Removing a data cartridge from a drive in the library

In a rare situation, you might need to remove a cartridge directly from a drive in the tape library without transferring it to a service magazine.

About this task

Note: If you encounter a stuck tape cartridge (that is, a cartridge that will not unload after it receives an Unload command from the host), follow this procedure. If after you complete these steps the cartridge still does not unload, contact your IBM® service representative.

Procedure

  1. Place the library in service mode.
    This action causes the library to move the cartridge accessor to its home location. The health status pod on the System page of the management GUI also shows when the library is placed in service mode.
  2. Open the front door of the frame.
  3. Remove the cartridge from the drive by performing the following procedure:
    • To remove a cartridge from an LTO tape drive, perform the following steps:
      1. Press and release the unload button.
      2. Wait for the cartridge to rewind and eject.
        Note: A typical tape cartridge rewind and eject time can take as long as 5 minutes, although some conditions can extend this time to as long as 1 hour.
      3. Remove the cartridge from the drive.
  4. Gently close and lock the frame door.
  5. After approximately 15 seconds, the tape library automatically inventories the library frame. During the inventory, the task pod on the System page of the management GUI shows that an inventory is in progress.