Administrator Guide

22 Dell EMC Tape Systems | Document ID | version (optional)
13 Troubleshooting & Best Practices
This section contains helpful information to maintain the highest level of service from you LTO drive.
13.1 Stuck tape
A stuck tape can result from a dropped or damaged media. Different drives react differently when damaged
media is inserted. Some may eject the tape, while others may be stuck permanently with the drive and require
the drive to be returned. Most LTO drives have the capability to reset the drive in the event of a stuck tape or
other non-responsive drive issues.
13.1.1 Drive reset
Use this procedure to reset your LTO tape drive:
1. Press and hold the Eject button for more than 10 seconds.
2. Release the Eject button.
3. Press eject again to eject tape.
Once drive resets the SCD will begin a count down from 9 to 0 while the media is slowly being rewound. The
drive countdown may be slow depending on where the media was positioned prior to reset. Wait until media is
ejected by the device.
13.2 Media Do’s and Don’ts
13.2.1 Do’s
 Store cartridges in their protective cases.
 Handle cartridges with great care.
 Store the cartridge vertically.
 Align cartridges so the grooves interlock.
 Inspect cartridges prior to each use.
 Unload cartridges prior to turning off the drive.
 Allow a 24-hour conditioning period to the operating temperature and humidity before using new or stored
cartridges.
13.2.2 Don’ts
 Touch the media or leader with bare fingers.
 Use pens or pencils during cartridge inspection.
 Drop cartridge.
 Store the cartridge horizontally.
 Disassemble cartridges.
 Store near magnetic fields (e.g. speakers, monitors, electric motors, power supplies, etc.).
 Use a cartridge that fell from 3 ft or higher.
 Degauss LTO tapes.