User's Guide

FastStor 2 User’s Guide 23
Random Mode
This is the mode of operation when a backup software application is being used. In random mode, the
autoloader does not automatically load tapes into the drive. Instead it waits for commands from the software.
Your backup software must support autoloaders, which often requires the additional installation of an
autoloader/library software module.
Sequential Mode
Sequential mode is useful when a software application is not available. In sequential mode, the autoloader
automatically unloads and loads tapes from the drive. The operator determines the first tape to load by
loading the desired tape into the tape drive using the autoloader operator panel controls (see Loading
Cartridges for instructions). When the first tape is full or unloaded for any reason, the autoloader
automatically removes the tape from the drive, puts it in its original slot, then loads the next available higher
numbered slot. To further determine how you want tapes loaded into the autoloader's tape drive while in
sequential mode, you can view or set loop and autoload options from the autoloader front panel, but only
while in sequential mode.
Loop Mode On/Off
This option turns loop mode on or off, and is only available when in sequential mode. When loop mode is
on, after the autoloader has cycled through all available cartridges, it then reloads the original first cartridge
in the sequence. If loop mode is turned off and the last cartridge has been unloaded, the autoloader stops
loading cartridges until you manually load another cartridge.
1 Press + or – until Go offline appears. Press ENTER.
2 Press + or – until Configuration appears.
3 Press ENTER to select.
4 Press + or - until Loop Mode appears.
The second line on the LCD screen indicates the current status, either “On” or “Off.”
5 Press ENTER.
The operator panel indicates whether you are about to turn loop mode on or off.
6 Press ENTER to accept the change to loop mode, or press CANCEL to exit and not save the changes.
Autoload Mode On/Off
This option turns autoload mode on or off, and is only available when in sequential mode. When autoload
mode is on, the autoloader automatically loads the cartridge from the lowest numbered full slot into the tape
drive when the system is first turned on (first cartridge only). When autoload mode is off, you must load
cartridges into the drive manually. This function is only applicable when you power up the system.
1 Press + or – until Go offline appears. Press ENTER.
2 Press + or – until Configuration appears.
3 Press ENTER to select.
NOTE:
“SEQ” appears next to the front panel inventory when the autoloader is in
sequential mode. Nothing appears when the autoloader is in random mode.
CAUTION:
Use caution when choosing loop mode. This mode makes it possible
to overwrite data previously written on cartridges.