Dell EMC ML3 - WORM (Write Once, Read Many) cartridges

inserted into the drive, a threading mechanism pulls the pin (and tape) out of the cartridge, across the
drive head, and onto a non-removable take-up reel. The head can then read or write data from or to the
tape.
The write-protect switch (▌4▐ in Figure 86 on page 143) prevents data from being written to the tape
cartridge. For more information, see “Write-Protect switch” on page 147.
The label area (▌5▐ in Figure 86 on page 143) provides a location to place a label. .
The insertion guide (▌6▐ in Figure 86 on page 143) is a large, notched area that prevents the cartridge
from being inserted incorrectly.
Table 46. Nominal cartridge life: Load/unload cycles
Type Load/Unload Cycles
Gen 8 20,000 (20k)
Gen 7 20,000 (20k)
Gen 6 20,000 (20k)
Cartridge Read/Write compatibility
Table 47. Data cartridge compatibility with LTO tape drive
LTO Tape Drive
LTO Data Cartridges
Gen 8 Gen 7 Gen 6 Gen 5 Gen 4
LTO 8 Read/Write Read/Write
LTO 7 Read/Write Read/Write Read only
LTO 6 Read/Write Read/Write Read only
WORM (Write Once, Read Many) cartridges
Certain records retention and data security applications require a Write Once, Read Many (WORM)
method for storing data on tape. LTO drives that are supported by the library enable WORM support
when a WORM tape cartridge is loaded into the drive.
WORM media
Because standard read/write media are incompatible with the WORM feature, a specially formatted
WORM tape cartridge (see Figure 87 on page 145) is required. Each WORM cartridge has a unique,
worldwide cartridge identifier (WWCID), which comprises the unique CM chip serial number and the
unique tape media serial number. Ultrium WORM media are two-tone color and silvery gray.
Note: All Dell drive firmware allows the use of WORM media.
144 Dell EMC ML3 Tape Library: User's Guide