Using HP Ultrium Cartridges

In addition to the information provided in this manual, refer to the documentation provided with your HP Ultrium media for more information.

Caution HP Ultrium tape drives require special cleaning cartridges and data cartridges formatted specifically for HP Ultrium. To avoid damage to your tape drive, it is critical to use appropriate cleaning cartridges and properly formatted data cartridges.

A unique feature of Ultrium tape cartridges is LTO-Cartridge Memory (LTO- CM). LTO-CM is an intelligent memory chip embedded into the cartridge. It uses a radio frequency interface that eliminates the need for a physical power or signal connection between the cartridge and drive. Information normally stored in the header at the beginning of the tape is contained in the LTO-CM, including identification and usage information such as the number of times the cartridge has been loaded and error logs.

Maintaining Ultrium Cartridges

Make it a practice to visually inspect your tape cartridges when loading or removing them from your tape library. Taking a few minutes to check the condition of your cartridges will lower the risk of repeated failures and help ensure uninterrupted backup.

For general precautions when using tape cartridges, see page 144. In addition, do not apply more than one label onto Ultrium cartridges, as extra labels can cause the cartridges to jam in the tape drive.

Caution Do not bulk erase Ultrium formatted cartridges. This will destroy pre-recorded servo information and make the cartridge unusable.

152 HP Ultrium Drives and Tape Cartridges

Appendix A