense Key = 07, ASC = 27h, ASCQ = 00: Persistent Write Protect” or
“Sense Key=03, ASC=27h, ASCQ=04: Write Position Error.”

AIT WORM-compliant Software

To find out whether your backup application is AIT WORM compliant,
contact the manufacturer of the software.

Notes

• Sony cannot accept liability for data written onto a WORM cartridge that
is lost as a result of using this unit.

• Sony accepts no responsibility for any financial damages, lost profits, or
claims made by third parties arising from the use of this product.

31

Interface Implementation

Supported SCSI Messages

Abort
Bus Device Reset
Command Complete
Disconnects
Extended Message
– Synchronous Data Transfer

Request
– Wide Data Transfer Request
– Parallel Protocol Request

(AITi260, AITi390, AITi520)

Supported SCSI Commands

Erase
Inquiry
Load/Unload
Locate
Log Sense
Log Select
Mode Select
Mode Sense
Persistent Reserved IN
Persistent Reserved OUT
Prevent Allow Medium Removal
Read
Read Attribute

(AITi390, AITi520)
Read Block Limits
Read Buffer
Read Position
Receive Diagnostic Result
Release Unit

(AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)
Release (6) (AITi390, AITi520)
Release (10) (AITi390, AITi520)

32

Identify ( w/&w/o Disconnect )
Ignore Wide Residue
Initiator Defected Error
Message Parity Error
Message Reject
No Operation
Restore Pointer

Save Data Pointer

Report Density Support
Report Device Identifier

(AITi390, AITi520)
Report Luns
Request Sense
Reserve Unit

(AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)
Reserved (6) (AITi390, AITi520)
Reserved (10) (AITi390, AITi520)
Rewind
Seek Block

(AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)
Send Diagnostic
Set Device Identifier (AITi390, AITi520)
Space
Test Unit Ready
Verify

(AITi90, AITi130, AITi260)
Write
Write Attribute (AITi390, AITi520)
Write Buffer
Write Filemarks

Specifications

Product Specifications

Dimensions (not including bezel and protruding parts)

3.5" 5.25"
Height 41.2 mm (1.62 in) 41.2 mm (1.62 in)
Width 101.6 mm (4.0 in) 146.0 mm (5.75 in)
Depth 155.0 mm (6.1 in) 155.0 mm (6.1 in)

Altitude

Operating 0 to 3048 m (0 to 10,000 ft.)

Acoustic Noise (A) curve weight

Streaming Write/Read less than 35 dB (A)
Insert/Eject less than 60 dB (A)

Note

The sound-meter on (A) scale is located 1m (3.3 ft.) in front of the center of the
drive front panel.

Mass

AITi390, AITi520 AITi260 AITi130 AITi90

3.5" 780 g (27.5 oz.) 780 g (27.5 oz.) 740 g (26.1 oz.) 740 g (26.1 oz.)

5.25" 1010 g (35.6 oz.) 1050 g (37.0 oz.) 970 g (34.2 oz.) 970 g (34.2 oz.)

Temperature and Humidity Range

Temperature

Operating 5 ˚C to 40 ˚C (∆T<10 ˚C/h)

(41 ˚F to 104 ˚F (∆T<18 ˚F/h))

Non-Operating (mech.) – 40 ˚C to 70 ˚C (∆T<20 ˚C/h)

(– 40 ˚F to 158 ˚F (∆T<36 ˚F/h))

Non-Operating (tape) – 40 ˚C to 45 ˚C (∆T<20 ˚C/h)

(– 40 ˚F to 113 ˚F (∆T<36 ˚F/h))

33

Humidity

Operating 20 to 80% RH, non-condensing

Non-Operating (mech.) 5 to 95% RH (∆RH<30%/h)

Non-Operating (tape) 20 to 80% RH (∆RH<30%/h)

Maximum wet bulb temperature :
26 ˚C (78.8 ˚F)

Maximum wet bulb temperature :
45 ˚C (113 ˚F)

Air-cooling Requirement

Surrounding temperature < 40 ˚C (104 ˚F)

Clean air flow is recommended to minimize the possibility of data loss.

Power Requirements

AITi390, AITi520

Voltage Max Ripple

5 V +/– 5 % 100 mVp-p 1.5 A 2.5 A

12 V +/– 10 % 150 mVp-p 0.75 A 3.0 A

AITi260

Voltage Max Ripple

5 V +/– 5 % 100 mVp-p 1.6 A 1.9 A

12 V +/– 10 % 150 mVp-p 0.5 A 1.2 A

Typical Maximum

Typical Maximum

Current

Current

AITi130

Voltage Max Ripple

5 V +/– 5 % 100 mVp-p 1.1 A 1.4 A

12 V +/– 10 % 150 mVp-p 0.4 A 1.2 A

AITi90

Voltage Max Ripple

5 V +/– 5 % 100 mVp-p 1.1 A 1.4 A

12 V +/– 10 % 150 mVp-p 0.4 A 1.2 A

Typical Maximum

Typical Maximum

Current

Current

34

Sony Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Sony Electronics Inc., Tape Storage Solutions (USA)

URL: http://www.storagebysony.com

Sony of Canada Ltd., AV/IT Marketing Group
Computer Peripherals Product Marketing

115 Gordon Baker Road Toronto, Ontario, M2H 3R6 Canada
TEL: [phone] or (1) 800-961-7669
FAX: [phone]

Sony Business Europe

URL: http://www.sonyisstorage.com/

Electronics Devices Marketing (Singapore)
(A division company of Sony Electronics (S) Pte. Ltd.)
Enterprise Storage Solutions Dept.

2 International Business Park, #01-10 Tower One, The Strategy,
Singapore 609930

TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd.
Computer Peripheral Sales & Marketing Division
Electronic Devices Marketing Hong Kong

45/F, The Lee Gardens, 33 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd. Beijing Rep. Office
Computer Peripheral Div.

Full Link Plaza Tower A 11/F., No.18 Chaoyangmenwai Ave., Beijing
100020 P.R.C.
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]
URL: http://www.sony.com.cn/ed/cp/ait/

Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd.,
Electronic Devices Marketing Hong Kong
Computer Peripherals Sales & Marketing Div.

8/F, One Corporate Avenue, 222 Hu Bin Road. Luwan District,
Shanghai. P.R.C. Postcode 200021
TEL: [phone]
URL: http://www.sony.com.cn/ed/cp/ait/

35

Sony Brasil Ltda.

Rua Inocéncio Tobias, 125, Barra Funda
São Paulo-SP, Brasil 01144-000

TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]
URL: http://www.sonybrasil.com.br

Sony Australia Limited

33-39 Talavera Rd.
NORTH RYDE, NSW 2113
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

Sony New Zealand

Akoranga Business Park
NORTH SHORE, AUCKLAND
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]
e-mail: [e-mail]

Sony Chile Ltda

Av. Kennedy 8017, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Sony Taiwan Limited
Optical Devices Storage Dept. Data Storage Section

5F, 145 Changchun Road, Taipei 104, Taiwan
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Sony Korea Corporation EDMK CP Sales & Marketing Team

34F, ASEM Tower, World Trade Center, 159-1, Samsung-Dong,
Kangnam-Ku, Seoul, 135-798, Korea
TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]
URL: http://www.sony.co.kr/cp/

Sony Gulf FZE Computer Display & Peripheral Div.

P.O.BOX 16871, Jebel Ali, Dubai, U.A.E.
TEL: [phone] or 8816912 FAX: [phone] or 8816259

Sony Marketing of Japan

Business Solution Dept. Server Solution Marketing Section
URL: http://www.sony.co.jp/STORAGE

36