Quantum LTO-9 Media Calibration FAQ
Overview
LTO-9 media calibration is a new requirement for LTO-9 media. Calibration is a
one-time requirement for new cartridges prior to first-time read/write
operations; it is not a requirement for older generations including LTO-8. Due to
continued LTO innovation, with LTO-9 there is an increased number of tracks used
to write data on tape that requires greater precision. Media optimization creates
a referenced calibration for each cartridge that enables the tape drive’s intelligent
alignment to optimize data placement and enhances LTO tape long-term media
durability.
Below are the most frequently asked questions about LTO-9 calibration.
Q: Is there a difference between the terms, “optimization”, “initialization” and
“calibration”, in reference to LTO-9 media?
A: No. Quantum chose to use “calibration” to describe this one-time LTO9 media
event.
Q: What is LTO-9 media calibration?
A: Media calibration has been implemented in LTO-9 technology to optimize data
placement to each LTO-9 cartridge characteristics. New LTO-9 media requires a
one-time step calibration prior to commencing read/write operations. LTO-9
media calibration enhances LTO tape long-term media durability.
Q: Once the LTO-9 media cartridge has been calibrated within the
recommended environmental range, does it need to be re-calibrated when it is
moved to a separate drive, separate library, separate data center or
environment.
A: No, the LTO-9 calibration process is only required on the first load of a new
and unused LTO-9 media, subsequent loads in any LTO-9 drive do not require
calibration.
Q: Will LTO-8 media require calibration on first load to an LTO-9 tape drive?
A: No. Media calibration is required only on new LTO-9 media.
Q: How much time does the LTO-9 calibration add to the first-time load of a new
media cartridge?
A: The LTO-9 media cartridge calibration time typically averages between 35 to 52
minutes per first load, but it could take as long as 2 hours.
Q: Why does LTO-9 media require calibration?
A: Higher track densities (TPI) and longer tapes using thinner polymer base
substrates in LTO-9 media achieve double digit Areal Densities and more than 21K
TPI track density. A new tape calibration algorithm was introduced, ensuring data
durability, compatibility and allowing for complex interchange requirements over
the specified environmental conditions. The length of calibration is mainly for
media optimum characterization and will vary based on these factors. This initial
calibration, also, enables the tape drive’s intelligent alignment to optimize data
placement.
Q: Does LTO-9 media calibration need to be performed in the destination site?
A: It is recommended that calibration be performed at the final installation
destination where the drives and media are to be used, to provide optimized
acclimation within the recommended environmental ranges on Quantum product
data sheets.
Q: Can the customer disable media calibration?
A: No, the one-time calibration cannot be disabled. For the tape to perform, it
must be calibrated before first time use and one time only.
Q: Can I use uncalibrated LTO-9 media for installation verification test (IVT)?
A: No, LTO-9 media calibration is required before first use which includes IVT.
LTO-9 Tape Media