Planning the installation
Procedure
1. Choose a location for the autoloader.
2. Plan the SAS or Fibre Channel configuration and obtain the necessary cables.
Location requirements
If you plan to mount the autoloader in a rack, select an open rack location with access to the host server and
a power outlet. If possible, install the autoloader in the middle or higher part of the rack to avoid dust from the
floor and to allow easy access to the mailslot and magazines.
If you plan to set the autoloader on a table, select a level area large enough to support both edges of the
autoloader with access to the host server and a power outlet. You can also set the autoloader on a shelf in the
rack. In this case, you must attach the feet during the installation process.
IMPORTANT:
The autoloader must be mounted in supported rack rails or sit on the enclosed support feet. Placing the
autoloader on a surface, such as a tabletop or rack shelf, without the feet applied could result in
autoloader errors.
FC connection information
Connect the FC tape drive directly to the server with an HBA or indirectly through a SAN with an FC switch.
Direct connection
The host must have a 2 Gb, 4 Gb, 8 Gb, or 16 Gb FC HBA. An 8 Gb or faster HBA is recommended for LTO-5
and later generation tape drives. To verify that an HBA is supported on your server and qualified for the
autoloader, see the DAPR compatibility matrix at: http://www.hpe.com/storage/DAPRcompatibility
A server that has FC-attached hard drives performs best with at least two FC ports. Using the same FC port
for disk and tape drive access can cause performance degradation.
SAN connection
All switches between the host and the tape drive must be of the appropriate type. A 2 Gb switch in the path
might cause performance degradation when backing up highly compressible data.
Configure zoning on the FC switch so that only the backup servers can access the tape drive. For more
information, see the switch documentation.
Cable requirements
An FC cable is required for each FC port you plan to use. The tape drive has an LC-style connector. The
maximum cable length is based on the tape drive and external cable type.
Drive type Cable type 2 Gb 4 Gb 8 Gb
All OM2 0.5 – 300 m 0.5 – 150 m Not supported
LTO-6, LTO-7, LTO-8 OM3, OM4 0.5 – 500 m 0.5 – 380 m 0.5 – 150 m
8 Planning the installation
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