Instruction Manual

Operation
M8701A / M8702A ACL Tape Library Installation and User’s Guide—694636-001
4-51
Handling Cartridges
Ultrium tape cartridges have a recessed area located on the face of the cartridge next
to the write-protect switch. Use this area for attaching the adhesive-backed bar code
label. Only apply labels as shown:
Handling Cartridges
1. Do not open the cartridge door and touch the tape media.
2. Do not attempt to clean the tape path or tape guides inside the cartridge.
3. Do not leave cartridges in the drive. The tape loses tension in the power-off state,
which can lead to problems, particularly if the drive has been moved.
4. Do not leave cartridges in excessively dry or humid conditions.
Tip. The bar code scanner must scan each tape or the back of the storage slot until it reads
the bar code label for the cartridge or storage slot, or determines that the slot is empty. The bar
code scanner can identify a properly labeled cartridge on the first scan. It can identify an empty
slot on the second scan. It will try several more scans and then tap on the cartridge before
determining that an unlabeled cartridge is in the slot, which takes about four times as long as
identifying a properly labeled cartridge. Even if you do not need the bar code information, use
bar code labels to speed up inventory time.
Figure 4-34. Tape Labeling
IMPORTANT: The bar code label should only be applied as shown, with the alphanumeric
portion facing the hub side of the tape cartridge. Never apply multiple labels onto a cartridge
because extra labels can cause the cartridge to jam in a tape drive.