Primera Technology Fujitsu Tape Drive RX300 S2 - Manual (Page 282)

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Chapter 9 Operation and Maintenance
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Managing Media Lifespans
Media is a consumable product that must be replaced regularly.
Continued use of media exceeding its lifespan can have negative effects on the device (e.g. increase the
speed of dust accumulation).
The lifespan of media varies depending on the environment and operation condition of the device, the
type of backup software used, and other operation conditions, however, it is recommended that they be
replaced sooner than later.
To manage the lifespan, write the use start date on the media.
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Rotating Media
When using a single media cartridge repeatedly, backup data can be temporarily lost in the event the
backup fails. Or if the hard disk were to fail during a backup, the data will become unrecoverable.
Rotate between several media for backups.
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Avoid Leaving Media in Devices
Because the magnetic recording surface of the device is exposed, media can easily affected by airborne
dust when left inserted for a long period of time. Insert the media before using it, and remove the media
after use, and restore it in its case.
Also note that some tape devices write management information to the tape when ejecting the media. If
the power were to go out when the media is still in the device, this writing process will not be performed
and the media may become corrupted.
To avoid this, remove the media from the device when turning off the server/device.
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Verifying Data after a Backup
Some backup software products provide data verification functions after a backup is completed. Such
functions will read and verify the data written to the media after a backup is completed. This will
increase the usage of the media, thus reducing the number of times it can be used for backups.
Depending on the hardware being used, some devices perform "read after write" operations on data; note
the points of this section as necessary.
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Ejecting Media after a Backup
Some backup software products provide functions for ejecting media after a backup is completed. Such
functions will rewind the tape after a backup is completed and then eject the media from the drive.
Be sure to execute this function for autoloader/library devices. Depending on the structure of some
servers, this function may cause the media to eject from an internal device of the server and hit the
chassis door. If this is the case, open the door when ejecting, or do not eject the media.
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Media Label Types and Positions
When writing information such as the name on media, use the label that came with the media.
The area in which a label can be posted on the media of each device varies.
Failing to post labels in the designated area can damage the device.