User Guide

Ampex 1308904-X4 Preliminary Draft 3-9
ACL Application Programmer’s Guide Tape Cartridge Loading and Unloading
After completing the boot sequence successfully, the ACL performs an initialization routine
to update its element status database. Further updating of the database occurs automatically
whenever the ACL detects a condition that could cause element status to change (see
“Initialize Element Status” on page 3-10).
3.4 Tape Cartridge Loading and Unloading
3.4.1 Series 2XX and 4XX
The initiator must invoke the aclPark() function or acl_park_chs utility to park the CHS
before the front door can be opened to gain access to the storage bins. Opening the front door
locks the CHS in the parked position. (Before the front door is opened, any function or utility
that requires CHS movement will unpark the CHS; after the front door is opened, any function
or utility that requires CHS movement will unpark).
If the aclAuditLibrary() function or acl_audit_library utility is invoked while the front door
is open, the return data indicates that the door status is open and all element states are
unknown. During this period, all functions and utilities that require CHS movement will fail.
When the front door is closed after being opened (assuming the ACL is on-line), unparking of
the CHS occurs automatically and an initialization routine is performed to update location
status in the internal database.
3.4.2 Series 8XX
The IMEX bins are used for loading and unloading of tape cartridges.
Loading a Tape Cartridge
When a tape cartridge is inserted in an IMEX bin, the ACL detects its presence and performs
a bar code read to update the internal database. When the Auto Import Enable mode parameter
is set to on, the ACL automatically transfers the cartridge to an empty storage bin. (If all
storage bins are full, the ACL returns Check Condition status for the next SCSI command.)
When the Auto Import Enable mode parameter is set to off, the initiator must invoke a Tape
Cartridge Movement function or utility to transfer the tape cartridge to a storage bin or tape
drive.
Unloading a Tape Cartridge
Unloading a tape cartridge consists of moving it to an IMEX bin and manually removing it.
The ACL automatically updates element status in the internal database.