Setting the Autoloader Operating Mode
The autoloader operating mode is determined by whether or not you are using backup software that can control the autoloader robotics. If you are using such software, then the autoloader operates in Random mode. If you are not, then the autoloader operates in Sequential mode.
Random Mode
If you are using software that can control the autoloader’s robotics, the autoloader will detect this and switch to Random mode. In Random mode, the autoloader will not automatically load tapes into the drive; instead it will wait for commands from the software.
Note | Your backup software must support the autoloader’s robotics, |
| which may require the additional installation of an autoloader |
| software module. For more information, refer to your backup |
| software documentation. |
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|
Sequential Mode
The autoloader initially assumes that you are not using a backup software package to control cartridge or drive activity, and consequently operates in Sequential mode. With sequential mode, 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, and then loads the next available higher numbered slot.
Operating in Sequential mode also allows you to determine the behavior for how tapes are loaded into the autoloader’s tape drive. This is done from the autoloader front panel by setting:
■Circular Mode options (see Circular Mode on page 43)
■Autoload Mode options (see Autoload Mode on page 44)
42 Autoloader Administration | Chapter 3 |