Users Guide

• Inspect the cartridge for damage before you use or store it.
• Inspect the rear of the cartridge (the part that loads rst into the tape load compartment) and ensure
that there are no gaps in the seam of the cartridge case. If there are gaps in the seam (see Figure 112
on page 99), the leader pin might be dislodged.
Figure 112. Checking for gaps in the seams of a cartridge
• Check that the leader pin is properly seated.
• If you suspect that the cartridge was mishandled but it appears usable, copy any data onto a good
cartridge immediately for possible data recovery. Discard the mishandled cartridge.
• Review handling and shipping procedures.
Handle the cartridge carefully
• Do not drop the cartridge. If the cartridge drops, slide the cartridge door back and ensure that the
leader pin is properly seated in the pin-retaining spring clips.
• Do not handle tape that is outside the cartridge. Handling the tape can damage the tape's surface or
edges, which might interfere with read or write reliability. Pulling on tape that is outside the cartridge
can damage the tape and the brake mechanism in the cartridge.
• Do not stack more than six cartridges.
• Do not degauss a cartridge that you intend to reuse. Degaussing makes the tape unusable.
Examples of cartridge problems
Example: Split Cartridge Case (see “Perform a thorough inspection” on page 98
)
The cartridge's case is damaged. There is a high possibility of media damage and potential loss. Perform
the following steps:
1. Look for cartridge mishandling.
2. Use the Leader Pin Reattachment Kit (part number 08L9129) to correctly seat the pin. Then,
immediately use data recovery procedures to minimize chances of data loss.
3. Review media-handling procedures.
Example: Improper Placement of Leader Pin
1. Look for cartridge damage.
2. Use the Leader Pin Reattachment Kit (part number 08L9129) to correctly seat the pin. Then,
immediately use data recovery procedures to minimize chances of data loss.
Chapter 5. Media
99