Installation and Configuration
Control Mode
You can set the autoloader to either Random, Mixed, Sequential, or Seq Cycle Mode. The default control mode is Random.
Note: If the I/E slot is enabled, the autoloader cannot be used in Mixed or Sequential Mode.
The Sequential mode supports certain backup applications that do not manage media. During backup, when one cartridge is read or written to the end of the tape, the autoloader automatically returns that cartridge to its slot and loads the cartridge from the next higher numbered slot to the tape drive to be read or written to. This continues until the backup software stops accessing the drive or until all the cartridges have been sequentially accessed.
In Random control mode you can specify which cartridge you want to use and where you want it to go. You will probably use this mode the most.
In Mixed mode, the autoloader supports both Sequential and Random mode functions. This mode can be useful in network environment.
Note: Do not use Mixed mode unless you are certain all applications support Mixed mode operation.
In Seq Cycle mode, the autoloader automatically starts over with magazine slot 1 when the last cartridge is used (slot 16 or highest filled slot). If this control mode is not set, the autoloader stops when the last cartridge available has been used. In Seq Cycle mode, the autoloader continues to cycle until a user stops it.
Caution: Seq Cycle mode could cause data to be overwritten. Only use Seq Cycle mode if you are sure that the size and frequency of your backups will not prematurely overwrite your data.
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