Glossary
Quantum A-Series Tape Drives User’s Guide 80
Applet Java applets are small Java programs that get downloaded to the
client computer and then run from a web browser when a web
page that uses Java is loaded.
Archiving The removal or copying of data from the computer system
onto secondary storage media that is safely stored away.
ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuit.
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials.
A/V A/V or Audio/Video is a generic term used to describe products
and services associated with audio and video.
BBad Data Block A block that cannot reliably hold data because of a media
flaw or damaged format markings.
Base Plate An aluminum die casting that acts as the support platform
for the other modules and for the tape drive enclosure. The base
plate includes the precision mounting holes used to install
SDLT tape drives into a server or tape library.
Bezel (Also known as the faceplate.) A plastic panel that extends the
face of a tape drive so that it covers a computer’s tape drive bay
opening. The internal model of SDLT 600A has two bezels: a
library bezel and an internal bezel.
BIOS Basic Input/Output System. A set of routines that work closely
with the hardware to support the transfer of information
between various elements of the system, such as memory, disks,
and peripheral devices.
Block A sector or group of sectors. SDLT 600A supports block sizes up
to 16 MB.
BOM or BOT Beginning of Media or Beginning of Tape. The physical
beginning of the media.
BSMI Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (Taiwan).
Buckling Mechanism The buckling mechanism engages the media
leaders on cartridge load and disengages them on cartridge
unload.
Buffer An area of RAM reserved for temporary storage of data that is
waiting to be sent to a device. The data is usually on its way to or
from the tape drive or some other peripheral device.