Spectra Stack Tape Library

Questions and Answers

V
vgarnerSep 8, 2025
Why I cannot write to or read from Spectra Stack Tape Library tape?
- C
  Christine FritzSep 8, 2025
  Make sure that the cartridge is not a WORM cartridge that has already been used. Also, ensure that the cartridge is write enabled by moving the write-protect switch to the enabled position. Verify that the data cartridge is compatible with the drive model and has not been exposed to harsh conditions or physical damage. Retry the operation with a different, known good tape. Clean the tape drive from the Operation > Clean Drive screen.
J
John Mitchell PhDSep 7, 2025
How to resolve Attention and Cleaning LEDs being lit on Spectra Stack Tape Library Storage?
- J
  John WolfeSep 7, 2025
  Log into the OCP or RMI and check the event log to see which drive has reported that it needs cleaning. Clean the drive with an approved Ultrium cleaning cartridge.
J
john98Aug 22, 2025
What to do if neither storage management software nor operating system detects the Spectra Stack Tape Library tape drive or library?
- H
  hooverjosephAug 22, 2025
  First, verify that all SAS cables are securely connected at both ends. Then, check the length and integrity of your SAS cabling, ensuring it's no longer than six meters and without adapters or converters. Inspect the SAS connectors for damage or debris. Also, confirm that your HBA is supported by the host computer and qualified with the library, and that it has the latest firmware.
S
Stephen WatkinsSep 4, 2025
What to do if Spectra Stack Tape Library OCP displays an error code?
- M
  Maria GloverSep 4, 2025
  Look up the error code, try to resolve the failure, and power cycle the library.
A
Ashley GrimesSep 3, 2025
How to resolve Cleaning or data cartridge incompatible with Spectra Stack Tape Library Storage drive?
- J
  joshua99Sep 3, 2025
  Check the event log to see which cartridge is incompatible. Make sure you are using data and cleaning cartridges that are compatible with the drive and that you are using the correct cartridge type for the operation.
M
Mike TorresSep 1, 2025
What to do if Spectra Storage tape cannot be removed from storage slot?
- M
  Michelle HoldenSep 2, 2025
  Unlock the magazine from the Operation > Open Magazine screen and extend it to access the storage slot. Grasp the cartridge and remove it from the storage slot. Some tapes need to be inserted and removed several times to condition them for free movement in and out of the magazine. Check the barcode label and verity that it is secure to the cartridge. Check the cartridge and the storage slot for damage.
M
Matthew ThompsonAug 31, 2025
How to fix Spectra Stack Tape Library library displaying incorrect barcodes?
- J
  Juan ReidAug 31, 2025
  Verify that the label is properly applied and that the label is not soiled.
V
Vickie WilsonAug 30, 2025
What to do if the Spectra Storage screen shows No Light?
- E
  Erica JohnsonAug 30, 2025
  First, check that the cable is connected correctly to Port A of the tape drive. If the cable has been bent or twisted sharply, it might be broken and must be replaced, as FC cables are delicate.
S
shaunwagnerAug 29, 2025
What to do if Spectra Stack Tape Library screen shows Logged Out?
- E
  Emily KingAug 29, 2025
  Check that the Fibre speed is set to Automatic or that the correct Fibre speed is selected. If you are unsure of the speed of the HBA or switch that the drive is connected to, select Automatic. Also, check that the correct port type, fabric or loop, is selected. Loop requires additional configuration. If you are unsure of the correct port type, select Automatic.
B
Brittany CoxAug 27, 2025
How to resolve Spectra Storage ALPA Conflict?
- R
  rodriguezchristopherAug 27, 2025
  If you see an ALPA Conflict, it indicates a possible conflict with the ALPA address on Loop ports. To resolve this, select Soft for the Loop mode; this allows the system to select an available address each time the tape drive connects to the FC fabric. If your server configuration does not support changing addresses, try using the Hard Auto-Select option for the Loop mode.

Spectra Stack Tape Library Specifications

General

Category	Tape Library
Brand	Spectra Logic
Model Name	Spectra Stack
Form Factor	Modular
Tape Drive Technology	LTO
Maximum Number of Slots	560
Maximum Drive Slots	42
Interface	SAS, Fibre Channel
Barcode Reader	Yes
Management Software	Spectra Logic BlueScale
Features	Scalable
Supported LTO Generations	LTO-6, LTO-7, LTO-8, LTO-9
Power Supply	Redundant
Cooling	Redundant

Summary

Contacting Spectra Logic

Obtain General Information

Provides contact details for general inquiries and company locations.

Spectra Logic Technical Support

Offers support channels and contact information for technical assistance.

Spectra Logic Sales

Contact details for sales inquiries and product information.

Obtain Documentation

Information on how to access user guides and other documentation.

About This Guide

Document Purpose

Outlines the objective and target audience of this user guide.

Product Warranty Caution

Details warranty limitations and cautions regarding product handling and repairs.

General Warnings and Precautions

Document Conventions

Explains the symbols and text conventions used in the document.

High Voltage Warnings

Advises on risks associated with high voltage and electrical shock.

Lifting and Handling Warnings

Provides safety guidelines for lifting and handling library modules and components.

Rack Installation and Operational Safety

Covers safety for rack mounting, earthquake areas, and trained personnel operation.

Mechanical Hazard Warnings

Alerts users to risks of pinching and injury from moving parts.

Acronyms and Abbreviations

Additional Publications

BlueVision User Interface Screens

Chapter 1 - Product Overview

Supported Library Configurations

Details the various physical configurations and module combinations for the Spectra Stack library.

Front Panel Overview

Describes the components and indicators on the library's front panel.

Rear Panel Overview

Details the connections and components located on the library's rear panel.

Tape Drive Back Panels

Illustrates the rear panel connections for different LTO tape drive models.

Power Supply Back Panel

Explains the power supply LEDs and their meanings.

Element Numbering

Explains the logical numbering system for library components and slots.

Encryption Features

Describes how data encryption protects data written to tape.

Tape Cartridges

Provides information on LTO media generations and their capacities.

Cartridge Maintenance and Handling

Offers guidelines for using, maintaining, labeling, and protecting tape cartridges.

Read and Write Compatibility

Details the compatibility matrix for different drive and media generations.

Integration With a BlackPearl System

Explains how Spectra Stack libraries can be used with BlackPearl systems.

Chapter 2 - Using the BlueVision Interface

Operator Control Panel (OCP) Usage

Guides on using the library's LCD touch screen interface for monitoring and control.

Remote Management Interface (RMI) Usage

Instructions for accessing and using the library's web-based management interface.

Library User Types and Access Levels

Outlines the different user roles and their respective permissions within the library.

Logging Into the Library

Step-by-step instructions for accessing the library's user interfaces.

Library Main Screen Navigation

Describes the organization and key elements of the library's main interface screen.

Chapter 3 - Configuring the Library

Initial Configuration Wizard

Guides users through the initial setup of the library, including passwords and network settings.

Library Configuration Save;Restore

Instructions for saving, restoring, and resetting the library's configuration settings.

Date and Time Configuration

Details how to set the library's time zone, date, and time format.

Media Barcode Compatibility Checking

Explains how to configure checks for media barcode compatibility with installed tape drives.

Barcode Label Checksum Type

Allows selection of checksum behavior for barcode labels in the library.

License Key Management

Instructions for adding and managing license keys for library features.

Library Network Settings Configuration

Guides on configuring the library's IP address, DNS, and other network parameters.

Internal IP Range Reset

Procedures for resetting the internal IP range to prevent network conflicts.

SNMP Configuration

Details how to enable and configure SNMP for library monitoring and trap management.

Event Notification Configuration

Guides on setting up email notifications for library events via SMTP.

Tape Drive Configuration

Information on viewing and modifying the configuration settings for installed tape drives.

EE Port Configuration

Instructions for enabling or disabling the library's EE ports, which can be used as storage slots.

Library Partitioning

Explains how to create and manage library partitions using wizards for resource allocation.

User Account Management

Covers the configuration of user accounts, password rules, and access permissions.

Web Management Features

Describes advanced web management options for the RMI, including SSL/SSH and security certificates.

Chapter 3 - Configuring and Using Encryption

Encryption Key Management

Guides on managing encryption keys, including setup and configuration for key managers.

KMIP Configuration

Instructions for setting up Key Management Interoperability Protocol (KMIP) for encryption key management.

Encryption Standard Configuration

Details how to log into and manage the encryption standard settings and keys.

Exporting and Protecting Encryption Keys

Explains the process of exporting and securely storing encryption keys for data recovery.

Restoring Encrypted Data

Outlines the process for restoring encrypted data, requiring the correct encryption key.

Import Required Encryption Key

Steps to import an encryption key into the library for data decryption.

Delete Encryption Key

Procedures for removing an encryption key from the library.

Disable Partition Encryption

Guides on disabling encryption for specific partitions or all partitions.

Chapter 4 - Operating the Library

Moving Media Operations

Instructions for moving tape cartridges between different elements within the library.

Opening EE Ports

Guides on opening enabled EE ports to access storage slots.

Opening Magazines

Instructions for unlocking and accessing tape cartridge magazines.

Cleaning Tape Drives

Procedures for initiating a drive cleaning operation using a cleaning cartridge.

Forcing Drive Media Eject

Steps to force eject a stuck tape cartridge from a drive.

Rescanning Cartridge Inventory

How to initiate a rescan of the library's cartridge inventory.

Chapter 5 - Viewing Library Status

Library and Module Status Overview

Displays summary information on library and module configurations and operational status.

Inventory List Views

Describes how to view cartridge and partition inventory lists, with filtering and grouping options.

Cartridge Inventory Graphical View

Provides a visual representation of library elements and cartridge information.

Partition Map Graphical View

Displays a graphical map of partitions, showing drives and slots assigned to each.

Partition Configuration Status

Details the configuration status of partitions, including drives, slots, and EE ports.

Viewing Drive Status

Information on checking the configuration and status of individual tape drives.

Viewing Network Status

Displays the current network configuration and status of the library's network interfaces.

Viewing Encryption Status

Shows the status of key management servers and encryption settings for drives and partitions.

Chapter 6 - Configuring and Using Media Lifecycle Management

BlueVision Media Lifecycle Management (MLM)

Overview of MLM features for proactive monitoring and reporting of cartridge health.

Additional MLM Features

Lists other MLM functionalities like database management and tracking non-MLM media.

MLM Usage Guidelines

Provides recommendations for establishing Media Lifecycle Management policies.

MLM Reporting and Analysis

Guides on generating, saving, and interpreting MLM reports for media health and usage.

MLM Database Management

Covers backing up, verifying, restoring, and deleting records from the MLM database.

Chapter 7 - Maintaining the Library

Library Tests

Details various diagnostic tests to verify library functionality and component health.

Logs and Traces Management

Covers viewing, downloading, and configuring remote logging for library events and system messages.

Software Upgrades

Procedures for checking, downloading, and uploading library and drive firmware.

Drive Log Management

Instructions for downloading drive logs for troubleshooting purposes.

Library and Drive Rebooting

Procedures for rebooting the entire library or individual tape drives.

UID LED Control

How to control the Unit Identification (UID) LEDs for library location.

Robotic Assembly Positioning

Steps to move the robotic assembly to its park position in the controller module.

LTO-9 New Media Initialization

Guides for initializing LTO-9 cartridges using a wizard for bulk processing.

Chapter 8 - Library Troubleshooting

Fibre Channel Connection Problems

Troubleshooting steps for issues with Fibre Channel connectivity to tape drives.

SAS Drive Detection Problems

Addresses detection issues that may occur after installing a SAS drive.

Operation Problems

Covers common operational issues and their solutions.

Tape Movement Problems

Solutions for issues like stuck tapes or cartridges not removable from slots.

Media Problems

Addresses issues related to cartridge incompatibility, write/read errors, and media errors.

Attention LED Indicators

Explains the causes and solutions when the Attention LED is lit.

Inventory and Network Issues

Troubleshooting for incorrect barcodes, RMI connection failures, and cleaning problems.

Performance Problems

Identifies and addresses factors that can limit system performance.

Finding Event Information

Guides on locating error codes and information through log files or support tickets.

Magazine Unlocking Procedures

Instructions for unlocking magazines using OCP/RMI or manual release methods.

Unloading Stuck Tapes

Methods for removing a tape stuck in a drive or magazine.

Identifying Failed Components

Guides on using UID LEDs and module status to identify library components that have failed.

Chapter 9 - Event Codes

Error Events

Lists event codes related to library errors and their corresponding solutions.

Warning Events

Details warning events reported by the library and suggested actions.

Configuration Change Events

Logs events related to changes in library configuration settings.

Informational Events

Records routine operational events and status updates within the library.

Chapter 10 - Technical Support

Accessing the Technical Support Portal

Guides on accessing Spectra Logic's online portal for support resources and information.

Opening a Support Ticket

Procedures for submitting a support incident through the online portal or by phone.

Returns Process

Information on returning components for analysis and servicing, including packaging and RMA procedures.

Appendix A - Specifications

Physical Specifications

Provides dimensions, weight, and packaging details for the library.

Rack Requirements

Details the specifications for racks compatible with the Spectra Stack library.

Environmental Specifications

Outlines operating and non-operating environmental conditions for the library and media.

Electrical Specifications

Lists the library's power requirements, including current, voltage, and maximum power consumption.

Regulatory Specifications (CSA)

Provides regulatory compliance information based on CSA test conditions.

Default Settings

Details the factory default settings for various library configurations.

Barcode Label Specifications

Describes the symbology, application, orientation, and data format for barcode labels.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Precautions

Information on preventing damage from static electricity during handling and installation.

Power Consumption and Cooling

Details the power draw and heat output of the library based on configuration.

LTO Tape Drive Specifications

Technical specifications for various LTO tape drive models supported by the library.

Appendix B - Regulatory Information

Recycling and Disposal (EU;Norway)

Information on the proper disposal and recycling of waste electrical equipment.

CE Mark Compliance

Explains the meaning and significance of the CE conformity mark.

CCL Mark

Information regarding the CCL Mark certification.

FCC Compliance (United States)

Details FCC compliance requirements and measures to mitigate interference.

Canadian Verification

States compliance with Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Related product manuals

Spectra Stack Tape Library - User Manual

Table of Contents