Structure and supported library configurations
The TS4300 tape library supports a single base module tabletop configuration or a scalable rackmount configuration.
Machine type models
With the introduction of LTO-10 support, IBM has introduced a new Machine Type and Model (MTM) for the TS4300 tape library. The new MTM enhances serviceability by enabling Service Expert Care for newly deployed libraries. See Service Expert Care Overview for more information.
- There are no firmware differences between the existing and new machine types.
- Most Customer Replaceable Units (CRUs), unless specifically noted, are interchangeable between MTM 3555 and 5544.
Drive Support by MTM
- MTM 5544
- Base module: 5544-L8A
- Expansion modules: 5544-E8A
- Supported Drives: LTO-8, LTO-9, LTO-10
- MTM 3555
- Base modules: 3555-L3A
- Expansion modules: 3555-E3A
- Supported Drives: LTO-6, LTO-7, LTO-8, LTO-9
- Important: MTM 3555 will not support LTO-10 or later generations. Expansion module (3555-E3A) cannot be converted for migration to a 5544 library.
Supported library configurations
All libraries start with a Base Module. For more capacity, up to fifteen Expansion Modules can be added as needed to support customer requirements. The Expansion Modules are distributed above and below the Base Module.
The total maximum height of a fully expanded library depends on the library type. Older libraries had a maximum height of 21U. Newer Libraries can be expanded up to 48U. Refer to Figure 3. The first example is a one module library 1, it consists of just the base module. The second is a 21U library 2. The base module is fourth from the bottom, and is surrounded by six expansion modules. The maximum 21U configuration cannot be built in any other way. The third example is a full 48U library 3. In this configuration, the base module is roughly in the middle with seven expansion modules above and eight below, fifteen expansion modules total. The maximum 48U configuration cannot be built any other way.
