Do not use any tape for archival purposes if it has been used outside of the ranges specified in Table 1 for an extended period
of time. The magnetic and physical strength of the tape will have deteriorated as a result of its exposure to the environment.
Do not store important data on such a tape; transfer the data to a newer tape for reliable archiving.
Attention: Do not operate the DAT 160 Tape Drive in a poor air-quality environment. If your environment contains an excessive
amount of particulates, contact your service representative for more information.
Data Cartridge Erasure
Do not attempt to bulk erase an DAT 160 data cartridge for reuse. Most bulk eraser devices do not have the capability to erase
the data cartridge.
Setting the Write-Protect Switch
The position of the write-protect switch on the DAT 160 tape cartridge determines when you can write to the tape (see Figure
1).
1
When the switch is set to the right, data can be written to and read from the tape.
2
When the switch is set to the left, data can only be read.
Figure 1. Setting the Write-Protect Switch
Ordering Tape Cartridges
All tape cartridges are not alike. The tape composition and length, and the construction of the cartridge itself can all affect the
quality and capacity of the recording and the performance of your tape drive. A poor quality tape cartridge may appear to work
adequately in your system, yet it can leave contamination in the tape path or impede the speed of the recording.
The length and composition of the tape, and the size, shape, and construction of the cartridge shell must all be considered
when selecting the tape cartridge to be used with your system. IBM only supports using data and cleaning cartridges supplied
by IBM. Use only data grade tape media for backup and data processing. Saving money by using generic media for data
purposes will do little to save your business if your data is destroyed and your backup tapes fail because of inferior media.
For best performance, only order cartridges for your tape drive that are recommended in Table 1 . To order cartridges in the
United States and Canada, call 1-888-IBM-MEDIA. To order cartridges in other locations, contact your local provider of IBM
storage products or visit the following URL:
http://www.storage.ibm.com/media/
Table 1. Tape Cartridges for the DAT 160 Tape Drive
IBM Part Number Type of Cartridge Native Capacity
23R5635 DAT 160 Data Cartridge 80 GB