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1Viewing Window
2GUI Touch Screen
3Library Status LED
Figure 9 Library front panel
Multi Unit Library Systems
MSL Series tape libraries can be stacked in a scalable combination with additional two-drive and four-drive models to form a multi unit library configuration. Through use of a rear-mounted Pass-Through Mechanism (PTM), all libraries in a multi unit library configuration can operate together as a single virtual library system. Stacked libraries are interconnected through their rear panel Ethernet connections to a supplied LAN hub that mounts to the rack enclosure. The LAN hub also provides a wide area network (WAN) connector when libraries are combined in their maximum stacked height.
A maximum of four four-drive models or eight two-drive models can be connected together in this manner. Any combination of libraries, not exceeding 40 Units (40U) in total stacked height, can also be used. A multi unit library configuration appears as a single library to the host computer system and application software. For multi unit applications, the top library becomes the master unit and all other libraries are slave units.
WARNING! The PTM continues to function each time a slave library is physically removed from the rack enclosure configuration during normal library operation. Refer to the HP StorageWorks MSL Series Pass-Through Mechanism Reference Guide for detailed installation, configuration, and operation information.
The library robotics can pick and place tape cartridges into a movable elevator that encompasses the full length of the PTM. In this manner, individual tapes can be passed up or down between the libraries contained in the multi unit library configuration under the master library control. Robotics
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