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Unlabeled Tape Facility
Note: Do not use this function with cartridges with machine-readable labels.
Unlabeled tape operations are designed to allow the operator to occasionally insert
volumes into the 3494 that do not have external machine-readable volser and
media-type labels. Once inserted through the unlabeled tape facility, the volumes
may be used in the same manner that regular, properly labeled volumes are used,
with the exception of any operations that require the external machine-readable
label to be read.
It is not recommended that volumes to be managed by the VTS be inserted using
this facility. However, in the event the external label on a stacked volume becomes
damaged, this facility can be used to re-insert the volume until its external label can
be replaced.
To use the unlabeled tape facility, the operator selects the Insert Unlabeled
Cartridges command from the Commands pull-down on the library manager. The
operator then provides the volser and media-type information requested. The
unlabeled tapes are then placed into the Convenience Input⁄Output Station. The
library will then move the cartridges from the Convenience Input⁄Output Station to
their designated cells. The library manager database is updated to indicate the
location of the cartridges using the volser and media-type information provided. All
hosts are notified that the cartridges have been added to the insert category just as
regular, properly labeled volumes are handled.
Inventory update operations only verifies that all unlabeled cartridges are in cells
that previously contained unlabeled cartridges.
Note: This facility should not be used for a large number of cartridges or for
cartridges that are stored in the library for a long time. Refer to “Insert
Unlabeled Cartridges” on page 184 for additional information.
Cartridge Labeling
To apply an external volser cartridge label, do the following:
1. Examine the label before you apply it to the cartridge. Do not use the label if it
has voids or smears in the printed characters or bar codes.
2. Remove the label from the label sheet carefully so you do not stretch the label
or cause the edges to curl.
3. Line up either end of the label with the lip of the label indentation. Be sure to
position the bar-code side of the label toward the inside edge of the indentation.
Do not allow the label to roll up or over this lip; the label must be flat within the
cartridge indentation surface. Apply the label either from the top or from the
bottom. Carefully position the label within the indentation on the end of the
cartridge away from the leader block. The machine-readable bar code must face
to the right.
4. Apply the label parallel to the long edge of the indentation. Do not pull the label
excessively because it will stretch.
5. Smooth out the label so that no wrinkles or bubbles exist on the label. Use light
finger pressure to smooth the label and secure it to the cartridge.
6. Verify that the label is smooth and parallel and has no roll-up or roll-over.
22 Magstar 3494 Tape Library Operator Guide