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3-6 StorageTek SL150 Modular Tape Library User's Guide
Determine the Required Number of Reserved System Slots
Based on your cleaning strategy and your diagnostic needs, decide how many system
reserved slots that you will configure when you complete library configuration in the
next chapter. You can reserve up to a maximum of three slots.
1. If you are planning to prepare a diagnostic cartridge, Oracle recommends that you
configure one reserved system slot to hold it, if possible.
Keeping the recommended diagnostic cartridge in a reserved slot insures that it is
always available when needed. But if storage space is at a premium, you can also
import the diagnostic cartridge from the mail slot as needed.
2. If you are planning on using the library drive auto clean feature, configure at least
one reserved slot to hold a cleaning cartridge. If possible, configure two reserved
slots.
You must configure at least one reserved slot when using Drive Auto Clean.
Having two cleaning tapes in reserved slots minimizes down time. A usable
cleaning tape is always available when needed, so drives do not sit idle while
awaiting cleaning.
3. If you are planning on using host-managed drive cleaning, do not configure
system reserved slots for cleaning media.
Host applications cannot access system reserved slots. So cleaning media must
reside in storage slots that are controlled by the host application.
4. If you are planning to use manual cleaning, configure one or, preferably, two
reserved system slots to hold cleaning cartridges, if possible.
Keeping cleaning cartridges in reserved slots insures that they are always available
when needed. Having two cleaning tapes in the library minimizes down time. But
if storage space is at a premium, you can instead import the cleaning cartridge
from the mailslot as needed.
5. Next, prepare a work space.
Prepare a Work Space
Prepare a clean, level surface where you have room to work with cartridges and
magazines and where cartridges will not be subjected to magnetic fields.
Then prepare a diagnostic cartridge.
Prepare a Diagnostic Cartridge
The library uses a diagnostic cartridge to run self tests of library robotics and drives.
Oracle recommends that you have a diagnostic tape on hand during system
configuration and at all times thereafter, if at all possible. To create a diagnostic
cartridge, proceed as follows:
1. In the accessory kit that came with the library, locate the label for the diagnostic
cartridge.
The label text starts with the prefix
DG
, which includes a required trailing space.
2. Select a blank LTO data cartridge that has been at room temperature for at least
24
hours and is compatible with your drives. Place it on your work surface.
3. If the cartridge is new, unwrap it as you would any new cartridge. Remove the
wrapper using the string or pull tab provided for the purpose.