CHAPTER 6 COMMUNICATION INTERFACE AND COMMAND PROTOCOL

SCSI COMMAND PROTOCOL

This section provides an overview of the SCSI command protocol supported by the VXA-320 (VXA-3) tape drive.

COMMAND SET

Table 6-6lists and briefly describes the command set supported by the tape drive.

Table 6-6SCSI command set

 

 

t

 

 

 

 

Command

Operation

Description

 

Code

 

ERASE

19h

Causes the tape drive to erase all data from the current location to

 

 

the end of partition.

 

 

 

INQUIRY

12h

Requests that information about tape drive parameters be sent to the

 

 

initiator.

 

 

 

LOAD/UNLOAD

1Bh

Causes the tape drive to load or unload a cartridge.

 

 

 

LOCATE

2Bh

Positions the tape at a specified logical position or changes partitions.

 

 

(Typically, this position is determined by data that was obtained

 

 

through a previous READ POSITION command.)

 

 

 

LOG SELECT

4Ch

Manages a set of internal counters regarding read and write error

 

 

recovery operations and amounts of data compressed. The initiator

 

 

can set threshold and cumulative values for the counters or reset the

 

 

counters.

 

 

 

LOG SENSE

4Dh

Returns the values of the counters managed by the LOG SELECT

 

 

command.

 

 

 

MODE SELECT

15h

Allows you to specify medium, logical unit, and device parameters.

 

 

 

MODE SENSE

1Ah

Enables the tape drive to report medium, logical unit, or device

 

 

parameters.

 

 

 

PREVENT/ALLOW

1Eh

Allows or disallows the removal of the cartridge from the tape drive.

MEDIUM REMOVAL

 

 

 

 

 

READ

08h

Transfers one or more bytes or blocks of data from the tape to the

 

 

initiator.

 

 

 

READ BLOCK LIMITS

05h

Requests that the tape drive return data identifying the maximum

 

 

and minimum logical block lengths supported.

 

 

 

READ BUFFER

3Ch

Creates a diagnostic listing of the tape drive’s current state or the

 

 

contents of the tape drive’s data buffer.

 

 

 

READ POSITION

34h

Reports the tape drive’s current logical position, but does not cause

 

 

tape motion to occur. Used in conjunction with the LOCATE

 

 

command.

 

 

 

44

 

PRODUCT MANUAL

433689-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tandberg Data VXA-320 (VXA-3) manual Scsi Command Protocol, Command SET

VXA-320 (VXA-3) specifications

Tandberg Data VXA-320 (VXA-3) is a sophisticated backup solution designed for businesses seeking reliable data storage and backup capabilities. It is part of the renowned VXA series, heralded for its innovative approach to data archiving and its robust performance in diverse operating environments.

One of the standout features of the VXA-320 is its impressive data transfer rate, which reaches up to 36 GB per hour. This capability significantly enhances backup speed, making it a suitable choice for organizations with extensive data storage needs. The device supports a native capacity of 160 GB per cartridge, which can be expanded to 320 GB when data is compressed. This dual-layer cartridge system ensures that users can efficiently manage large volumes of data without constantly needing to interchange tapes.

The VXA-320 employs the unique VXA tape format, characterized by its advanced error correction and data integrity features. This format minimizes data loss risks and ensures reliable restoration of information. Additionally, the VXA-3 incorporates a one-inch data path, allowing it to handle higher track counts and thereby achieve better storage density. This design improves the efficiency of data retrieval and archiving processes.

Another significant aspect of the VXA-320 is its compatibility with a myriad of operating systems and backup applications, making it a versatile addition to various IT infrastructures. Businesses can integrate the VXA-3 into existing systems without the need for extensive reconfiguration. This flexibility enhances its appeal to organizations looking for a straightforward backup solution.

The device also includes an intelligent tape management system that tracks the status of backup jobs and the usage of tapes. This feature facilitates easier management of the backup process and ensures users remain informed about the condition of their storage media.

Tandberg Data offers extensive support documentation and tools that facilitate straightforward operation of the VXA-320. Combined with reliable performance and innovative storage technologies, the VXA-320 (VXA-3) stands out as a robust solution for data protection needs. Overall, it represents an effective investment for businesses seeking dependable data backup and archiving solutions.