Library Cleaning
Dirty media is a major cause of drive failure and data loss in data processing operations of all sizes. Corrupted media can not only damage drives, but can also degrade the performance of subsequently run media, acting almost like a virus being transferred from one tape to another---this process is called cross contamination.

Taking a pro-active approach to library cleaning extends tape life, eliminates debris, and reduces data errors. Data Link Associates can help you clean your library as a service or can provide cleaning systems for you to perform this necessary task in-house.

Facts From the Experts
NCITS (National Committee for Information Technology Standards, formerly called ANSI)
An inhibitor tape is any tape that degrades the performance of the tape drives or other tapes. (From "Specification X3B5/88-091, Section 5.15 Inhibitor Tape Definition")

ISO 9002
7.1 Cleaning and Maintenance: Cleaning and maintenance should be performed on a regular basis or as required.

IBM
"Dirty cartridges can reduce subsystem reliability and cause the loss of recorded data." (From Care & Handling, Doc. GA 320047.1)

ICL
"Cleaning and maintenance should be performed on a regular basis." (From Care & Handling, Doc. 80089574)