Handling The Cartridges; Providing Training; Ensuring Proper Packaging; Setting The Write-Protect Switch - Dell EMC ML3 User Manual

v Slide the switch to the left to allow the device to write data to the cartridge.
If possible, use your server's application software to write-protect your cartridges (rather than manually
setting the write-protect switch). This setting allows the server's software to identify a cartridge that no
longer contains current data and is eligible to become a scratch (blank) data cartridge. Do not
write-protect scratch (blank) cartridges; the tape drive is not able to write new data to them.
If you must manually set the write-protect switch, slide it left or right to the wanted position.
Figure 89. Setting the write-protect switch
Table 49. Location of the write-protect switch
1

Handling the cartridges

Attention: Do not insert a damaged tape cartridge into the drive. A damaged cartridge can interfere
with the reliability of a drive and might void the warranties of the drive and the cartridge. Before a tape
cartridge is inserted, inspect the cartridge case, cartridge door, and write-protect switch for breaks.
Incorrect handling or an incorrect environment can damage cartridges or their magnetic tape. To avoid
damage to your tape cartridges and to ensure the continued high reliability of your LTO Ultrium Tape
Drives, use the following guidelines.

Providing training

v Post procedures that describe appropriate media handling in places where people gather.
v Ensure that anyone who handles tape is properly trained in handling and shipping procedures. This
training includes operators, users, programmers, archival services, and shipping personnel.
v Ensure that any service or contract personnel who complete archiving procedures are properly trained
in media-handling procedures.
v Include media-handling procedures as part of any services contract.
v Define and make personnel aware of data recovery procedures.

Ensuring proper packaging

v When a cartridge is shipped, use the original or better packaging.
v Always ship or store a cartridge in a jewel case.
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Dell EMC ML3 Tape Library: User's Guide
Write-protect switch