For Fuji DLT Tape, DLT Tape VS and SDLT Tape Media

		Cartridge Features Cartridge Leader: Buckles with drive leader to pull media from cartridge. Two types, DLTtape cartridges (mylar loop) and Super DLTtape cartridges (plastic buckle with metal pin) Reel Locks: Prevents media reel in the cartridge from spinning when the cartridge is not loaded in a drive (ensures proper tension of media is maintained) Cartridge Hub: Mechanical interconnect between the cartridge and the drive reel motor. Write Protect Switch: The write protect switch prevents overwrite or erasure of data. You can change the position of the write protect switch at any time.
DLTtape VS1 and DLT VS160 Cleaning Write protected - Indicator on top points to closed lock		DLTtape and Super DLTtape Media: Write protected - slide toward label. Orange indicator displayed.

Use slide-in label Store media vertically in protective plastic cases

Media Care Guidelines DLTtape cartridges are engineered to be reliable, robust, and durable. They are manufactured to withstand 1,000,000 passes, and have a shelf life of 30 years. For best results, follow these guidelines for media care: Protect cartridges from shock, vibration, moisture, and magnetic fields. Keep media in protective cases and store vertically when not in use. Use the sliding labels provided. Do not use adhesive labels or Post-it® notes, and do not write on the cartridge. Write in pen not pencil. Using a pencil can introduce contaminants to the tape path. Use caution so loose labels in storage container don’t stick to bottom of cartridge, covering the hub. Never touch the tape or tape leader. Dust and oils from your skin contaminate the tape and affect performance. If you drop a cartridge: - Inspect case for any signs of cracks or protruding material - Open cartridge door to check for buckle damage - If buckle damage is present do not insert media in tape drive, discard cartridge and/or contact the manufacturer - If cartridge appears usable - transfer data to new cartridge and discard ! The safety of your data relies on proper care and handling of media cartridges.

Visual Media Inspection
When to perform a visual inspection

Best practices: Each time a tape is loaded or changed

When a tape cartridge is dropped or subject to a hard physical shock

When a shipment of tapes shows any sign of shipping damage

If the DLT, DLT VS or SDLT drive becomes inoperable after loading a tape
! If a drive error occurs, inspect the current and previous cartridge used in that drive

Ensure door operates. DLTtape leader loop should be visible and undamaged

To Inspect a Cartridge Case: Inspect the case for cracks, chips or signs of damage. Cartridge: Inspect the exterior of the cartridge for chips, cracks, dents, or missing screws. Gently shake the cartridge. Listen for rattling or loose pieces Cartridge door: Ensure the door is moveable and that the spring is present. Write Protect Switch: Move switch. It should snap into write-protected mode and write-enabled mode. Cartridge Leader: Gently inspect the cartridge leader to verify that it has not been damaged and is in the correct position.    o DLTtape cartridges: Check the height of the leader to ensure that the loop is sticking up approx. 3/16” or 4mm.   o Super DLTtape Cartridges: The buckle should not be bent in or out. ! When inspecting the cartridge leader do not use anything that could leave contamination, such as a pen or pencil. Reel Locks: Check that both reel locks are visible. Verify operation using a small flat blade screwdriver. The reel locks should spring back when released. Cartridge Hub: Confirm the spring-loaded hub on the bottom of the cartridge is centered. Press the hub; it will spring back if operating properly.

Check that the Super DLTtape leader buckle aligns with cartridge edge and metal pin is not bent.

Check reel locks. If not visible, don’t use the cartridge.

Inspect spring-loaded hub for proper tension and centering.

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