The advancing age of media can be causing problems. The 3480 cartridge was introduced nearly 15 years ago. Many data centers are still using cartridges with original formulations, which were changed three times in the first three years. Even worse, they are using media that has been contaminated or recalled! Some of these cartridges are finding their way into automated tape libraries that run at 4 meters per second, or twice as fast as originally specified.

The faster drives operate at higher temperatures, which causes binder failure. When the binder breaks down, the chromium dioxide adheres to the drive heads. This causes processing problems.

Just a few 10-12 year old 3480 cartridges can cross-contaminate good cartridges causing a cascade of processing errors and job aborts through the entire library. Fortunately, Data Link can help by eliminating failing media, performing a comprehensive library cleaning and the implementation of a Total Media Management program.

Below is a list of services:

Library Profiles & Audits
Data Link library profiles and audits evaluate the quality of your media, the efficiency of your tape processing systems, and compliance with IRS regulations. By systematically examining your tape library on-site, Data Link can determine where problems are likely to occur. Through subsequent media testing, we can often determine the exact cause of media-related problems.

Media Format Conversions & Migration
Data Link can easily convert media from one format to another or migrate your entire operation to a new media technology. Our solutions are on-site, off-line and require only desktop space, resulting in minimal impact on day-to-day operations.

Library Cleaning
Extend tape life, eliminate debris, and reduce data errors with regular cleaning.