With DFSMShsm, you can use DFSMSrmm system-based scratch tape pools, exit-selected scratch pools, or DFSMShsm-managed tape pools.

Recommendation: Use a DFSMSrmm scratch pool. Use the DFSMShsm-managed pool only when necessary. For example, use the DFSMShsm-managed pool if you want to keep DFSMShsm-managed pools for Enhanced Capacity Cartridge System Tapes, as DFSMShsm fully uses a tape's capacity.

You must let DFSMShsm decide whether a tape volume contains valid data and whether it should return to the DFSMSrmm scratch pool or DFSMShsm-managed tape pool.

Define vital record specifications to retain tape volumes until DFSMShsm finishes with them. DFSMSrmm uses the retention period determined by the vital record specification to extend any expiration date or retention period previously set for the volume. Additionally, you can use vital record specifications to identify volumes that should be moved out of the installation media library for safe keeping, or moved from an automated to manual library. For DFSMShsm-managed tapes, you do not have to respond to the IEC507D messages that are issued for expiration data protected tapes because DFSMShsm can override expiration for its own tapes. If you choose to use DFSMShsm expiration date protected tape volumes, DFSMShsm sets the expiration date 99365 which means permanent retention to prevent DFSMSrmm from considering the volumes for release at any time.