Path Technology

We've said it before and we'll say it again: backups of your critical data can ensure the ongoing success of your business. Here's some care-and-feeding for your tape backup components.

Overall guide to tape and tape backup units:

1. If using 4mm and 8mm tapes, use only certified data grade ones, not audio or video tapes. Data-grade tapes will extend the life of your tape drive's read and write heads.
2. Tape drives require regular and systematic preventative maintenance to prevent backup and restore failures. Most manufactures suggest using a cleaning cassette about every 40 hours of use.
3. Keep data tape free from contamination. Do not expose the tape to dirt, dust or moisture. Do not open the tape access door and touch the tape itself. Do not use the tape beyond the recommended life. For example: practicing the procedures described, you can expect 2 years of service from a Travan data tape that is used once a week.
4. Remove the tape from the drive when not in use. Store the tapes in their protective plastic cases at all times. Never remove the tape from the drive when the drive LED light is ON or blinking indicating that the tape is moving. Wait for the tape motion to stop and the drive LED light to turn off before removing the tape from the drive.
5. Do not store your tapes in extreme temperatures. Always allow the tape to acclimate to its surrounding environment prior to use. Retensioning the cartridge after exposure to a temperature change, such as hot to cold or cold to hot is highly recommended. Retensioning allows the tape pack to stabilize and will give you the best performance.
6. Keep backup tapes away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as radiators, heaters or warm air ducts.
7. Keep backup tapes away from sources of electromagnetic fields, such as bulk erasers and magnetic tools. Do not bulk erase any of the preformatted data cartridges, they often can not be reformatted by the tape drive, and this will render the cartridge unusable.