Glossary

Numbers

A

A

Ampere.

AAP

See authorized assembler program.

ac

See alternating current.

accessor controller

The logic card for the cartridge accessor. The accessor controller handles accessor motion requests, including calibrations, moves, and inventory updates. It also provides centralized management for other aspects of the entire library, including configuration, insert and eject operations, automatic drive cleaning, and determination of element status.

ac line voltage

The input voltage (in volts) that is required by the tape library for normal operation.

adapter

See adapter card.

adapter card

A circuit board that adds function to a computer.

addressable cartridge storage slots

See accessible cartridge storage slots.

Advanced Interactive eXecutive (AIX®)

A UNIX operating system that was developed by IBM that is designed and optimized to run on POWER® microprocessor-based hardware such as servers, workstations, and blades.

Advanced Library Management System (ALMS)

The next generation of IBM's patented Multi-Path Architecture. ALMS enables logical libraries to consist of unique drives and ranges of VOLSERs, instead of fixed locations. It offers the ability to assign tape drives to any logical library by using the TS4500 management GUI. Logical libraries can also be added, deleted, or easily changed without disruption.

aggregate sustained data transfer rate

For all of the drives in the tape library, the sum of their average throughput of uninterrupted data.

AIX

See Advanced Interactive eXecutive.

ALMS

See Advanced Library Management System.

AL_PA

See Arbitrated Loop Physical Address.

alphanumeric

Pertaining to a character set that contains letters, numerals, and other characters, such as punctuation marks.

alternating current (ac)

An electric current that reverses its direction at regularly recurring intervals.

amp

Ampere.

ampere (A, amp)

A unit of measure for electric current that is equivalent to a flow of 1 coulomb per second, or to the current produced by 1 volt applied across a resistance of 1 ohm.

Arbitrated Loop Physical Address (AL_PA)

An 8-bit value that is used to identify a device in an arbitrated loop. Device ports communicate by using AL_PAs.

audit

The process of moving cartridges in an HD slot to scan each barcode label.

authorized assembler program (AAP)

A training program for selected IBM Business Partners that enables them to purchase incomplete machines and parts, and provides them with the knowledge to assemble the components into a final configured product for sale to their customers.

automatic cleaning

A method by which the library automatically responds to any tape drive's request for cleaning by beginning the cleaning process.

automatic inventory

A survey of the location of cartridges in the library. The inventory is performed when the library is powered on, or whenever the front door of any frame is opened and closed during operation.

B

backhitch

When the speed of the host server is slower than the speed of the drive, the action of stopping the tape, rewinding some distance, and restarting.

backup

The short-term retention of records that are used for restoring essential business and system files when vital data is lost because of program or system errors or malfunctions.

Backup recovery and media services (BRMS)

A software program that runs on OS/400® and allows a business to plan, control, and automate the backup, recovery, and media management services for its AS/400 systems.

bar code

A code that represents characters by sets of parallel bars of varying thickness and separation. The bars are read optically by transverse scanning.

bar code label

A slip of paper that bears a bar code and having an adhesive backing. The bar code label must be affixed to a tape cartridge to enable the library to identify the cartridge and its volume serial number.

bar code reader

On the dual-gripper transport mechanism of the library, a laser device that is specialized for scanning and reading bar codes and converting them into either the ASCII or EBCDIC digital character code. The bar code reader reads the bar code on the labels of cartridges or at the rear of empty storage slots.

base frame

The primary unit of the tape library. The base frame is distinguished from an expansion frame by its I/O stations and display panel. The base frame includes a rail assembly for the cartridge accessor and up to 16 tape drives.

beacon light-emitting diode (LED)

An LED on any frame with an I/O station that is used to identify a frame that is in service or needs service, or to identify a frame for other reasons to someone at the storage library.

bel

Ten decibels.

bit

Either of the digits 0 or 1 when used in the binary numbering system.

bpi

Bits per inch.

bridge

A storage controller that forms a bridge between two external I/O buses.

British thermal unit (Btu)

The quantity of heat that is required to raise the temperature of one pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit at a specified temperature.

browser

A client program that initiates requests to a web server and displays the information that the server returns.

BRSM

See Backup recovery and media services.

Btu

See British thermal unit.

bulk load

To manually insert large quantities of tape cartridges into a tape library's empty storage slots.

bus

See SCSI bus.

byte

A string that consists of a number of bits (usually 8) that are treated as a unit and represent a character. A byte is a fundamental data unit.

C

calibration

Adjustment, tuning.

calibration sensor

On the cartridge accessor of the TS4500 tape library, the component that provides the means to find certain positions within the library precisely during the calibration operation.

Call Home

A feature that allows the tape library to report failures to a support center.

CAN

See Controller Area Network.

CAP

See cartridge assignment policy.

capacity

See media capacity.

Capacity expansion feature

Applies only to the base frame of the TS4500 tape library. The cartridge storage slots that are on the interior of the front door and enabled for more storage. The Capacity Expansion Feature increases the maximum quantity of storage slots in the base frame.

Capacity on Demand

A feature that adds capacity to the library and that is only available through the field. See also High Density Capacity on Demand.

cartridge

See tape cartridge.

cartridge accessor

The mechanism that moves cartridges between the storage slots, tape drives, and the I/O stations. The accessor includes the X-axis motion assembly, Y-axis motion assembly, pivot assembly, cartridge gripper, bar code reader, and calibration sensor.

cartridge cache

Non-HD slots (Tier 0) selected as preferred locations for frequently used cartridges. The library firmware tracks the most recent usage of each cartridge as a means to arbitrate which cartridges should be maintained in the cartridge cache.

cartridge gripper

An electromechanical device on the cartridge accessor of the TS4500 tape library that gets or puts cartridges from or to a storage slot, tape drive, or I/O station. Two grippers (Gripper 1 and Gripper 2) are on the pivot assembly of the accessor. One gripper can grip a single cartridge.

cartridge inventory time

The amount of time that is required for the tape library to determine whether each cartridge storage slot in the library is empty or full.

cartridge manual rewind tool

A device that can be fitted into the reel of a cartridge and used to rewind tape into or out of the cartridge.

cartridge memory

See LTO cartridge memory.

cartridge move time

The time that is required for a cartridge accessor to pick a cartridge from a slot (or drive), move the cartridge to a drive (or slot), pivot (if required), and insert the cartridge into the drive (or slot).

cartridge storage slot

One of several containers that are mounted inside the frames of the TS4500 tape library and are used to store tape cartridges. See also HD slot.

caster

One of four wheels that are mounted in swivel frames and used to support the weight of the library.

cell top cap

On each column of the storage slots within the TS4500 tape library, a plastic component to which a bar code label holder can be attached. The library uses the bar code label to establish the boundary of a logical library.

circuit board

A thin plate on which chips and other electronic components are placed. Computers consist of one or more boards, often called cards, or adapters.

cleaning cartridge

A tape cartridge that is used to clean the heads of a tape drive. Contrast with data cartridge.

clearance

The distance by which one object clears another or the clear space between them.

compression

The process of eliminating gaps, empty fields, redundancies, and unnecessary data to shorten the length of records or blocks.

configure

To describe to a system the devices, optional features, and programs that are installed on the system.

controller

A device that coordinates and controls the operation of one or more input/output devices (such as sensors and actuators), and synchronizes the operation of such devices with the operation of the system as a whole.

control path

(1) Designated by the operator of the TS4500 tape library, a logical path into the library through which a server sends standard SCSI Medium Changer commands to control a specific logical library.

(2) A tape drive that is designated by the operator of the tape library to manage communication to and from a server and the library.

control path failover

In the event of a command failure, an optional feature that enables the host device driver to resend the command to an alternate control path for the same logical library. The device driver initiates error recovery and continues the operation on the alternate control path without interrupting the application.

current

The quantity of charge per unit of time. Measured in amperes (amps, A).

D

daisy-chain

To serially interconnect a series of SCSI connectors for multiple devices on the SCSI bus.

data cartridge

A tape cartridge dedicated to storing data. Contrast with cleaning cartridge.

data compression

See compression.

Data Facility Storage Management Subsystem (DFSMS)

An operating environment that helps automate and centralize the management of storage. To manage storage, DFSMS provides the storage administrator with control over data class, storage class, management class, storage group, and automatic class selection routine definitions.

data transfer element (DTE)

In SCSI terms, a tape drive.

data transfer element (DTE) address

In SCSI terms, the physical location of a tape drive.

data transfer rate

The average number of bits, characters, or blocks per unit of time that pass between corresponding equipment in a data transmission system. The rate is expressed in bits, characters, or blocks per second, minute, or hour.

dB

Decibel.

dc

Direct current.

decibel

A unit of measure that expresses the ratio of two amounts of electric or acoustic signal power that is equal to 10 times the common logarithm of this ratio.

decrypt

To decipher data.

In Cryptographic Support, to convert ciphertext into plaintext. See also encrypt.

degauss

To make a magnetic tape nonmagnetic by the use of electrical coils that carry currents that neutralize the magnetism of the tape.

degausser

A device that makes magnetic tape nonmagnetic.

destage

The movement of a cartridge from the cartridge cache to an HD slot. A destage occurs automatically when the cartridge cache is full.

device

Any hardware component or peripheral device, such as a tape drive or tape library, that can receive and send data.

device driver

A file that contains the code that is needed to use an attached device.

DFSMS

See Data Facility Storage Management Subsystem.

diagnostic cartridge

A tape cartridge that enables the detection and isolation of errors in programs and faults in equipment.

differential

See high voltage differential.

disable

To make nonfunctional.

door safety switch

On each frame of the TS4500 tape library, a mechanism that automatically turns off the power to the cartridge accessor whenever you open the front door.

drive

See tape drive.

drive head

The component that records an electrical signal onto magnetic tape, or reads a signal from tape into an electrical signal.

DTE

See data transfer element.

dual-gripper transport mechanism

On the cartridge accessor of the TS4500 tape library and mounted on the pivot assembly, the device that contains the two grippers that get and put cartridges into storage slots, drives, or the I/O stations.

E

eject

To remove or force out from within.

element address

The SCSI term for the host's view of a cartridge location.

enable

To make functional.

encrypt

In Cryptographic Support, to systematically scramble information so that it cannot be read without knowing the coding key. See also decrypt.

encryption

The conversion of data into a cipher. A key is required to encrypt and decrypt the data. Encryption provides protection from persons or software that attempt to access the data without the key.

encryption manager

A software program that assists IBM-encrypting tape drives in generating, protecting, storing, and maintaining encryption keys, which encrypt information that is written to and decrypt information that is read from tape media.

enhanced node cards

Node cards with increased synchronous dynamic and nonvolatile random-access memory (RAM).

error-recovery procedures (ERP)

Procedures that are designed to help isolate and, where possible, to recover from errors in equipment. The procedures are often used with programs that record the statistics of machine malfunctions.

Ethernet

A 10-Mbps base band local area network that allows multiple stations to access the transmission medium at will without prior coordination, avoids contention by using carrier sense and deference, and resolves contention by using collision detection and delayed retransmission.

expansion frame

A unit that can be added to the base frame of the TS4500 tape library. The expansion frame includes a rail assembly for the cartridge accessor and up to 16 tape drives or HD storage slots.

F

FCA

See frame control assembly.

FCB

Frame control box. See frame control assembly.

Fibre Channel

A high-speed, full-duplex, serial communications technology capable of interconnecting LTO tape drives and 3592 tape drives to servers that are separated by as much as 11 kilometers (7 miles). Fibre Channel technology combines features of the input/output (I/O) and networking interfaces.

Fibre Channel address

For a tape drive that uses a Fibre Channel interface, an identifier (such as an AL_PA or Loop ID) that enables other device ports to communicate with that drive.

Fibre Channel cable

The cable that connects a Fibre Channel tape drive to another device. The conductive element within the cable is constructed of either copper wires or optical fibers. Generally, copper wires are used for short distances (up to 30 meters or 98 feet); optical fibers are used for longer distances. Fiber-optic cabling is referred to by mode or the frequencies of light waves that are carried by a particular cable type. Multi-mode fiber cables are used for distances up to 500 meters (1640 feet) and with short-wave (780 nanometer) laser light. Single-mode fiber cables are used for distances greater than 500 m (1640 feet) and with long-wave (1300 nanometer) laser light.

fiber optics

A branch of optics that deal with the transmission of light through fibers or thin rods of glass or some other transparent material of high refractive index.

FICON/ESCON-enabled products

Any of the IBM tape products that are equipped with Fibre Channel (FICON®) or Enterprise System Connection (ESCON) interfaces to allow attachment to the System z® server (mainframe host).

field replaceable unit (FRU)

Any piece of hardware that is complete, contained, and manufactured or assembled as a whole unit and can be replaced in the field by a customer engineer (CE).

firmware

Proprietary code that is delivered as part of an operating system. Firmware is more efficient than software loaded from an alterable medium and is more adaptable to change than pure hardware circuitry. An example of firmware is the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) in read-only memory (ROM) on a PC motherboard.

floating home cell

The concept of actively managing cartridge placement by picking an optimal new home for cartridges that are being demounted. HD libraries use a floating home cell approach for the entire library.

frame

In Fibre Channel technology, a unit of transmission that includes delimiters, control characters, information, and checking characters.

See library frame.

frame control assembly (FCA)

The assembly consists of one Library Control Card (LCC), internal library communication cables, and two 12 V power supplies.

front door

At the front of each frame in the TS4500 tape library, the swinging barrier by which entry is closed or opened to the frame.

FRU

See field replaceable unit.

full duplex

Simultaneous transmission and reception of data between two nodes of a network.

G

GB

See gigabyte.

Gb

See gigabit.

Gbps

Gigabits per second. One gigabit equals 1␠000␠000␠000 bits.

get

(1) In library operation, the act of a cartridge gripper that is retrieving a tape cartridge from a storage slot, drive, or I/O station.

(2) In Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), a request for information about the library that the operator issues through a monitoring server and is transmitted by SNMP.

get-response

The information that is provided in response to an SNMP get request.

GiB

One gibibyte (GiB) = 1,073,741,824 bytes.

gigabit (Gb)

1␠000␠000␠000 bits.

gigabyte (GB)

1␠000␠000␠000 bytes.

H

HA

See high availability.

HACMP

See High Availability Clustered Multiprocessing.

HBA

See host bus adapter.

HD CoD

See High Density Capacity on Demand.

HD frame

See High density frame.

HD slot

See High density slot.

HD2 frame

See High density frame.

head

See drive head.

heat output

The amount of heat (in kBtu/hr) that the tape library dissipates during normal operation.

hertz (Hz)

A unit of frequency equal to cycle per second.

heterogeneous

Of unlike kind.

hex, hexadecimal

(1) Pertaining to a selection, choice, or condition that has 16 possible different values or states.

(2) Pertaining to a fixed-radix numeration system, with radix of 16.

(3) Pertaining to a system of numbers to the base 16; hexadecimal digits range from 0 through 9 and A through F, where A represents 10 and F represents 15.

high availability (HA)

A product that contains redundancy to continue work in the case of a set of (but not all possible) failures. A library that is HA contains two separate cartridge accessors.

High Availability Clustered Multiprocessing (HACMP)

An IBM AIX solution that automatically detects system or network failures and eliminates a single point of failure by managing failover to a recovery processor. High availability clustering refers to the linking of two or more computers, one of which can provide operation if the other one fails.

High Density Capacity on Demand

Applicable only to expansion frame models Sx4 and Sx5, a feature that adds licensed capacity to the library.

High density frame

An expansion frame that contains HD slots. An HD2 frame is a second-generation HD frame that can be installed in the leftmost position (frame 1) of the library and can be utilized as an integrated service bay. All expansion frames that are installed to the left of the TS4500 base frame, or that are serving as a TS4500 service bay, must be HD2 frames. Drive-capable HD2 frames support up to 16 HD2-compatible tape drives when positioned as frame number 2 or higher. Models L25, L55, D25, D55, S25, and S55 are all HD2 frames. Non-HD2 frames cannot be upgraded to HD2 frames.

High density slot

A four-deep or five-deep container for cartridges in an HD frame.

High Voltage Differential (HVD)

A logic signaling system that enables data communication between a supported server and the TS3500 tape library. HVD signaling uses a paired plus and minus signal level to reduce the effects of noise on the SCSI bus. Any noise that is injected into the signal is present in both a plus and minus state, and is thereby canceled. Synonymous with differential.

homogeneous

Of the same kind.

host

The controlling or highest-level system in a data communication configuration. Synonymous with server.

host bus adapter (HBA)

An adapter that provides I/O processing and physical connectivity between a server and storage.

host cleaning

A method that enables the host (server) to detect the need to clean a tape drive and to control the cleaning process. Host cleaning with a cleaning cartridge is only supported when automatic cleaning is disabled, and only for the logical library in which each cleaning cartridge is stored.

hub

A communications device to which nodes on a multi-point bus or loop are physically connected. Hubs are commonly used in Fibre Channel networks to improve the manageability of physical cables. They maintain the logical loop topology of the network of which they are a part, while they create a "hub and spoke" physical star layout. Unlike switches, hubs do not aggregate bandwidth. They typically support the addition or removal of nodes from the bus while it is operating.

HVD

See High voltage differential.

Hz

Hertz.

I

IBM 3592 Tape Controller Model J70

In the 3953 Tape Frame Model F05, a device that links the IBM eServer zSeries server (mainframe host), the L05 Library Manager, and the tape drives in the tape library.

IBM TS3500 tape library

Also known as the 3584 Tape Library, a device that can be attached to one or more supported servers and used to write data to and from magnetic tape. The library can include up to 16 frames and 192 drives, and any combination of LTO tape drives in LTO frames, and 3592 tape drives in 3592 frames.

IBM TS4500 tape library

Also known as the 3584 tape library, a device that can be attached to one or more supported servers and used to write data to and from magnetic tape. The library can include up to 18 frames and 128 drives.

IBM TotalStorage Productivity Center (TPC)

A software solution that manages storage infrastructures in Open Systems environments.

ID

Identifier.

IEE

See import/export element.

IEEA

See import/export element address.

IEEE

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

IMC

See Integrated management console (IMC).

import/export element (IEE)

In SCSI terms, an I/O slot.

import/export element address (IEEA)

In SCSI terms, the location of an I/O slot.

independent software vendor (ISV)

A company that makes and sells software products that run on one or more computer hardware or operating system platforms.

initial program load (IPL)

(1) The initialization procedure that causes an operating system to commence operation.

(2) The process by which a configuration image is loaded into storage at the beginning of a work day or after a system malfunction.

(3) The process of loading system programs and preparing a system to run jobs.

initialize

To format a magnetic tape, write a label (VOLSER) on the tape, and leave the tape empty except for the system files that contain the structure information. All former contents of the tape are lost.

initializing

The act of performing an inventory on the TS4500 tape library.

initiator

In SCSI terms, a SCSI device that requests an I/O process to be performed by another SCSI device (a target). In many cases, an initiator can also be a target.

input/output (I/O) station

Two compartments on the front door of the TS4500 tape library into which you insert and remove cartridges into and from the library. Both stations are accessed by the cartridge accessor.

inrush current

The momentary peak current (in amperes) into the tape library when the ac line voltage is first applied.

insert

A term used to describe the act of putting a tape cartridge into an I/O station or storage slot.

install

(1) To set up for use or service.

(2) The act of adding a product, feature, or function to a system or device either by a singular change or by the addition of multiple components or devices.

Integrated management console (IMC)

A built-in platform for tools that are used to manage the library.

interchange

The ability to process (read or write) given tape data on any one of a set of tape devices that support the form factor and recording format of the tape data.

interchange application

The preparation of tapes for use on other systems or devices, either local or remote, or the use of tape data that is prepared by another system.

interposer

An adapter-like device that allows a connector of one size and style to connect to a mating connector of a different size and style.

inventory

(1) A survey of tape cartridges in the library and frames.

(2) To make an inventory of.

I/O station

See input/output station.

IPL

Initial program load.

ISV

See independent software vendor.

K

kBtu

KiloBtu.

Kerberos

A network authentication protocol that allows nodes communicating over a non-secure network to prove their identity to one another in a secure manner. It is designed to provide strong authentication for client/server applications by using secret-key cryptography.

key label

An alias to a encryption key (cipher) used by the encryption manager.

key manager

In cryptography, a software application that manages one or more secret encryption keys.

key manager address

In cryptography, the IP address of an encryption manager.

keystore

A database of private keys and their associated digital certificate chains that are used to authenticate the corresponding public keys.

KiB

One kibibyte (KiB) = 2¹⁰ bytes = 1,024 bytes.

KiloBtu

1 000 Btu's.

KiloVolt

1 000 volts.

kilowatt

1 000 watts.

kVA

KiloVolt.

kW

Kilowatt.

L

label

See bar code label or radio frequency identification label.

label area

On the LTO tape cartridge or 3592 tape cartridge, a recessed area next to the write-protect switch where a bar code label must be affixed.

LAN

See local area network.

LDAP

See lightweight directory access protocol.

leader pin

On the LTO tape cartridge and 3592 tape cartridge, a small metal column that is attached to the end of the magnetic tape. During the processing of the tape, the leader pin is grasped by a threading mechanism, which pulls the pin and the tape out of the cartridge, across the drive head, and onto a take-up reel. The head can then read or write data from or to the tape.

leveling jackscrews

One of four screw-operated jacks on the bottom of the tape library for raising or lowering the library.

library frame

The basic unit of the TS4500 tape library. The frame includes the hardware support structure, covers, mechanisms, and parts. Two types of frames are available: base frames (Models Lxx) and expansion frames (Models Dxx and Sxx).

Library Manager

See IBM 3953 Library Manager Model L05.

library power switch

A button on the front of the tape library that switches power on and off.

license key

A key or password that is required to enable advanced function.

lightweight directory access protocol (LDAP)

A set of protocols that are used to access information directories. LDAP, an open protocol, is based on the standards that are contained within the X.500 standard, but is simpler. And unlike X.500, LDAP supports TCP/IP, which is necessary for any type of Internet access.

Linear Tape-Open (LTO)

A type of tape storage technology that was developed by the IBM Corporation, Hewlett-Packard, and Certance. LTO technology is an open format technology, which means that its users have multiple sources of product and media. The open nature of LTO technology enables compatibility between different vendors' offerings by ensuring that vendors comply with verification standards. The LTO technology is implemented in two formats: the Accelis format focuses on fast access; the LTO format focuses on high capacity. The LTO format is the preferred format when capacity (rather than fast access) is the key storage consideration.

line frequency

The frequency (in hertz) of the ac line voltage that the tape library requires for normal operation.

link

In Fibre Channel technology, the physical (optical) connection between two nodes of a network, which includes the combination of the link connection (the transmission medium) and two link stations, one at each end of the link connection.

load

Following the insertion of a tape cartridge into a cartridge storage slot, the act (performed by the cartridge accessor) of transferring the cartridge from the storage slot to the drive and of positioning the tape (performed by the tape drive) for reading or writing by the drive head.

load and unload cycle

The act of inserting a cartridge into a tape drive, loading the tape to load point, rewinding the tape into the cartridge, and ejecting the cartridge from the drive.

load point

The beginning of the recording area on magnetic tape.

load-to-ready time

After a cartridge is inserted into a drive, the amount of time between when the drive threads the tape and when the drive becomes ready to accept server commands.

local area network (LAN)

(1) A computer network that is on a user's premises within a limited geographical area. Communication within a local area network is not subject to external regulations; however, communication across the LAN boundary might be subject to some form of regulation.

(2) A network in which a set of devices is connected to other sets of devices for communication and that can be connected to a larger network.

local authentication

The process of validating a user identity to the system according to the local operating system account to which the user logged in. If the user is authenticated, the user is mapped to a principal.

logical library

A set of tape drives and tape cartridges that are defined as a library by an operator. The ability to create logical libraries makes it possible for similar and dissimilar hosts (servers) to share its robotics. As a result, hosts can simultaneously run separate applications in separate logical libraries.

logical library bar code label

A specially coded label that can be affixed to the tops of storage slot columns and drives inside the TS3500 tape library. The tape library reads the labels and uses them to establish the boundaries of one or more logical libraries.

logical library configuration

A way of using the tape library so that its robotics are shared by homogenous (similar) and heterogeneous (dissimilar) servers. The tape library can be partitioned into individual logical libraries that independently communicate with individual servers using individual control paths.

logical unit number (LUN)

A number that is associated with the target address of a drive. The server uses the number to identify the address of the drive.

loop ID

In Fibre Channel technology, the identifier that the tape library assigned to an LTO or 3592 tape drive. The ID is based on the drive's physical location within the library and is used by other devices in the topology to communicate.

LTO

See Linear Tape-Open.

LTO cartridge memory (LTO-CM)

Within each LTO data cartridge, an embedded electronics and interface module that can store and retrieve a cartridge's historical usage and other information.

LTO-CM

See LTO cartridge memory.

LUN

See logical unit number.

M

m

Meter.

magnetic tape

A tape with a magnetizable surface layer on which data can be stored by magnetic recording.

Management Information Base (MIB)

Units of managed information that specifically describe an aspect of a system, such as the system name, hardware number, or communications configuration. A collection of related MIB objects is defined as an MIB. The tape library can use the MIB to interpret problem alerts that are transmitted by SNMP traps.

management GUI

See TS4500 management GUI.

manual cleaning

A method by which an operator selects a menu option from the TS4500 management GUI to perform the cleaning procedure on one or more tape drives.

master console

See system console.

MB

See megabyte.

Mbps

Megabits per second.

MCA

See Medium Changer assembly.

MCC

See Medium Changer card pack.

MCP

See Medium Changer card pack.

mebibyte (MiB)

1·048·576 bytes.

media capacity

The amount of data that can be contained on storage media and expressed in bytes of data.

media-type identifier

Pertaining to the bar code on the bar code label of the IBM LTO tape cartridge, a two-character code (Lx), that represents information about the cartridge. L identifies the cartridge as one that can be read by devices that incorporate LTO technology; x indicates the generation of cartridge; T, U, V, and Wrepresent different generations of WORM cartridges.

medium

A physical material in or on which data might be represented, such as magnetic tape.

Medium Changer Device

In SCSI terms, an instrument that moves removable storage units from and to storage slots and tape drives. The TS4500 tape library is a Medium Changer Device.

megabyte (MB)

1␠000␠000 bytes.

metal-particle tape

In the LTO and 3592 tape cartridges, tape that uses small, pure metal particles (rather than oxide coatings) in the magnetic layer.

meter

In the metric system, the basic unit of length; equal to approximately 39.37 inches.

MiB

One mebibyte (MiB) = 1,048,576 bytes.

MIB

See Management Information Base.

middleware

A vague term that refers to the software between an application program and the lower-level platform functions.

micron

One millionth of a meter (.000001 m).

Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) and Clustered Server Environments

A solution from Microsoft that automatically detects system or network failures in Windows operating systems and eliminates a single point of failure by managing failover to a recovery processor.

mid-range systems

A set of multi-user servers with a hard disk capacity of between 50 GB - 250 GB.

mixed drive types

The concept of using both LTO and 3592 tape cartridges in a tape library. A library can consist of frames that house all LTO tape cartridges or all 3592 tape cartridges, but the two types of cartridges cannot be mixed in a single frame. However, both types of cartridges might be inserted or removed from the library through the base frame, if a lower I/O station is installed for the 3592 tape cartridges.

mixed media configuration

Different media and drive technologies, such as the LTO tape drive and the 3592 tape drive. LTO 1, LTO 2, and LTO 3 drives and media are not considered mixed media, but are considered different generations of the same type of media.

Model J1A

See IBM 3592 tape drive Model J1A.

mount

The act of making a tape available for processing by a specific tape device. A mount consists of removing the cartridge from a drive, returning it to its storage slot, collecting another cartridge from a storage slot, moving it to the drive, and loading it into the drive.

mount/demount cycle

See mount.

mounted

The state of a tape while it is available for processing by a specific tape device.

mount throughput

The number of cartridges that a tape library can mount in a one-hour period.

N

N

A measure of the electrical power load in a system. If there are N loads in the system, N power supplies are required to power all of the loads.

N/A

Not applicable.

native data capacity

The amount of data that can be stored without compression on a tape cartridge.

NetView

(1) Pertaining to an IBM licensed program that is used to monitor a network, manage it, and diagnose its problems. The NetView licensed program can be used to provide network management services for OSI Communications Subsystem. (2) A network management product that can provide automated operations and rapid notification of events.

network

A configuration of data processing devices and software that is connected for information interchange.

network server

In a local area network, a personal computer that provides access to files for all of the workstations in the network.

node

In Fibre Channel technology, a communicating device.

node card

One of four circuit assemblies (accessor controller card, motor driver assembly, Medium Changer card pack, and operator panel assembly) within the TS4500 tape library that communicate with each other.

nominal

Approximate.

nominal power

The amount of power (in kilowatts) that the tape library dissipates during normal operation.

non-addressable cartridge storage slot

See inaccessible cartridge storage slot.

nondisruptive firmware update

The ability to update drive or library firmware without scheduling downtime. A nondisruptive update can be performed for TS4500 tape library firmware, as well as firmware for all 3592 tape drives and LTO 2 and later LTO tape drives.

non-volatile memory

Types of memory that retain their contents when the power is turned off. ROM is nonvolatile, whereas RAM is volatile.

not ready

The condition that exists when the TS4500 tape library is not ready for operation with the host.

O

Oersted

The unit of magnetic field strength in the unrationalized centimeter-gram-second (cgs) electromagnetic system. The Oersted is the magnetic field strength in the interior of an elongated, uniformly wound solenoid that is excited with a linear current density in its winding of 1 abampere per 4π centimeters of axial length.

operating environment

The temperature, relative humidity rate, and wet bulb temperature of the room in which the tape library routinely conducts the processing.

optimized dual gripper

An electromechanical device that is mounted on the pivot assembly and gets or puts cartridges from or to a storage slot, tape drive, or I/O station.

P

partition

A fixed-size division of storage.

patch panel

An optional unit that houses the fiber cable connections between the servers and the individual drives. Located at the rear of the base or expansion frame in a TS4500 tape library.

Pause key

A button on the TS4500 tape library display panel that causes the cartridge accessor to park itself and provide clear access to the library's interior when you power off the library or open the front door. The pause button enables quick recovery when you power on the library or close the front door.

PB

Petabyte.

Petabyte

1·000·000·000·000·000 bytes.

ping

(1) A command that calls an IP address.

(2) The act of issuing a command that calls an IP address.

pivot assembly

A group of parts on the cartridge accessor that provides a mounting platform for the gripper mechanism and the bar code reader. The pivot assembly can rotate 180° about the vertical axis.

point load

On a floor, one or more locations where the weight of an object is concentrated.

point-to-point topology

In communications, the physical or logical arrangement of nodes in a network to facilitate data transmission between two locations without the use of any intermediate display station or computer.

port

(1) A system or network access point for data entry or exit.

(2) A connector on a device to which cables for other devices such as display stations and printers are attached.

(3) The representation of a physical connection to the link hardware. A port is sometimes referred to as an adapter; however, there can be more than one port on an adapter.

power cord

A cable that connects a device to a source of electrical power.

power cord plug

On a power cord, the male fitting for making an electrical connection to a circuit by insertion into a receptacle.

power distribution unit (PDU)

A unit that provides ac distribution within a frame by supplying multiple internal ac outlets from a single external ac power cord.

power off, powered off

(1) To remove electrical power from a device.

(2) The state of a device when power has been removed from it.

power on, powered on

(1) To apply electrical power to a device.

(2) The state of a device when power is applied to it.

power-on indicator

A green light above the power button that, when lit, indicates that dc power is available within the TS4500 tape library.

power receptacle

The mounted female electrical fitting that contains the live parts of the circuit.

power supply

The electrical component of a computer system that converts standard ac current to the lower voltage dc current used by the computer. The amount of current a power supply can provide is rated in amperes.

power switch

See library power switch.

prestage

The movement of a cartridge from an HD slot to a cartridge cache. See also destage.

protocol

The meanings of, and the sequencing rules for, requests and responses that are used for managing a network, transferring data, and synchronizing the states of network components.

put

To place, by means of a robotic device, a tape cartridge into a storage slot, drive, or I/O station.

Q

quiesce

To put a device into a temporarily inactive or inhibited state, but not remove it from the system.

R

RABF

See recursive accumulating backhitchless flush.

radio frequency identification labels

An adhesive bar code label with an embedded radio frequency identification tag that can be used to track tape cartridges.

rail system

The support structure over which the cartridge accessor moves.

read

To acquire or interpret data from a storage device, from a data medium, or from another source.

ready

The operating condition that the tape library is in when the host applications can interact with it.

recursive accumulating backhitchless flush (RABF)

A non-volatile caching technique that are used by the 3592 tape drives.

rekey

In cryptography, the process of encrypting a data key a second time by using the public key of another party to create another externally encrypted data key. The cartridge can then be shipped to a business partner that holds the corresponding private key that allows the data key to be unwrapped and the tape can be decrypted on a different encryption-capable 3592 tape drive.

relative humidity

The ratio of the amount of water vapor present in the air to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature.

remote authentication

The process of validating the user ID and password that are supplied by a user for a remote system to which the user requires access. If the user is authenticated, the user is mapped to a principal.

remote support

See Call Home.

Remote Technical Assistance Information Network (RETAIN)

Used by IBM Service Representatives, an internal host-based software application that contains records of service problems with IBM hardware and software, and tips on how to deal with the problems.

remove

The act of taking a tape cartridge out of an I/O station.

repeater

A device that regenerates signals to extend the range of transmission between data stations or to interconnect two branches. A repeater is a node of a local area network.

RETAIN

See Remote Technical Assistance Information Network.

RFID

See radio frequency identification labels.

robotics

The cartridge accessor and any associated mechanisms that move a tape cartridge within the tape library.

RS-422 interface

An electrical interface standard that is approved by the Electronic Industries Association (EIA) for connecting serial devices. The RS-422 standard, which supports higher data rates and greater immunity to electrical interference, is an alternative to the older RS-232 interface and uses individual differential signal pairs for data transmission. Depending on data transmission rates, RS-422 can be used at distances to 1,275 m (4,000 ft). The RS-422 interface also supports multi-point connections.

S

SAN

See Storage Area Network.

SARS

See Statistical Analysis and Reporting System.

SC1

Model SC1. See Shuttle connection.

scratch cartridge

A labeled cartridge that is blank or contains no valid data, that is not currently defined, and that is available for use.

scratch encryption policy

A means of identifying to an ecryption-enabled tape drive which scratch cartridges will be encrypted on the next attempt to write from the beginning of the tape. A scratch encryption policy specifies what scratch cartridges to encrypt; it does not indicate which cartridges are currently encrypted. When used with library-managed encryption, a policy optionally lets you control cartridge encryption by VOLSER ranges in all logical libraries.

SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

SCSI-2

A variation of the SCSI interface. See Small Computer Systems Interface.

SCSI bus

(1) A collection of wires through which data is transmitted from one part of a computer to another.

(2) A generic term that refers to the complete set of signals that define the activity of the Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

SCSI address

See SCSI ID.

SCSI connector

One of the set of all female and male connectors on the SCSI bus.

SCSI device

Anything that can connect into the SCSI bus and actively participate in bus activity.

SCSI element address

A value that defines a logical location in the tape library to the SCSI interface. It is assigned by the library and used by the server when the server processes SCSI commands. The SCSI element address is not unique to a storage slot, drive, or I/O slot; it varies, depending on the quantity of drives in the library, whether the Capacity Expansion feature is installed, and whether an Expanded I/O Station is included.

SCSI ID

The hexadecimal representation of the unique address (0-F) that is assigned to a SCSI device. This identifier would normally be assigned and set in the SCSI device during system installation.

search time

The average time that it takes for a tape drive to locate the starting point of a block of data.

secure sockets layer (SSL)

Protocol for transmitting private documents by using the internet. SSL uses a cryptographic system that uses two keys to encrypt data - a public key that is known to everyone and a private or secret key that is known only to the recipient of the message. Many web sites use the protocol to obtain confidential user information, such as credit card numbers. By convention, URLs that require an SSL connection start with https: instead of http:.

sequential access

The processing of information on a tape cartridge in a manner that requires the device to access consecutive storage locations (logical blocks) on the medium.

Sequential Access Device

In SCSI terms, a tape drive.

serial number

See volume serial number.

server

A functional unit that provides services to one or more clients over a network. Examples include a file server, a print server, and a mail server. The IBM System p, IBM System i, HP, and Sun are servers. Synonymous with host.

service clearance

The space that is required for an IBM Service Representative to perform maintenance on the tape library.

service location protocol

(SLP) Protocol that provides a framework to allow networking applications to discover the existence, location, and configuration of networked services in enterprise networks. With SLP, the user needs to know the description of the service that he is interested in only. SLP is then able to return the URL of the service that the user wants.

service ratings

The values for criteria that is associated with an electrical power cord. The criteria include maximum voltage, current, phases, and wires.

ship group

The group of supplies, cords, or documentation that is shipped with the tape library.

shipping environment

The temperature, relative humidity rate, and wet bulb temperature of the environment to which the tape library is exposed when being transferred from one location to another.

short-wave cable

In Fibre Channel technology, a laser cable that uses a wavelength of 780 nanometers and is only compatible with multi-mode fiber.

shuffle

In HD frames, the process of moving cartridges in lower tiers into the gripper or other available slots to access cartridges in higher tiers.

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)

A network management protocol that is used to monitor routers and attached networks. SNMP is an application layer protocol. Information on devices that are managed is defined and stored in the application's Management Information Base (MIB).

single-phase power

Electricity that is transmitted via three wires (line, neutral, and ground), with a line-to-neutral voltage of 200-240 V ac.

SLP

See Service Location Protocol.

Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI)

A standard that is used by computer manufacturers for attaching peripheral devices (such as tape drives, hard disks, CD-ROM players, printers, and scanners) to computers (servers). Pronounced "scuzzy." Variations of the SCSI interface provide for faster data transmission rates than standard serial and parallel ports (up to 160 megabytes per second). The variations include:

• Fast/Wide SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus, and supports data rates of up to 20 MBps.
• SCSI-1: Uses an 8-bit bus, and supports data rates of 4 MBps.
• SCSI-2: Same as SCSI-1, but uses a 50-pin connector instead of a 25-pin connector, and supports multiple devices.
• Ultra SCSI: Uses an 8- or 16-bit bus, and supports data rates of 20 or 40 MBps.
• Ultra2 SCSI: Uses an 8- or 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 40 or 80 MBps.
• Ultra3 SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 80 or 160 MBps.
• Ultra160 SCSI: Uses a 16-bit bus and supports data rates of 80 or 160 MBps.

SMI-S

See Storage Management Initiative - Specification.

SMI-S Agent for Tape

See Storage Management Initiative - Specification (SMI-S) Agent for Tape.

SNMP

See Simple Network Management Protocol.

soft addressing

A method of creating or changing Loop IDs for drives in the tape library. With soft-addressing, the drives automatically arbitrate the AL_PAs with other Fibre Channel devices on the loop. This method avoids conflicts over the address.

speed matching

The ability of the LTO 2 and later LTO tape drives to adjust their native data rate as closely as possible to the net host data rate (after data compressibility is factored out).

SSL

See Secure Sockets Layer.

stand-alone

Pertaining to operation that is independent of any other device, program, or system.

Statistical Analysis and Reporting System (SARS)

Firmware that is built into the 3592 tape drives and the LTO tape drives and is used by the drive during problem determination to identify which single-character display code, ASC/ASCQ, and/or TapeAlert to report.

StE

See storage element.

Storage Area Network (SAN)

A high-speed subnetwork of shared storage devices. A SAN's architecture makes all storage devices available to all servers on a LAN or WAN. As more storage devices are added to a SAN, they too are accessible from any server in the larger network. Because stored data does not reside directly on any of a network's servers, server power is used for business applications, and network capacity is released to the user.

storage element (StE)

In SCSI terms, a cartridge storage slot.

storage environment

The temperature, relative humidity rate, and wet bulb temperature of the environment in which the tape library is non-operational and being stored for future use.

Storage Management Initiative - Specification (SMI-S)

A design specification of the Storage Management Initiative (SMI) that was started by the Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA). The SMI-S specifies a secure and reliable interface that allows storage management systems to identify, classify, monitor, and control physical and logical resources in a Storage Area Network (SAN).

Storage Management Initiative - Specification (SMI-S) Agent for Tape

Software that is used by management software to communicate with storage devices in a SAN environment. The SMI-S Agent for Tape communicates by using the Web-Based Enterprise Management (WBEM) protocol, which allows management software to communicate with the TS4500 tape library.

sustained data transfer rate

Between the server and the tape drive, the average transfer rate of data across the SCSI interface to and from the tape drive during a transition from one end of the tape to the other end.

switch

A network infrastructure component to which multiple nodes attach. Unlike hubs, switches typically can switch node connections from one to another. A typical switch can facilitate several simultaneous bandwidth transmissions between different pairs of nodes.

system console

A service tool that monitors the tape library and other components for early detection of unusual conditions and for error information that the components send to IBM's Remote Technical Assistance Information Network (RETAIN).

T

TapeAlert

A patented technology from Hewlett-Packard that monitors the status of a tape device and media, and detects problems as they occur.

TapeAlert flags

Status and error messages that are generated by the TapeAlert utility and display on the host console. The messages indicate the type of problem and tell how to resolve it.

tape cartridge

A removable storage device that consists of a housing that contains a belt-driven magnetic tape wound on a supply reel and a takeup reel.

tape drive

A data-storage device that controls the movement of the magnetic tape in a compatible tape cartridge. The tape drive houses the mechanism (drive head) that reads and writes data to the tape.

tape frame

See IBM 3953 Tape Frame Model F05.

Tape System Service Application (TSSA)

A set of software tools that reside on the integrated management console (IMC) that aid in both local service and remote support of the attached TS4500 tape library. These tools are identical to those tools provided by the IBM TS3000 system console (TSSC), an externally rack-mounted system console.

target

A SCSI device that performs an operation that is requested by the initiator. A target can also be an initiator.

TB

Terabyte.

TCP/IP

See transmission control protocol/Internet protocol.

terabyte

1␠000␠000␠000␠000 bytes.

terminate, termination

To prevent unwanted electrical signal reflections by applying a device (a terminator) that absorbs the energy from the transmission line.

terminator

(1) A part that is used to end a SCSI bus.

(2) A single-port, 75-Ω device that is used to absorb energy from a transmission line. Terminators prevent energy from reflecting back into a cable plant by absorbing the radio frequency signals. A terminator is shielded, which prevents unwanted signals from entering or valid signals from leaving the cable system.

tier

The depth of a cartridge location in an HD slot.

Tivoli® Storage Manager (TSM)

An IBM client/server product that provides storage management and data access services in a heterogeneous environment. TSM supports various communication methods, provides administrative facilities to manage the backup and storage of files, and provides facilities for scheduling backups.

Tivoli Storage Productivity Center (TPC)

A software solution that manages storage infrastructures in Open Systems environments.

topology

In communications, the physical or logical arrangement of nodes in a network, especially the relationships among nodes and the links between them.

Total Productivity Center (TPC)

See IBM Total Productivity Center.

TPC

See IBM Total Productivity Center.

track

A linear or angled pattern of data written on a tape surface.

transfer rate

See data transfer rate.

transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP)

(1) The Transmission Control Protocol and the Internet Protocol, which together provide reliable end-to-end connections between applications over interconnected networks of different types.

(2) The suite of transport and application protocols that run over the Internet Protocol.

TS4500 management GUI

A web-based interface that allows users to configure, administer, monitor, and manage the TS4500 tape library locally from the IMC or from a remote location. See also TS4500 integrated management console (IMC).

TSM

See Tivoli Storage Manager.

TSSA

See Tape System Service Application.

two-node arbitrated loop

In Fibre Channel technology, the connection of two nodes that communicate directly (without the use of a switch) and use the same protocol.

two-node switched fabric loop

In Fibre Channel technology, the connection of two or more nodes that might not use the same protocol and communicate by using a switch.

two-phase power

Electricity that is transmitted via three wires (line, line, and ground), with a line-to-line voltage of 200-240 V ac. Sometimes referred to as single phase power.

U

Ultra SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

Ultra160 SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

Ultra2 SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

Ultra3 SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

Ultra320 SCSI

See Small Computer Systems Interface.

unload

A term that is used to describe the act of the drive unthreading the tape from the internal tape path and returning the leader block to the tape cartridge.

V

V

Volt.

V ac

Volts ac (alternating current).

vital product data (VPD)

Information about a product, such as a library, drive, or node card. The VPD might include a machine type, model number, serial number, part number, or level of firmware.

void

In character recognition, the inadvertent absence of ink within a character outline.

VOLSER

Volume serial number.

VOLSER ranges

A method that is used to automatically assign cartridges to a logical library by using beginning and ending volume serial number ranges that are set by the user. See also Cartridge assignment policy.

volt

The SI (international) unit of potential difference and electromotive force, formally defined to be the difference of electric potential between two points of a conductor that is carrying a constant current of 1 ampere, when the power dissipated between these points is equal to 1 watt.

volume serial number (VOLSER)

A number that a computer assigns to a tape cartridge when it prepares (initializes) the cartridge for use.

VPD

See vital product data.

W

W

Watts.

watt

A metric unit of measure of power; the power that is required to keep a current of 1 ampere flowing under a potential drop of 1 volt; about 1/736 of 1 horsepower.

wet bulb temperature

The temperature at which pure water must be evaporated adiabatically at constant pressure into a sample of air to saturate the air under steady-state conditions. Read from a wet-bulb thermometer.

World Wide Node Name

In Fibre Channel technology, the fixed, 64-bit name that is assigned to a device by its manufacturer and used to identify participants in a topology. The World Wide Node Name is unique if the manufacturer registered a range of addresses with the IEEE.

World Wide Port Name

Within a parent node, a unique 64-bit name that is assigned to a node port. The World Wide Port Name aids the accessibility of the port.

WORM

See write once read many.

write

To make a permanent or transient recording of data in a storage device or on a data medium.

write once read many (WORM)

A technology that allows data to be written only once to LTO 3 and later LTO tape cartridges and all 3592 tape cartridges. After the data is written, it cannot be altered, but can be read any number of times.

write protected

A tape cartridge is write protected if some logical or physical mechanism causes the device that is processing the tape to prevent the program from writing on the tape.

write-protect switch

On LTO and 3592 tape cartridges, a switch that prevents accidental erasure of data. Pictures of a locked and unlocked padlock appear on the switch. When you slide the switch to the locked padlock, data cannot be written to the tape. When you slide the switch to the unlocked padlock, data can be written to the tape.

X

X-axis and Y-axis motion assemblies

A group of parts that provides the motive force to move the accessor side to side (on the X-axis) and up and down (on the Y-axis).

Y

Y-axis motion assembly

See X-axis and Y-axis motion assemblies.

Z

zoning

A method of subdividing a storage area network into disjoint zones, or subsets of nodes on the network. Storage area network nodes outside a zone are invisible to nodes within the zone. Moreover, with switched SANs, traffic within each zone might be physically isolated from traffic outside the zone.