Troubleshooting
Problem
This document discusses when bar code labels are required on tape drives and tape libraries.
Resolving The Problem
This document discusses when bar code labels are required on tape drives and tape libraries.
A bar code label contains the following information:
Requirements
The following are examples for the bar code label requirements for Ultrium™ tape drives and libraries (note that this is not an all inclusive list):
When read by a library’s bar code reader, the bar code identifies the cartridge’s VOLSER to the library. The bar code also tells the library whether the cartridge is a data cartridge or a cleaning cartridge. In addition, the bar code includes the two character media-type identifier Lx, where x equals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 8 or 9. L identifies the cartridge as an LTO cartridge. The number (1-9) indicates the generation type. For example, L1 is the first generation, while L5 is the fifth generation.
Cartridges and VOLSERs Compatible with the Ultrium™ Tape Drive
Note: Ultrium™4 tape drives are supported only on OS version 5.3 systems and above.
Ultrium5 and Ultrium6 tape drives are only supported on OS version 6.1.1 systems and above.
Ultrium7 and Ultrium8 tape drives are only supported on OS version 7.1 and above.
A bar code label contains the following information:
| o | A volume serial number (VOLSER) that is human-readable. |
| o | A bar code that the library can read. |
Requirements
The following are examples for the bar code label requirements for Ultrium™ tape drives and libraries (note that this is not an all inclusive list):
| Tape Drive | Bar Code Required or Not Required |
| 3580 | Not required |
| 3851 | Required with optional Bar Code (not required in Sequential mode) |
| 3582 | Required (not required in Sequential mode) |
| 3583 | Required |
| TS2900 (3572) | Required (not required in Sequential mode) |
| TS3100 (3573) | Required (not required in Sequential mode) |
| TS3200 (3573) | Required (not required in Sequential mode) |
| TS3310 (3576) | Required |
| TS3400 (3577) | Required |
| TS3500 (3584) | Required |
| TS4300 (3555) | Required |
| TS4500 (3584) | Required |
When read by a library’s bar code reader, the bar code identifies the cartridge’s VOLSER to the library. The bar code also tells the library whether the cartridge is a data cartridge or a cleaning cartridge. In addition, the bar code includes the two character media-type identifier Lx, where x equals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 8 or 9. L identifies the cartridge as an LTO cartridge. The number (1-9) indicates the generation type. For example, L1 is the first generation, while L5 is the fifth generation.
The bar code for usage in IBM tape libraries must meet predefined specifications. They include (however, are not limited to) the following:
| o | Eight uppercase alphanumeric characters, where the last two characters must be L9, L8, L7, L6, L5, L4, L3, L2, or L1 |
| o | Label and printing to be non-glossy |
| o | Nominal narrow line or space width of 0.423 mm (0.017 inches) |
| o | Wide to narrow ratio of 2.75:1 |
| o | Minimum bar length of 11.1 mm (0.44 inches) |
Cartridges and VOLSERs Compatible with the Ultrium™ Tape Drive
| Cartridges |
VOLSER
|
| Ultrium 9 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL9 |
| Ultrium 8 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL8 |
| Ultrium 7 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL7 |
| Ultrium 6 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL6 |
| Ultrium 5 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL5 |
| Ultrium 4 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL4 |
| Ultrium 3 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL3 |
| Ultrium 2 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL2 |
| Ultrium 1 Data Cartridge | xxxxxxL1 |
| IBM TotalStorage LTO Ultrium Cleaning Cartridge (universal) | CLNUxxL1 |
Note: Ultrium™4 tape drives are supported only on OS version 5.3 systems and above.
Ultrium5 and Ultrium6 tape drives are only supported on OS version 6.1.1 systems and above.
Ultrium7 and Ultrium8 tape drives are only supported on OS version 7.1 and above.
Ultrium9 are only supported on OS version 7.2 and above
The LTO cartridge label uses the bar code symbology of USS-39. A description and definition is available from the Automatic Identification Manufacturers (AIM) specification Uniform Symbol Specification (USS-39) and the ANSI MH10.8M-1993 ANSI Bar Code specification.
The LTO cartridge label uses the bar code symbology of USS-39. A description and definition is available from the Automatic Identification Manufacturers (AIM) specification Uniform Symbol Specification (USS-39) and the ANSI MH10.8M-1993 ANSI Bar Code specification.
To determine the complete specifications of the bar code and the bar code label, refer to the Web site http://www.ibm.com/storage/lto (search for IBM LTO Ultrium Cartridge Label Specification)
Also refer to Cartridges and Barcode Labels for 3580 and 3592 Drives, or contact your IBM Sales Representative.
When attaching a bar code label to a tape cartridge, place the label only in the recessed label area. A label that extends outside of the recessed area can cause loading problems in the drive.
Attention: Do not place any type of mark on the white space at either end of the bar code. A mark in this area can prevent the library from reading the label.
When attaching a bar code label to a tape cartridge, place the label only in the recessed label area. A label that extends outside of the recessed area can cause loading problems in the drive.
Attention: Do not place any type of mark on the white space at either end of the bar code. A mark in this area can prevent the library from reading the label.
For more information on IBM tape and tape libraries supported by the IBM i (including models, requirements and support) see IBM i Removable Media: Tape and Tape Library Devices
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Historical Number
423514382
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Document Information
Modified date:
13 May 2025
UID
nas8N1018971