5190/5194 Modular Tape Subsystem Manual

Introduction to the Modular Tape Subsystem
5190/5194 Modular Tape Subsystem Manual—426878-002
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Cartridges
Figure 1-1 shows two tape drive CRUs in a tape drive module supported by a pedestal.
Cartridges
A cartridge is a storage device that contains either magnetic tape or a cleaning ribbon
inside a protective case. The cartridge protects the tape or ribbon and makes
handling easier. There are two types of cartridges: cleaning cartridges and cartridge
tapes. Appendix A, Part Numbers, lists part numbers.
Cleaning Cartridges
Cleaning cartridges are used to clean the tape drive recording heads with a cleaning
ribbon. Cleaning cartridges are discussed more fully under Cleaning a Tape Drive With
an ACL on page 4-27, and Replacing a Cleaning Cartridge in an ACL on page 6-10.
Cartridge Tapes
Cartridge tapes hold magnetic storage media for the modular tape subsystem. A
cartridge tape is a self-contained plastic shell containing a spool of
chromium-dioxide-coated tape. Tape is nested in the cartridge by a spring-loaded
mechanism that exposes the tape only when the cartridge is loaded into the drive. The
Figure 1-1. Tape Drive Module With Two Tape Drive CRUs
Tape Drive
Module
Pedestal
Cartridge
Tape Drives
VST001.vsd