IBM 3590 - Manual (Page 107)

There are two kinds of cartridge labels: A customer label and either a volume
or a serial number label. Attach the customer label to the top surface of the
cartridge. Then, attach the volume or serial number label to the side opposite
the file-protect selector as shown in Figure 20 on page 86. Place the labels in
the recessed cartridge label areas only. Labels that extend outside of the recess
areas can cause loading problems in the drive, particularly when using the
automatic cartridge facility.
When you use cartridge labels, make sure to do the following:
v Use peel-clean labels that do not leave a residue after they are removed. If
there is residue on the cartridge, follow the instructions in “Cleaning the
Tape Cartridge” on page 70 to remove it.
v Always remove the old label before you apply a new label. Do not erase
information from labels while they are attached to the cartridges.
v Write information on the labels with markers that do not smear or leave a
residue on the cartridge. Do not use china marking pencils to write on the
labels.
Notes:
1. Figure 20 on page 86 illustrates that the IBM 3590 High Performance
Cartridge Tape must have a J label affixed in the seventh label position.
The presence of this label distinguishes 3590 cartridges from other types
that may be in a library inventory. Although similar in appearance to
other tape cartridges, the IBM 3590 High Performance Cartridge Tapes
are not interchangeable.
2. When used in automated libraries where mixed cartridge types are
present, all cartridges must be labeled with the appropriate type label in
the “seventh label position.” See Table 29 on page 80 for label types.
For additional information and label requirements, see IBM TotalStorage 3590
Tape Subsystem Introduction and Planning Guide.
Damaged Cartridges
The cost of a tape cartridge is low compared to the cost of damage to tape
subsystems and possible loss of recorded data. Therefore, check the cartridge
for damage before you use it in the tape subsystem. A good practice is to
copy essential records and keep them in a secure storage area.
Ensure continued use of your cartridges and subsystem as follows:
v Do not attempt to open the cartridge case at any time. The upper and
lower parts of the case are welded; separating them destroys the usefulness
of the cartridge.
Chapter 8. Cartridge Care and Handling 87