NonStop S-Series Operations Guide (G06.24+)

Preventive Maintenance
HP NonStop S-Series Operations Guide—522459-007
17-4
Handling and Storing Cartridge Tapes
For ordering information, see the operator’s guide shipped with the tape subsystem.
Handling and Storing Cartridge Tapes
Cartridge tapes are nested in a cartridge by a spring-loaded mechanism that exposes
the tape only when the cartridge tape is loaded into the tape drive. The drive
mechanism uses a leader block to wind the tape through the tape path to load data.
Exposing the tape or handling the cartridge tapes improperly can result in loss of data.
When handling and storing cartridge tapes:
•
Protect cartridge tapes from shock or vibration.
•
Do not expose cartridge tapes to high temperatures by leaving them in a car or in
direct sunlight.
•
Do not store cartridge tapes near magnetic fields such as those generated by
power cables or computer monitors.
•
Do not remove the leader block, pull out the tape, or press the reel lock. If the
leader block is detached from the tape, contact the tape supplier for a leader block
repair kit.
•
When transporting cartridge tapes, do not stack the cartridges more than six high.
Pack them carefully with the reel sides upright. The leader block edges can crack if
they engage with each other.
•
To store or transport tape cartridges in an ACL cartridge magazine, follow the
same guidelines as you would for storing or transporting individual cartridge tapes.
Caution. These precautions are extremely important to prevent damage:
•
Do not use cleaner solutions that contain lubricants. Lubricants deposit a film on the
tape head and impair performance.
•
Do not use aerosol cleaners, even if they contain isopropyl alcohol. The spray is
difficult to control and often contains metallic particles that damage the tape head.
•
Do not use soap and water on a tape path. Soap leaves a thick film, and water can
damage electronic parts.
•
Do not use facial tissues. Facial tissues leave highly abrasive lint on the tape path.
•
Do not dip your cloths and swabs into the solvent can. These items contaminate the
solvent.
•
Discard the cloths and swabs after use. Even if they appear clean, cloths and swabs
are contaminated by use. Dispose of these materials in an approved container.