Before you start

HP StorageWorks DAT models

This guide describes how to install and operate the following HP StorageWorks DAT models:

•HP StorageWorks DAT 72x6

•HP StorageWorks DAT 40x6

Which operating systems are supported?

HP StorageWorks DAT autoloaders can be connected to servers running under Windows®, NetWare, UNIX, Tru64 and Linux. Refer to the “HP StorageWorks Tape Software Compatibility” topic on our World Wide Web site (www.hp.com/go/connect) for more information about the operating system versions that are supported.

How do I connect the autoloader to my server?

The following guidelines apply:

•For optimum performance the autoloader should be the only device on the SCSI bus.

•Always terminate the SCSI bus.

•Do not attach the autoloader to the same SCSI bus as a your disk drive or to a RAID controller.

You will need a properly installed and configured SCSI host bus adapter (HBA) or a built-in SCSI controller on your server. Your autoloader is supplied with a VHD-to-HD cable to attach the drive to a spare, external VHD SCSI port on the server. It is also shipped with a multimode terminator. The cable and terminator are appropriate for a wide, low voltage differential (LVD) or single-ended (SE) SCSI bus.

If the SCSI cable supplied with your autoloader is not appropriate for your server’s external SCSI connector, you will need to order an adapter or new cable. See also "Checking the SCSI connection" on page 9.

Why is the SCSI bus type important?

The SCSI bus type determines the speed at which data can be transferred between devices on the bus and the maximum length of cable that can be used. The autoloader supports a burst transfer rate of 40 MB/sec. To benefit from this level of performance, it is important to ensure that the devices are connected to a SCSI bus of a similar or higher specification. This means that you need:

•An Ultra Wide, Ultra2 Wide, Ultra3 (160) or Ultra4 (320) SCSI bus. Ultra Wide SCSI supports the maximum bus speed of 40 MB per second; Ultra2, Ultra3 and Ultra4 SCSI exceed this.

•LVD-rated SCSI cabling and terminators. The LVD interface enables the data to be transferred at the device's maximum rate.

If you attach the device to a lower specification SCSI bus, it may still work but data will not be transferred as quickly.

The devices are not compatible with high voltage differential (HVD) SCSI devices.

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