Operating Recommendations
Attention: Be sure to read ″Handling Static-Sensitive Devices″in the

RS/6000 44P

Series Model 170

Installation Guide, order number SA38-0561, Installing
and Removing devices chapter before you remove the 8mm TapeDrive
from its anti static bag or any time you handle it. For optimum performance,
always follow the recommendations listed below:
vHandle the drive carefully and by its external metal chassis. Keep your hands away
from the printed circuit boards, components, and printed circuit (flex) cables.
vIf possible, work on a cushioned surface, and do not drop the tape drive onto the
work surface.
vIf you move the tape drive to an environment that is colder or warmer than its
previous environment, keep the drive in its package and allow the package to reach
the current room temperature. This prevents potential data loss or damage to the
tape drive. Allow one hour of acclimation for each 10 degrees C (18 degrees F)
difference between the shipping and/or storage temperature and the room
temperature.
vUse only high-quality data grade 8 mm tape cartridges recommended by the
manufacturer (see “Obtaining Additional TapeCartridges” on page 29).
vRemove the tape cartridge from the tape drive when it is not in use, and store the
cartridge in the cartridge case.
vDo not open the door on the data tape cartridge. This door covers and protects the
magnetic tape material from dirt, dust, and damage.
vAvoid touching the tape, as doing so can cause loss of data.
vBack up any tape cartridge that repeatedly produces error messages, then discard
the old tape cartridge. Error information is saved in the system error log.
vClean the tape path regularly according to the cleaning procedure described in
“Cleaning the TapeDrive” on page 27. Use only recommended cleaning cartridges.
Other cleaning cartridges can permanently damage the tape drive.
8 mm Tape Cartridge Types
There are different types of 8 mm tape cartridges that you can use for the following
purposes:
Type Purpose
TestTape Cartridge Checksthe operation of the drive or to run
diagnostics. Do not use it to save programs or
data. This cartridge, which is specially labeled,
is included with the 8mm TapeDrive.
Data TapeCartridge Saves your programs or data. This cartridge is
included with the 8mm TapeDrive.
Cleaning TapeCartridge Cleans the 8 mm tape drive. See “Cleaning the
TapeDrive” on page 27. This cartridge is
included with the 8mm TapeDrive.
20 44P Series Model 170 User’s Guide