HP Hewlett Packard Computer Drive 8505 8 mm User Manual

8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
User’s Guide  
Order Number: EK-STWCT-UG. E01  
 
Contents  
Revision Record .......................................................................................................... v  
About This Guide ..................................................................................................... vii  
1 Introduction  
1.1  
1.2  
1.3  
1.4  
1.5  
1.6  
1.7  
1.8  
Product Overview ...............................................................................................1–1  
StorageWorks Packaging Options for the Cartridge Tape Drive...........................1–1  
Support for Four Data Formats............................................................................1–4  
Support for Partitioned Tapes..............................................................................1–5  
Enhanced Performance........................................................................................1–5  
Intelligent Data Compression ..............................................................................1–5  
Sophisticated Error Correction Procedures ..........................................................1–5  
Additional Features.............................................................................................1–5  
2 Installation and Initial Power On  
2.1  
2.2  
2.3  
Unpacking the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive...........................2–1  
Installation Documents........................................................................................2–1  
Performing the Initial Power On..........................................................................2–2  
3 Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive  
3.1  
Location of Controls and Indicators.....................................................................3–1  
3.1.1  
3.1.2  
3.2  
3.3  
3.4  
3.5  
3.6  
3.7  
Unload Button ..............................................................................................3–2  
LEDs ............................................................................................................3–2  
Recommended Data Cartridge.............................................................................3–3  
Setting the Write-Protect Switch .........................................................................3–3  
Loading a Data Cartridge ....................................................................................3–4  
Load Time ..........................................................................................................3–5  
Unload Cartridge Procedure................................................................................3–5  
Error During Unload Procedure...........................................................................3–5  
4 Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive  
4.1  
4.2  
4.3  
Determining When the Tape Drive Needs Cleaning.............................................4–1  
Using the 8mm Cleaning Cartridge .....................................................................4–2  
Exercising the Cartridge Tape Drive....................................................................4–3  
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StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Appendix A Product Specifications  
Appendix B Product Notes for Novelland MS-DOS™  
Appendix C Product Notes for Sun™  
Appendix D Product Notes for IBM™ RS/6000  
Appendix E Product Notes for Hewlett-Packard  
Reader Comment Form ........................................................................... Inside Back Cover  
Figures  
1–1  
1–2  
1–3  
1–4  
3–1  
3–2  
3–3  
4–1  
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive..................................................1–1  
Option SWXTE-AA: One Tape Drive in a Device Carrier ..................................1–2  
Option SWXTE-AB: Two Tape Drives in a Device Carrier ................................1–3  
Option SWXTE-AC: For Installation in Desktop Expansion Unit.......................1–3  
Front Panel Controls and Indicators....................................................................3–1  
Front Panel LEDs...............................................................................................3–2  
Write-Protect Switch on 8mm Data Cartridge.....................................................3–4  
Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive......................................................................4–3  
Tables  
1–1  
1-2  
3–1  
Read/Write Compatibility of 8mm Tape Drives and Data Formats......................1–4  
Read/Write Compatibility Comparisons..............................................................1–3  
States Indicated by LEDs....................................................................................3–3  
iv  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Revision Record  
This Revision Record provides a concise publication history of this guide. It lists the manual revision levels,  
release dates, and reasons for the revisions. It also describes how the changes to affected pages are  
marked in the guide.  
The following revision history lists all revisions of this publication and their effective dates. The  
publication part number is included in the Revision Level column, with the last entry denoting the  
latest revision.  
Revision Level  
Date  
Summary of Changes  
EK-STWCT-UG. A01  
EK-STWCT-UG. B01  
December 1993  
March 1994  
Original release  
Cleaning cartridge and  
Appendix B added  
EK-STWCT-UG. C01  
EK-STWCT-UG. D01  
EK-STWCT-UG. E01  
August 1994  
Appendix C added  
Appendix D added  
Appendix E added  
October 1994  
December 1994  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
v
 
About This Guide  
This section identifies the users of this guide and describes the contents and structure. In addition, it  
includes a list of conventions used in this guide.  
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive User's Guide  
This guide provides operational and maintenance information for the StorageWorks 8505  
8mm Cartridge Tape Drive.  
Intended Audience  
This guide is intended for any user who is responsible for operating or maintaining the  
cartridge tape drive.  
Document Structure  
This guide contains the following chapters:  
Chapter 1: Introduction  
Introduction gives an overview of the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
and describes the three packaging options for the drive: SWXTE-AA, SWXTE-AB, and  
SWXTE-AC. It also describes the formats the drive can read and write.  
Chapter 2: Installation and Initial Power On  
Installation and Initial Power On refers you to the appropriate installation information  
and provides information about the initial power on of the cartridge tape drive.  
Chapter 3 Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive  
Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive describes how to use the drive’s controls and  
indicators; it also describes how to load and unload tapes.  
Chapter 4 Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive  
Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive describes how to clean the drive.  
Appendix A: Product Specifications  
Product Specifications provides physical and operating specifications.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
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StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Appendix B: Product Notes for Novelland MS-DOS™  
Product Notes for Novell and MS-DOS provides information for the system  
administrator. It must be read before installing and using the cartridge tape drive SBB  
with a host system operating with the Novell and MS-DOS, or MS-DOS/WINDOWS  
operating systems.  
Appendix C: Product Notes for Sun™  
Product Notes for Sun provides information for the system administrator. It must be read  
before installing and using the cartridge tape drive SBB with a host system operating  
with the Sun and Solaris operating systems.  
Appendix D: Product Notes for IBMRS/6000  
Product Notes for IBM provides information for the system administrator. It must be  
read before installing and using the cartridge tape drive SBB with a host system  
operating with the AIX 3.2.5 (or later) operating system.  
Appendix E: Product Notes for HP9000 Series 800  
Product Notes for HP provides information for the system administrator. It must be read  
before installing and using the cartridge tape drive SBB with a host system operating  
with the HP-UX 9.04 (or later) operating system.  
Conventions  
This guide uses the following conventions:  
Documentation Conventions  
Style  
Meaning  
boldface type  
For emphasis  
italic type  
For emphasis and manual titles  
Ordering Data and Cleaning Cartridges  
You can order data and cleaning cartridges from the following sources:  
The 8mm data cartridge, Digital part number TKZ8x, is recommended for use with  
the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive. You can order the data cartridge  
from authorized Digital VARs and distributors, or by calling DECdirect at 800-  
DIGITAL or 800-344-4825. In Canada, you can call DECdirect at 613-592-5111.  
Approved cleaning cartridges can be ordered from EXABYTE. These cleaning  
cartridges are the only cleaning device or material recommended for use with the  
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive. Both cleaning cartridges and data  
cartridges can be ordered from EXABYTE Corporation at 1685 38th Street, Boulder,  
Colorado, 80301. EXABYTE Direct Marketing is at 800-392-8273.  
EXABYTE part numbers are:  
The  
Data cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180093  
viii  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
About This Manual  
Cleaning cartridge, 3 cleaning passes . . . . . 727113  
Cleaning cartridge, 12 cleaning passes . . . . 727386  
Order Number: xxx-xxx-xxx  
iii  
 
1
Introduction  
This chapter provides a product overview of the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive, outlines  
its features, and describes the formats it can read and write.  
1.1  
Product Overview  
The StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive (Figure 1–1) is an enhanced 8mm  
digital helical-scan cartridge tape drive, which is packaged in an industry standard  
5.25-inch half-height form factor. The half-height size allows for ease of integration  
across a multitude of platforms.  
Figure 1-1 StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
1.2  
StorageWorks Packaging Options for the Cartridge Tape Drive  
The. StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive is available as three packaging  
options as follows:  
SWXTE-AA (Figure 1–1)  
SWXTE-AB (Figure 1–2)  
SWXTE-AC (Figure1–3)  
Figures 1–1, 1–3, and 1–4 show the packaging options. (Chapter 2 provides information  
about installing and configuring the options.)  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
1–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Option SWXTE-AA is a configuration in which one or two 8mm tape drives is installed  
in a device carrier, and the device is subsequently placed in a StorageWorks drive  
expansion unit. Figure 1–2 shows one tape drive installed in a device carrier.  
Figure 1–2 Option SWXTE-AA: One Tape Drive in a Device Carrier  
NOTE  
The expression StorageWorks Building Block, or SBB, is used  
in StorageWorks documentation to refer to a device, such as  
tape or disk drive, that is installed in a device carrier.  
Option SWXTE-AB is a configuration in which a second 8mm tape drive is installed in a  
device carrier. Note that the device carrier is shipped to you with both drives already  
installed if options SWXTE-AA and SWXTE-AB are ordered at the same time. If option  
SWXTE-AB is ordered after you already have option SWXTE-AA, the second drive is  
installed in the top half of the device carrier as shown in Figure 1–3.  
1–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Chapter 1 Introduction  
Figure 1–3 Option SWXTE-AB: Two Tape Drives in a Device Carrier  
Option SWXTE-AC is a configuration in which an 8mm tape drive is installed in a  
desktop expansion unit. Figure 1–4 shows the tape drive as it is shipped to you.  
Figure 1–4 Option SWXTE-AC: For Installation in Desktop Expansion Unit  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
1–3  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
1.3  
Support for Four Data Formats  
The StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive can read and write data in four  
formats:  
EXB-8500c (compressed) format  
EXB-8500 format  
EXB-8200c (compressed) format  
EXB-8200 format  
When writing in its default EXB-8500c (compressed) format, the 8mm tape drive  
implements a powerful algorithm that enables it to compress user data at ratios of 2:1 or  
greater. Assuming an average compression efficiency of 2:1, the tape can store up to  
10 GBytes of data on a single 8mm data cartridge.  
NOTE  
The actual compression ratio achieved depends on the type of  
data to be compressed. This guide assumes an average  
compression efficiency of 2:1.  
When writing in the non-compressed EXB-8500 format, the tape drive can store up to  
5.0 GBytes of data on a single 8mm data cartridge.  
When writing in the EXB-8200c (compressed) format, the tape drive can store up to  
5.0 GBytes of data on a single 8mm data cartridge, assuming an average compression  
efficiency of 2:1  
When writing in the non-compressed EXB-8200 format, the tape drive can store up to  
2.5 GBytes of data on a single 8mm data cartridge. Refer to Appendix B and C of this  
guide for detailed data format information for your specific operating environment.  
Table 1–1 lists the read and write compatibilty of several data formats with several 8mm  
tape drives. Note that devices with names beginning "EXB" are produced by EXABYTE  
Corporation; devices with names beginning "TKZ" are produced by Digital Equipment  
Corporation. In the table, SWXTE represents all three packaging options of the  
StorageWorks 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive.  
Table 1–1 Read/Write Compatibility of 8mm Tape Drives and Data Formats  
Tape format Can be written and read by an . . .  
TKZ08 and  
EXB-8200  
EXB-8200SX EXB-8205  
TKZ09 and  
EXB-8500  
EXB-8500c  
SWXTE and  
EXB-8505  
EXB-8500c  
EXB-8500  
EXB-8200c  
EXB-8200  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
1–4  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Chapter 1 Introduction  
1.4  
1.5  
Support for Partitioned Tapes  
Some operating systems provide support for tape partitions. With these systems, the tape  
drive can read and write tapes containing either one or two partitions. Partitions provide  
an efficient way to maintain a directory on a tape without the risk of overwriting data  
when updating the directory. For additional information, refer to the operating manuals  
that support your system.  
Enhanced Performance  
Assuming an average 2:1 compression ratio, the tape drive can achieve a sustained  
transfer rate of approximately 1 MByte per second when writing in EXB-8500c format.  
The maximum SCSI data transfer rate is up to 5.0 MBytes/second for a synchronous  
burst and up to 2.5 MBytes/second for an asynchronous burst. (Achievement of these  
performance numbers is dependent on the system configuration into which this tape drive  
is installed).  
Data interchange is maintained through full read and write compatibility with the  
EXB-8500c, EXB-8500, EXB-8205, EXB-8200, and EXB-8200SX 8mm Cartridge Tape  
Drives.  
1.6  
Intelligent Data Compression  
When writing in its default EXB-8500c format, the tape drive uses the established  
Improved Data Recording Capability (IDRC) algorithm. Licensed from IBM, this  
algorithm is a de facto standard in mainframe environments. It uses the EXABYTE  
Compression Integrity Check™ feature to ensure that data is accurately compressed and  
decompressed into the original form sent by the host computer.  
The compression algorithm is completely contained in an EXABYTE proprietary  
integrated circuit. When data compression is enabled by the user, the tape drive invokes  
the compression algorithm intelligently, constantly monitoring the compression ratio to  
determine whether compressing the data will actually decrease the size of the data set.  
When compression is turned on, the tape drive sends compressed data to tape only when  
it benefits the user's storage capacity and throughput.  
1.7  
1.8  
Sophisticated Error Correction Procedures  
The tape drive performs on-board error correction code (ECC) and error-recovery  
procedures, along with full read-after-write verification to ensure data integrity. The  
drive also contains a logical-block-CRC (cyclic redundancy check) feature. By adding  
two bytes of CRC data to every logical block on a compressed format tape, the drive can  
check that user data is compressed and decompressed accurately.  
Additional Features  
The tape drive contains a single-ended SCSI controller. Additional features include  
SCSI-2 compatibility, synchronous data transfer, an integrated 1-MByte speed-matching  
buffer, full disconnect/reconnect arbitration support, and logical block packing. The tape  
drive is an easily integrated solution to your journalizing, archiving, data interchange,  
software distribution, imaging, data acquisition, and backup/restore needs.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
1–5  
 
2
Installation and Initial Power ON  
This chapter refers you to the installation document you need. It also provides the steps you should follow  
for the initial power on of the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive.  
2.1  
Unpacking the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
CAUTION  
If the current environment differs from the storage  
environment by 15° or more, allow the Cartridge Tape Drive to  
acclimate to the current environment for at least 12 hours.  
The cartridge tape drive's packaging is designed to protect the drive from potentially  
damaging condensation. If the drive has not acclimated in its packaging for at least 12  
hours, serious damage to the device can occur.  
Unpack and inspect the contents of your shipment. In addition to this guide, it should  
contain the following items:  
One SWXTA-AA 10 GB, 8mm helical-scan cassette tape drive  
One 8mm cassette tape  
One head-cleaning cassette  
StorageWorks SBB user's guide  
Also, check the contents for damaged components. Notify your vendor immediately if  
any items are damaged. Keep all boxes and packing material for reshipment.  
2.2  
Installation Documents  
The 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive is available as three different options. The following list  
shows the option numbers and gives the title of the documents that describe installation  
or configuration for that option.  
SWXTE-AA: This option number identifies a configuration in which one or two  
cartridge tape drives is installed in a device carrier, and the device carrier is  
subsequently placed in a StorageWorks deskside (or larger) storage expansion unit.  
For instructions on installing or replacing the drive in the device carrier, refer to the  
document titled StorageWorks Building Blocks User's Guide. For instructions on  
placing the device carrier in a deskside storage expansion unit, refer to the document  
titled StorageWorks Expansion Storage Pedestal User's Guide.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
2–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
SWXTE-AB: This option number identifies a configuration in which a second  
cartridge tape drive is installed in a device carrier. For installation instructions, refer  
to the same documents listed in the preceding bullet. In addition, this option is  
always shipped with the document StorageWorks Family 5.25-inch SBB  
Half-Height Device Installation Guide, which provides instructions on installing the  
second cartridge tape drive in a device carrier.  
SWXTE-AC: This option number identifies a configuration in which a cartridge  
tape drive is installed in a desktop expansion unit. For installation instructions, refer  
to the document titled StorageWorks Desktop Expansion Unit User's Guide.  
2.3  
Performing the Initial Power On  
After you have installed the cartridge tape drive, you can perform the initial power on  
procedure. Power on is accomplished by installing the tape drive into its desktop  
expansion unit or expansion storage pedestal cabinet, and then applying power to the  
cabinet.  
When you apply power, the drive performs its power-on initialization and self-test  
(POST). Assuming that no data cartridge is loaded and that the tape drive is connected  
correctly, POST takes about 30 seconds as follows:  
During the first part of POST, all three LEDs will be lit.  
During the second part of POST, the top amber LED will be lit and the middle and  
bottom LEDs may flash depending on whether the tape drive is connected to the  
SCSI bus and a data cartridge is loaded.  
NOTES  
Do not insert a data cartridge into the tape drive while POST  
is in progress because the drive will automatically eject it.  
If the top amber LED does not go out after POST, an error  
has occurred. Contact your vendor.  
When POST completes (top amber LED off), the tape drive is ready for normal  
operation. After POST completes, you should refer to Table 3–1 in Chapter 3 if the state  
of the LEDs differs from the state described in this procedure. The table shows how to  
determine the drive’s operating state by the behavior of the LEDs.  
2–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
3
Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive  
This chapter describes how to operate the 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive. It also includes information  
about using a data cartridge.  
This chapter includes information about the following topics:  
How to use the tape drive operator controls and indicators, including a table showing  
how the LEDs represent the drive’s operating states  
How to set the write-protect switch on the data cartridge  
How to load and unload data cartridges  
3.1  
Location of Controls and Indicators  
Figure 3–1 shows the controls and indicators on the front panel of the StorageWorks  
8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive.  
Figure 3–1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
3–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
3.1.1 Unload Button  
The unload button is the only operator control on the cartridge tape drive.  
NOTE  
The unload button can be used to clear hardware errors. If a  
hardware error occurs, press the unload button to reset the  
tape drive. If necessary, wait a few seconds and press the  
button again to eject the tape.  
3.1.2 LEDs  
The cartridge tape drive uses three LEDs to indicate its various operating states. The  
location of these LEDs is shown in Figure 3–2. Table 3–1 shows the combinations of  
LEDs that may occur during tape drive operation. You can use these LED combinations  
to determine the drive’s operating state as follows:  
When the top (amber) LED is on or flashing, the drive has an error or needs to be  
cleaned  
When the middle LED is on or flashing, SCSI bus activity is occurring. The middle  
LED can be green or amber as follows:  
Amber – When the LED is amber, the tape loaded in the drive is in compressed  
format (EXB-8500c or EXB-8200c).  
Green – When the LED is green, the tape loaded in the drive is in uncompressed  
format (EXB-8500 or EXB-8200).  
When the bottom (green) LED is on, a data cartridge is loaded in the drive. When  
this LED is flashing, tape motion is occurring.  
Figure 3–2 Front Panel LEDs  
3–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Chapter 3 Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive  
Table 3–1 States Indicated by LEDs  
Drive State  
Top LED (errors) Middle LED (SCSI)* Bottom LED (motion)  
POST (1st part)  
POST (to completion)  
Failed POST  
On  
On green  
On  
On  
Flash irregular**  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Flash irregular  
Off***  
Off  
Flash fast  
Off  
Ready (no tape loaded)  
Ready (tape loaded)  
Normal tape motion  
High-speed tape motion  
SCSI bus reset  
Off  
Off  
On  
Off  
Flash slow  
Flash fast  
On  
Off  
On  
Error  
Flash slow  
Flash fast  
Off  
Off  
Time to clean  
Flash fast  
Flash slow  
Cleaning tape loaded  
*
Green indicates EXB-8500 or EXB-8200 uncompressed format.  
Amber indicates EXB-8500c or EXB-8200c compressed format.  
** The LED flash rates are defined as follows:  
flash slow = 1 flash/second  
flash fast = 4 flashes/second  
irregular = Rate of flash varies depending on SCSI bus activity. If the 8mm tape drive is  
not connected to the SCSI bus, the LED will be off.  
*** If a tape is loaded, the bottom LED will flash slow and then fast during the second part of  
the power-on self-test (POST)  
NOTE  
You may occasionally observe LED combinations and  
sequences not described in Table 3–1. These other  
combinations represent special or unusual conditions that are  
beyond the scope of this table.  
3.2  
3.3  
Recommended Data Cartridge  
The 8mm cartridge tape drive uses 8mm data cartridges, Digital part number TKZ8x.  
This data cartridge provides approximately 10 GBytes of EXB-8500c formatted data  
capacity, assuming an average compression ratio of 2:1.  
Additional data cartridges can be ordered. For details, see page viii in the "About This  
Guide" section of this document.  
Setting the Write-Protect Switch  
The tape drive uses 8mm data cartridges, part number TKZ8X. These data cartridges are  
equipped with a write-protect switch to prevent the tape from being unintentionally  
written to.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
3–3  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Before loading a data cartridge into the drive, ensure that the write-protect switch is set  
correctly for the desired operation. You can use a ball-point pen or similar instrument to  
set the write-protect switch.  
To write protect the data cartridge, move the write-protect switch away from the  
edge of the data cartridge, as shown in Figure 3–3. If the red tab is visible, the  
cartridge is write-protected and cannot be written to or erased.  
To write enable the data cartridge, move the write-protect switch toward the edge of  
the data cartridge, as shown in Figure 3–3. If only the edge of the red tab is visible,  
the data cartridge is write-enabled and can be written to or erased.  
Figure 3–3 Write-Protect Switch on 8mm Data Cartridge  
3.4  
Loading a Data Cartridge  
To load a data cartridge into the tape drive, follow these steps:  
1. Ensure that the write protect switch has been set correctly for the desired operation  
(see Section 3.3 above).  
2. If you have just powered on the drive, be sure that the bottom green LED and the top  
amber LED on the front panel are off, indicating that the drive has passed its power  
on self-test and is ready to load the data cartridge.  
3. Insert the data cartridge into the drive with the label side up and the write-protect  
switch facing you.  
4. The drive automatically loads the data cartridge. All three LEDs are off for the first 8  
seconds of the load operation. Then, the bottom LED flashes to indicate tape motion.  
When the bottom LED is on continuously, the drive is ready.  
3–4  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Chapter 3 Operating the Cartridge Tape Drive  
3.5  
Load Time  
Once a data cartridge has been inserted, the drive requires approximately 35 seconds to  
load the data cartridge and position the tape (assuming that the data cartridge has been  
rewound). During this 35-second load time, the drive determines the following:  
The tape format (blank, EXB-8500c, EXB-8500, EXB-8200c, EXB-8200, or other  
format).  
The adaptive tape-reading parameters. This process enables the drive to read tapes  
produced by different manufacturers, tapes that are aged or worn, and tapes written  
by other 8mm cartridge tape drives.  
3.6  
Unload Cartridge Procedure  
The following actions occur when you press the unload button. (These steps assume that  
a data cartridge is loaded and that the drive is ready.)  
NOTE  
Approximately 10 seconds will elapse after you press the  
unload button before the bottom LED begins to flash.  
1. Any command or operation currently in progress is completed.  
2. Any buffered information is written to tape, and an EOD mark is written to indicate  
the end of data (EXB-8500c, and EXB-8500, and EXB-8200c format tapes only).  
3. The tape is rewound to the physical beginning of tape (PBOT).  
4. The tape is unloaded from the tape path.  
5. The data cartridge is ejected.  
3.7  
Error During Unload Procedure  
If an error exists before or during the unload procedure, the unload sequence will be  
suspended and the top amber LED will flash. If the unload button is pressed again, the  
unload sequence will be re-attempted; however, unwritten data in the buffer will not be  
written to tape. The buffer and errors will be cleared.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
3–5  
 
4
Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive  
This chapter describes how to use the cleaning cartridge to clean the tape heads and tape path of the  
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive .  
The heads and tape path of the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive should be  
cleaned on a regular basis. The only cleaning material recommended for use with the  
tape drive is an approved 8mm cleaning cartridge. (Additional cleaning cartridges can be  
ordered as described on page viii, in the "About This Guide" section of this document.)  
Except for cleaning, as described in Section 4.1 and 4.2, the tape drive needs no  
preventive maintenance or user serviceable adjustments. If an excessive number of errors  
begin occurring, however, you may find the procedure described in Section 4.3 useful.  
CAUTION  
Using cloth swabs, cotton swabs, cleaning agents, or cleaning  
cartridges is not recommended and will void the warranty on  
the tape drive.  
4.1  
Determining When the Tape Drive Needs Cleaning  
You should clean the tape drive’s heads and tape path after every 30 hours of tape  
motion. This cleaning frequency does not depend on the format in which you write and  
read data. However, if you are using the tape drive in a particularly dirty environment, or  
if you operate it infrequently, you may want to clean the tape drive more often than every  
30 hours of tape motion. Cleaning the tape drive helps ensure that it will perform  
according to its specifications.  
The tape drive keeps track of tape motion hours internally. When 30 hours of tape  
motion have elapsed, the top and bottom LEDs will flash rapidly and the middle LED  
will flash irregularly, depending on SCSI bus activity. For best results, clean the tape  
drive as soon as possible after the LEDs begin flashing.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
4–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
4.2  
Using the 8mm Cleaning Cartridge  
CAUTION  
To prevent contamination of the tape drive and damage to the  
heads, do not use the cleaning cartridge for more than the  
number of cleaning cycles specified on the cartridge label.  
Discard the cleaning cartridge after you have used it for the  
specified number of cleaning cycles. Do not attempt to rewind  
the material in the cleaning cartridge and re-use it.  
To use the 8mm cleaning cartridge, proceed as follows:  
1. Ensure the tape drive is powered on. Remove any tape cartridge from the drive.  
2. Check the usage record on the label of the cleaning cartridge to make sure there is at  
least one cleaning cycle remaining (see Figure 4–1). If there are no cleaning cycles  
remaining, discard the cleaning cartridge and use a new one.  
3. Insert the cleaning cartridge in the tape drive. The remainder of the cleaning cycle is  
performed automatically by the tape drive. When the cleaning cycle is complete, the  
cartridge is unloaded and ejected from the tape drive. The cleaning cycle may range  
from 2 to 3 minutes.  
4. To confirm that a cleaning was done, look at the LEDs on the front panel. If the  
cleaning cycle was successful, the top and bottom LEDs will be off. If the cleaning  
cycle was not performed, the LEDs will continue to flash.  
5. If the cleaning cycle was successful, record the date the cleaning was performed on  
the cleaning cartridge label, as shown in Figure 4–1. Store the cleaning cartridge for  
future use if it still has cycles remaining.  
NOTE  
If there are no more cleaning cycles remaining for the  
cleaning cartridge, it will be ejected when you load it.  
4–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Chapter 4 Cleaning the Cartridge Tape Drive  
Figure 4–1 Cleaning Cartridge  
4.3  
Exercising the Cartridge Tape Drive  
You might find it useful to perform the procedure described in this section if either of the  
following two situations exists:  
Application software is reporting abnormal data errors when reading or writing to the  
cartridge tape drive with a known good tape cartridge.  
The cartridge tape drive has been stored for six months or more, and you get a large  
number of data errors when you begin using the drive.  
This procedure thoroughly exercises the tape drive and thus ensures that the drive’s  
internal lubrication is properly distributed:  
1. Apply power to the tape drive. This is accomplished by applying power to the  
storage subsystem that houses the drive (i.e., drive expansion pedestal or desktop  
expansion unit). The drive performs its power-on initialization and self-test (POST).  
Assuming that no data cartridge is loaded and that the tape drive is connected  
correctly, POST takes about 30 seconds as follows:  
During the first part of POST, all three LEDs will be lit.  
During the second part of POST, the top amber LED will be lit and the middle and  
bottom LEDs may flash, depending on whether the drive is connected to the SCSI  
bus and a data cartridge is loaded.  
NOTES  
Do not insert a data cartridge into the tape drive while POST  
is occurring because the drive will automatically eject it.  
If the top amber LED does not go out after the power-on  
initialization and self-test are complete, an error has occurred.  
Contact your vendor.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
4–3  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
2. Locate a data cartridge and ensure that its write-protect switch has been set correctly  
for the desired operation.  
3. Insert the data cartridge into the tape drive with the label side up and the  
write-protect switch facing you.  
4. Wait while the drive loads the tape and positions it at LBOT (Logical Beginning of  
Tape). This takes about 35 seconds.  
NOTE  
All three LEDs will be off for the first 8 seconds. Then, the  
bottom LED will flash to indicate that the tape is being loaded.  
When the bottom LED is on continuously, the drive is ready.  
5. Perform a write operation to write approximately 500 MBytes of data to the tape.  
You can perform the write operation with a system command or utility, or with your  
back-up software. If you use your back-up software, be sure you write to a hard drive  
scratch area.  
6. Rewind the tape and then read the data written on the tape in step 5.  
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 at least two times or for two hours, whichever is greater.  
NOTE  
If the tape has been stored for a long period, errors may occur  
during the break-in period. If an error occurs, reset the drive  
and repeat steps 5 and 6 as appropriate.  
When you have completed step 7, the tape drive is ready for normal operation. If errors  
persist, please contact your vendor.  
4–4  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
A
Product Specifications  
This appendix lists the product specifications for the StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive.  
Read & Write Format  
Recording Format — 8mm Helical-Scan Digital Computer Tape  
Head Configuration — Read-after-write head pairs with separate full-width erase head  
Linear Density  
8500 mode — 45434 bpi  
8200 mode — 43271 bpi  
Track Density  
8500 mode — 1638 tracks per inch  
8200 mode — 819 tracks per inch  
Area Density  
8500 mode — 74 million bits/sq. inch  
8200 mode — 35 million bits/sq. inch  
Formatted Capacity with a TKZ8x (112 meter tape)  
5000 MBytes (native)  
10,000 MBytes (compressed) 1  
Controller Features  
Integrated SCSI Controller and Formatter  
Standard SCSI Interface Connection (single-ended)  
Onboard Error Correction Code (ECC) — (ECC: Reed-Solomon Product Code)  
Error Recovery Procedures (ERP)  
Transfer rate (peak):  
5.0 MBytes/sec. synchronous  
2.5 MBytes/sec. asynchronous  
1
Compression capacity and throughput ratios will vary dependent upon type of data.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
A–  
1
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Transfer rate (sustained):  
500 KBytes/sec. (native)  
1 MBytes/sec. (compressed)1  
Power on diagnostics: approximately 30 seconds  
Buffer size: 1 MByte  
Max. search speed: 7.5 MBytes/sec. (native): a search speed increase of up to 5x may be  
realized1  
Reliability  
Non-recoverable error rate: Less than one in 1017 bits read  
MTBF: 80,000 hours  
MTTR: < 30 minutes  
Tape Motion  
Tape speed: 0.436 ips  
Effective head-to-tape speed: 150 ips  
Max. rewind speed: 75 times nominal  
Media  
8mm data cartridge (Digital part number TKZ8x)  
ANSI/ISO/IEC 11319-1992 and ECMA-145  
8mm wide magnetic tape cartridge for information exchange  
Cleaning Cartridge  
Exabyte-approved 8mm cleaning cartridge  
SCSI Command Set  
Test Unit Ready  
Rewind  
Request Sense  
Read Block Limits  
Read  
Write  
Write Filemarks  
Inquiry  
Space  
Recover Buffered Data  
Mode Select  
Reserve Unit  
Release Unit  
Erase  
A2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Appendix A Product Specifications  
SCSI Command Set (Cont'd)  
Mode Sense  
Load/Unload  
Receive Diagnostic Results  
Send Diagnostics  
Prevent/Allow Medium Removal  
Verify  
Locate  
Read Position  
Log Sense/Log Select  
Environment  
Operating temperature: +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to 104°F)  
Non-operating temperature: -40°C to +60°C (-40°F to +140°F)  
Relative humidity (noncondensing): 20% to 80%  
SCSI Characteristics  
SCSI-2 Specification — ANSI X3.131-1990  
Sequential Access Device  
SCSI Bus Parity — Configurable  
Full Disconnect, Arbitration, Reconnect  
Asynchronous and Synchronous Data Transfer Supported  
Connector Type — Standard StorageWorks Connector  
Termination — None  
Single-Ended  
Physical Dimensions (Tape Device)  
Standard 5.25-inch half-high form factor  
Height: 1.625 inch  
Width: 5.750 inch  
Depth: 8.0 inch  
Weight: 2.57 pounds  
Power (For One Tape Device)  
+5/ +12 volts plus or minus 5%  
15 watts  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
A–3  
 
B
Product Notes for Novell,MS-DOS,and Windows NT™  
This appendix provides information for the system administrator. It should be read before installing and using the  
SWXTE tape drive SBB with a host system operating under the Novell, MS-DOS, MS-DOS/Windows or  
Windows NT operating systems.  
The StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive is available as three packaging options:  
SWXTE–AA, SWXTE–AB, and SWXTE–AC. These options are referred to collectively in this  
appendix by the name SWXTE. (Section 1.2 of this guide summarizes these packaging options  
and defines SBB.)  
The SWXTE tape drive SBB utilizes the standard SCSI-2 command set to interface to the PC-  
based host system. Thus, the host system must be equipped with a SCSI adapter to properly  
interface the tape drive with the host. For example, the host SCSI adapter might interface the  
computer’s EISA bus to the SCSI-2 port of the SBB.  
A host PC SCSI adapter is normally supplied with a compatible software driver for use with its  
operating system. When operating under the Novell and MS-DOS or MS-DOS/Windows  
operating systems, the software driver must be pre-loaded according to the SCSI adapter  
manufacturer’s installation procedure to ensure a proper interface between the tape drive SBB  
and the host. In addition, a user-level tape read/write software program may be required to  
implement tape support under the Novell, MS-DOS, MS-DOS/Windows, or Windows NT  
environments. There are many commercial software products available that provide host or  
network-based data backup and restore, archiving, data logging, etc. functionality for these  
operating systems.  
Before purchasing a user-level software product, ensure that the tape drive SBB is supported by  
that product (see note below). Commercial software vendors usually publish a supported  
hardware list, or have telephone technical support personnel that will answer questions regarding  
compatibility of a particular tape drive or other storage devices. When choosing a software  
product suitable for your application, follow the software vendor’s installation procedure to  
implement support for your tape drive SBB.  
This product is supported under Windows NT, versions 3.1 and 3.5, by adding the "Exabyte  
8500 series (SCSI-2)" tape device option. Follow the Windows NT "Add/Remove Tape Devices"  
procedure to add this support.  
Finally, if your host is operating under Novell Netware, Novell, Inc. provides a software product  
called “Server Backup” with some of its operating system products. This program has been found  
to work well with the SWXTE tape drive SBB.  
NOTE  
The SWXTE–AA, SWXTE–AB, and SWXTE–AC tape drive packaging  
options are functionally equivalent to the EXABYTE model 8505 10 GB  
8mm tape drive. Commercial software products that support the 8505  
will usually work with the SWXTE.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
B–1  
 
C
Product Notes for Sun  
This appendix describes how to include cartridge tape drive SWXTE in a SUN SPARC system running  
Solaris 2.3 (or later) and SunOS 4.1.x. The information covers the installation of the SWXTE tape drive  
hardware and configuring the system to communicate with the drive.  
C.1  
Modifications Required for SunOS 4.1.x  
C.1.1 Installation Procedure  
NOTES  
1. The SWXTE designation in the following procedure is the  
StorageWorks product name for "Exabyte EXB-8505".  
2. In order to support the addition of this device, drive  
information  
must  
be  
supplied  
in  
the  
/sys/scsi/targets/st_conf.c file. For additional  
information, read the man pages for "st".  
Perform the following steps to modify the system to communicate with the SWXTE  
tape drive:  
From the command line, type:  
cd /sys/scsi/targets  
Edit the "st_conf.c" file and carefully add the following structure before the  
entry for "/* Exabyte 8mm 5GB cartridge */":  
/* DEC EXB-8505 8mm /w Compression Cartridge tape drive */  
{
"DEC EXB-8505 8mm Helical Scan /w Compression", 16 , "EXABYTE EXB-8505",  
ST_TYPE_EXB8500, 1024,  
(ST_BSF | ST_VARIABLE | ST_BSR | ST_LONG_ERASE),  
5000, 5000,  
{ 0x14, 0x90, 0x15, 0x8C },  
{ 0, 0, 0, 0 }  
},  
Verify that the above entry is added to the st_conf.cfile correctly.  
where:  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
C–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
– the first string (DEC EXB-8505 8mm Helical Scan /w Compression) is the  
name given to the drive.  
– the second string (16) is the length of the vendor ID provided by the SCSI "inquiry"  
command.  
– the third string (ST_TYPE_EXB8500) is the drive type for the driver.  
– the fourth string (1024) is the block size in bytes.  
– the fifth string ((ST_BSF . . .) is drive options.  
– the sixth string (5000) is the maximum read retries.  
– the seventh string (5000) is the maximum write retries.  
– the eighth string (0x14, 0x90, 0x15, 0x8C) is the density codes (low  
hi) as  
defined below:  
- 0x14 is the vendor-unique density code for the EXB-8200 in the uncompressed mode.  
- 0x90 is the vendor-unique density code for EXB-8200c in the compressed mode.  
- 0x15 is the vendor-unique density code for the EXB-8500 in the uncompressed mode.  
- 0x8C is the density code for the EXB-8500c in the compressed mode.  
– the ninth string (0,0 . . .) is the speed code (not used).  
After you have edited the "st_conf.c" file and added the above entry, rebuild the  
kernel using the standard procedure (for further help, refer to the man pages of  
config).  
Install the tape SBB into the StorageWorks enclosure and power on the system. We  
recommend that the SWXTE SCSI device address be set to ID 4 or 5.  
NOTE  
If your SCSI host adapter is supported by the “probe-scsi”  
command, then it may be used to verify at the boot prompt  
that the connected device is correctly attached to the system.  
Reboot the system using the following command at the boot prompt:  
>boot  
The system reboots with the newly compiled kernel and creates special files in /dev so  
that it can communicate with the SWXTE. Verify that “DEC EXB-8505 8mm  
Helical Scan /w Compression” is displayed as a target when the system is  
booting.  
C–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Appendix C Product Notes for Sun™  
At this time the tape is configured in the /dev directory with "rst" (rewind on close) and  
"nrst" (no rewind on close) format. For example, if the target SCSI ID for the SWXTE  
is 4, then "rst" will be "rst4, rst12, rst20, rst28"; nrst will be "nrst4, nrst12,  
nrst20, and nrst28".  
rst4 and nrst4 correspond to the 0x14 density mode (8200, uncompressed format)  
rst12 and nrst12 correspond to the 0x90 density mode (8200c, compressed format)  
rst20 and nrst20 correspond to the 0x15 density mode (8500, uncompressed format)  
rst28 and nrst28 correspond to the 0x8C density mode (8500c, compressed format)  
To test the SWXTE drive, back-up the file “passwd” file to tape using the “tar”  
command as follows:  
tar cvf /dev/rst4  
/etc/passwd  
The system responds with:  
a /etc/passwd  
1 blocks  
Note that depending on the size of the file, a different number of blocks may be reported.  
Verify that the “passwd” file was saved to tape using the following command:  
tar tvf /dev/rst4  
The system responds with:  
/etc/passwd  
The installation and verification procedure is now complete.  
C.2.2 Information  
C.2.2.1 Operation with SPARC Server 4/470 and 4/490  
The tape drive will operate normally on SPARCserver™ 4/470 and 4/490 running  
SunOS 4.1.2 with the following limitations:  
There is no way to mode-select the drive to write in low-density (2.0 GB format)  
mode.  
The tape drive will automatically write in high-density (5.0 format) mode from any  
position on new media or media previously written in low-density mode.  
The tape drive will automatically write in low-density mode from anywhere other  
than the beginning of tape or media that has been previously written in low-density  
mode.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
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StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
C.2.2.2 Dump Parameters for the Tape Drive  
The parameters that should be used when running the dump utility with the SWXTE tape  
drive are:  
density = 54000 (BPI)  
size = 6000 (112 meter tape) in 8200 mode  
size = 13000 (112 meter tape) in 8500 or 8500c mode  
blocking factor = 126  
Example 1  
The following example shows backing-up the entire disk partition onto the SWXTE tape  
drive:  
dump 0dsbf 54000 13000 126 /dev/rst20 /dev/sd0g  
Example 2  
The following example shows backing-up the "/usr" partition on disk sd2g onto the  
SWXTE tape drive assigned as "rst4", in the low-density mode. The following would  
be useful if you want to read the tape in an EXB-8200 drive which uses the size (s) of  
6000.  
dump 0dsbf 54000 6000 126 /dev/rst4 /dev/sd2g  
For further help, refer to the man pages of dump.  
C–4  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Appendix C Product Notes for Sun™  
C.2  
Modifications Required for Solaris™ 2.3 (or later)  
C.2.1 Installation Procedure  
NOTES  
1. The “SWXTE” designation in the following procedure is the  
StorageWorks product name for Exabyte EXB-8505.  
2. In order to support the addition of this device, drive  
information must be supplied in the /kernel/drv/st.conf file as  
global properties that apply to each of the targets, or as  
properties that are applicable to one target only. The "st  
driver" looks for the property called "tape-config-list". For  
additional information, read the man page “st”. We  
recommend here the use of the global properties approach.  
Perform the following steps to modify the system to communicate with the SWXTE  
tape drive:  
From the command line, type:  
cd /kernel/drv  
Edit the “st.conf” file by adding the following before the first occurrence of  
“name=":  
# entry for 8505 tape drive  
tape-config-list = "EXABYTE EXB-8505", "DEC EXB-8505 8mm Helical Scan /w Compression”,  
“swxte-data”;  
swxte-data = 1,0x35,1024,0x1639,4,0x14,0x90,0x15,0x8C,3;  
where:  
In the “tape-config-list” string:  
– The first string (EXABYTE EXB-8505) is the string returned by the SWXTE on a  
SCSI inquiry command.  
– The second string (DEC EXB-8505 8mm Helical Scan /w compression) is  
the nick name for the SWXTE drive. This string will be displayed on the console  
during boot.  
– The third string is defined as follows:  
In the “swxte-data” string:  
– The first parameter (1) is the revision level of the software and is set to 1  
(limitation on Sun operating systems).  
– The second parameter (0x35) is the tape type, specifying 8mm tape drive.  
This is defined in /usr/include/sys/mtio.h.  
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StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
– The third parameter (1024) is the block size in bytes.  
– The fourth parameter (0x1639) defines the options selected. 0x1639 represents the  
following options:  
ST_VARIABLE  
ST_BSF  
ST_BSR  
ST_LONG_ERASE  
ST_KNOWS_EOD  
ST_UNLOADABLE  
= 0x0001  
= 0x0008  
= 0x0010  
= 0x0020  
= 0x0200  
= 0x0400  
ST_LONG TIMEOUTS = 0x1000  
These options are equal to the fourth parameter, 0x1639.  
– The fifth parameter (4) defines the number of densities. The maximum definable  
number of densities is 4 (limitation on Sun operating systems).  
– The sixth parameter (0x14) is the vendor-unique density code for EXB-8200 in the  
uncompressed mode.  
– The seventh parameter (0x90) is the vendor-unique density code for EXB-8200c  
in the compressed mode.  
– The eight parameter (0x15) is the vendor-unique density code for the EXB-8500  
(uncompressed mode).  
– The ninth parameter (0x8C) is the default density code for the EXB-8500c in the  
compressed mode.  
– The last parameter in the swxte-data string is the default density 3, EXB-8500c in  
the compressed mode.  
After you have edited the “st.conf” file, shut down the system as follows:  
cd /  
shutdown -i0 -g0 -y0  
Install the tape SBB into the StorageWorks enclosure and power on the system. We  
recommend that the SWXTE SCSI device address be set to ID 4 or 5.  
NOTE  
If your SCSI host adapter is supported by the “probe-scsi”  
command, then it may be used to verify that the connected  
device is correctly attached to the system.  
Reboot the system using the following command at the boot prompt:  
>boot -rv  
Note that the switch "r" forces the kernel to be re-configured, and switch "v" enables a  
display of the system configuration at boot time.  
C–6  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Appendix C Product Notes for Sun™  
The system compiles the kernel and creates special files in /dev so that it can  
communicate with the SWXTE. Since you booted the system using the verbose switch,  
the system displays all of its SCSI targets. Verify that “DEC EXB-8505 8mm  
Helical Scan /w Compression” is displayed as a target when the system is  
booting.  
At this time, the tape drive is configured in the /dev directory in two ways: rmt format,  
and rst format.  
“rmt” format  
In this format, the drive is configured with various options. For further explanations, see  
the man pages on “st” (the modes are x, xl, xm, xh, xc, and xu, where x is the rmt  
number).  
Options x, xu, and xc, correspond to the 0x8C, (EXB-8500c, compressed) density  
mode.  
Option xl, corresponds to the 0x14 (EXB 8200, uncompressed) density mode.  
Option xm corresponds to 0x90 (EXB-8200c, compressed) density mode.  
Option xh corresponds to 0x15 (EXB-8500, uncompressed) density mode.  
Option b associates with the BSD behavior and is for backward compatibility on all  
of the above options. For further information, refer to the man pages of “mtio”.  
The n option provides access to the device with no rewind, similar to nrst (below),  
and is also applicable to all of the above options.  
“rst” format  
Special files “rst” (rewind on close) and “nrst” (no rewind on close) are also built and  
reside in the /dev directory. For example, if the SCSI target ID for the SWXTE is 4, then  
“rst” will be “rst4, rst12, rst20, and rst28,”; nrst will be “nrst4, nrst12, nrst20, and  
nrst28”.  
rst4 and nrst4 correspond to the 0x14 density mode (EXB-8200, uncompressed  
format)  
rst12 and nrst12 correspond to the 0x90 density mode (EXB-8200c, compressed  
format)  
rst20 and nrst20 correspond to the 0x15 density mode (EXB-8500, uncompressed  
format)  
rst28 and nrst28 correspond to the 0x8C density mode (EXB-8500c, compressed  
format)  
To test the SWXTE drive, back-up the file “passwd” to tape using the “tar”  
command as follows:  
tar cvf /dev/rst4  
/etc/passwd  
The system responds with:  
a /etc/passwd  
1 blocks  
Note that depending on the size of the file, a different number of blocks may be reported.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
C–7  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Verify that the “passwd” file was saved to tape using the following command:  
tar tvf /dev/rst4  
The system responds with  
/etc/passwd  
The installation and verification procedure is now complete.  
C.2.2 Running SUN Diagnostics (Optional)  
The diagnostic exerciser provided by the Sun operating system (“sundiag”) does not  
support the generic 8mm tape device configuration. In order to run “sundiag”, you must  
modify the st.conffile in the /kernel/drvdirectory. Change the “tape type” in  
the swxte-data string from 0x35 (generic 8mm tape drive) to 0x29 (Exabyte 8500  
8mm cartridge) and re-boot the system with the “boot -r” option. You can now run  
“sundiag” when the system is up and running.  
CAUTION  
Remember to change the “tape type” back to 0x35 and  
re-boot the system with the “boot -r” option after running  
“sundiag”.  
C.2.3 Du m p P a r a m eter s for th e Ta p e Dr ive  
The parameters that should be used when running the "ufsdump" utility with the  
SWXTE tape drive are as follows:  
density (d) = 54000 (BPI)  
size (s) = 13000 (112 m tape)  
Example,  
The following string is an example of how to back-up the entire disk partition onto the  
SWXTE tape drive:  
ufsdump 0dsf 54000 13000 /dev/rst20 /dev/sd0g  
C–8  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
D
Product Notes for IBMRS/6000  
This appendix provides information for the system administrator. It should be read before installing and using the  
SWXTE tape drive SBB with a host system with the AIX 3.2.5 (or later) operating system.  
D.1  
Modifications Required to Operate the SWXTE with AIX 3.2.5 (or later)  
After the SWXTE tape drive has been properly attached to the SCSI bus, install the device using  
"smit" or by executing specific commands while logged into the root account. Section D.1.1  
below describes how to install the tape drive using the fast-path command (smit dev).  
Section D.1.2 describes how to install the device using the command-line interface.  
D.1.1 Installing the SWXTE Using the SMIT Command  
From the command line, type:  
# smit dev  
Select menu entry "Configure the devices you have added after the IPL".  
Select menu entry "Change/show the characteristics".  
a) Select the entry that matches the controller and target ID of your installation.  
Example: rmt1 available 00–03–00–50 other SCSI tape drive  
where 3 is the SCSI controller number and 5 is the SCSI target ID  
b) On the menu, change the settings of the "BLOCK size", "DENSITY setting #1", and  
"DENSITY setting #2". Density codes are listed in Section D.1.2 below. For IBM  
compatibility, set the block size to "1024".  
c) Accept the changes.  
D.1.2 Installing the SWXTE Using Command-Line Interface  
From the command line, type:  
# cfgmgr  
To determine which rmt has been added, type:  
# lsdev –Cc tape  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
D–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive  
Example:  
# lsdev –Cc tape  
Name Status  
Location  
Description  
rmt0 Available 00–03–00–50 Other SCSI Tape Drive  
Next, type:  
# chdev –l <rmt*> –a density_set_1=<DENSITY_1> –a density_set_2=<DENSITY_2>  
Example:  
# chdev –l rmt0 –a density_set_1=140 –a density_set_2=20  
rmt0 changed  
Finally, type the following:  
# chdev –l <rmt*> –a block_size=<SIZE>  
Example:  
# chdev –l rmt0 –a block_size=1024  
rmt0 changed  
where,  
<rmt*>is the tape drive added as shown by the lsdevcommand.  
<SIZE>is the fixed block size (0 = variable, 1024 is suggested).  
<DENSITY_1>(140 suggested) and DENSITY_2(20 suggested).  
Code  
0
Density Code Meanings  
for EXB-8500, compression on, suppress density error checking.  
for EXB-8200, density error checking enabled.  
20  
21  
for EXB-8500, density error checking enabled.  
127  
140  
144  
for current density, suppress density error checking.  
for EXB-8500, compression on, density error checking enabled.  
for EXB-8200, compression on, density error checking enabled.  
The files that are created are:  
Tape Drive Special File Characteristics  
Special File Name Rewind-on-Close Retention-on Open Bytes-per-Inch  
/dev/rmt*  
Yes  
No  
No  
No  
Density Setting # 1  
Density Setting # 1  
Density Setting # 1  
Density Setting # 1  
Density Setting # 2  
Density Setting # 2  
Density Setting # 2  
Density Setting # 2  
/dev/rmt*.1  
/dev/rmt*.2  
/dev/rmt*.3  
/dev/rmt*.4  
/dev/rmt*.5  
/dev/rmt*.6  
/dev/rmt*.7  
Yes  
No  
Yes  
Yes  
No  
Yes  
No  
No  
Yes  
No  
Yes  
Yes  
D–2  
Order Nu  
 
Appendix D. Product Notes for IBM  
RS/6000  
NOTES  
1. The values of density setting # 1 and # 2 are derived from tape  
drive attributes that can be set using SMIT. Typically, density  
setting # 1 is set to the highest possible density for the tape drive,  
while density setting # 2 is set to a lower density. However, density  
settings are not required to follow this pattern.  
2. The density value is ignored when using a magnetic tape device  
that does not support multiple densities. For tape drives that  
support multiple densities, the density value only applies when  
writing to the tape. When reading a tape, the drive defaults to the  
density at which the tape is written.  
3. Most tape drives use 512-byte block size. The 8mm tape drive uses  
a minimum block size of 1024 bytes. Using SMIT to lower the block  
size will waste space.  
D.1.3 Using the SWXTE 8mm Tape Drive to Install AIX  
Perform the installation procedure as described in AIX, version 3.2, Installation Guide  
(SC23–2341), Chapter 1, ending after completing step F.5.c of the procedure.  
If the tape device is displayed as "defined" instead of "available", then enter the following:  
# mkdev –l <rmt*>  
Example:  
# mkdev –l rmt0  
rmt0 Available  
Continue with step F.5.d until the installation is completed.  
NOTE  
Always use an approved 8mm EXABYTE cleaning cartridge to clean  
the tape heads and tape path of the SWXTE tape drive. An IBM  
cleaning cartridge will not function properly with the SWXTE. Refer to  
page viii of the "About This Guide" section of this document for  
EXABYTE 8mm cleaning cartridge ordering information.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
D–3  
 
E
Product Notes for Hewlett-Packard  
This appendix describes how to include the tape drive SBB in an HP 9000 Series 700 system running HP-UX  
9.05 (or later) and Series 800 system running HP-UX 9.04 (or later). The information covers configuration of  
the host system to communicate with the tape drive.  
E.1  
General Information  
If the necessary drivers are not already built into your existing kernel, you will need to  
rebuild your kernel.  
When using the dump utility under HP-UX, you must supply the correct density code and  
tape length size for dump to use in its calculations. Refer to Section E.2.2 for details. We  
recommend a value of 126 for the blocking factor parameter.  
Compression can be enabled/disabled at any time by selecting the appropriate device file  
name. See Section E.2.1.3 and E.2.1.4 for device names.  
E.2  
Modifications Required for HP-UX 9.05 on Series 700 Systems and HP-UX 9.04  
on Series 800 Systems  
E.2.1 Installation Procedure  
NOTES  
The "EXB-85058SQANXR1" designation returned in response to  
SCSI inquiry during performance of the following procedure is the  
StorageWorks internal name for the tape drive, as incorporated in  
and used by the firmware.  
E.2.1.1 Installation of Tape Drive  
After ensuring that the address of the tape drive does not conflict with the address of any  
other device on that SCSI bus, install the tape drive into the StorageWorks enclosure and  
power-on the workstation.  
E.2.1.2 System Modification  
Enter the System Administration Manager (SAM) as superuser. From the first-level menu,  
choose Peripheral Devices. From the second-level menu, choose Tape Drives. The  
system’s hardware will be scanned, and the available tape drives window will identify the  
tape drive SBB as a SCSI tape drive with the appropriate hardware path. Highlight that  
selection and then pull down the Actions menu and select the Add function. The program at  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
E–1  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive SBB  
this time will check the kernel to determine if the necessary drivers are built in, displaying  
the results.  
If necessary, the program will rebuild the kernel. If this occurs, you will have to reboot the  
system in order to use the tape drive.  
For further information on adding tape devices, refer to Hewlett-Packard’s Installing  
Peripherals manual, P/N B2355-40041.  
E.2.1.3 Device Files (Series 700)  
The System Administration Manager program automatically creates the appropriate device  
files and places them in the /dev/rmt directory.  
The following naming convention is used on Series 700 computers for the EXB-8505  
Cartridge Tape System SBB, as shown in the examples listed below:  
/dev/rmt/c#d#[hlmc][n][b]  
where:  
c#  
specifies the controller designation, which may contain either two or  
three characters, specifies the following:  
where # is sc[f], in accordance with the following:  
s
c
f
is the system bus module:  
2 = core I/O (the default)  
4 = EISA  
is the slot number:  
0 for core I/O  
4 for EISA  
is the function number. This value identifies the location on the core I/O  
bus. For the single-ended SCSI interface, the value is 1. If you are using  
the EISA bus, omit the f value.  
d#  
designates the SCSI address of the tape drive, where # here identifies a  
number value.  
h/l/m/c indicates density, with h meaning high density (EXB8200c format), l  
meaning low density (EXB8200 format), m meaning standard DDS  
format (EXB8500 format), and c meaning data compression (EXB8500c  
format.  
n
b
indicates no rewind.  
specifies Berkeley behavior.  
E–2  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
Appendix D. Product Notes for Hewlett-Packard  
Example:  
If you were to install a tape drive SBB on the main (core) SCSI bus and in slot location 4 of  
the StorageWorks SWXSE-02 expansion enclosure, the following device files would be  
produced in /dev/rmt for a Series 700 computer:  
c201d4c  
c201d4cn  
c201d4h  
c201d4hn  
c201d4l  
c201d4ln  
c201d4m  
c201d4mn  
c201d4cb  
c201d4cnb  
c201d4hb  
c201d4hnb  
c201d4lb  
c201d4lnb  
c201d4mb  
c201d4mnb  
E.2.1.4 Device Files (Series 800)  
The System Administration Manager program automatically creates the appropriate device  
files and places them in the /dev/rmt directory.  
The following naming convention is used on Series 800 computers for the EXB-8505  
Cartridge Tape Subsystem SBB, as shown in the examples listed below:  
/dev/rmt/lu#_8mm{8200/8500}[n][c][b]  
where:  
lu#  
specifies the logical unit number of the tape drive as reported from the  
ioscan-fcommand  
n
c
b
indicates no rewind  
indicates compressed data  
specifies Berkeley behavior  
Example  
If you were to install a tape drive SBB on the main (core) SCSI bus and in slot location 4 of  
the StorageWorks SWXSE-02 expansion enclosure, the following device files would be  
produced in /dev/rmt, assuming a logical unit number of 8:  
8_8mm8200  
8_8mm8200b  
8_8mm8200c  
8_8mm8200n  
8_8mm8200nb 8_8mm8500b  
8_8mm8200nc 8_8mm8500c  
8_8mm8500  
8_8mm8500n  
8_8mm8500nb  
8_8mm8500nc  
8_8mm8200cb 8_8mm8200ncb 8_8mm8500cb 8_8mm8500ncb  
E.2.1.5 Testing the Tape Drive  
To test the tape drive, back up the “passwd” file to tape using the “tar” command, as follows  
(assuming that you installed the drive in accordance with the preceding example):  
tar cvf /dev/rmt/c201d4h  
or  
/etc/passwd  
tar cvf /dev/rmt/8_8mm8500c  
/etc/passwd  
The system responds with something similar to the following:  
a /etc/passwd 2 blocks  
Note that depending on the size of the file, a different number of blocks may be reported.  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
E–3  
 
StorageWorks 8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive SBB  
E.2.1.6 Verification  
Use the following command to verify that the “passwd” file was written to tape:  
tar tvf /dev/rmt/c201d4h  
or  
tar tvf /dev/rmt/8_8mm8500c  
The system responds with something similar to the following:  
rw-r--r-- 0/10 535 Jan 14 16:31 1995 /etc/passwd  
The installation and verification procedure is now complete.  
E.2.2 Dump Parameters for the Tape Drive  
The parameters that should be used when running the dump utility with the tape drive are:  
density = 54000  
size = choose from table  
15 m  
804  
54 m  
2893  
6268  
112 m  
6000  
8200(c)  
8500(c)  
1741  
13000  
blocking factor = 126 (recommended)  
Example  
The following example shows the command for backing up an entire disk partition onto the  
tape drive, using a 112-meter tape:  
dump 0dsbf 54000 13000 126 /dev/rmt/c201d4h /dev/dsk/c201d5s0  
or  
dump 0dsbf 54000 13000 126 /dev/rmt/8_8mm8500c /dev/vg00/rlvol5  
For further help, refer to man pages of the dump command.  
E–4  
Order Number: EK–STWCT–UG. E01  
 
 
Reader’s Comments  
Manual Order Number:  
EK-STWCT-UG. E01  
8505 8mm Cartridge Tape Drive User's Guide  
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