SL8500 Best Practices

SL8500
Modular Library System
Best Practices Guide

Part Number: TM0017
Revision C
SL8500 Modular Library System

Best Practices Guide
Sun Microsystems, Inc.

www.sun.com
Part Number: TM0017

May 2007
Revision C
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Summary of Changes
Date
Revision
Description
December 2005
Initial release of the Best Practices Guide.
March 2007
May 2007
Changes to the revision include:

Updated the HSC examples in Chapter 9, Ethernet Connectivity.
Change bars included.
TM0017 Revision C
iii
Summary of Changes
iv
SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
Contents
Summary of Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Intended Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Terminology and Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Alert Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xv
Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi
Related Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
Related Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xviii
Accessing the Learning Management System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xviii
Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix
Suns External Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix
Customer Resource Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix
Sun Partner Advantage Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix
Hardcopy Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xix
1: SL8500 Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Data Cartridge Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Reserved Capacity Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Library Walls, Arrays, and Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Address Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Understanding the Address Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Touch Screen Operator Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Translating Addresses Using the Library Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Robotic Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Pass-thru Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Pass-thru Port Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Adding SL8500 Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Dynamically Upgrading ACSLS and HSC Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Adding SL8500 Libraries to the Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Upgrading ACSLS and HSC Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
TM0017 Revision C
Contents
Cartridge Access Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
CAP Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Second CAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Dual CAP Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Dual CAP Firmware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Addressing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Hardware: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Software: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Ethernet Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Terminology and Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Operational Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
LSM Preferencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Library Physical Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Mount and Dismount Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Enter and Eject Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Optimization Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Fast Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Cartridge Float . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Tape Drive Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Front Door Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Service Safety Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Audits and Initialization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Audit Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Audit Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Audit Processes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Verified Audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Virtual Audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Library Console Audit Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Scan Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Media ID Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Barcode Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Non-labeled Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Upside Down Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Unreadable Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
2: Library Content Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Dedicating Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Managing Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Grouping Tape Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Minimizing Elevator and PTP Activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Cartridge Access Port Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Planning for Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
3: HSC Best Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Supported Software Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Configuring Tape Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
vi SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
Contents
Managing Cartridge Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Finding Missing Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Understanding SL8500 Internal Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Translating Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Varying the SL8500 Offline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Use HSC to Vary SL8500 Components Offline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
When to Vary SL8500 Components Offline to HSC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Using the Service Safety Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
When Closing the Service Safety Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Working Around an Inoperative HandBot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Changing the HSC Recording Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Using Dynamic Hardware Reconfiguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Before Reconfiguring HSC for the SL8500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Changing the Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Adding New SL8500 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Adding Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Dynamically Upgrading HSC Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Adding Libraries to the Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Expanding an SL8500 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
4: VSM Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Configuring VSM for SL8500 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Considering VTCS Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Configuring the LSMs and RTDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Considering HSC and VTCS Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Considering VSM Workload Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Analyzing Workloads and Separating MVCs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
VSM Configuration Hierarchy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Placing RTDs and MVCs within the Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
RTD Preferencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
5: ExLM Best Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Selection Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Adjusting Content Management Philosophies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Using Pass-thru Mechanisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Ejecting Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Entering Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Using the Performance Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Locating Physical Tape Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Changing Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
6: ACSLS Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Supported Software Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Configuring Tape Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Managing Cartridge Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Understanding SL8500 Internal Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
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Translating Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Finding Missing Cartridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Varying the SL8500 Offline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Using ACSLS to Vary Components Offline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
When to Vary Components Offline to ACSLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Using the Service Safety Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Updating ACSLS after a HandBot Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Working Around an Inoperative HandBot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Configuring ACSLS for the SL8500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Using the Dynamic Configuration Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
Changing the Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Adding New SL8500 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Adding Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Dynamically Upgrading ACSLS Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Adding Libraries to the Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Expanding an SL8500 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Using ACSLS HA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
7: Independent Software Vendors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Interoperability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Workload Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Tape Drive Location and Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Tape Drive Selection Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Media Selection Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Application Knowledge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Fencing or Pooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
query mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
query mount * . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Other ISVs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
8: TLC/FSM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Input for the TLC/FSM from HSC and ACSLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
HSC: Record Cartridge Movement Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
ACSLS: Record Library Volume Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
9: Ethernet Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Network Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
TCP/IP Important Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
Network Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
Supported Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
ACSLS and Dual TCP/IP Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
ACSLS Configuration One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
ACSLS Configuration Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
ACSLS High Availability Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
Retaining Customized Routing Table Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
Removing Special Routing Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
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HSC and Dual TCP/IP Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Dual IP Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
HSC Configuration One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
HSC Configuration Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Service Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
10: Partitioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Software and Firmware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121
Enabling Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
License Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
Host Software Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129
Assigning Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130
Partitioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
Removing Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132
Partitioning Contact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132
CAPs and Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
Reserving the CAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
Unreserving the CAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
Overriding a CAP Reservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

A: Structural Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Types of Library Walls and Storage Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137
Internal Addressing Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138
Tape Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140
B: Comparisons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143
Contrasts Between Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144
Capacity Comparison with 9310 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146
Library Comparisons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
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Figure 1. PowderHorn9310 and SL8500 Comparison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 2. Library Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Figure 3. Panel Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 4. Touch Screen Operator Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Figure 5. Translating Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Figure 6. HandBot and Rail Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Figure 7. Elevators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 8. Elevator Configuration Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 9. Pass-thru Port Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Figure 10. Pass-thru Port Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 11. Cartridge Access Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Figure 12. Ethernet Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Figure 13. Service Safety Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Figure 14. Audit Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Figure 15. Label Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Figure 16. Content Management Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Figure 17. Content Management Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Figure 18. Adding and Expanding on Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Figure 19. Splitting Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Figure 20. Adding and Expanding on Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Figure 21. Splitting Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Figure 22. Tape Library Configurator Field Simulation Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Figure 24. ACSLS Configuration Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Figure 25. ACSLS HA Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Figure 26. HSC Configuration One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Figure 27. HSC Configuration Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Figure 28. Service Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Figure 29. Partition Planning and Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Figure 30. Partition Planning Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Figure 31. Base Library Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Figure 32. One Expansion Module Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Figure 33. Two Expansion Modules Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Figure 34. Three Expansion Modules Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Figure 35. Four Expansion Modules Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Figure 36. Five Expansion Modules Partition Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
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Figure 37. Touch Screen Operator Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Figure 38. CAP Reservations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Figure 39. Internal Addressing Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
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Table 1. Module Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Table 2. Cartridge Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Table 3. Reserved Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Table 4. Addressing Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Table 5. Second CAP Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Table 6. Second CAP Firmware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Table 7. CAP Library AddressingHardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Table 8. CAP Library AddressingSoftware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Table 9. Barcode Label Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Table 10. SL8500 and HSC Mapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Table 11. Panel Addressing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Table 12. Application Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Table 13. Network Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Table 14. Routing Table ACSLS Configuration One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Table 15. Network Entries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Table 16. Partitioned Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Table 17. Steps and Tasks for Partitioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Table 18. Partitioning Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Table 19. Removing Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Table 20. Partition Contact Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Table 21. Tape Drive Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Table 22. Software Drive Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Table 23. Physical Drive Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Table 24. Differences in Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Table 25. Old versus New Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Table 26. Comparisons Between PowderHorn and the SL8500 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Table 27. Power Requirement Comparisons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
TM0017 Revision C
xiii
Tables
xiv SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
Preface
This document contains best practice guidelines for the optimization for the
SL8500 library along with suggestions about how to improve the performance.
Intended Audience
This document is written for Sun Microsystems and StorageTek account
executives, system engineers (SEs), professional services (PS), and marketing
and sales representatives.
It is intended to be shared with customers that are interested in planning for,
purchasing, and using the SL8500 modular library system.
Terminology and Usage

The following terminology is used throughout this document and mean the
same unless otherwise noted:
SL8500 modular library system, SL8500 library, SL8500, or just library
Media, cartridges, tape cartridges, volumes, tape volumes, or just tapes
Rail (hardware) and library storage module or LSM (software)
Library complex (hardware) and ACS (software)

Note: An ACS can contain multiple libraries within a complex
Slots (hardware) and cells (software)
Tape drives, transports, tape transports, and just drives
Alert Messages
Alert messages call your attention to information that is especially important or
that has a unique relationship to the main text or graphic.
Note: A note provides additional information that is of special interest. A note
might point out exceptions to rules or procedures. A note usually, but not
always, follows the information to which it pertains.
Caution: A caution informs you of conditions that might result in damage to
hardware, corruption of data, or corruption of application software.
A caution always precedes the information to which it pertains.
TM0017 Revision C
xv
Preface
Organization
Chapter
Use this chapter to...
Chapter 1, SL8500
Architecture
Understand the architecture of the SL8500 modular library system and

differences between other libraries.
Chapter 2, Library
Content Management
Discover ways to optimize the SL8500 library and improve performance.
Chapter 3, HSC Best

Practices
Find out how you can improve performance of the SL8500 library with the
Host Software Component (HSC).
Chapter 4, VSM Best

Practices
Discover configuration recommendations for Virtual Storage Manager (VSM)

that can improve performance.
Chapter 5, ExLM Best

Practices
Understand reasons for adjusting and re-evaluating the content management

philosophy with respect to the physical structure of the SL8500.
Chapter 6, ACSLS Best

Practices
Learn some guidelines for optimizing the Automated Cartridge System

Library Software (ACSLS) for the SL8500 library.
Chapter 7, Independent
Software Vendors
Become aware of the characteristics for various applications in which

independent software vendors (ISVs) design support for the SL8500 library
Chapter 8, TLC/FSM
Get an introduction to the Tape Library Configurator Field Simulation Model

(TLC/FSM). This tool helps with configuring tape libraries.
Chapter 9, Ethernet
Connectivity
Learn about the supported configurations and network examples for

the Dual TCP/IP feature.
Chapter 10, Partitioning
Get prepared for partitioning of the SL8500 library. This chapter provides
requirements, guidelines, and a list of tasks to help partition a library.
Appendix A, Structural
Elements
Understand some of the structural elements of the library, including the walls,
storage slots, and addressing scheme.
Appendix B,
Comparisons
Compare various measurements and values between the SL8500 and the
9310 PowderHorn tape libraries.
xvi SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
Preface
Related Publications
The following list contains the names and part numbers of publications that
provide additional information.
Software Publications
ACSLS 7.1 Installation, Configuration, and Administration Guide
312572303
HSC 6.1 Operators Guide
312597201
HSC 6.1 Systems Programmers Guide
312597301
NearLine Control Solution (NCS) 6.1 Installation Manual
312596801
Introduction to Virtual Storage Manager
MT6002
Virtual Tape Control System Installation and Configuration Guide
312585901
ExLM 6.0 Installation Guide
312558101
ExLM Quick Reference
312558002
ExLM System Administrators Guide
312558202
Hardware Publications
Systems Assurance Guide
MT9229x
Installation Manual
96138
Users Guide
96154
SL8500 Optimization Checklist
TT0017x
All publications listed above are available in portable document format (PDF)
online at the Customer Resource Center (CRC).
The URL for the CRC is http://www.support.storagetek.com
The CRC is also available through the SunSolve Web site at:
http://sunsolve.central.sun.com.
TM0017 Revision C
Preface
xvii
Preface
Related Training
Sun Learning Services (SLS) has two tools that employees can use to obtain
information about and for training.
1. Learning Management System (LMS) enables you to sign up for classes,
access training records, start e-learning courses, and much more.
2. MyLearning Portal allows you to find out about the latest learning offerings,
find the right learning for your job, watch training videos, and share and
collaborate with peersall from a single site.
You can access both of these tools through the SunWeb Portal at:
http://sunweb.central.sun.com.
Note: All previous StorageTek employee technical courses can be accessed
from the MyLearning website at: http://mylearning.central.sun.com.
Accessing the Learning Management System

See the following for more information:
Employee Training
Employees can access the LMS by logging into myHR from the SunWeb
Portal and myHR, click on the My Job & Learning tab and access the new
LMS under the Learning channel on the page.
Partner Training
Partner training resources are still available through a version of the Sun
Training Access Network (SunTAN), which remains available.
Customer Training
Customers can review the Training Catalog that is available through the
Sun Web site at: http://www.sun.com.
Click on the Training link at the top of the page. http://www.sun.com/training.
xviii SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
Preface
Additional Information
Sun Microsystems, Inc. (Sun) offers several methods for you to obtain
additional information.
Suns External Web Site

The Sun external Web site provides marketing, product, event, corporate, and
service information. The external Web site is accessible to anyone with a Web
browser and an Internet connection.
The URL for the Sun external Web site is: http://www.sun.com
Customer Resource Center

The Sun StorageTek product Customer Resource Center (CRC) is a Web site
that enables members to resolve technical issues by searching code fixes and
technical documentation for StorageTek brand products. CRC membership
entitles you to other proactive services, such as HIPER subscriptions,
technical tips, answers to frequently asked questions, addenda to product
documentation books, and online product support contact information.
Customers who have a current warranty or a current maintenance service
agreement may apply for membership by clicking on the Request Password
button on the CRC home page.
The URL for the CRC is http://www.support.storagetek.com
The CRC is also available through the SunSolve Web site at:
http://sunsolve.central.sun.com.
Sun employees may also enter the CRC through the SunWeb PowerPort.
Sun Partner Advantage Program

The Sun Partner Advantage Program is a new program for all of Sun's
partners worldwide. This new program can help align your business with the
power of the Sun brand-and serves as your connection to a whole new level of
business opportunities. This site provides information about products,
services, customer support, upcoming events, training programs, and sales
tools to support partners.
The URL for partners is: http://www.sun.com/partners/
Hardcopy Publications
Contact a Sun sales or marketing representative to order additional paper
copies of this publication or to order other StorageTek-brand product customer
publications in paper format.
TM0017 Revision C
Preface
xix
Preface
xx SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
On the surface, the SL8500 and the PowderHorn libraries may appear similar.
Many assume that the SL8500 is just a newer, high-performance, PowderHorn.
While this assumption may have been true for the evolution from the original
4400 library to the PowderHorn libraryit is only partially true for the evolution
from PowderHorn to the SL8500 library.
To fully understand this, it may be helpful to take a more detailed look into the
architecture of the SL8500 library with its features and benefits.
PowderHornwhen first releasedrepresented a traditional brute-force
attempt to improve the performance of the 4400 automated cartridge system
by cranking up the speed of the robot. When the engineering team looked into
methods to continue and improve overall performancemainly cartridge
exchange ratesof the PowderHorn library, it became obvious that there were
many physical constraints with having such a large robot mass; and just
cranking up the speed another notch was not going to provide the kind of
increase in performance many customers were seekingeven demanding.
SL8500 librarythe architecture of the SL8500 library represents a major shift
from the single, high-speed, robot to a multiple, high-performance, robotic
system enhanced with new technologies.
The robotic system consists of 4 or 8 HandBotsTM that work in parallel to
achieve an increase in throughputor cartridge exchange ratesby
allowing each robot to operate independently. Servicing of multiple mount
requests can occur at the same time to improve performance.
Continuous availability through library management software such as the
Host Software Component (HSC) or Automated Cartridge System Library
Software (ACSLS) to provide near continuous operation and dynamic
configuration utilities that allow you to change configurations without
interruption to the library.
Consolidation and drive sharing combine and strengthen valuable
resources such as the tape drives with the high density of the library to
save floor space, yet maximize capacity.
Near-zero downtime with the use of redundant components wherever
possible for very high availability. HandBots, tape drives, power supplies,
and pass-thru ports can be replaced while the SL8500 continues to
operate.
TM0017 Revision C
SL8500 Architecture
Figure 1. PowderHorn9310 and SL8500 Comparison

Figure 1 shows a comparison between PowderHorn and SL8500 libraries.
ROBOT
Total area
Total weight
with 60 drives
10.3 m2 (110.8 ft2)

5420 kg (11,950 lb)
(80 drives max.)
Consumption
16 drives
60 drives
3.56 kW
10.76 kW
Heat output
16 drives
60 drives
12,140 Btu/hr
36,700 Btu/hr
Power cords 6
Plus each drive (60)
Capacities:
Note: Adding more drive cabinets
decreases the cartridge capacity by 340
cells per cabinet
STOP
HERE
LIBRARY
CONTROL
UNIT
(LCU)
CARTRIDGE
DRIVE
(CD)
ACCESS
DOOR
CARTRIDGE
ACCESS
PORT
(CAP)
5,500
5,160
4,820
4,480
ADDITIONAL
CARTRIDGE
DRIVE
1.
2.
C29434
3.
4.
20 drives
40 drives
60 drives
80 drives (max.)
Library Storage Module (LSM)

Library Management Unit (LMU)
Dual configuration, not shown
Library Control Unit (LCU)
9741E Drive Cabinets (3)
(4 cabinets max.)
Total area
Total weight
(64 drives)
L203_649
1.
2.
3.
4.
Drive and Electronics Module (DEM) holds up to 64 tape drives

Robotic Interface Module (RIM)
Storage Expansion Modules (SEM)
Currently, up to 3 expansion modules may be added to the base library
Customer Interface Module (CIM)
9.6 m2 (103.4 ft2)

5250 kg (11,575 lb)
Consumption
16 drives
64 drives
3.32 kW
12.27 kW
Heat output
16 drives
64 drives
11,320 Btu/hr
41,840 Btu/hr
Power cords
2 (3 phase) or 6 (single phase)
Drives power cords are not required
Capacity
Adding more drives has no effect on
capacity (and vice-versa)
1,448 (Base)
3,176 (1 SEM)
4,904 (2 SEMs)
6,632 (3 SEMs)
8,360 (4 SEMs)
10,088 (5 SEMs)
64 drives per library
See Appendix B for more comparisons between the SL8500 and 9310 PowderHorn.
2 SL8500: Best Practices May 2007
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Modules
Figure 2 shows a view of the library with an example of each type of module
and the location of certain components.
Figure 2. Library Modules
6
12
13
14
11
1
10
Elevators
8
X
4
6
3
L203_053
1. Cartridge Access Ports on page 19

2. Facademay contain up to 2 operator panels (Keypad and the StreamLine Library Console)
The two elevators (vertical pass-thru) are located behind the operator panels.
3. Customer Interface Module (CIM)only 1 module per library.
4. Storage Expansion Modules (SEM)up to 5 modules per library.
5. Robotics Interface Module (RIM)only 1 module per library.
6. Pass-thru Portscolumns 6 and 6. See Pass-thru Ports on page 14 for more information.
7. Drive and Electronics Module (DEM)only 1 module per library
8. AC Power and Electronics Control Modulescan have two modules per library
9. DC Power suppliescan have up to 24 modules per library
10. Tape drive bayholds up to 64 tape drives
11. Accessory racksmay have up to 4 racks that can hold servers, hubs, and switches
12. Inner wall cartridge slots
13. Service Safety Door on page 28
14. Reserved Capacity Slots on page 5
- E = End stop
- X = Diagnostic cartridges
Floor labels can be placed inside the library to help identify column numbers
and locations. The part number for these labels is: XSL8500-COL-LABEL.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 1 SL8500 Architecture 3
SL8500 Architecture
Table 1. Module Descriptions

Module
Description
Customer Interface
Module
The customer interface module is the first module in the library and measures
95.25 cm (37.5 in.) deep. This module contains:
Storage Expansion
Modules
Robotics Interface
Module
Drive and
Electronics Module
648 data cartridge slots (see Library Walls, Arrays, and Slots on page 6)
198 slots for diagnostic and cleaning cartridges

(see Reserved Capacity Slots on page 5)
24 end slots (eight 3-slot arrays) for targeting and drop-off cells
(see Reserved Capacity Slots on page 5)
One LED display and keypad Touch screen operator control panel
(optional feature)
Two load sharing DC power supplies
One service safety door for maintenance activity (optional feature)
One standard Cartridge Access Ports on page 19
Two elevator assemblies that can transfer up to four cartridges from one
rail to another.
The SL8500 library can accommodate up to five storage expansion modules

(callout #4). Each expansion module:
Increases the depth of the library by 95.25 cm (37.5 in.)
Adds 1,728 customer usable data cartridge slots

(see Library Walls, Arrays, and Slots on page 6)
The robotics interface module (callout #5) is the next module and measures
76.2 cm (30 in.) deep. This module contains:
800 data cartridge slots (see Library Walls, Arrays, and Slots on page 6)
Pass-thru ports (see Pass-thru Ports on page 14)
One of two robotic configurations (see Robotic Architecture on page 12)
The drive and electronics module (callout #7) is the last module in the library
and measures 76.2 cm (30 in.) deep. This module contains the:
AC power distribution units
Electronics Control Module
Load sharing DC power supplies
Accessory racks
Slots for 1 to 64 tape drives
No slots for data cartridge storage
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Capacities
The following tables list the slot capacities for a single library.
Data Cartridge Slots

Table 2 lists the customer data cartridge capacities.
Library Configuration
Cartridge Capacity
Basic Library
Drive & Electronics Module
Robotics Interface Module
800
Customer Interface Module
648
Starting (Base) Configuration
1,448
Expansion Modules
Table 2. Cartridge Capacity
When adding expansion module, each module adds 1,728 data cartridge slots
One expansion module
3,176
Two expansion modules
4,904
Three expansion modules
6,632
Four expansion modules
8,360
Five expansion modules (maximum)
10,088
Note: The total number of cartridges does not include the cartridge slots in
the cartridge access port, pass-thru port, or reserved slots.
Reserved Capacity Slots

Table 3 lists the 230 reserved slots that cannot to be used for data cartridges.
These are reserved for diagnostic cartridges, drop-off slots, and targeting.
Table 3. Reserved Slots
Slots
Usage
198
Diagnostic cartridges
24
Eight 3-cell arrays intended for:
Location
Front of the Customer Interface
Module in the Service Area
Endstop label (top)

Proximity sensing (middle)
Drop-off slot for single HandBot (bottom)
Drop-off slot for second HandBot
Top cell under the pass-thru ports
Note: ACSLS and HSC cannot access the reserved slots in the Customer Interface Module, so for
any ACSLS or HSC managed cleaning, the cartridges must be placed in the customer usable slots.
The reserved slots in the service area may be used, however, for non-ACSLS and HSC managed
cleaning using the librarys cleaning and diagnostic functions.
TM0017 Revision C
SL8500 Architecture
Library Walls, Arrays, and Slots

The library has two types of walls with arrays and slots that hold cartridges:
Inner wallsconsist of 14-slot arrays

Outer wallsconsist of 13-slot arrays with space for the robotic rails
In addition to the 13- and 14-slot arrays, there are:
8-slot arrays in the pass-thru port panels

8-slot arrays underneath the stop brackets for the service safety door
4-slot arrays on the elevators and pass-thru ports
3-slot arrays (end stops) at the ends of each HandBot rail
Each array has two targets centered vertically with allowances that | \ |
accommodate the different sizes and depths of the tape cartridges.
Cartridges are placed in slots and lie flat, hub-side down, parallel to the floor. To
prevent slippage, cartridges are held within their slots by retainer clips.
Aisle space between the inner and outer walls is limited to 0.5 m (18 in.).
Because of this, entry into the library should be limited.
Address Scheme
Cartridge locations in previous libraries were: ACS, Library, Panel, Row, and
Column (HLI-PRC). Cartridge slot designations in an SL8500 library uses five
parameters: Library, Rail, Column, Side, Row (L,R,C,S,W):
1. Library: Is the number of that library or within a library complex
2. Rail: Rails are numbered top down from 1 4 with rail 1 being on top.
Each rail is considered a separate library storage module (LSM).

LSMs are numbered 0 3 (top down).
3. Column: Indicates the horizontal location of a tape cartridge referenced from

the center of the drive bay at the rear of the library forward, where:
+1 is just right of the center of the drive bays and

-1 is just to the left of the drive bays
Column numbering is consecutivethe first columns that contain tape

cartridges are +3 and -3 and continue forward to the front access doors.
4. Side: Indicates the inner and outer walls, or left and right HandBots in a
redundant configuration.
Walls:
Outer wall = 1
Inner wall = 2
HandBots:
Left HandBot = 1
Right HandBot = 2
5. Row: Is the vertical location of a tape cartridge and are consecutively numbered
from the top (1) down (13 outer wall and 14 inner wall).
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Understanding the Address Scheme

There are differences in the addresses of the SL8500 and other libraries.
The SL8500 is ones-based (1) and uses negative numbers.

Other libraries use a zero-based (0) and no negative numbers.
The SL8500 uses five parameters: library, rail, column, side, and row.
Other libraries use: ACS, LSM, panel, row, and column (HLIPRC).
Table 4. Addressing Descriptions

HLIPRC
SL8500
Description
ACS
Library
Number of the specific library in a library complex (ACS).

Note: An ACS contains multiple SL8500s in a library complex.
LSM
Rail
The SL8500 library has four rails that the HandBots travel, which are
numbered from top to bottom 14 (ones-based).
LSM 0
LSM 1
LSM 2
LSM 3
Rail 1
Rail 2
Rail 3
Rail 4
Panel
Column
Panel 0
Panel 1
Panel 2n
CAP
Drives
Storage slots
ACSLS and HSC considers each rail to be a separate LSM,

numbered from top to bottom 03 (zero-based).
Columns indicate the horizontal location in the library. As viewed from
the front of the library column and panel numbers start at the center
of the drive panel (1) and sweep forward with increasing numbers.
Note:
See Figure 3 on page 8 for an example of a storage panel.

The SL8500 does not use panels as an address.
An HLI panel spans across the width of the library to include both
sides (left and right) and both walls (inner and outer) for each LSM.
Side
Row
Row
Column
Wall location
HandBot number
1. Outer wall
2. Inner wall
1. Left ()
2. Right (+)
Rows indicate the vertical location of a tape cartridge and are

numbered from the topdown.
Rows for the HLI address are:
Rows for the SL8500 address are:
Storage panels start at 2

with Column 0 = left
and Column 1 = right
Storage slots start at

Column -3 = left
Column +3 = right
Rows 012 outer walls

Rows 1326 inner walls
Each column in a normal
storage panel has 27 rows.
For a total capacity of 54
cartridges per panel.
Rows 113 outer wall

Rows 114 inner wall
Zero-based numbering (as with HLI) starts numbering at 0.

Ones-based numbering (as with the SL8500) starts numbering at 1.
This is an important difference in the numbering sequences between software (ACSLS or HSC)
and hardware (physical SL8500 addresses)
TM0017 Revision C
SL8500 Architecture
A host library interface (HLI) panel spans across the width of the library to
include both sides (left and right) and both walls (inner and outer).
Figure 3 shows how panels match-up to the columns in an SL8500 library.
Figure 3. Panel Numbering
HLI Panel Numbers
Panel 0 CAPs
Panel 1 Tape Drives
Panel 2 54 cells
Panel 1
Tape Drives
Panel 3 54 cells
Panel 4 26 cells (no inner wall)
Panel 5 14 cells (contains PTP)
HLI Column 0
HLI Column 1

Panel 8 54 cells
Panel 9 54 cells
Panel 10 54 cells (standard panel)
Panel xx 54 cells
HLI Row Numbers
Outer walls = 0 13
Inner walls = 14 26
Panel 0
Cartridge Access Ports
Configuration
Base Library
Five expansion modules
Panel Number Ranges

RIM
CIM
27
8 10
RIM
SEM
CIM
27
8 15
16 18
RIM
SEM
SEM
CIM
27
8 15
16 23
24 26
RIM
SEM
SEM
SEM
CIM
27
8 15
16 23
24 31
32 34
RIM
SEM
SEM
SEM
SEM
CIM
27
8 15
16 23
24 31
32 39
40 42
RIM
SEM
SEM
SEM
SEM
SEM
CIM
27
8 15
16 23
24 31
32 39
40 47
48 50
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Touch Screen Operator Control Panel

The touch screen operator control panelwhich mounts on the front of the
libraryis an optional feature. This panel consists of a flat screen display, with a
touchable interface, and a panel-mounted personal computer.
Through this panel, all of the library instructions, diagnostics, library status,
library and drive monitoring and functional information can be accessed.
Figure 4. Touch Screen Operator Control Panel
The operator panel consists of:
StreamLine Library Console

software
12-inch flat screen display

(diagonal measurement)
Touch screen interface

(no mouse or keypad necessary)
20 GB hard drive
512 MB memory and 32 MB RAM
Java applet as the graphical user

interface (GUI).
A pen and stylus feature are available for the touch screen interface:
TM0017 Revision C
Pen/Stylus Combo is: XSL-STYLUS-Z

Holder is: XSL-STYLUSHOLD-Z
SL8500 Architecture
Translating Addresses Using the Library Console

You can use the StreamLine Library ConsoleTM (SLConsole) Search utility to
translate between the SL8500 internal address and the ACSLS or HSC panel,
row, and column. To locate a cartridge:
1. Log in to the SLConsole, select Diagnostics, and select the Search tab.
2. From the Search Type pull down menu, select Location.

3. Select one of the following operators for the location:
contains
Example: 1,1,-9 lists the contents in Library 1, Rail 1, Column -9 for all rows on both sides
endsWith
Example: 1,5 lists the slot contents for all rails and columns for Side 1, Row 5
equals
Example: 1,1,-9,1,1 lists the contents in that specific location (L,R,C,S,W)
startsWith
Example: 1, 3 lists the slot contents for all columns, sides, and rows in Library 1, Rail 3
4. Select a Requester from the pull-down menu (see the examples in Figure 5 on page 11).
default
Shown above is the physical location inside the library (cell, drive, CAP).
If you know the physical location (the internal address), and need to find the HLI-PRC
address, enter that address in the location and pick default as the requester.
hli1
This is the HLI-PRC address of the cartridge from the library management software.
If you know the HLI-PRC address and want to find the physical location (internal address)
enter that address in the location and pick hli1 as the requester.
5. Click on the Search button in the top right corner of the SLConsole.
The search result lists the location by slot-type (cell, drive, or CAP).
6. Click on the Details button for more information such as VOLID, media and cartridge type
(LTO, SDLTtape, and T-Series; data, cleaning, or diagnostic) and HLI address for cartridges
when you specify a default Requester.
Note:
Refer to the SLConsole HelpLocating a Cartridge by Addressfor more information.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Figure 5. Translating Addresses

Choosing default as the Requestor and clicking on the Details tab (...)
opens a Location Details screen that contains the following information.
The location details includes additional
information including the HLI-PRC
address.
Choosing hli1 as the Requestor

Displays both the internal address and the hli1 Requester address.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 1 SL8500 Architecture
11
SL8500 Architecture
Robotic Architecture
Figure 6 shows an example of the robotics in an SL8500called the HandBot
and rail assembly.
The robotic system in an SL8500 library consists of 4 or 8 HandBotsTM that
work in parallel to achieve an increase in throughputor cartridge exchange
ratesby allowing each robot to operate independently. Servicing of multiple
mount requests can occur at the same time to improve performance.
Major components of the robotic system include:
Each SL8500 has four separate robotic rail assemblies. These rail
assemblies provide both power and communications to their own individual
robotic system.
Rail assembliesalso known as library storage modulesare numbered
from top to bottom.
-
Rail numbers are 1 to 4.

Corresponding LSM numbers are 0 to 3.
Each HandBot on a rail assembly can service up to 16 tape drives and all of
the tape cartridges for that rail. The SL8500 library can have either one or
two HandBots per rail.
Spanning across the four rail assemblies are two elevators. These
elevators perform an internal pass-thru operation that allows joining
adjacent rails to create larger partitions.
Figure 6. HandBot and Rail Assembly

Note: The HandBots are a shared
resource of the library and under control
of the HBC card (the controller).
Note: When describing the architecture of the SL8500, it may be easiest to

think of it as four separate library storage modules (LSMs). This is an
important concept to understand about the SL8500 library.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Elevators
Figure 7. Elevators
The SL8500 library features two Elevators that
provide vertical pass-thru operations between
library storage modules within the same library.
Note: Pass-thru Ports provide horizontal
pass-thru operations between adjacent library
storage modules.
Each of the four LSMs share the resources of

the two elevators. There is one elevator on the
left and one elevator on the right that are
located in the front of the library between the
front access doors and the service safety door.
Important:
Because the SL8500 has four 4 LSMs,
administrators must specify the elevators as
pass-thru ports to each of the adjacent LSMs in
the same library.
Elevator
For example: Below is an example of an

HSC LIBGEN showing just the four elevator
pass-thru (PASTHRU) definitions:
Figure 8. Elevator Configuration Example

LSM0000
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,M),(0,M),(0,M)),
ADJACNT=(LSM0001,LSM0002,LSM0003),
...
X
X
LSM0001
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,S),(0,M),(0,M)),
...
X
X
LSM0002
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,S),(0,S),(0,M)),
...
X
X
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,S),(0,S),(0,S)),
...
X
X
LSM0003
PASTHRU: The lowest numbered LSM is

always the master (M). For example:
LSM0000 is the master (M) to all

other LSMs.
LSM0001 is master to LSM0002, and

LSM0003, but slave (S) to LSM0000.
LSM0002 is master to LSM0003 but

slave (S) to LSM0000 and LSM0001.
Then LSM0003, which is the last LSM,

is slave (S) to everything.
ADJACNT: Shows that every LSM is adjacent

to all other LSMs because of the elevator.
Tip: When defining pass-thru ports:
TM0017 Revision C
0 = Vertical pass-thru components (elevators)

1 = Horizontal pass-thru components (pass-thru ports)
13
SL8500 Architecture
Pass-thru Ports
Pass-thru ports (PTPs) are an electro-mechanical device that allows one
library storage module to pass a cartridge to another adjacent library storage
module in the same complex. Connecting libraries together with pass-thru
ports is what creates an SL8500 library complex.
Figure 9 is an example of a pass-thru port (PTP) mechanism.
Figure 9. Pass-thru Port Mechanism
The SL8500 pass-thru port feature
consists of a separate frame that is
installed between the Drive and
Electronics Module / Robotics Interface
Module of one library with the same
modules of an adjacent library.
Each PTP frame has four separate
mechanisms that can pass up to two
cartridgesper LSMbetween the
libraries.
There are eight PTP locations in an
SL8500 library, two per rail (or LSM).
These locations are on the curved
portions of the Robotics Interface
Module near the tape drives.
Important:
The need to plan ahead for the addition of pass-thru ports is extremely
important. The library complex can grow in either directionleft or right.
The preferred method of installing PTPs to an existing library is to add the
new library to the left when viewed from the front.
However, the library complex can grow in the other directionto the
rightbut this requires a disruption to the system to renumber the LSMs
and reconfigure the management software.
The following are highlights about the PTP feature:
All SL8500 libraries come equipped and ready for the addition of the PTP
frame and featureno additional walls are needed.
Power for the PTPs comes from the same +48 VDC power bus as the
robotic rails. Both the N+1 and 2N power configurations currently support
the PTP hardwareno additional power supplies are needed.
The PTP locations are on the curved portions of the Robotics Interface
Module at columns +6 and 6 near the tape drives for quick access.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Both ACSLS and HSC support pass-thru port operationsno additional

software is needed.
If service is required, the pass-thru port mechanism slides out of the frame
from the rear of the librarynot affecting library operations.
Each PTP frame has four separate mechanisms and can pass up to two
cartridges per LSM. These mechanisms are located in the rear of the library
at columns +6 and 6 for quick access to an available tape drive.
For and ACSLS configuration, the library reports the configuration to ACSLS,
no LIBGEN macros are necessary.
For an HSC configuration, administrators must specify both the elevators and
the pass-thru port mechanisms to each of the adjacent LSMs in the complex.
For example: This is an example of an HSC LIBGEN that shows two SL8500
libraries in a library complex connected together with a Pass-thru Port feature.
LSM0000 LSM0003 are in the first library

LSM0004 LSM0007 are in the second libraryto the left of the first
Figure 10. Pass-thru Port Configuration

ACS00
SLIACS ...
LSM=(LSM0000,LSM0001,LSM0002,LSM0003,LSM0004,
LSM0005,LSM0006,LSM0007)
X
X
Notice the same rules apply as

referenced in Figure 8,
Elevator Configuration.
LSM0000
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,M),(0,M),(0,M),(1,M)),
ADJACNT=(LSM0003,LSM0002,LSM0001,LSM0004),
X
X
PASTHRU: Master (M) is still

the lowest numbered LSM.
LSM0001
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,M),(0,S),(0,M),(1,M)),
X
X
ADJACNT: Notice the addition

of an adjacent horizontal LSM
(in bold).
LSM0002
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,M),(0,S),(0,S),(1,M)),
X
X
SLILSM PASTHRU=((0,S),(0,S),(0,S),(1,M)),
... ... ...
X
X
LSM0004
SLILSM PASTHRU=((1,S),(0,M),(0,M),(0,M)),
X
X
LSM0005
SLILSM PASTHRU=((1,S),(0,S),(0,M),(0,M)),
X
X
LSM0006
SLILSM PASTHRU=((1,S),(0,S),(0,S),(0,M)),
X
X
LSM0007
SLILSM PASTHRU=((1,S),(0,S),(0,S),(0,S)),
X
X
LSM0003
TM0017 Revision C
When defining adjacent LSMs

in a library complex, you need
to include all three vertical
elevator pass-thru elements
plus the pass-thru port
mechanisms.
This example shows only two
libraries. You may need to
configure additional horizontal
PTP when other libraries are
added (LSM0008 LSM0011).
15
SL8500 Architecture
Pass-thru Port Considerations

The physical dimensions of the pass-thru port are:
Height:
231 cm (91 in.)
Width:
17.2 cm (6.76 in.)
Depth:
150.8 cm (59.4 in.)
Weight:
121 kg (266 lb) including the mechanisms
Power:
+48 VDC supplied from the home-side library
To implement the pass-thru port feature, you must have:
Accessory racks: 1 rack (required) 2 racks for power redundancy

Inter-library Communications kit (PN 314842401)
Each kit supports up to 5 libraries that are connected together
PTP Conversion Instructions (CB 101728), frame, and mechanisms

Software upgrade and reconfiguration
The following terms and definitions apply to SL8500 PTP operations:

Home library
The library that provides power, signal, and control lines to the PTP
mechanisms. This is the library on the right as viewed from the front.
Away library
The library that is always located on the left side of a Home library,
as viewed from the front.
LSMs in an SL8500 library complex are numbered from top down and
addressed from right to left as viewed from the front of the libraries.
Left
Right
Library 3
Library 2
Library 1
LSM 8
LSM 4
LSM 0
LSM 9
LSM 10
LSM 11
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 5
LSM 6
LSM 7
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 1
LSM 2
C
A
P
LSM 3
<------------------------- Original Complex -------------------------->
Adding SL8500 Libraries to the Left

When you add libraries to the left of an existing library complex, the customer
can dynamically upgrade the configuration of the software (ACSLS or HSC).
This upgrade must be done to configure the libraries and tape drives.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Left
Right
Library 4
Library 3
LSM 8
LSM 12
LSM 13
LSM 14
Library 2
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 9
LSM 10
Library 1
LSM 4
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 5
LSM 6
LSM 0
C
A
P
LSM 7
PTP
LSM 1
LSM 2
LSM 15
LSM 11
Newly Added Library
<------------------------- Original Complex -------------------------->
C
A
P
LSM 3
When you dynamically upgrade the configuration:
No rebooting of ACSLS or HSC is required.
Mount requests can continue as normal in the first or existing libraries

during this upgrade.
When cartridges are placed into the new SL8500 library, an ACSLS or
HSC audit must be run to add these cartridges to the database. Existing
LSMs can remain online during the audit.
Dynamically Upgrading ACSLS and HSC Configurations

For ACSLS, upgrade the configuration using either:
Dynamic configuration (ACSLS online and running)

acsss_config (ACSLS must be offline and stopped)
For HSC, upgrade the configuration using either:
Dynamic configuration (HSC 6.1) enter MODify CONFIG command

LIBGEN, SLICREAT, and MERGEcds** (HSC must be stopped)
Adding SL8500 Libraries to the Right

When a new SL8500 library is added to the right of the complex, the LSMs
must be renumbered; consequently the volume locations will change.
Important:
Vary the LSMs offline before the reconfiguration (or place ACSLS in
diagnostic mode).
Audit the existing and new libraries in a specific sequence> This sequence
helps avoid deleting or marking absent the volumes in renumbered LSMs.
Upgrading ACSLS and HSC Configurations

Existing LSMs must be offline (or ACSLS in diagnostic mode) while upgrading
the SL8500 library complex and during the ACSLS or HSC audit.
Otherwise, problems will occur, such as:
TM0017 Revision C
Mounts will fail because cartridges cannot be found in their new locations.
17
SL8500 Architecture
Entry of new cartridges will collide with existing cartridges.

Movements of cartridges to existing, renumbered, LSMs will collide with
cartridges already in the cells.
An outline of the steps to upgrade the library complex consists of:

1. Add the new SL8500 library to the complex.
2. Update the ACSLS or HSC configurations dynamically or statically.
For ACSLS, vary the LSMs offline or place in diagnostic and use:
- Dynamic configuration (config acs)
- acsss_config (ACSLS must be offline and stopped)
For HSC, modify the LSMs offline and use:

- Dynamic configuration (HSC 6.1)
- LIBGEN, SLICREAT, and MERGEcds** (HSC must be stopped)
3. For renumbered LSMs, the customers must audit the library to update
volume locations. The sequence of the audit is:
First:
1. Audit the existing LSMs that were renumbered.

2. Start with the highest LSM numbers (First to Audit).
3. Once that audit completes, go to the next lower group of LSMs
(Second to Audit).
4. Continue with this sequence until you have audited all the older,
higher numbered LSMs (Third to Audit).
Second:
5. Audit the newly added LSMs (Last to Audit).
Third:
6. Bring the LSMs back online (from their offline or diagnostic state).
- For ACSLS, vary the LSMs in the complex online.
- For HSC, modify the LSMs in the complex online.
ACSLS or HSC has now been updated with the new configuration and the new
volume locations.
Audit Sequence:
Left
Right
First to Audit
Second to Audit
Third to Audit
Library 4
Library 3
Library 2
New Library 1
LSM 12
LSM 8
LSM 4
LSM 0
LSM 13
LSM 14
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 15
LSM 9
LSM 10
LSM 11
C
A
P
PTP
LSM 5
LSM 6
C
A
P
LSM 7
<-------------------------- Original Complex ---------------------------->
Last to Audit
PTP
LSM 1
LSM 2
C
A
P
LSM 3
Newly Added Library
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture

Figure 11. Cartridge Access Ports
The SL8500 library storage modules can share the
resources of two cartridge access ports (CAPs).
Each CAP:
- Consists of 39 slots total
(3 magazines with 13-slots each).
- Spans across three rails2, 3, and 4
(LSMs 1, 2, and 3) only.
- There is no adjacent CAP section for the top
rail (LSM 0). This requires an elevator (vertical)
pass-thru operation to enter and eject
cartridges.
CAP A is:
- Standard CAP (comes with the library)
- Software address is 0 or (ACS, 1, 0)
- Located on the left of the access door
CAP B is:
- Optional CAP (optional feature)
- Software address is 1 or (ACS, 1, 1)
- Located on the right of the access door
4 Rails
3 CAP
Magazines
CAP Considerations
Usage considerations for the CAP include:
When a CAP is in use for an enter or eject operation, all 39 slots are
reserved for that operation. The CAP cannot be subdivided.
For addressing purposes, the CAP needs a location (ACS,LSM,CAP#).

The LSM address is associated with the second rails in each library
because there is no adjacent CAP magazine for the top rail example:
ACS#,1,0 for CAP A and ACS#,1,1 for CAP B
When loading cartridges in the CAP, slots can be skipped.
The middle magazine cannot be missing if both the upper and lower or
magazines are installed.
Both CAPs should be varied (ACSLS) or modified (HSC) offline before the
Service Safety Door is activated on the right-hand side of the library. While
the safety door is activated, there is no access to the CAPs.
Operators must be aware that if only one CAP will do the job, there is no
need to open both CAPs. Opening both CAPs will increase the audit time
since all slots are audited once a CAP is opened then closed.
TM0017 Revision C
19
SL8500 Architecture
When a CAP is in use for an enter or eject operation, all 39 slots are
reserved for that operation. The CAP cannot be subdivided.
If the HandBot adjacent to the CAP is inoperative, that portion of the CAP is
inaccessible. For more information, see:
-
For HSC: Working Around an Inoperative HandBot on page 51

For ACSLS: Working Around an Inoperative HandBot on page 79
Second CAP
The SL8500 library offers a second, optional, CAP feature. The second CAP is
located on the right-hand portion of the front access door.
Advantages of this second CAP are:
Doubles the entry/ejection capabilities from 39 to 78 cartridges.

Increases CAP capacity without the need to replace the access door.
Dual CAP Hardware Requirements

Note: Libraries have always been capable of supporting a second CAP;
however, make sure the mounting brackets are in place before installing
it (refer to the Installation Manual for more information).
Table 5. Second CAP Hardware Requirements
Hardware
Function
CAP assembly
Conversion bill: 104300 or 104320

Conversion instructions 142632
Marketing order number: SL8500-UPG-CAPZ
Description: 39-slot cartridge CAP
HBZ module
Conversion bill: 104603

Conversion instructions 142633
Required to control the second CAP (SL8500-UPG-HBZ-Z)
Dual CAP Firmware Requirements

Table 6. Second CAP Firmware Requirements
Firmware
Version (or above)
References
Library
FRS_3.7x
Release Notes
SLC
FRS_3.25
Release Notes
Note:
Release Notes are available on the CRC.
Note: ACSLS must have PUT0701 installed to support dual CAP.

HSC requires a LIBGEN update to indicate that there are 2 CAPs.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Addressing
The second CAPs operation is similar to a single CAP operation, but the
numbering scheme changes and addressing is different.
Hardware:
Using the SL8500 firmware notation of Library, Rail, Column, Side, and Row,
the dual CAPs, in a single base library, with no expansion modules, now
appear as:
Table 7. CAP Library AddressingHardware
CAP Magazine
Library
Rail
Column1
Side2
Row3
CAP A
CAP B
Top
15
Middle
15
Bottom
15
1.
2.
3.
This addressing example uses a single base library configuration with no storage
expansion modules. When adding expansion modules, the column number increases
by 8 for each module added (23, 31, 39, 47, and 55).
Previously with single CAP operations, CAP A was addressed as 1.
With dual CAP operation, CAP B is 1 and CAP A is 2
This uses the inside (2) outside (1) numbering scheme for side.
The row is always 0, which is the magazine handle.
Software:
For addressing purposes, software needs a fixed location for the CAP, and
uses: ACS,LSM,CAP#.
The LSM address is associated with the second rail in each library because
there is no adjacent CAP magazine for the top rail in an SL8500 library.
See Figure 11 on page 19 as an example.
In this example, a three library complex is used for CAP addressing.
Table 8. CAP Library AddressingSoftware
Libraries in
a Complex
CAP A
CAP B
ACS#
LSM
CAP
ACS#
LSM
CAP
First library
Second library
Third library
Note: See CAPs and Partitions on page 134 for more information about
cartridge access ports.
TM0017 Revision C
21
SL8500 Architecture
Ethernet Interfaces
The SL8500 library uses TCP/IP protocol over an Ethernet physical interface
to manage and communicate with the host and library management
applications.
Figure 12. Ethernet Connections
This interface enables both:
1
ACTIVE
Open system platforms with ACSLS

Enterprise-level mainframes with HSC
RSVD2
to connect to and communicate with the SL8500.
STANDBY
The HBC card is the library controller responsible for

coordinating all component operations within the library and
providing the interface connection with the host.
CLI
Connections:
There are two separate Ethernet connections on the HBC card
for host to library communicationsPorts 2A and 2B.
2
FAULT
Port 2A provides the Dual TCP/IP connectionthis is an

optional feature for SL8500 libraries.
Port 2B provides the primary connection for host

communicationsthis is the standard connection for
SL8500 libraries.
2B
2A
EJECT
OK
Compliance:
Both ports comply with the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers standardIEEE 802.3for Ethernet
networks.
1A
Both ports are capable of auto-negotiating with the:
Method of transmission
-
Half-duplex: Transmits data in just one direction at a time

Full-duplex: Transmits data in two directions simultaneously
Speed of the transmission
ACTIVE
RSVD2
S TAND BY
CLI
FAULT
2B
2A
EJECT
OK
1A
10Base-T: 10 megabits per second (Mbps)

100Base-T: 100 megabits per second (Mbps)
AC TIVE
RSVD 2
STAN DBY
CLI
FAULT
EJECT
OK
R SVD
Figure callouts:
L203_1004
1.
2.
3.
4.
HBC card (controller card)

Port 2Bprimary TCP/IP host connection
Port 2Asecondary, dual TCP/IP host connection
Electronics control module
See Terminology and Differences on page 23 for a comparison between

the 9310 Dual LMU and the SL8500 Dual TCP/IP.
See Chapter 9, Ethernet Connectivity for more information.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Terminology and Differences

Note: The SL8500 features Dual TCP/IP, which provides two public network
interfacesnote: not redundantto the library and/or library complex.
This feature requires a library firmware of FRS_3.08 or higher.
Important:
There are differences between the terms Dual LMU1 (from previous libraries)
and Dual TCP/IP for the SL8500. Here is an overview between the two.
An overview of Dual LMU (9330 and 4430) and Dual TCP/IP (SL8500).
1. Dual LMU (9330 and 4430): Consists of a: 1) Master LMU and a 2) Standby
LMU. Each LMU has its own connection to the host.
Dual LMU design is an active/passive designthe master LMU

handles all requests from the host.
One Library Control Unit (LCU) is required per library storage module or
silo (9310 or 4410).
The standby LMU monitors the state of the master LMU through a
heartbeat between the two units. If the master fails to respond, the
standby takes over.
The standby LMU can also take over for the master LMU when it
receives a switch transmission command from HSC or ACSLS. The
switchover process takes about eight minutes and requests in progress
may be lost.
Note: ACSLS and HSC do not automatically initiate a switch when
communications to the master LMU fails.
Both LMUs are capable of being the master, but only one can be the
master at a given moment.
2. Dual TCP/IP (SL8500): Provides two separate host connections between

the host software (ACSLS or HSC) and the library controller.
Dual TCP/IP is an active/active designwhen both communication

paths are available, ACSLS and HSC use both of them to communicate
with the SL8500.
-
HSC uses each path alternately.

ACSLS continuously monitors both connections using one path as
primary and occasionally using the second path.
This helps ensure that both paths are working properly so that if one
fails, there is a high degree of confidence that the other path is
operational.
1.
TM0017 Revision C
LMU = Library management unit
23
SL8500 Architecture
Currently, there is only one HBC card in the SL8500 library.
In the SL8500, the HBC card provides all of the functions of the LMU,
the LCU, and the library communications facility (LCF).
Both HSC and ACSLS detect when a path is unavailable and

automatically re-send transmissions over the other path.
The SL8500 also re-sends transmissions over the other path when a
path becomes unavailable. After retrying for four to five minutes,
ACSLS, HSC, and the SL8500 will mark a path as unavailable and just
use the remaining path.
When a path is marked as unavailable, ACSLS, HSC, and the SL8500

continues to monitor the path. When the path becomes available
again, ACSLS, HSC, and the SL8500 will automatically re-connect.
Benefits of Dual TCP/IP verses Dual LMU:
Dual TCP/IP is active/active. ACSLS and HSC use both paths. This helps
ensure that both paths are working properly so that if one fails, there is a
high degree of confidence that the other path is operational.
Dual LMU is active/passive. There is a risk that when the master LMU
fails, the standby LMU may not be operational.
ACSLS and HSC monitor the communication paths and automatically retry
communications over the remaining path.
With Dual LMU, ACSLS and HSC do not automatically switch to the
standby LMU when they lose communication with the master. An operator
must issue a Switch LMU command to cause an actual switch from the
host software.
With Dual TCP/IP, ACSLS, HSC or the SL8500 detect a communication

path that is unavailable and automatically retry transmissions over the
alternate path within seconds. Generally, transactions are not lost.
When the standby LMU detects that the master LMU is not responding to
the heartbeat, it takes about eight minutes for the standby LMU to re-IPL
and become the master LMU. Transactions in progress may be lost.
The SL8500 had redundant hot-replaceable power for the electronics. A

power supply failure in the 9330 or 4430 LMU will take down that LMU.
Benefits of Dual LMU verses Dual TCP/IP:
There is only one Library Controller card in the SL8500 at present. If the
Library Controller fails, the SL8500 library complex is unavailable.
However, none of the electronics in the Library Control Unit (LCU) on the
9310 and 4410 is redundant either.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Operational Differences
For customers familiar with other automated tape libraries, the following are a
few operational differences they should consider for the SL8500.
LSM Preferencing
LSM preferencing is basically the same as with other librariesit is the attempt
to minimize any pass-thru operations by the elevators and pass-thru ports.
ACSLS and HSC attempt to avoid any unnecessary pass-thru activity when they
satisfy these requests:
Mount scratch tapesSelects cartridges based on their proximity to a tape

drive.
Query mountOrders drives by LSM proximity to a cartridge.
Query mount scratchOrders drives by LSM proximity to the largest pool of

scratch tapes.
EnterEnters cartridges from the CAP magazine to the closest LSM with
free cells.
EjectEjects cartridges from an LSM to an adjacent CAP magazine.
Library Physical Limits

Currently:
The maximum number of libraries supported in a complex is 10.

The maximum number of panels in a library is 51.
Mount and Dismount Commands

During a mount:
Client requests specify cartridges by volume serial number (VOLSER) or

volume ID (vol_id) and
Specify tape drives by drive location or unit address

(only for MVS and HSC systems).
During a dismount:
TM0017 Revision C
If the cartridge was selected and mounted from the same LSM
ACSLS or HSC returns that cartridge to its original home cell.
If a cartridge was selected from a different LSM and a pass-thru

operation occurred to mount the cartridge on a tape drive, ACSLS or
HSC tries to find a new home cell in the closest LSM with free cells to
the drive as possible, if float is enabled.
25
SL8500 Architecture
Enter and Eject Commands

During an Enter/Import:
Library management software normally tries to enter or import a

cartridge to an LSM adjacent to the CAP magazine.
During an Eject/Export:
For an eject or an export command, the software ejects the cartridge to

the CAP magazine adjacent to the LSM.
For an eject or an export command from LSM 0, the library performs a

pass-thru operation to an open slot in the top magazine of the CAP.
For HSC, when using an Ordered Eject, the software (and library
operation) ejects cartridges to CAP cells in VOLSER order.
Optimization Guidelines
Here are a few basic guidelines that can help optimize library performance.
See Chapter 2, Library Content Management for more guidelines.
Fast Load
To optimize system performance, the HandBots automatically implement the
Fast Load option.
Once a HandBot successfully inserts a tape cartridge into a drive, it is
immediately available for the next request and does not wait until the drive
reports that the cartridge has been loaded. The SL8500 library control
electronics waits to return the response to the mount request until it detects
that the tape drive has successfully loaded the cartridge tape.
Note: You had to specifically configure and enable this option in other, older
libraries such as the SCSI-attached L-Series.
Cartridge Float
Whenever possible, enable cartridge float.
Cartridge float is a feature that allows ACSLS or HSC to place a

dismounted tape cartridge in an empty slot in the same LSM or a closer
LSM as the tape drive if the tape originally came from a different LSM
using a pass-thru operation.
This feature minimizes elevator pass-thru activity by not requiring the

cartridge to be returned to its original slot on another rail.
This feature minimizes pass-thru port activity by not requiring the cartridge
to be returned to its original slot in another library.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Tape Drive Placement

Some ways tape drives can enhance performance of the library are by:
Grouping tape drives by type on the same LSM.

Keeping compatible media and drives on the same LSM.
Allocating LSMs to support specific application workloads.
Maintaining free cells on each LSM to support dismounts using the float
option.
Evenly distributing the tape drives across all four rails is not necessarily the
best approach. In fact, this can increase pass-thru activity by the elevator
which may decrease overall performance of the library.
Instead:
Identify the requirements of each major application workload.

Configure the library according to those requirements.
Install the tape drives where they provide the most benefit.
These requirements could indicate that:
Tape cartridges can be archived to a rail without tape drives.

A suggestion would be to use the top rail for these scenarios.
Example: inactive volumes, least recently used (LRUs) volumes, or
volumes that require few enter and eject operations.
All 16 tape drives are needed for heavy-usage tape drive applications.
Example: high use, high activity production jobs, and back up applications.
Arranging smaller groups of drives for special applications.

Examples are virtual mounts for VSMa virtual tape storage subsystem
(VTSS) only uses 8 tape drives concurrently.
Application-specific requirements may separate drive-types.

Example: placing T9840 access-centric tape drives on one rail,
and T9940 capacity-centric tape drives on another.
TM0017 Revision C
27
SL8500 Architecture
Front Door Operations

Whenever possible, do not open the front doors.
Opening a front access door on the SL8500 library is a disruptive operation.
Every SL8500 library has two front doors that contain safety interlock circuits.
These interlock circuits remove all DC power to the HandBots, elevators, and
pass-thru ports to protect operators from moving mechanisms.
Note: Power to and operations of the tape drives remains unaffected.
When the main doors are closed, the HandBots and other mechanisms
automatically go through an initialization process that takes about five minutes.
During this time, the SL8500 is offline to ACSLS or HSC and library operations
are stopped.
After this, the SL8500 comes back online and starts a physical audit of all
storage cells as a background operation. This can take from 30 minutes up to
over an hour depending on the library configuration (number of storage
expansion modules installed).
Service Safety Door

Figure 13. Service Safety Door
SL8500 libraries have an internal, service
safety door feature that allows the HandBots to
continue operation while the main door is open.
This feature is:
Optional with four HandBot configurations

Required with eight HandBot configurations
The service safety door allows trained service

personnel to access the reserved area to
service the HandBots if a problem occurs.
Note: Only trained service personnel are
allowed to activate this feature.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Audits and Initialization

The term audit refers to the process of reading and cataloging all cartridges
within a library or verifying cartridge locationsthe physical inventory.
An SL8500 library is capable of storing all cartridge locations within the library
on the HBC cardthe library controller.
The physical inventory contains:
Volume serial numbers (VOLSERs) or identification (VOLIDs)

Internal address locations (library, rail, column, side, and row)
Verified status (as true or false)
Audit Conditions
The library audits all cartridge locations in all areas of the library, including the
slots in the storage and reserved areas when:
The library initializes at power-on

After either one or both access doors are opened and closed
An audit request is made through StreamLine Library Console
Audit Types
There are three types of audits that the library performs:
Physical audit
Physical audits are when the HandBots:
Scan the cartridge locations in the library

Verify the volumes
Update the HBC card inventory
Set the status of the cartridge location to true
Verified audit
Verified audits are invoked from the StreamLine Library Console

and validate the status of a specific cartridge slot or range of
slots.
Virtual audit
Virtual audits are invoked from the StreamLine Library Console

and display the cartridge inventory in the console screen (either
local or remote).
TM0017 Revision C
29
SL8500 Architecture
Audit Processes
The library performs a physical audit when you:
Power-on the library

Open and close the front access door
Select and invoke a physical audit from the StreamLine Library Console
During the audit, the HandBots:
Visit all cartridge slots,

Catalog the VOLIDs with location, and
Update the HBC cartridge database
The estimated times for such an audit are:
10 to 15 minutes for a library containing 1448 cartridges, up to

45 to 60 minutes for a fully populated library (6632 cartridges)
Important:
After the initial audit is complete, audits are then performed as background
operationsthe 10 to 60 minutes relates to the completion time for this background
operation to complete.
It is not necessary to wait for an entire audit to complete before using the library.
Shortly after the SL8500 begins initializationabout 5 minutes after closing the
front door or powering-on the librarythe SL8500 can begin to perform mount
and dismount requests to the tape drives.
This is because after the initial audit, the SL8500 uses its existing database
from a previous audit to perform any requests.
If cartridges have not been moved, removed, or added, then all

subsequent movement requests can proceed without interruption.
Note: Eight HandBots can audit the library quicker than four HandBots.
The SL8500 continues to perform background audits and updates the entire
cartridge database in-between robotic operations. This background audit
helps to insure that the cartridge database is accurate.
If a particular cartridge has a request pending, and that cartridge has not
been re-audited by the background process, the SL8500 will:
-
Audit and verify the cartridge at that location

Retrieve it (if it is the correct cartridge) and
Satisfy the request.
When ACSLS or HSC requests an audit of a location in the SL8500 library,

the library completes a physical audit of the location before it responds to
the ACSLS or HSC request.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Verified Audit
Verified audits are invoked through StreamLine Library Console and validate
the status of a specific cartridge slot or range of slots. If a cartridge in a slot
has a status of false, the VOLID is audited and the database is updated.
At the start of a Verified Audit, all locations are set to false.

After the audit is complete, the locations are set to true.
Virtual Audit
Verified audits are invoked through StreamLine Library Console and display
the physical inventory (cartridge database) in the Audit Console section of the
StreamLine Library Console application.
Caution:
System problems: The HBC physical inventory and the hosts cartridge record
must match or system-level problems will occur.
Remember also that the cartridge locations have unique notations between
the SL8500 internal address and the host softwares perspective of HLI-PRC.
Library Console Audit Screen

Figure 14 shows and example of the Library Console Audit screen.
Figure 14. Audit Console
TM0017 Revision C
31
SL8500 Architecture
Scan Engine
The SL8500 library utilizes a line scan camera technology for reading barcode
labels which differs from the PowderHorn area scan camera technology.
The scan engine uses a charge couple device (CCD) with an LED light source
that is integrated into the cartridge gripping mechanism of the HandBot. These
LEDs project a thin strip of light onto the barcode of the label. The white portions
of the barcode reflect back an image to a lens that collects and focuses the
pattern on to a multi-pixel CCD-imager.
The CCD-imager uses a technology similar to that of digital cameras except this
imager uses a single row of sensors where digital camera use multiple rows. In
essence, the CCD imager provides a very narrow picture that cuts across the
bars in the barcode creating a digitized signal.
Because the SL8500 scan engine uses a light source that illuminates the label,
anything that causes a reflection back into the lens could blind the CCD imager
and cause barcode read problems. That is why the scan engine is mounted at
an angle to the labels and targets to avoid any problems with reflection.
Line scan cameras provide a much higher pixel resolution with very robust
barcode decoding algorithms which may be more sensitive to label orientation
and placement on a cartridge.
Caution:
The SL8500 is able to scan upside-down LTO1 or SDLT2 cartridges and insert
them into cells. However, mounts of these upside-down cartridges will fail.
Currently, the library returns these cartridges back to the cell and does not
eject them through the CAP.
1.LTO = Linear Tape-Open
2.SDLT = Super Digital Linear Tape (DLT)
Labels
The SL8500 library supports four types of barcode labels:
Table 9. Barcode Label Types
9x40
Uses a six-plus-one label supplied by Engineered Data Products/

Colorflex) and American Eagle/Writeline. The plus-one is the required
media ID character with an implied domain type of 0.
T10000
Uses labels with eight characters, the last two of which are the required
Media ID Domain and the Media ID Type characters.
LTO
Uses labels with eight characters, the last two of which are the required
Media ID Domain and the Media ID Type characters.
SDLT
Uses labels with seven characters, the last of which is the required
media ID character with an implied domain type of 1.
Revision C TM0017
SL8500 Architecture
Media ID Labels
Important:
The use and placement of barcode labels is important for proper operations.
The use of media ID labels allows Sun StorageTek to mix tape drive types and
media types in a single library or library complex. This provides customers
with a true mixed media solution, which is called:
Any Cartridge, Any SlotTM
In addition, the domain type allows libraries to more accurately represent how
the information is reported to the host. The domain type represents the tape
technology (for example L for LTO) and the media ID represents the version of
that technology (for example generation 1, 2, or 3).
Figure 15 shows some examples of labels, media domains and IDs.
Figure 15. Label Examples
T9x40
Six-plus-one
T10000
Eight-characters
LTO
Eight-characters
A
B
7
8
9
0
N
1
O
O
2
0
0
O
O
1
L2
T1
62
R
T9940 cartridge:
P = T9940 Data
W = Cleaning
T9840 cartridge:
R = T9840 Data
U = Cleaning
Implied domain = 0
T10000 cartridge:
T1 = T10000 Data
CT = Cleaning
DLT and SDLT

Seven-characters
LTO data cartridge:

LT = WORM
L3 = Gen 3 (400 GB)
L2 = Gen 2 (200 GB)
L1 = Gen 1 (100 GB)
LA = 50 GB
LB = 30 GB
LC = 10 GB
Cleaning cartridge:
CU = Universal
SDLTtape cartridge:
S = Super DLTtape I
2 = Super DLTtape II
DLTtape cartridge:
B = DLT1
C = DLTtape III
D = DLTtape IV
E = DLTtape III-XT
(Note: The SL8500
does not support DLT
tapes or drives)
Implied domain = 1
TM0017 Revision C
33
SL8500 Architecture
Barcode Standards
The SL8500 library uses labels based on the following specifications:
AIM Uniform Symbology Specification USS-39

ANSI MH10.8M-1993 Code 39 Barcode Specification
ANSI NCITS 314-199X SCSI 3 Medium Changer Commands (SMC)
These standards use discrete barcodes, which means that a fixed pattern of
bars represents a single character.
All labels must conform to these standards when used in the SL8500 library.
Non-labeled Cartridges
Non-labeled cartridges are not supported in the SL8500 library. If non-labeled
cartridges are left inside the library and a software audit is initiated, the
cartridges will be exported through the CAP.
Upside Down Cartridges

Handling and installing cartridges correctly in the slots is very important and
must be emphasized to operators.
For upside down LTO and DLT cartridges: The label can be recognized and
may be placed into a slot. When the library tries to load the cartridge, the:
drive will not allow the upside down cartridge to be inserted,

cartridge is returned to its original slot, and
drive posts a load error message to the host.
The operator should verify if there is an upside down condition by

exporting the cartridge through the CAP.
For upside down 9x40 cartridges: These cartridges do not fit correctly into the
slots and can cause damage to both the HandBot and the cartridge.
Unreadable Labels
The SL8500 barcode reader tries to read a label at five different positions in
front of a cartridge slot.
If all these attempts fail, the HandBot moves the reader in and does an up
scan across the slot, then a down scan across the slot, and repeats this
sequence three more times before the HandBot posts an error that the label is
unreadable.
Revision C TM0017
Library Content Management
The most important change for the SL8500 is the need to re-evaluate the
content management philosophy with respect to the physical structure and
capacities of the SL8500.
The SL8500 has four LSMs per library that work in parallel.
Each of these four LSMs starts with a capacity of 362 cartridges2.
Couple this with a maximum of 16 tape drives per LSM.
The major consideration for content management is to allocate tape application

workloadsscratch tapes, data tapes, and free cellsto LSMs with
compatible tape drives to support these workloads. This reduces or eliminates
pass-thru operations during production cycles.
Figure 16 shows an example of how a content management philosophy might
look using the recommendations in this chapter for this configuration.
Figure 16. Content Management Example
Rail 4\LSM 3
Rail 3\LSM 2
Rail 2\LSM 1
Rail 1\LSM 0
Tape Drives
Storage Cells
12
13
10
14
11
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
Tapes
Archive
One SEM: 794

200
Two SEMs: 1,226
Interactive Volumes
594
Workloads:
MVCs VSM Physical Volumes
Scratch
Workloads:
Scratch
Business Systems
E
L
E
V
A
T
O
R
S
11
15
12
13
Acct.
10
14
Expenses
11
15
Scratch
Five SEMs: 2,522

526
268
2.
Total Capacity
Base: 1,448
794
One SEM: 3,178

600
Two SEMs: 4,904

Three SEMs: 6,632
Four SEMs: 8,360
Payroll
Expansion Modules:
Performance Zone
Total # of Drives: 26
Three SEMs: 1,658

Four SEMs: 2,090
794
194
Workloads:
Slot Capacity
Per LSM
Base: 362 slots
794
14
TM0017 Revision C
Free
Workloads:
15
Slots
Summary
794
Five SEMs: 10,088

397
397
1
Less active volumes
Total Capacity: 3,176
1,723
1,453
L203_757
The basic configuration of an SL8500 library is 1,448 cartridges; spread across four
LSMs is equal to 362.
35
Evaluating the tape application workloads supported by an SL8500 consists of:
Dedicating railsseparating workloads to specific rails

Grouping tape driveslogically installing by type, function, and quantity
Managing cartridgesmoving inactive cartridges to archival LSMs or ejecting them
Minimizing elevator and pass-thru port activityenabling float and using CAPs
Using these strategies will help to optimize the SL8500 library and enhance performance.
Dedicating Rails
The SL8500 is not just another library. The SL8500 architecture is four separate library storage
modules that work together in parallel. This architecture offers extremely flexible and scalable
configurations that can StreamLine automated tape applications.
Instead of distributing cartridges and tape drives evenly across all the rails...
Look at it from a business perspective and logically plan each individual LSM to meet the
customers specific needs and business requirements. Allocate separate tape application
workloads to specific library storage modules.
Recommendations include:
Separating rails
Ideally, try to confine each workload to a single LSM to reduce

pass-thru activitythis improves performance.
If this is not possible because the workload is too large, consider
breaking the workload into smaller segments that do fit into a
single LSM.
Allocate rails to each major application. For example: HSM and VSM
both need tape drives and media. Plan separate rails for these types
of applications.
Combining workloads If you are not able to easily separate the workload, consider:
Populating the rails
Using rails that are adjacent to each other.

This provides a shorter distance for the pass-thru operation.
Pass-thrus are either:

- Vertical: using the elevator in the same library, or
- Horizontal: using pass-thru ports (PTPs) to a different library
When populating the rails:
Media types
Scratch cartridge pools
Adequate free cells
Make sure the rails have compatible cartridges for the tape drives
Make sure the rails have enough scratch cartridges
Make sure there are adequate free cells so cartridges can float upon
dismount
Revision C TM0017
Using the top rail
Entering and Ejecting

cartridges
Avoid using the top rail to support an application that requires a

significant number of ejects and enters. To enter and eject cartridges
from LSM 0 requires elevator pass-thru activity.
For HSC-controlled systems, use the TLSM parameter on enter

commands to direct cartridges to the top rail.
Consider using the top rail as an archival LSMone that uses less
active tapes; or as an LSM with very active tapes that requires fast
access, uses T9840C tape drives, with few enters and ejects.
Whenever possible, enter cartridges through the cartridge access

ports (CAPs).
When planning the workloads, place applications that require

significant enters and ejects on rails adjacent to CAP magazines.
Use the TLSM parameter on the HSC enter command to direct

cartridges to specific LSMs. This causes pass-thru activity.
An alternative to using the TLSM parameter to load cartridges to

specific rails is to load only the magazines adjacent to that LSM. The
HandBot removes the cartridge from the magazine and places it in
an empty cell in that LSM.
Tip: Place labels outside the CAP indicating which magazine and
LSM gets what type of cartridge. For example:
Elevators
LSM 1 uses T9840 tape drives, load that magazine with only
9840 tape cartridges
LSM 2 uses LTO tape drives, load that magazine with only
LTO tape cartridges
This will help operators identify what tape cartridges go to which rail.
Managing Cartridges
Managing cartridgeshow cartridges are entered, ejected, handled, and treatedin the library can
have an affect on performance. Some considerations include:
Using management
applications (ExLM)
Use a library management application such as ExLM with HSC to keep

active volumes on the same LSMs as compatible drives and to migrate
less active volumes.
Using float
Recommendation:
When float is on, ACSLS or HSC selects a new home cell for a cartridge
that is in an LSM as close to the drive as possible on a dismount. This
option automatically clusters cartridges by the drives for the workload.
Make sure each LSM contains enough free cells to allow selection of a
new home cell in that LSM.
Clustering cartridges
TM0017 Revision C
Cluster cartridges by workload on separate rails with enough tape

drives to support the maximum activitypeak usagefor that
workload.
Chapter 2 Library Content Management 37
Entering cartridges
Recommendation:
Enter cartridges through the CAP.
When manually placing cartridges in the library with the front access
door open, library operations cease and the library management
softwaresuch as ACSLS or HSCmust perform a full audit to update
the library database to match the actual contents of the library.
To maximize performance:
Enter cartridges through the cartridge access port (CAP).
During an enter, the library stays online, mounts can continue, and the
library management software always tries to move the cartridge to an
LSM adjacent to the CAP magazineminimizing pass-thru activity.
If this is not possible, the library controller moves the cartridge through
the elevator to another LSMwhich requires additional movement
between two HandBots and the elevator.
Ejecting cartridges
Ordered or Unordered Ejects?

Specifying ordered ejects places the volume serial numbers
(VOLSERs) in a specific sequence. This operation is significantly slower
than unordered ejects which allows ACSLS or HSC to eject cartridges
to a CAP magazine adjacent to that LSMminimizing pass-thru activity.
Note:
Archiving cartridges
Ordered ejects are used by HSC for vaulting.

This simplifies operations.
Recommendation:
When using HSC with ExLM, move the least recently used (LRU)
cartridges farther out on the rail, away from the tape drives and slots in
the Performance Zone. Note: ACSLS cannot move cartridges to a
panel, only to an LSM.
Consider using the top rail as an archival LSM if the tape does not
require CAP activityfew enters and ejects.
Managing space
Move inactive cartridges out of the library or off of an LSM to ensure

there is adequate space for active cartridges.
Plan for times of peak activity.
Free cell management:

- If the same drive-type and media-type are on the same rail for
specific applications, fewer free cells are required.
- If a specific application requires several enters and ejects or
pass-thru operations, more free cells are required.
Supplying scratch
cartridges
Make sure each rail has the correct amount and type of data cartridges
plus enough scratch cartridges to support the workload.
Starting the
watch_vols utility
The watch_vols utility allows you to define, change, assign, or remove

ownership (pool_id) of volumes automatically.
Migrating cartridges
Migrate the least recently used (LRU) cartridges away from tape drives
and the performance zone or to archival LSMs. This ensures there will
be space for the active cartridges closer to the drives.
Revision C TM0017
Grouping Tape Drives

During the installation, having an understanding about how to logically group and install the
tape drives in an SL8500 can minimize both elevator and PTP activity. Strategies to use when
determining where to install the tape drives include:
Clustering drives
Install tape drives that use the same media types on the same rails
(LSMs). For example: place T9840 drives on one rail and T9940 drives
on a different rail with the media to match.
Potential issues:
Clustering tape drives and media on the same rail works well until:
The number of mounts exceeds the capacity of the HandBots.

There are too many active cartridges to fit on that rail
The number of concurrently mounted tapes exceeds the maximum
number of tape drives.
Indicating:
There are too many active cartridges on that rail for the HandBots to
mount (keep up with) or not enough tape drives.
Recommendation:
When resources for a specific workload exceeds the capacity of a rail,
spread the cartridges and drives over two or more rails. Some
suggestions might be to:
Using the CAP
Add more tape drives (if possible).

Add expansion modules to increase cartridges for that rail
Use the TLC/FSM tool to model and re-evaluate the content.
Upgrade to an eight HandBot configuration.
Enter tape cartridges so compatible media is on the same rail with the
tape drives.
For example: enter cartridges using a CAP magazine adjacent to the
desired rail (LSM) where compatible tape drives are located.
Exceeding limits
Configure heavy tape applications so they do not exceed the

performance limits of that LSM and/or library configuration.
For example: limit peak HSM workloads by the number of concurrent
recalls in that configuration.
Using the TLC/FSM
Use the SE tool TLC/FSM (Tape Library Configurator / Field Simulation

Model) to determine the optimal drive configurations. When you supply
a configuration and a workload (trace file of the mounts), TLC/FSM can
output drive utilization statistics and suggestions.
tool
See Chapter 8, TLC/FSM.
Installing redundant
HandBots (8)
Configuring the SL8500 with eight HandBots (two HandBots per

rail) provides redundancy.
Install drives in the outer two columns ( 2) firstthis allows both
HandBots to access drives at the same time.
Managing tapes
TM0017 Revision C
Use ExLM to help manage tape locations to provide quick access to

tape drives.
Minimizing Elevator and PTP Activity

As pass-thru activity (elevator and pass-thru ports) increases, performance (exchanges per hour)
decreases. Here are several things you can do to minimize or improve pass-thru activity.
Mounting cartridges
Mount cartridges in tape drives that are on the same rail (LSM).
Using the float option
Take advantage of the float option to limit pass-thru activity.

- For ACSLS: float is the default
- For HSC, verify: MNTD Float ON
Make sure volumes can float to locations in other LSMsafter a

pass-thruby maintaining some free cells within each LSM.
When dismounting cartridges, and float is on, ACSLS and HSC try
to avoid an elevator (pass-thru) activity among LSMs by assigning
a new home cellif that cartridges old home slot is in a different
LSM.
ACSLS and HSC attempts to put the cartridge away:

- In the same LSM as the tape drive
- To the closest LSM to the drive with free storage slots
Entering cartridges
Enter cartridges into an LSM that has compatible tape drives for that
media-type.
Note:
When entering tape cartridges, place them in the CAP

magazine adjacent to the LSM where they will reside.
For example: you only have T9840 drives on LSMs 2 and 3. You should
enter 9840 cartridges in to the CAP slots adjacent to these LSMs.
Maintaining scratch
cartridges
Make sure that scratch cartridges are available in sufficient quantity for
each tape workload.
For an SL8500, this means having scratch cartridges available on each
rail (LSM) of the library.
Keeping free cells
Make sure there are adequate free cells in each LSM.
Planning pass-thru
When planning workloads for a library complex where the workload

requires more than one LSM, consider the following:
activity
Elevators: Use adjacent LSMs in the same library to limit the distance
the cartridges must travel. Remember, there is a 50%
chance with drive preferencing that the cartridge and drive
are on the same rail between two LSMs.
PTPs:
If the library has high pass-thru activity using the elevator,

consider using adjoining LSMs and the pass-thru ports.
Using ExLM
Elevators have the capability of passing up to four tapes.

Currently, elevator pass-thru times are faster than the passthru ports.
PTPs have the capability of passing up to two tapes.
Use ExLM for mainframe operating systems (such as MVS) to manage

scratch cartridges.
Revision C TM0017
Cartridge Access Port Guidelines

Although operation of the cartridge access port does not directly affect the performance of the library,
here are some guidelines that can help with its overall operation.
Entering cartridges
Whenever possible, enter cartridges through the CAP.
When planning the workloads, place applications that require

significant enters and ejects on rails adjacent to CAP magazines.
Use the TLSM parameter on the HSC enter command to direct

cartridges to specific LSMs. This will cause pass-thru activity.
An alternative to using the TLSM parameter is to load only the

magazines adjacent to the desired or specific LSM.
Use the watch_vols utility for ACSLS.
Tip: Place labels outside the CAP indicating which magazine and
LSM gets what type of cartridge. For example:
-
LSM 1 uses T9840 tape drives, load that magazine with only
9840 tape cartridges
LSM 2 uses LTO tape drives, load that magazine with only LTO
tape cartridges
LSM 3 uses cartridges for a specific application or job, load that

magazine with the necessary cartridge types
This will help operators identify what cartridges go to which LSM.
Using the top rail
Inserting cartridges
Avoid using the top rail to support an application that requires a

significant number of ejects and enters. To enter and eject
cartridges from LSM 0 requires elevator pass-thru activity.
Consider using the top rail as an archival LSMone that uses less
active tapes; or as an LSM with very active tapes that requires fast
access, uses T9840C tape drives, with few enters and ejects.
Insert cartridges with the correct orientation:
Flat in the slots (seated)

Parallel to the floor
Hub-side down
Barcode label pointing out and
below the readable characters.
Note: You can skip magazine

slots, but make sure all magazine
arrays are in place.
Hub-side
Planning for Content

Using Figure 16 on page 35 as an example, Figure 17 on page 42 provides
space that you can use to help plan the content of an SL8500 library.
TM0017 Revision C
Figure 17. Content Management Plan
Rail 4\LSM 3
Rail 3\LSM 2
Rail 2\LSM 1
Rail 1\LSM 0
Tape Drives
Storage Cells
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
Total # of Drives:
Workloads:
Rail 1\LSM 0
Rail 2\LSM 1
Rail 3\LSM 2
Rail 4\LSM 3
E
L
E
V
A
T
O
R
S
Workloads:
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
12
13
10
14
11
15
Free
Total Capacity:
Less active volumes
L203_758
Storage Cells
Tapes
Workloads:
Expansion Modules:
Performance Zone
Summary
Workloads:
Tape Drives
Total # of Drives:
Slots
Slots
Summary
Tapes
Free
Workloads:
Workloads:
E
L
E
V
A
T
O
R
S
Workloads:
Workloads:
Expansion Modules:
Performance Zone
Total Capacity:
Less active volumes
L203_758
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
This chapter provides HSC best practices for optimizing the StreamLine
SL8500 library. These include:
Configuring Tape Drives
Managing Cartridge Locations
Understanding SL8500 Internal Addresses
Varying the SL8500 Offline
Using the Service Safety Door
Working Around an Inoperative HandBot
Changing the HSC Recording Interval
Using Dynamic Hardware Reconfiguration
Before Reconfiguring HSC for the SL8500
Changing the Configuration

- Adding New SL8500 Libraries
- Expanding an SL8500 Library
- Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries
Refer to Appendix B, HSC Support for the SL8500 in HSC 6.0 or 6.1
Operators Guide for more information and procedures.
Supported Software Levels
HSC 6.0 with PTFs is the minimum level to support the SL8500 library.
HSC 6.1 contains additional support for the SL8500such as Near

Continuous Operation (NCO)that allows the addition and deletion of
panels, drives, and LSMs for Capacity on Demand without needing to
reconfigure or restart HSC.
Note: Check the Customer Resource Center (CRC) for the latest PTF
(program temporary fix) and PUT (program update tape) levels.
TM0017 Revision C
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HSC Best Practices

As pass-thru activity increases, performance (exchanges per hour) decreases.
There are several things you can do to minimize elevator and PTP activity,
such as:
Whenever possible, when mounting a tape, use cartridges and tape drives
that are in the same LSM.
Take advantage of HSC float option to avoid pass-thru operations. Make

sure volumes can float to new LSMs by maintaining some free cells
within each LSM.
Note: The MNTD command enables or disables the float option, however,
the default setting is for float to be on.
When cartridges are dismounted, and float is on, HSC tries to avoid
elevator (pass-thru) activity among LSMs by assigning a new home cell
whenever the cartridge's old home cell is in a different LSM.
HSC attempts to put the cartridge away:
in the same LSM as the tape drive from which it was dismounted
or to the closest LSM (with free storage cells) to the drive
Enter cartridges into an LSM that has compatible tape drives for the media
being entered.
For example: You have only T9840 drives on LSMs 2 and 3, and you
want the 9840 cartridges to be located in these LSMs.
When entering these cartridges, you should place them in the CAP
magazines adjacent to LSMs 2 and 3.
HSC then makes every effort to put the cartridges in the LSM that is
adjacent to that CAP magazine.
If site operations make frequent use of scratch cartridges, it is helpful to

minimize the pass-thru operations in this area as well. Make sure that
enough scratch cartridges are available in each LSM where they will be
needed. For an SL8500, this means having scratch cartridges available on
each rail (LSM) of the library.
Use ExLM to manage your scratch cartridges.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices

How tape drives are configured in the SL8500 can minimize both elevator and
PTP activity while supporting your tape workloads. Strategies to use in
determining where tape drives are located in the SL8500 include:
Cluster drives by type with compatible media. Place tape drives that use
different media types on separate rails (LSMs).
For example: Place T9840 drives on one rail and T9940 drives on a
different rail.
Manage the tape cartridges so compatible media is on the same rail with
tape drives. When entering media, enter it using a CAP magazine adjacent
to the desired rail.
Move incompatible media to a different rail that has tape drives that are
compatible with that media.
Allocate separate rails to each major application workload. For example,

HSM, SAR, and VSM all need media and drives.
-
Cluster cartridges by workload, with enough drives to support the

maximum drives needed for the workload.
Separate the cartridges used by each workload on separate rails, and

ensure the rails dedicated to a workload has enough drives to meet the
maximum concurrent mounts for the peak usage of the workload.
Ensure that the rail has not only the data cartridges for the workload,
but also the scratch cartridges that will be needed.
Do not use the top rail to support an application that requires

significant numbers of ejects and enters.
Configure your heavy tape applications so they will not exceed the
performance limits of your library configuration.
For example: Limit your peak HSM workload by the number of concurrent
recalls in your HSM configuration.
TM0017 Revision C
Actively manage your cartridges, and migrate the least recently used
(LRU) cartridges to archival LSMs. This helps ensure that there will be
space for the active cartridges close to the drives.
-
Consider using the top rail as an archival LSM, as it does not have
direct access to the CAP.
When float is on, HSC will select a new home location for a cartridge
that is as close to the drive as possible on a dismount. This
automatically clusters cartridges by the drives used by a workload.
Chapter 3 HSC Best Practices
45
HSC Best Practices
Ensure each LSM contains sufficient quantities of free cells to allow

selection of a new home cell in the LSM where the volume was
mounted.
Use a Library Management application (such as ExLM) to keep active

volumes on the same LSMs as compatible drives. ExLM can also
migrate less frequently used volumes to archival LSMs as directed by
ExLM control statements. See Chapter 5, ExLM Best Practices for
more information.
Clustering drives and media on a single rail works until the mounts per
hour threshold is reached, all drives are in use, or there are too many
active cartridges to fit on a rail. When the resources needed for a workload
exceeds the capacity of a rail, spread the cartridges and drives over two or
more rails.
Use the SE tool TLCFSM (Tape Library Configurator / Field Simulation

Model) to determine the optimal drive configurations.
When you supply a configuration and a workload (trace file of the mounts),
TLC/FSM will output the response time, drive utilization, robotic utilization,
and PTP utilization.
Configuring the SL8500 with eight HandBots (two HandBots per rail)
provides redundancy so you can always access the cartridges and drives
that support a workload.
See Chapter 2, Library Content Management for more details about how to
configure tape drives and manage cartridges in an SL8500 to support your
tape application workloads.

How cartridges are originally entered in the library or their status in the library
can have an affect on HSC performance. Considerations are:
How to enter cartridges:

Recommendation: Enter cartridges through the CAP.
While the access door is open, the entire SL8500 is offline and all
automated mounts stop.
If cartridges have been manually placed in SL8500 cells with the access
door open, HSC must perform a full audit to update the control data set
(CDS) to match the actual inventory of the library.
To maximize performance: Entered through the CAP.
During an enter, HSC always tries to move the cartridge to an LSM
adjacent to the CAP magazine. If this is not possible, the library controller
takes care of moving the cartridge through the elevator to another LSM.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
This, however, requires movements between two HandBots and the

elevator.
To enter and automatically move cartridges to a specific LSM, specify the
TLSM parameter. This should be done only during off-peak times.
Whether or not to use ordered or unordered ejects.

Ordered ejectswith cartridges ejected in VOLSER sequenceare
significantly slower and are often used for vaulting.
Where to locate archive cartridges.

Recommendation: Move archival cartridges to LSMs away from drives and
CAPs. The top rail in the SL8500 (such as LSM 00) is a good archival
location, since it is not adjacent to the CAP.
Finding Missing Cartridges

If a cartridge is out of place or unaccounted for by HSC, locate a missing
cartridge by:
1. Performing a physical audit of the SL8500 using the SLConsole.
The physical audit of the SL8500 is performed as a background task in
between handling mount and other library operation requests.
Caution: If the SL8500 contents are out of sync with HSC due to
manual operations such as loading cartridges directly, it is
not advisable to attempt continued operations.
If you want to manually add tapes, adding them to a particular
LSM within the SL8500 is a better approach. Adding tapes to
a particular LSM and auditing only the affected LSM is a
quicker and more reliable solution.
To do this, modify the affected LSM to an offline diagnostic
state to HSC while the audit is in process. After the SL8500
library audit is performed, modify the LSM online to HSC.
2. Running an audit to update HSC CDS to match the actual inventory of
library volumes.
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HSC Best Practices

There are differences in the SL8500 internal addresses and HSC addresses
that you need to keep in mind. The SL8500 library list cartridge addresses by
library, rail, column, side, and row. Other libraries supported by HSC list
cartridge addresses by LSM, panel, row, and column.
LSM
The SL8500 library has four rails on which 4 HandBots travel. HSC
considers each SL8500 rail as a separate LSM. From top to bottom,
SL8500 rails are numbered from 1-4 while HSC LSMs are numbered from
0-3. For example, SL8500 rail 1 is equivalent to HSC LSM 0.
Table 10. SL8500 and HSC Mapping

HSC Mapping
SL8500 Mapping
LSM 0
Rail 1
LSM 1
Rail 2
LSM 2
Rail 3
LSM 3
Rail 4
Panels
SL8500 does not include panels.
Table 11. Panel Addressing

HSC Mapping
SL8500 Mapping
Panel 0
CAP
Panel 1
Drives
Panels 2-n
Storage cells
The total number of panels depends on

the configuration of the library.
Rows
Within each LSM (rail), rows are numbered consecutively from the top
down. These start with 1 for the SL8500 and 0 for HSC.
Columns
As viewed from the CAP end, SL8500 column numbers are positive starting
with +1 to the right of the center line of the drive bays. They are negative
starting with -1 to the left of the drive bays. HSC reports two columns for
each cell storage panel (columns 0, to the left of the drive, and 1, to the right
of the drive).
For details, see Understanding the Address Scheme on page 7 and

Translating Addresses Using the Library Console on page 10.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
Translating Addresses
Use the StreamLine Library Console Search utility to translate between
SL8500 internal (default) addresses and HSC panel, row, and column
addresses. The procedure for doing this is described in the SLConsole
Help under Locating a Cartridge by Address.

Vary or modify SL8500 components offline to the HSC before they are
powered off, if they are inoperative, and before you open an SL8500 access
door. This notifies HSC that they are unavailable. Once they are available,
vary them back online.
Use HSC to Vary SL8500 Components Offline

You should vary or modify SL8500 components (ACSs, LSMs, and CAPs)
offline through the HSC, not the SLConsole, because:
HSC allows outstanding requests to complete before taking components

offline, unless it is a vary offline force. Varying components offline via the
SLConsole may cause outstanding requests from the HSC to fail.
Prior to SL8500 Firmware Version 2.52, the SLConsole offline status is not
communicated to the HSC.
When the SLConsole varies SL8500 components offline, HSC has no
knowledge of this. As a result, HSC continues to send requests to the
SL8500, and these requests fail.
When to Vary SL8500 Components Offline to HSC

Before opening the access door
Before opening the SL8500 access door, vary the ACS or modify all four LSMs
offline. This allows all outstanding requests to complete and prevents new
requests from starting.
For a standalone SL8500, vary the ACS offline:

Vary ACS acs-id OFFline
For an SL8500 library complex connected through PTPs, modify all four
LSMs (in the SL8500 whose access door will be opened) offline using:
MODify LSM lsm-range OFFline
An lsm-range consists of two LSMids separated by a dash
(such as 00:00-00:03).
TM0017 Revision C
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HSC Best Practices
If an LSM (rail) is inoperative

If SL8500 Firmware Version 2.52 or later is not installed, and if an LSM is
inoperative, modify the LSM offline:
MODify LSM lsm-id OFFline
If a CAP is inoperative
If the CAP is inoperative, modify the CAP offline:
MODify CAP cap-id OFFline

There are some HSC commands and utilities that should not be in progress or
initiated when the Service Safety Door is being used.
When the Service Safety Door is closed on either side:
MODify CONFIG
When the Service Safety Door is closed on the right (CAP) side:
ENter
EJect
When using the audit utility:
The AUDIt utility can be used. However, if there is a need to eject cartridges
as a result of the auditfor example: because the audit encounters
duplicates or unreadable labelsthe audit will terminate and the cartridges
will not be ejected.
When Closing the Service Safety Door

Whenever replacing hardware requires using the Service Safety Door, it is
advisable to keep that Service Safety Door closed for the minimum amount of
time possible.
This is because the Service Safety Door blocks other hardware components
(elevators, CAPs, and cells) to which access may be required for completing
specific requests. Minimizing the time these components are unavailable
minimizes this risk.
Before closing the Service Safety Door on either the left or right side of the
SL8500, vary the elevator on that side offline through the SLConsole.
After the Service Safety Door is opened, vary the elevator on that side back
online through the SLConsole.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
When the Service Safety Door is closed on the right side, it will block access
to the CAP.
-
Before closing the Service Safety Door on the right side of the SL8500,
modify the CAP offline through the HSC.
After the Service Safety Door is opened, modify the CAP online through
the HSC.
Note: When the SL8500 Service Safety Door is closed to separate a service
bay from the rest of the library, the CSE can open the access door on that
side without taking the LSM or ACS offline.

Currently, in an SL8500 when the HandBot adjacent to the middle CAP
magazine is inoperative, you cannot use the CAP. This causes all enter and eject
requests from HSC to fail.
The middle CAP magazine is adjacent to the third SL8500 rail. On a single
SL8500, this is LSM 2.
The middle CAP magazine can be inaccessible on:
a four HandBot SL8500, when the only robot on LSM 2 is inoperative

an eight HandBot SL8500, when the robot closest to the middle CAP
magazine is inoperative. This is the right HandBot in a dual HandBot
configuration.
The following work-around allows you use the SL8500 CAP when the HandBot
adjacent to the middle magazine is inoperative:
1. Start an enter through HSC.
2. Open the CAP and remove the bottom magazine.
This leaves the top two magazines in the CAP, but the second magazine
cannot be accessed. Only the top magazine can be used for enters and
ejects.
To enter cartridges:
- Place them in the top magazine and close the CAP.
- Continue entering cartridges using only the top magazine.
To eject cartridges:
-
Leave the top magazine empty, close the CAP, and terminate the
enter.
Eject cartridges - HSC will place cartridges only in the top magazine.
Note: Do not place the bottom magazine back into the CAP until the robot
adjacent to the middle CAP magazine is operational.
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HSC Best Practices
Changing the HSC Recording Interval

Review and, if necessary, change the System Management Facility (SMF)
parameters in SYS1.PARMLIB member SMFPRMxx to modify HSC recording
interval for ACS statistics. Take these steps:
Find HSC subsystem name.
Change HSC recording interval.

The smaller the number, the more often data is recorded. Smaller intervals
create more work for the library, which must report the statistics to each
host at every interval. Each time the statistics are reported, they are also
cleared.
We recommend you set a recording interval of one hour.
INTERVAL(010000)
The recording interval should not be smaller than 15 minutes (default).
INTERVAL(001500)
Note: Customers using VSM should keep this interval to 15 minutes.
Assuming your HSC subsystem name is SLS0, the following example shows
the line for the HSC recording interval for ACS statistics.
SUBSYS(SLS0,INTERVAL(010000),TYPE(255))
Using Dynamic Hardware Reconfiguration

With HSC 6.1, dynamic hardware reconfiguration allows you to implement
configuration changes to libraries (and components) while HSC remains
online and running.
Invoke dynamic hardware reconfiguration by entering the MODify CONFIG
command, which lets you add, change, or remove drives, panels, and LSMs
while HSC is up and running.
MODify CONFIG provides the following benefits:
lets HSC continue running, allowing you to perform mount requests to

unaffected library components.
allows you to reconfigure specified library components while all other

configuration information remains unchanged.
For example: Mounts and dismounts to all existing drives will not be
affected when you add, change, or remove drives.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
Before Reconfiguring HSC for the SL8500

Before you use dynamic hardware reconfiguration for the SL8500, verify that
all the components of the SL8500 are operational. HSC builds its library
configuration from the information reported by the library. If SL8500
components are not operational, the library information may not be reported to
HSC, and HSC configuration of the SL8500 will be incomplete.
To verify that all the components of the SL8500 are operational:
1. Logon to the StreamLine Library Console (SLConsole). You can use either
the console on the SL8500 or a remote library console.
2. Select Tools -> System Detail.
All SL8500 components should be green.

Note: Drives that are yellow can be configured now, or later, using
dynamic hardware reconfiguration.
Missing components can be added later using the MODify CONFIG

command.
Important:
Before configuring the SL8500, the elevators must be green.

If the elevators are not green, do not configure the SL8500 to HSC. The
elevators are the logical pass-thru-ports (PTPs).
Without PTPs, HSC will not know that the SL8500 rails are connected.
3. Once the SL8500 components are operational, configure SL8500 to HSC.
Refer to HSC 6.0 Operator.s Guide, Appendix B, HSC Support for the
SL8500 LIbrary or HSC 6.1 Operator.s Guide, MODify CONFIG command
and Appendix C, HSC Support for Near Continuous Operation (NCO).
TM0017 Revision C
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HSC Best Practices

When you change the configuration of an SL8500 libraryexpand, add,
merge, or splityou must also upgrade HSCs map of the library configuration
that is recorded in the HSC control data set (CDS).
Important:
For non-disruptive growth, Sun StorageTek recommends adding libraries

from right to left when facing the front doors (this is the preferred method).
However, the library complex can grow in the other direction, from left to
right, but this requires an outage to update the HSC configuration and to
update volume addresses in the renumbered LSMs.
Refer to the Tech Tip on the Customer Resource Center:
HSC Procedures to Update SL8500 Configurations
LSMs in an SL8500 complex are numbered from right to left and top to bottom
as viewed from the front of the libraries.
Figure 18 shows an example of this numbering scheme.
Figure 18. Adding and Expanding on Configurations
Left
Right
ACS 0
LSM 08
LSM 0C
LSM 0D
LSM 0E
P
T
P
LSM 0F
LSM 09
LSM 0A
LSM 0B
LSM 04
P
T
P
LSM 05
LSM 06
LSM 00
P
T
P
LSM 07
Top
LSM 01
LSM 02
LSM 03
Bottom
Figure 19 shows and example of splitting the configuration above into two
separate automated cartridge systems (ACSs).
Figure 19. Splitting Configurations
ACS 1
LSM 04
LSM 05
LSM 06
P
T
P
LSM 07
ACS 0
LSM 00
LSM 04
LSM 01
LSM 05
LSM 02
LSM 06
LSM 03
LSM 07
LSM 00
P
T
P
LSM 01
LSM 02
LSM 03
Figure 18 now provides an example of merging two ACSs in the configuration

above into one.
Note: The LSMs in ACS 1 will become part of ACS 0, and will be renumbered
to become LSM 08 thru 0F.
Revision C TM0017
HSC Best Practices
Adding New SL8500 Libraries

When additional SL8500s are added to an existing SL8500 library complex,
the new HSC configuration must be updated. If the addition of new SL8500s
causes the LSMs in the existing SL8500s to be renumbered, the cartridge
addresses in those LSMs must be updated.
For more information and procedures, refer to HSC 6.0 Operator.s Guide,
Appendix B, HSC Support for the SL8500 Library, Adding and Configuring
SL8500s, or HSC 6.1 Operator.s Guide, Appendix C, HSC Support for Near
Continuous Operation (NCO), Adding and Configuring SL8500s.
Adding Libraries to the Left

Adding libraries to the left is the preferred method.
can dynamically upgrade the configuration of the software. This upgrade must
be done to configure both the libraries and the additional tape drives.
No rebooting of HSC is required.

When cartridges are placed into the new SL8500 library, an HSC audit
must be run to add these cartridges to the database. Existing LSMs can
remain online during the audit.
Dynamically Upgrading HSC Configurations

For HSC, upgrade the configuration using either:
Dynamic configuration (HSC 6.1) enter MODify CONFIG command

LIBGEN, SLICREAT, and MERGEcds (HSC must be stopped)
Adding Libraries to the Right

must be re-numbered; consequently the volume locations will change.
Important:
TM0017 Revision C
Vary the LSMs offline before the reconfiguration.

Audit the existing and new SL8500 libraries in a specific sequence to avoid
deleting then re-adding the volumes in the re-numbered LSMs.
55
HSC Best Practices
Existing LSMs must be offline while upgrading the SL8500 library complex and
during the HSC audit. Otherwise, problems will occur, such as:
Movements of cartridges to existing, re-numbered, LSMs will collide with
Expanding an SL8500 Library

Expansion occurs when Storage Expansion Modules are added to the SL8500
to increase its capacity. When this happens the Customer Interface Module
(CIM), which includes the CAP, must move out. As a result, newer and higher
panel numbers are assigned to the three cell panels on the CIM.
When the cell panels on the CIM are assigned higher panel numbers, the
addresses of all the cartridges on the CIM change. You must audit these
panels so HSC can update the CDS with the new addresses of these
cartridges.
For more information and procedures, refer to HSC 6.0 or 6.1 Operators
Guide, Appendix B, HSC Support for the SL8500 Library.
HSC Auditing an Expanded SL8500
Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries

When merging multiple, separate SL8500s or splitting SL8500s in an existing
SL8500 library complex, the new HSC configuration must be updated.
For more information and procedures, refer to HSC 6.0 or 6.1 Operator.s
Guide, Appendix B, HSC Support for the SL8500 Library, Merging ACSs
and Removing PTPs and Splitting ACSs.
Revision C TM0017
VSM Best Practices
This chapter provides the current best practices for using Virtual Storage
Manager (VSM) with the Streamline SL8500 Library. These include:
Configuring VSM for SL8500 Library
Considering VTCS Maintenance
Configuring the LSMs and RTDs
Considering HSC and VTCS Parameters
Considering VSM Workload Separation
Analyzing Workloads and Separating MVCs
VSM Configuration Hierarchy
Placing RTDs and MVCs within the Library
RTD Preferencing
Configuring VSM for SL8500 Library

The number of real tape drives (RTDs) that attach to a single Virtual Tape
Storage Subsystem (VTSS) is typically 8although there can be up to a
maximum of 16. This pool of tape drives is relatively small compared to large
user native drive pools. HSC drive preferencing has always been available for
native tape users; and, with a large number of drives per LSM, it has been very
effective in reducing pass-through activity.
With only 8 RTDs typically available for migration and recall in a single VSM
environment, customers can see a relatively low number of RTDs sitting idle.
This has an impact on the opportunities for selecting the ideally placed RTD.
As such, customers can experience high pass-through activity when more than
one LSM is used. This is true in any library type configuration, but may be seen
to a higher degree in an SL8500 because of the lower number of cells in each
logical LSM; and, to some extent, due to the maximum number of 16 tape
drives per logical LSM. The reason for this is, even with Virtual Tape Control
System (VTCS) 6.1 LSM preferencing algorithms in place, the next drive
allocated depends heavily on an RTD being available in the LSM where the
Multi-Volume Cartridge (MVC) resides.
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There is a very common misconception that having more than one LSM in any
VSM configuration improves reliability by increasing redundancy. In fact, it
does exactly the opposite in a VSM environment.
By increasing the number of LSMs that house RTDs attached to a single
VTSS, the chance of Virtual Tape Volume (VTV) recall failure increases.
This is because, in the event of a failure in a two-LSM, single ACS
configuration with simplexed VTVs, VTCS will usually be able to continue
migrationsince there should be available MVCs in each LSMbut about half
of the VTVs will have become unavailable for recall back into the VSM buffer.
In the event of a failure in a two-LSM, single ACS configuration, VTCS will
usually be able to continue migrationagain since there should be available
MVCs in each LSMbut about half of the VTVs will have become unavailable
even with duplexed VTVs. This is true because VTCS only guarantees that the
two VTV copies will be on separate MVCs, regardless of location in the
libraries. Named MVCPools in each LSM does not completely address this
issue because the MVCs can still be moved from one LSM to the other
depending on RTD allocation.
In a two-LSM, multi-ACS environment with duplexed, triplexed or quadplexed
VTVs, the customer would eliminate the exposure of a VTV being unavailable
due to an LSM or ACS failure by migrating one VTV copy to each ACS using
MIGpol or ACS-list (for duplexed only). Migrations and recalls would continue
to occur in the event of an ACS failure or media failure, and will result in
business continuity in the event the local site is destroyed.
Considering VTCS Maintenance

Customers should ensure that they have all of the latest PTFs applied to
VTCS and HSC.
Configuring the LSMs and RTDs

The SL8500 is a new Library architecture. This is not new newsbut, it is
worth repeating because it means changing the way we currently think about
VSM configurations. There is a smaller capacity per logical LSM, less tape
drives per logical LSM, multiple storage elements available to consider, and
both vertical and horizontal pass-thru capability.
The ideal configuration for RTDs in an SL8500 library to achieve optimum
performance is to have all RTDs and all MVCs reside in one logical LSM, if
possible, and to duplex to a separate ACS. This would eliminate any passthrough activity and allow for VTV redundancy and availability in the event of a
failure in one ACS. For a customer with one to four VTSSs, with a typical RTD
configuration of 8 RTDs per VTSS, this would mean occupying one logical
LSM in each of two ACSs. This would be accomplished by connecting four
RTDs to the local ACS and four RTDs to the remote, or second ACS, from
each VTSS.
Revision C TM0017
VSM Best Practices
If this configuration cannot be achieved, because the customer has either

more than four VTSSs and/or greater than 8 RTDs per VTSS, or because the
number of MVCs cannot be housed within a single LSM, then the
recommendation is to use as few LSMs as possible. Also, any LSMs used
should be vertically adjacent to each other as far as possible. Vertical passthru tends to be faster than adjacent pass-through to another SL8500 library at
the present time.
Considering HSC and VTCS Parameters
COMMPATH
This is an HSC command which designates the host-to-host
communications method in a HSC/VTCS environment. The choices are:
-
VTAM (by far the best and the recommended method)

LMU (this would be the second best)
CDS (this is the 3rd choice and is the default)
In a VSM environment, CDS should never be the communications method.

The LMU is the minimum level (VTAM being the highest) that should be
used in a VSM environment. In a VSM and SL8500 configuration, it is
highly recommended that you use VTAM, although you could use LMU
but, definitely not CDS.
When you define the COMMPATH, it is highly recommended that the
order of ACSs, used in the LMUPATH sub-parameter method, specify the
9310 Powderhorn ACSs as the first ACSs in the definition, if they exist in
the environment, followed by the Streamline SL8500 ACSs. Please refer to
the HSC Systems Programmers Guide for information on this HSC
command.
VTCS Coupling Facility

If the VTCS Coupling Facility is used, which is implemented via the
Coupling Facility Lock Structure parameter, LOCKSTR on the VTCS
Config Global statement, and supporting HSC and VTCS PTFs applied:
L1H12E4
SOS6000
HSC 6.0
L1H12E6
SWS6000
VTCS 6.0
L1H12J3
SOS6100
HSC 6.1
L1H12J4
SWS6100
VTCS 6.1
then all of the VTCS host-to-host traffic would no longer be handled by the
HSC host-to-host communications. VTCS communications would then be
handled through the Coupling Facility, which is yet a higher method of
host-to-host communications than VTAM.
Note: HSC host-to-host communication would still be via the CDS, LMU
or VTAM, and the above mentioned recommendations under HSC
COMMPATH would still apply for HSC.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 4 VSM Best Practices
59
VSM Best Practices
VTCS Migration Policies

In planning RTD and MVC placement within the SL8500 libraries, the
customer must review their VTCS Migration Policies to ensure that they
are appropriately set to accomplish their goal in optimizing performance of
VSM in an SL8500 library complex.
Parameter definitions to be reviewed are:

-
TAPEREQ
To ensure that VTVs are being assigned the proper Management
Class.
Management Class
ACSlist parameter, if used, to designate ACSs instead of MIGPOL.
MIGPOL parameter to ensure the correct numbers of 1 to 4 VTV
copies are being directed to the appropriate ACSs.
Storage Class
ACS parameter to specify which ACS is to be used for each Storage
Class.
MVCPool
If Named MVCPools are being used, to achieve MVC separation of
volumes.
VTSSSEL/VTSSLST and STORSEL/STORLST

These parameters, introduced in VTCS 6.0, allow the customer to
specify lists of VTSSs and Storage Classes and their corresponding
preferencing for certain functions within VSM to minimize MVC
pass-thru operations by specifying VTSSs and ACSs.
Named MVCPools
The most efficient use of MVCs is not to use Named MVCPools. However,
if the customer is separating and maintaining their VSM workloads in
separate LSMs within an SL8500, then they should consider using Named
MVCPools to complete MVC separation by having a Named MVCPool for
each logical group. They should then use ExLM to manage the location of
the MVCs within the ACS to ensure that they continue to reside in the
desired rail.
Note: If Named MVCPools are defined, please make sure that a default
MVCPool is also defined.
Please refer to the VTCS Command and Utility Reference for information on
the use of the above VTCS parameter definitions.
Revision C TM0017
VSM Best Practices
Considering VSM Workload Separation

A customer's VSM workload should ideally be confined to a single LSM to
avoid pass-thru operations.
If this is not possible because the workload is too large for a single LSM, then
customers may want to consider breaking the workload into smaller segments
to fit into a single LSM.
If the workload is broken into more than one segment, then the VTCS
VTSSSEL, VTSSLST, STORSEL, STORLST statements, which were
introduced in VTCS 6.0, can be used to preference VTSSs and ACSs for zero
pass-through, while still maintaining their ability to switch to alternative VTSSs
and ACSs in the event of hardware failure.
For example: If HSM is currently being directed to VSM, it may be a suitable
candidate for consideration to break into a separate VSM workload and direct
to specific VTSSs and ACSs with its own named MVCPool.
Please refer to the VTCS Command and Utility Reference for instruction on the
use of these VTCS parameters.
A better way for planning workload separation for VSM in a SL8500 is to
logically separate the workload by determining active groups of MVCs and
extended store groups of MVCs.
By separating in this fashion, RTDs can be concentrated, in one or two logical
LSMs and the active MVCs located on those rails and the inactive or less
active MVCs placed on the remaining rails.
Managed by ExLM, this will:
Allow VTCS to take advantage of 6.1 RTD preferencing to have the more
active MVCs and RTDs housed together on the same rails.
Minimize internal elevator pass-thru operations and optimize performance.
Require some analysis of the customer's VSM workload to achieve.
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VSM Best Practices
Analyzing Workloads and Separating MVCs

To analyze VSM workloads and logically separate MVCs into active and
inactive MVC groupings:
Identify active groups of MVCs:

- Scratch MVCs
- Usable MVCs with space available
- MVCs with Last Use Date < x days old
- MVCs with high defragmentation percentage
- Place those MVCs in LSM 1 (where all RTDs reside)
Remaining MVCs will then be the inactive or less active MVCs:

- Full MVCs
- Read-only MVCs
- Backup Volumes
- MVCs with Last use Date > x days old
- Place those MVCs in LSMs 0, 2 and 3
Run an ExLM Volume Report to obtain a history of the 9310 cartridge aging
and use statistics before moving the cartridges to the SL8500.
This report should be produced by LSM, sorting by the parameter MDAYS,
which means days since the cartridge was last mounted. The MVCs should
then be ejected in groups of MDAYS for transfer to the SL8500.
VSM Configuration Hierarchy

Use the following VSM configuration hierarchy to determine RTD and MVC
placement within a SL8500 Library:
Determine total # MVCs
Multiplexing (2, 3, 4 VTV copies)
Location of multiplexed copies (different/same ACS)
Determine # logical LSMs required to fit MVCs

- If multiplexing to different ACSs, then focus on one copy first
- If same ACS, then focus on all copies
Determine # RTDs that can fit in one SL8500

- Divide total RTDs for each VTSS by number of ACSs
Determine logical LSMs for one SL8500 required
Consider workloads
- Analyze active versus extended store
Determine RTD & MVC placement based on above criteria
Revision C TM0017
VSM Best Practices
Placing RTDs and MVCs within the Library

The ideal MVC placement is within one LSM.
If capacity requirements force the user to use more than one LSM, then the
recommendation is that the customer
Duplex to separate ACSs,

Implement 6.1 for device preferencing, and
Consider over-configuring the number of RTDs.
Duplexing will protect against media failure and, in a different ACS, will also
provide protection against robotic failure.
Identify MVCs to place in the active LSM (I am referring to it as LSM1)
Scratch MVCs
Usable MVCs with > 3% space available (still in migration pool)
MVCs with MDAYS < x days oldreview ExLM Volume Report to

determine what the x days old should be (this is customer specific)
MVCs with high defragmentation %Review MVC Report
Place those MVCs in LSM1
Place all remaining MVCs (inactive, or less active) in the extended store
LSMs (LSMs 0, 2 and 3).
Consider loading LSM 0 with the inactive groups of MVCs first by using all
three CAP magazines and the TLSM parameter to move the MVCs to LSM 0.
The CAPs can then be loaded adjacent to their appropriate LSMs with the
remaining MVCs, active to LSM1 and inactive to LSMs 2 and 3.
Set-up ExLM to manage the continual rotation of scratch MVCs and to move
MVCs from extended store LSMs to the active LSMs where the RTDs
reside and also to move MVCs from the active LSMs to extended store
when they exceed MDAYS.
Implement VTCS 6.1 to take advantage of RTD preferencing.
Consider over-configuring RTDs if requirements for active MVCs are greater
than one LSM.
Set FLOAT(ON) to ensure that an MVC remains on the rail where the RTD is
located.
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VSM Best Practices
RTD Preferencing
Prior to VTCS 6.1, there was no RTD device preferencing. In 6.1, VTCS first
selects the target MVC and then will attempt to preference an RTD residing in
the same LSM where the MVC is located. If no RTD is available in that LSM,
either because they are all busy or offline, then VTCS attempts no further
preferencing and RTDs residing in other LSMs are selected randomly, based on
migration policies that are in place.
Keep in mind that, even if VTCS device preferencing were to be architected to
achieve shortest path, like HSC does today, because of the limited number of
RTDs that can be connected to each VTSS, even if over-configured to a
maximum of 16, the chances of an RTD being available in the LSM where the
MVC resides is much less likely than it would be in a native tape environment.
Revision C TM0017
ExLM Best Practices
Expert Library Manager (ExLM) is a software product that provides content

management for mainframe automated tape environments. ExLM works in
conjunction with: Host Software Component (HSC), Virtual Storage Manager
(VSM), and the customers tape management system (TMS).
This chapter provides the current best practices for using Expert Library
Manager (ExLM) with the StreamLine SL8500 library.
These include:
Adjusting Content Management Philosophies

Using Pass-thru Mechanisms
Ejecting Cartridges and Entering Cartridges
Using the Performance Zone
Locating Physical Tape Cartridges
Changing Configurations
Note: The current software level for ExLM is 6.0.0
Selection Criteria
Planning for an ExLM solution should focus on how the customers uses their
automated tape libraries, such as:
How many scratch volumes do they use in an average day?
When do operators enter volumes?

- At the beginning of the day
- Throughout the day as necessary
- During each shift
Does the customer move volumes to off-site vaults and when?

What times are best for operators to enter and eject volumes?
Which are the most active data volumes?
Do volumes reside outside the library?
Which and how many CAPs do they want to use for volume ejects?
Physical tape functions

- Scratch synchronization and management
- Physical tape placement
- Free cell management
- Volume ejection
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ExLM Best Practices
Adjusting Content Management Philosophies

The most important change for ExLM is the need to re-evaluate the content
management philosophy with respect to the physical structure and capacities
of the SL8500.
The SL8500 has four LSMs per library that work in parallel.
Each of these four LSMs starts with a capacity of 362 cartridges3.
Couple this with a maximum of 16 tape drives per LSM.
The major considerations for content management is to position scratch tapes,

non-scratch tapes, and free cells in such a manner to reduce or eliminate
pass-thru operations during production cycles.
In some cases, this may require a greater number of scratch tapes and
free cells per LSM.
In other cases, it may require the placement of more active volumes with
more available tape drives.
In all cases, matching tape volumes to tape drives and where they will be
mounted is why ExLM is an important tool that can help optimize the
performance of the SL8500.
In addition, to support the SL8500, ExLM required some minimal changes.
The most visible are:
Increased the LSMid format to support more than 16 library storage

modules (LSMs) within an automated cartridge system (ACS).
Added an additional attributecalled the Performance Zone (PZ)to the

METHOD statement.
Added an optioncalled Eject Sequence (EJSEQ)to the Eject Utility that

allows HSC to ignore the ExLM specified eject order to minimize pass-thru
operations.
Added a slot location fieldSL8500Cellfor the Report Volume to

provide the necessary translation when locating a cartridge.
Here are some other considerations to plan for because of the physical
structure of the SL8500:

Ejecting Cartridges
Entering Cartridges
3.
LSMs is equal to 362.
Revision C TM0017
ExLM Best Practices

The SL8500 has two pass-thru mechanismselevators and pass-thru ports
that have slightly different characteristics that require consideration when
developing the content management philosophy for a specific customer.
Elevators: Provide vertical pass-thru operations between LSMs.
Each of the four LSMs share the resources of two elevatorsone on the left
and one on the rightlocated in the front of the library.
Pass-thru ports: Provide horizontal pass-thru operations between libraries.
These mechanisms are located in the rear of the library for quick access to an
available tape drive.
Consideration:
Why is a pass-thru operation needed?
Recommendation:
Any pass-thru operation, regardless of type or type of library, during

production has an impact on overall performance as it involves additional
robotics activity.
Reducing such pass-thru operations is one of the simplest methodologies
for improving performance.
In some cases, it is simply not possible to eliminate pass-thru operations as
the minimum number of active volumes or tape drives used exceeds the
capacity of a single SL8500 LSM. That does not mean that there are still
opportunities for reducing the aggregate pass-thru rate.
Consideration:
If pass-thru operations are required, which type of pass-thru is best?
Recommendation:
That it depends. The design of ExLM is to place workloads so that the

volumes and the tape drives are on the same LSM.
If the workload requires two LSMs, ExLM attempts to place the workload in
the same SL8500 on two vertically adjacent LSMs or in two horizontally
adjacent LSMs in an SL8500 library complex.
The first scenario would use the elevator for the pass-thru; the second
would use the pass-thru port mechanisms. While the two vertically adjacent
LSMs provides the best performance, any combination of two adjacent
LSMs will work.
Every multiple SL8500 configuration has a fixed number of vertical and
horizontal combinations where the elevator is a shared resource. In most
cases, each environment may have a mix of these combinations.
The Tape Library Configurator and Field Simulation Model (TLC/FSM) is an
SE tool that can assist in determining placement of workloads.
Consideration:
What if the workload takes more than two LSMs?
Recommendation:
When three or four LSMs are required for the workload, placing that task in
a single SL8500 would be a good choice because each pass-thru operation
would only use a single mechanismthe elevator. Horizontal or
combinations of both vertical and horizontal moves would result in several
pass-thru operations for a single mount.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 5 ExLM Best Practices 67
ExLM Best Practices
Ejecting Cartridges
Currently there is one 39-slot cartridge access port that spans three rails in the
SL8500 library. Each of the four LSMs must share the resources of this CAP
which is owned by the LSM on rail 2 (LSM 01).
Note: The second rail in all libraries of a library complex own the CAPs
(LSMs 01, 05, 09, 11, and so on).
LSM 8
LSM 9
LSM 10
LSM 11
C
A
P
LSM 4
P
LSM 5
T
P LSM 6
LSM 7
C
A
P
LSM 0
P
LSM 1
T
P LSM 2
C
A
P
LSM 3
ExLM directs all cartridge ejects to those specific CAPs on the appropriate
LSMs. The CAP on other LSMs is simply non-existent, meaning:
-
Ejects directed to those LSMs will fail.

Ejects directed to the nearest CAP will use the CAP owned by LSM01.
The result of this physical configuration is that many ejects require a

vertical pass-thru operation.
As ExLM ejects volumes in the specified sequencethe default is by
ascending volume serial numberthe result can be a significant number of
vertical pass-thru operations.
Important:
ExLM 6.0.0 provides an option specific to the SL8500 that allows HSC to
ignore the ExLM specified order and to eject the volumes using a minimum
number of vertical pass-thru operations.
The option is EJSEQ or NOEJSEQ in the control statement of the ExLM run.
EJSEQ requires HSC to honor the ExLM specified sequence (the default)
NOEJSEQ gives HSC control of the eject order which may reduce total
eject time
Note: The result of using the NOEJSEQ option is that ejected volumes are
out of order (the ExLM specified sequence) and may require manual
sorting to restore the volumes in the proper sequence.
Because the top rail (LSMs 00, 04, 08, 0C, and so on) have no direct access
to any magazine in the CAP, all ejects from this rail require a pass-thru. For
this reason, the upper LSMs are ideal for workloads that use active volumes
and that do not require as many ejects, such as VSM, HSM, and ABARS4.
4.
Aggregate backup and recovery support (ABARS). A function that backs up a userdefined related group of data sets, called an aggregate, and recovers those data sets
on the same system or on a recovery system.
Revision C TM0017
ExLM Best Practices
Entering Cartridges
To enter cartridges, ExLM directs operators to place specific volumes into
specific LSMs using the Operator and Enter Reports. Operators should place
these volumes in the order specified.
HSC then enters and places these volumes into the LSMs adjacent to the
magazines in the CAP door. The potential result is that the placement of the
volumes may not be in the specified LSM.
Important:
To avoid this situation, operators should enter the volumes one LSM at a time
using the Enter command and the TLSM parameter.
Do not use the SCRATCH parameter with the Enter command.

Execute an ExLM Sync run after all enters are complete to ensure proper
scratch status.

ExLM support for the SL8500 implemented the concept of the Performance
Zone (PZ). The performance zone is an area within an SL8500 LSM that is
closest to the tape drives. Because of the physical location of the PZ, volumes
in this zone have faster access and response times to the tape drives.
The size of the PZ is limited to 362 slotsmaking it too large would negate
the effectthe capacity of one LSM in a basic SL8500 library configuration.
PZ is an attribute in the METHOD statement that defines the management

technique for non-scratchactivevolumes. For example:
Method Name(PerfZone) Eject(No)

Cond(Ref LE 2) Eject(No) PerformanceZone;
Applications that fit well into the performance zone are similar to those that
require very few ejectsEject(NO). A common factor are those volumes
that tend to be recalled regularly or need the fast access time. Again, VSM,
HSM, and ABARS are good candidates.
Selection of the volumes to reside in the PZ is critical to obtain the best
performance. Limit these volumes to those that benefit most from a reduced
average mount time or have a high likelihood for recall. Examples include, the
most recently created volumes or volumes that are mounted repeatedly.
Non-PZ volumes are moved out of this area to make room for specific volumes
until the PZ zone is full. These volumes would extend into the storage
expansion modules.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 5 ExLM Best Practices 69
ExLM Best Practices

Many ExLM users generate an Index report using the Report Volume function
as a reference file on a workstation. This report, usually sorted by Dataset
Name (DSN), includes the volume serial number, generation number, the HSC
cell location and slot information.
For example:
Report Volume
Title('Report INDEXRPT')
DDname(INDEXRPT)
Style(Data)
Control(DataSetName Ascending)
Column (Serial,
Scratch,
InitialLSMCell,
SL8500Cell,
LocationCode,
Slot,
Copy,
Generation,
DataSetName);
ExLM has added an SL8500Cell field that provides the necessary translation to
locate cartridges.
Changing Configurations
The overall ExLM configuration for a SL8500 basically consists of two
components, the placement of tape drives and the placement of tape volumes.
If after a period of running and gathering data with a specific configuration it is
determined that another configuration may provide better performance, moving
to that new configuration is fairly simple with ExLM.
Placement of volumes with ExLM is a function of the control statements and

options selected for the ExLM management run.
Change the control statements and options for the new configurations.
During the next run, ExLM moves the volumes into the new configuration.
Because this could be a robotic intensive activity, execute this change

during a slow production period.
If necessary, relocate the physical location of the tape drives to match the
tape volumes and configuration.
Revision C TM0017
ACSLS Best Practices
This chapter provides guidelines for optimizing the Automated Cartridge

System Library Software (ACSLS) for the SL8500 library. Topics include:
Updating ACSLS after a HandBot Installation
Configuring ACSLS for the SL8500
Using the Dynamic Configuration Utility

- Adding New SL8500 Libraries
- Expanding an SL8500 Library
- Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries
Using ACSLS HA
Note: Refer to the ACSLS 7.1 Installation, Configuration, and Administration

Guide for more information and procedures.
TM0017 Revision C
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Supported Software Levels

ACSLS 7.1 with PUT0502 has many fixes and enhancements, plus this is a
prerequisite for all future maintenance.
This level of software with the SL8500 library firmware of 2.52 is not limited to
eight HandBot enhancementsthe SL8500 returns LSM Not Ready
messages when inoperative, degraded, or offline.
Note: Check the Customer Resource Center (CRC) for the latest PTF
(program temporary fix) and PUT (program update tape) levels.

There are several things you can do to minimize elevator and PTP activity,
such as:
Mounting cartridges
Whenever possible, when mounting a tape, use cartridges and tape drives
that are in the same LSM.
LSM refers to a single rail within the SL8500 library.
Each SL8500 contains four LSMs.
Using float
Take advantage of the ACSLS float option (enabled by default by ACSLS)

by maintaining some free cells within each LSM. Cartridge float is a feature
that allows ACSLS to place a dismounted tape cartridge in an empty slot in
the same LSM or a closer LSM as the tape drive if the tape originally came
from a different LSM using a pass-thru operation.
When cartridges are dismounted, ACSLS tries to avoid elevator (pass-thru)
activity among LSMs by assigning a new home cell whenever the
cartridge's old home cell is in a different LSM. ACSLS attempts to put the
cartridge away:
Entering cartridges
in the same LSM as the tape drive from which it was dismounted
or to the closest LSM (with free storage cells) to the drive
Enter cartridges into an LSM that has compatible tape drives for the media
being entered.
Example: You have only LTO drives on LSMs 2 and 3, and you want the
LTO cartridges to be located in these LSMs. When entering these
cartridges, you should place them in the CAP magazines adjacent to LSMs
2 and 3. ACSLS then makes every effort to put the cartridges in the LSM
that is adjacent to that CAP magazine.
Scratch cartridges
Make sure that scratch cartridges are available in sufficient quantity in

each LSM where they will be used. For an SL8500, this means having
scratch cartridges available on each rail (LSM) of the library.
Free cells
Make sure there are adequate free cells in each LSM.
Revision C TM0017

How tape drives are configured in the SL8500 can minimize both elevator and
PTP activity while supporting your tape workloads. Strategies to use in
determining where tape drives are located in the SL8500 include:
Cluster drives by type, placing drives that use different media types on
separate rails (LSMs). For example, place T9840 drives on one rail and
T9940 drives on a different rail.
Manage your tape cartridges so compatible media is on the same rail with
tape drives. When entering media, enter it through a CAP magazine
adjacent to the desired rail. Move incompatible media to a different rail
(that has drives that are compatible with the media).
Allocate separate rail(s) to each major application workload. For example:

separate Veritas NetBackup and Tivoli applications all need media and
drives.
Cluster cartridges by workload, with enough drives to support the

maximum drives needed for the workload. Separate the cartridges used by
each workload on separate rails, and ensure the rail(s) dedicated to a
workload has enough drives to meet the maximum concurrent mounts for
the peak usage of the workload. Ensure that the rail has not only the data
cartridges for the workload, but also the scratch cartridges that will be
needed.
Configure your heavy tape applications so they will not exceed the
performance limits of your library configuration.
Actively manage your cartridges, and migrate the least recently used
(LRU) cartridges to archival LSMs. This helps ensure that there will be
space for the active cartridges close to the drives. Consider using the top
rail as an archival LSM, as it does not have direct access to the CAP.
When Float is on, ACSLS will select a new home location for a cartridge
that is as close to the drive as possible on a dismount. This automatically
clusters cartridges by the drives used by a workload.
Use a library cartridge management application to keep active volumes on
the same LSMs (rails) as compatible drives. Migrate less frequently used
volumes to archival LSMs.
TM0017 Revision C
Clustering drives and media on a single rail works until the mounts per
hour threshold is reached, all drives are in use, or there are too many
active cartridges to fit on a rail. When the resources needed for a workload
exceeds the capacity of a rail, spread the cartridges and drives over two or
more rails.
Chapter 6 ACSLS Best Practices
73
Configuring the SL8500 with 8 HandBots (two HandBots per rail) provides
redundancy so you can always access the cartridges and drives that
support a workload.

How cartridges are originally entered in the library or their status in the library
can have an affect on ACSLS performance. Considerations are:
Entering cartridges
Recommendation:
Enter cartridges through the CAP.
When manually placing cartridges in the library with the front access door
open, library operations cease and ACSLS must perform a full audit to
update the library database to match the actual contents of the library.
To maximize performance:
Enter cartridges through the cartridge access port (CAP).
During an enter, the library stays online, mounts can continue, and the
library management software always tries to move the cartridge to an LSM
adjacent to the CAP magazineminimizing pass-thru activity.
If this is not possible, the library controller moves the cartridge through the
elevator to another LSMwhich requires additional movement between
two HandBots and the elevator.
Clustering cartridges
Cluster cartridges by workload on separate rails with enough tape drives

to support the maximum activitypeak usagefor that workload.
Using float
Recommendation:
When float is on (default), ACSLS selects a new home cell for a cartridge
that is in an LSM as close to the drive as possible on a dismount. This
option automatically clusters cartridges by the drives for the workload.
Make sure each LSM contains enough free cells to allow selection of a
new home cell in that LSM.
Note: Float can be overridden on an LSM-by-LSM basis with the Extended
Store LSM feature.
Supplying scratch
cartridges
Make sure each rail has the correct amount and type of data cartridges
plus enough scratch cartridges to support the workload.
Revision C TM0017

See Chapter 1, SL8500 Architecture and Understanding the Address
Scheme on page 7 for a detailed discussion.
Use the StreamLine Library ConsoleTM (SLConsole) Search utility to
translate between SL8500 internal (default) addresses and ACSLS panel, row,
and column addresses.
See Chapter 1, SL8500 Architecture for information about Translating
Addresses Using the Library Console on page 10.

Caution: If the SL8500 contents are out of sync with ACSLS due to
manual operations such as loading cartridges directly, it is
not advisable to attempt continued operations.
If you want to manually add tapes, adding them to a particular
LSM within the SL8500 is a better approach. Adding tapes to
a particular LSM and auditing only the affected LSM is a
quicker and more reliable solution (see Library Console
Audit Screen on page 31 for an example).
To do this, modify the affected LSM to an offline diagnostic
state to ACSLS while the audit is in process. After the SL8500
library audit is performed, modify the LSM online to ACSLS.
If a cartridge is out of place or unaccounted for by ACSLS:
1. Perform a physical audit of the SL8500 using the SLConsole.
The physical audit of the SL8500 is performed as a background task in
between handling mount and other library operation requests.
2. Run an ACSLS audit to update the ACSLS database to match the actual
inventory of library volumes.
Note: The audit command updates the ACSLS database to match the
actual inventory of the library and resolve discrepancies between the
library and the ACSLS database.
TM0017 Revision C
75

You should vary SL8500 components offline to ACSLS before they are
powered-off, if they are inoperative, and before you open an SL8500 access
door. This notifies ACSLS that they are unavailable. Once they are available,
vary them back online.
Using ACSLS to Vary Components Offline

Note: Do not use the StreamLine Library Console to vary components offline
to ACSLS (such as ACSs, LSMs, and CAPs).
Varying components offline using SLConsole in essence is like using a

force command and may cause requests in progress to fail.
The SLConsole has no knowledge of outstanding requests to ACSLS.
ACSLS allows outstanding requests to complete before taking

components offline, unless it is a vary offline force.
Prior to SL8500 firmware version 2.52, the LSM Not Ready (offline)
status is not communicated to ACSLS. In this case, you must vary
components offline to ACSLS.
When to Vary Components Offline to ACSLS
Before opening the access door, vary the ACS or all four LSMs offline.
-
For a standalone SL8500, vary the ACS offline:

vary acs acs_id offline
For a SL8500 connected through PTPs, vary all four LSMs (in the
SL8500 whose access door will be opened) offline using the following
command four times (once for each of the four LSMs):
vary lsm lsm_id offline
If an LSM (rail) is inoperative.

Prior to SL8500 firmware version 2.52, the LSM Not Ready (offline) status
is not communicated to ACSLS. In this case you must vary components
offline to ACSLS with:
vary lsm lsmid offline
With version 2.52, the SL8500 library notifies ACSLS that the LSM is not
ready (inoperative).
If a CAP is inoperative, vary it offline:

vary cap cap_id offline
Revision C TM0017

Important:
Whenever replacing hardware requires closing the Service Safety Door, it is

advisable to keep the door closed for the minimum amount of time possible.
This is because the Service Safety Door blocks other hardware components
(such as the elevators, CAPs, and storage cells) that may require access for
completing specific requests.
Minimizing the time these components are unavailable minimizes this risk.
Using the SLConsole:
Before closing the Service Safety Door on either the left or right side:
Vary the elevator on that side offline

After the door is opened, vary the elevator on that side back online
Using ACSLS:
When closing the Service Safety Door on the right side, it will block access to
the CAP; therefore, before closing the door on the right side:
Vary the cartridge access ports offline

After the door is opened, vary the cartridge access ports back online
Note: When the SL8500 Service Safety Door is closed to separate a service
bay from the rest of the library, the service representative can open the
access door on that side without taking the LSM or ACS offline.
CAUTION:
Do not use these ACSLS commands or utilities when

using the Service Safety Door:
When closed on either side, do not use these utilities:
acsss_config
config
When closed on the rightCAPside, do not use these commands:
TM0017 Revision C
enter
eject
set cap mode auto <cap_id>
77
When closed on the rightCAPside, the following commands can be

used, but special considerations apply:
audit
The audit command can be used; however, if there is a need to eject

cartridges as a result of the auditsuch as the audit encounters duplicates
or unreadable labelsthe audit will complete and update the ACSLS
database, but the cartridges will not be ejected.
vary acs and vary lsm
These vary commands will succeed, but display messages on cmd_proc

and the event log reporting CAP failures and inoperative CAPs.
Updating ACSLS after a HandBot Installation

When you go from four to eight HandBots in the library, you need to update the
ACSLS library configuration to reflect their presence.
You can select one of the following ways to do this:
Install the following PTFs so ACSLS can dynamically update the database
with new records for the HandBots. With this option the library always
remains online. This is the preferred method.
-
Solaris
PTF835924S and PTFmsgs710S which updates the message file with a
new message (2559)
AIX
PTF835924A
For installation instructions, refer to the documents associated with the tar
files for the PTFs on the Customer Resource Center (CRC) Website.
If you have not installed these PTFs, you must update the ACSLS library
configuration by:
1. Shutting down ACSLS.
2. Running acsss_config.
This updates the ACSLS configuration to reflect the presence of the
eight HandBots.
3. Starting ACSLS.
Revision C TM0017

Currently, in an SL8500 when the HandBot adjacent to the middle CAP
magazine is inoperative, you cannot use the CAP. This causes all enter and eject
requests from ACSLS to fail.
The middle CAP magazine is adjacent to the third SL8500 rail. On a single
SL8500, this is LSM 2.
The middle CAP magazine can be inaccessible on:
a four HandBot SL8500, when the only robot on LSM 2 is inoperative
an eight HandBot SL8500, when the robot closest to the middle CAP
magazine is inoperative. This is the right HandBot in a dual HandBot
configuration.
The following work-around allows you use the SL8500 CAP when the HandBot
adjacent to the middle magazine is inoperative:
1. Start an enter through ACSLS.
2. Open the CAP and remove the bottom magazine.
This leaves the top two magazines in the CAP, but the second magazine
cannot be accessed. Only the top magazine can be used for enters and
ejects.
To enter cartridges:
-
Place them in the top magazine and close the CAP.
Continue entering cartridges using only the top magazine.
To eject cartridges:
-
Leave the top magazine empty, close the CAP, and terminate the
enter.
Eject cartridges - ACSLS will place cartridges only in the top

magazine.
Do NOT place the bottom magazine back into the CAP until the robot adjacent to
the middle CAP magazine is operational.
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Configuring ACSLS for the SL8500

Before you configure ACSLS for an SL8500 library:
Verify that all the components of the SL8500 are operational.
ACSLS builds its configuration from the operational information reported by

the library.
Important:
If all of the library components are not operationalwith the exception of the
tape drivesthe information may not be correctly reported to ACSLS and the
configuration will be incomplete.
To verify that all the components of the SL8500 are operational:
1. Logon to the StreamLine Library Console.
You can use either the touch screen operator panel on the front of the SL8500
or use a remote Library Console connection.
2. Select Tools System Detail.
All components should be green (such as CAP, elevator, and robots).

Exception: Drives that are yellow can be configured later.
Missing drives can be added using the Dynamic Configuration utility

(config drives).
3. After you verify that all the components are operational, you can configure the
SL8500 library to ACSLS.
Important:
Before configuring the SL8500, the elevators must be green.
If the elevators are not green, do not configure the SL8500 to ACSLS.
The elevators are the logical pass-thru-ports (PTPs).
Without PTPs, ACSLS will not know that the SL8500 rails are connected.
Refer to the ACSLS 7.1 Installation, Configuration, and Administration Guide CRC Update chapters Configuring Your Library Hardware and Verifying and
Changing Dynamic and Static Variables.
Revision C TM0017
Using the Dynamic Configuration Utility

The dynamic configuration (config) utility allows you to implement
configuration changes to ACSLS libraries (and components) while ACSLS
remains online and running. These configuration changes are recorded in the
acsss_config.log file.
The following dynamic configuration utilities are supported:
config
config
config
config
acs
drives
lsm
ports
Using the config utility provides the following benefits:
ACSLS can continue running, allowing you to perform mount requests to

unaffected library components.
Allows you to reconfigure specified library components while all other

configuration information remains unchanged.
For example: When specifying:
-
An ACS, the configurations of other ACSs are not affected.
An LSM, the configurations of other LSMs are not affected.
A drive panel, the drives on a panel, mounts and dismounts to all

existing drives are not affected.
CAUTION:
Do not add SL8500 libraries with more than one Storage

Expansion Module using dynamic configuration.
To add these libraries, you must:

1. Stop ACSLS
2. Run acsss_config to update the ACSLS configuration.
3. Start ACSLS.
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81

When you change the configuration of an SL8500 libraryexpand, add,
merge, or splityou must also update the ACSLS map of the library
configuration that is recorded in the ACSLS database.
Important:
For non-disruptive growth, Sun StorageTek recommends adding libraries from right
to left when facing the front doors (this is the preferred method).
However, the library complex can grow in the other direction, from left to
right, but this requires an outage to update the ACSLS configuration and
update volume addresses in the renumbered LSMs.
ACSLS Procedures to Update SL8500 Configurations
LSMs in an SL8500 complex are numbered from right to left and top to bottom
as viewed from the front of the libraries.
Figure 20 shows an example of this numbering scheme.
Figure 20. Adding and Expanding on Configurations
Left
Right
ACS 0
LSM 12
LSM 13
LSM 14
LSM 8
P
T
P
LSM 15
LSM 9
LSM 10
LSM 11
LSM 4
P
T
P
LSM 5
LSM 6
LSM 0
P
T
P
LSM 7
Top
LSM 1
LSM 2
LSM 3
Bottom
Figure 21 shows and example of splitting the configuration above into two
separate automated cartridge systems (ACSs).
Figure 21. Splitting Configurations
ACS 1
LSM 4
LSM 5
LSM 6
P
T
P
LSM 7
ACS 0
LSM 0
LSM 4
LSM 1
LSM 5
LSM 2
LSM 6
LSM 3
LSM 7
LSM 0
P
T
P
LSM 1
LSM 2
LSM 3
Figure 20 now provides an example of merging two ACSs in the configuration

above into one.
Note: The LSMs in ACS 1 will become part of ACS 0, and they will be
renumbered to become LSM 8 thru 15
Revision C TM0017
Adding New SL8500 Libraries

When additional SL8500s are added to an existing SL8500 library complex,
the new ACSLS configuration must be updated. If the addition of new
SL8500s causes the LSMs in the existing SL8500s to be renumbered, the
cartridge addresses in those LSMs must be updated.
For more information and procedures, refer to the ACSLS 7.1 Installation,
Configuration, and Administration Guide - CRC Update - appendix ACSLS
Support of the SL8500 - section Adding new SL8500s .
Adding Libraries to the Left

Adding libraries to the left is the preferred method.
can dynamically upgrade the configuration of the software. This upgrade must
be done to configure both the libraries and the additional tape drives.
No rebooting of ACSLS is required.

When cartridges are placed into the new SL8500 library, an ACSLS audit
must be run to add these cartridges to the database. Existing LSMs can
remain online during the audit.
Dynamically Upgrading ACSLS Configurations

For ACSLS, upgrade the configuration using either:
Dynamic configuration (ACSLS online and running)

acsss_config (ACSLS must be offline and stopped)
Adding Libraries to the Right

must be re-numbered; consequently the volume locations will change.
Important:
Vary the LSMs offline or place ACSLS in diagnostic before reconfiguration

Audit the existing and new SL8500 libraries in a specific sequence to avoid
deleting then re-adding the volumes in the re-numbered LSMs.
Existing LSMs must be offline while upgrading the SL8500 library complex and
during the ACSLS audit. Otherwise, problems will occur, such as:
TM0017 Revision C
Movements of cartridges to existing, re-numbered, LSMs will collide with
83
Expanding an SL8500 Library

Expansion occurs when Storage Expansion Modules are added to the SL8500
to increase its capacity. When this happens the Customer Interface Module
(CIM), which includes the CAP, must move out. As a result, newer and higher
panel numbers are assigned to the three cell panels on the CIM.
When the cell panels on the CIM are assigned higher panel numbers, the
addresses of all the cartridges on the CIM change. You must audit these
panels so ACSLS can update its database with the new addresses of these
cartridges.
Support of the SL8500.
Refer to the Tech Tips on the Customer Resource Center:
ACSLS Auditing an Expanded SL8500
Merging or Splitting SL8500 Libraries

When merging multiple, separate SL8500s or splitting SL8500s in an existing
SL8500 library complex, the new ACSLS configuration must be updated.
Support of the SL8500 - sections Merging ACSs and Removing PTPs and
Splitting ACSs.
Revision C TM0017
Using ACSLS HA
ACSLS HA (High Availability) is a software/solution offered by Professional
Services. This solution is available for the Solaris 8 and 9 platforms.
In environments where there is only one ACS, it is sometimes desirable to fail
over highly available servers in the event that communication is lost to the
library. The ACSLS HA agent contains a variable that causes different
behaviors based on these environmental considerations called FAIL_OVER.
This variable exists within the script located in:
/opt/VRTSvcs/bin/STKLMU/monitor
and can contain one of two values, 0 or 1.
Setting the variable to 0

By setting FAIL_OVER to a value of 0, you can have the primary
ACSLS server automatically fail over to the standby server in an attempt to
resolve library communication failures.
CAUTION:
Setting this variable to 0 is NOT recommended in

environments with multiple libraries. If this is set in
environments with multiple libraries, failing over will
impact all libraries.
Setting the variable to 1.

Setting the FAIL_OVER variable to a value of 1 causes the monitoring
script to log a message to the:
/var/VRTSvcs/log/engine_A.log
that communication to a library has failed but no action will be taken.
Note: Please refer to the Readme for PTF830785 for a complete description
of the FAIL_OVER variable.
TM0017 Revision C
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Revision C TM0017
Independent Software Vendors
The manner in which independent software vendors (ISVs) design and

implement their applications to support the SL8500 library is open to that
specific vendorwhere as some vendors applications work better with the
SL8500 than others.
This chapter discusses characteristics to be aware of for various applications.
Note: Each ISV may handle optimization of the SL8500 differently in the way
the software applications attempt to:
-
Minimize pass-thru activity (elevator and pass-thru port)

Select media (specific volumes and scratch tapes)
Optimize tape drives (selection and usage characteristics)
Interoperability
Not sure if your customer's software of choice supports StorageTek hardware?
Do the different network components support each other?
Check out the Interoperability Tool at:
https://extranet.stortek.com/interop/interop
The Interop Tool is designed for connectivity information on all supported
products sold through Sun Microsystems, Inc. regardless of whether Sun
branded or third party branded. The configurations listed are reflective of the
most up-to-date information reported from various sources, including Sun
testing labs and our technology partners.
The Interop Tool lists configurations with valid connectivity, it does not validate.
TM0017 Revision C
87
Characteristics
Table 12 discusses some of the characteristics for software applications.
Table 12. Application Characteristics
Workload separation
The same concepts for managing library content that applies to

ACSLS and in the other chapters of this guide also apply to
vendor applications:
Dedicating rails, separating workloads to specific rails

Grouping tape drives by type, function, and application
Managing cartridges
Minimizing elevator and pass-thru port activity
Enabling or disabling float
Tape drive location and usage
Each LSM supports a maximum of 16 drives. In order to

minimize elevator movement or possible drive busy
conditions with the ISV software, the drives available in that
LSM should always be greater than the number of
concurrent jobs being run on that LSM.
Tape drive selection methods
Selection methods such as least recently used (LRU) or

sequential can induce more pass-thru activity.
Media selection methods
The way a software application selects the media and finds and
mounts to a tape drive can minimize pass-thru movement.
Minimize pass-thru activity
If you are not able to easily separate the workload, consider:
Application knowledge
Using rails that are adjacent to each other.

This provides a shorter distance for the pass-thru operation.
Pass-thrus are either:

- Vertical: using the elevator in the same library, or
- Horizontal: using pass-thru ports to a different library
Knowledge or functionality of a software application pertains to

how well it understand the components of an:
Automated cartridge systems (ACS)

Library storage modules (LSMs)
Pass-thru ports (PTPs)
Addressing and number schemes
ACSLS capabilities and how to work with them
Fence or Pool of resources
Associating drives and media in the same LSM to a

drive/media pool.
Usage of query mount

commands
The query mount commands display the status of mediacompatible tape drives for a specified data volume or scratch pool
(and, optionally, with a specific volume within that pool).
Usage of the float option
Determining when setting float on benefits an application and

if it does not.
Revision C TM0017
Workload Separation
Being able to separate workloads is a major contributing factor to optimizing
performance of the SL8500.
Placing back up applications on a specific rail.

Grouping tape drive types.
...
Tape Drive Location and Usage

When configuring rails and applications, selection and location of tape drives
can help minimize pass-thru activity.
For example:
Mount requests are failing because the tape drives are always
busy, or an increase pass-thru activity is happening.
Recommendation:
There are too many active cartridges for the number of

tape drives on that rail
The number of concurrently mounted tapes exceeds the
number of tape drives.
Over-configure tapes drives on rails to ensure

applications do not exceed peak workloads that might
cause a pass-thru for an available tape drive.
Configure heavy tape applications so they do not exceed the
performance limits of that LSM and/or library configuration.
Each LSM supports a maximum of 16 drives. In order to minimize elevator

movement or possible drive busy conditions with the ISV software, the drives
available in that LSM should always be greater than the number of concurrent
jobs being run to that LSM.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 7 Independent Software Vendors
89
Tape Drive Selection Methods

Vendors that use a least recently used (LRU) or sequential selection for tape drives
can cause additional pass-thru activity.
For example:
If the cartridge selected is in LSM 1, and the least recently

used tape drive is in LSM 3, a pass-thru is required to satisfy
the mount.
Recommendation:
Fence or create a pool on the LSMmedia selection and drive

selection would occur only on that LSMso no pass-thru
activity is necessary.
Media Selection Methods

Applications vendors implement a media selection in one-of-two ways:
1. Select the media firstthen find an available tape drive.
Chances are better that an available drive is on the LSM if a logical
workload separation was used.
2. Select a tape drive firstthen search for a specific volume or scratch tape.
Some vendors (such as Veritas NetBackup) minimize pass-thru movement
using an algorithm behind ACSLS that:
First selects a particular cartridge for the operation and

Then looks for a drive available in that LSM.
If no drives are available the applications looks down (in LSM numbering)
to the next closest LSM for a drive. If a drive is not available it looks up to
the next closest LSM above.
For example: A cartridge gets selected in LSM 1.
1. If no drive is available, it next looks at LSM 2.

2. If there are still no drives available, it then checks LSM 0.
3. If again, no drives are available, it checks LSM 3.
This is an example of the ISV software trying to minimize elevator movement.
Revision C TM0017
Application Knowledge
Knowledge or functionality of a software application pertains to how well it
understand the components of the SL8500 library, including:
Library storage modules (LSMs)
Pass-thru ports (PTPs)

Not all software applications understand pass-thru ports and depend on
library management software to get the media from the source to its
destinationfor example: from LSM 1 to LSM 5.
LSM 4
LSM 8
LSM 9
LSM 10
LSM 11
P
T
P
LSM 5
LSM 6
LSM 0
P
T
P
LSM 7
Left
LSM 1
LSM 2
LSM 3
Right
Note that the quickest way to get a tape from LSM 1 to LSM 5 is not
vertical but horizontal using the pass-thru ports between the libraries.
Addressing and number schemes
ACSLS capabilities and how to work with them
Fencing or Pooling
Some ISV software is capable of associating a drive and media in the same
LSM to a specific pool which enables the user to associate only those drives
with that media in an LSM.
This also prevents LSM moves. It requires the number of drives within that
LSM to be greater than the number of concurrent jobs being run to that LSM. If
the jobs exceed the number of drives in this configuration, the drives will be
busy and unable to satisfy the additional requests. The result can be a backup
job that does not run.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 7 Independent Software Vendors
91
query mount
The query mount command displays the status of media-compatible tape drives
for a specified data volume. These drives are not displayed if a volumes is
absent or rejected.
Format
query mount vol_id
Options
vol_id specifies the volume to query.
Usage
Use the query mount command to display the status of the tape
drives attached to the same ACS as the volume and compatible with
the media type. The compatible tape drives are in order by proximity
to the specified volume.
Example
To display the proximity status of tape drives for volume STK012;

Enter: query mount STK012
query mount *
The query mount * command displays the status of media-compatible tape
drives for a specified scratch pool (and, optionally, for a specific volume media
type within the pool).
Format
query mount * pool_id... [media media_type | media *]
Options
pool_id specifies the scratch pool to query.

media media_type | media * specifies the media type.
Usage
Use the query mount * command to display the status of all library
tape drives compatible with all volume media types in a specified
scratch pool in the same ACS as the volumes.
Pool 0 is a common scratch pool.
The tape drives are in order by proximity to the densest scratch pool.
Example
To display status of compatible tape drives listed by proximity to the

largest concentration of scratch tapes in pool 5.
Enter: query mount * 5
To display status of compatible tape drives in proximity to the largest
concentration of 9940 scratch tapes in common pool 0.
Enter: query mount * 0 media 9940
Other ISVs
Some ISV software is capable of associating a drive and media in the same
LSM to a drive/media pool which enables the user to associate only drives and
media within that LSM. This also prevents LSM moves. It requires the number
of drives within that LSM to be greater than the number of concurrent jobs
being run to that LSM. If the jobs exceed the number of drives in this
configuration, the drives will be busy and unable to satisfy the additional
requests. The result can be a backup job that does not run.
Revision C TM0017
TLC/FSM
This chapter provides an introduction to the Tape Library Configurator Field

Simulation Model (TLC/FSM). This model is a discrete event simulator that
analyzes historical customer trace data for modeling and configuring tape
library systems.
Figure 22. Tape Library Configurator Field Simulation Model
Tape Drive &

Tape Media
Database
Workload
File
Customer
Trace Data
CSV File
Robot
Parameter
Database
Executing TLCFSM
Program
Stats
File
MSMS-Excel Workbook:
Charts (Pivot Tables)
Data sheets
Configuration
File TLC - 13
There are a few ways of downloading the tool.

Go to Sun Microsystems SE Support Tools:
Click on: http://xmen.east/setools/TLC_FSM/tlc_content.html or
Click on: http://xmen.east/setools/index.html#TLC and scroll to the TLC

Field Simulation Model (TLCFSM)
TM0017 Revision C
93
TLC/FSM
Input for the TLC/FSM from HSC and ACSLS

Gather trace data from current library activity to model and configure the
SL8500 to support a customers application workloads. You can use the trace
data from either 9310 or SL8500 libraries to model the configurations of tape
drives and cartridges for an SL8500. To model SL8500 configurations:
1. Modify the default settings of both HSC and ACSLS.
2. Collect the data from HSC or ACSLS.
3. Use the TLC/FSM utilities to convert this data into comma separated value
(CSV) files.
HSC: Record Cartridge Movement Statistics

TLC/FSM uses cartridge move statistics from HSC. The library reports these
statistics on the completion of every successful cartridge movement that the
host (HSC) requests.
Note: Both the 9310 and SL8500 report these cartridge movement statistics.
Cartridge movements include mounts, dismounts, swaps (to another
drive), moves between storage cells, and moves to and from a CAP.
HSC reports cartridge movement statistics in SMF subtype 7 records.
By default, HSC only records SMF subtypes 0-6.
To record SMF subtype 7 records:
1. Add subtype 7 to the list of SMF subtypes in SYS1.PARMLIB(SMFPRMxx).
2. Modify the line:
SUBPARM(SLS0(SUBTYPE(1,2,3,4,5,6,7)))
Where SLS0 is the name of your HSC subsystem.
Modifying the HSC SMF parameters in SYS1.PARMLIB(SMFPRMxx) is
described in the: NCS Installation Guide, Performing HSC Post-Installation
Tasks and Adding SMF Parameters for the HSC section.
ACSLS: Record Library Volume Statistics

ACSLS does not record cartridge movement statistics. TLC/FSM uses library
volume statistics from ACSLS. To do this:
1. Enable library volume statistics with the LIB_VOL_STATS,
VOL_STATS_FILE_NUM, and VOL_STATS_FILE_SIZE variables.
This can be a large amount of data.
2. Make sure that you have enough space in the partition where ACSLS is
installed (usually /export/home) first.
Revision C TM0017
Ethernet Connectivity
This chapter provides network examples for the Dual TCP/IP featurea
feature that provides two separate TCP/IP connections to an SL8500 library.
Note: These connections are not redundant, they are two separate,
active/active interfaces that must not connect to the same subnet.
Each example provides a drawing with routing tables and the CLI commands
used to configure each example.
Network Recommendations
A private network connection to an Ethernet hub or switch is recommended for
maximum throughput and minimum resource contention when establishing a
host connection to an SL8500 library.
Consult with the customers systems and/or network administrator for
information about the network, routers, and IP addresses. When doing so,
keep the following considerations in mind:
The simplest topology (a private network connection to a hub or switch) is often
the best. Simplification will:
Offer maximum throughput

Provide minimum resource contention
Lend itself to higher security for library communication
Supply the least expensive alternative
Provide quick identification of any problems within the network
This is only a suggestion; however, the customers network and their desired
topology are ultimately the determining factors. When a more complicated
setup is required, consultation between the system administrator and Sun
professional services may be necessary and are available.
TM0017 Revision C
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TCP/IP Important Considerations

Connections:
When you create an SL8500 library complex by connecting libraries together
with pass-thru ports, all hosts must connect to only one library in the
complexpreferably to the first or right-most library.
Multiple host communication connections to more than one SL8500 library will
cause problems.
Shared Networks:
The following are some examples of issues that can arise when you connect
the SL8500 library to a shared network.
A TCP/IP-connected library can handle standard host traffic, but it cannot

resolve floods of Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) broadcasts. For this
reason, it is best to attach the library on a controlled network, such as
behind a switch or router.
Later generation networks, such as 1000Base-T and Gig-E, support earlier
communication modes; however, devices that are communicating with the
library may transmit data at bandwidths that could overwhelm the library.
It is best to attach the library on a controlled network, such as with a switch
that can isolate the library from network broadcasts.
When you connect the library on shared networks, and broadcasts are
sent to all network nodes, they may also be directed to the library (even
though it does not need them).
During the time the library is receiving these irrelevant broadcasts, it
cannot receive requests or reply to others in a timely fashion. This heavy
broadcast traffic on the network can saturate the library to the point that, to
the host, it may appear that the TCP/IP connection has been lost.
Heavy network traffic can also overwhelm the Ethernet controller causing
the processor to continuously reset and re-initialize the controller, then
recover the host-to-library communications.
Revision C TM0017
Network Planning
When planning the network connections to an SL8500 library or library
complex:
1. Consult with the systems and/or network administrator for information
about the network and to obtain IP addresses.
2. Complete the information in the following table.
You may want to make additional copies.
Table 13. Network Entries
Description
IP Address
Port 2A
Host name to Port 2A

HBC Card Port 2A
Gateway Port 2A
Netmask
Port 2B
Host name to Port 2B

HBC Card Port 2B
Gateway Port 2B
Netmask
3. Obtain or make a drawing of the network configuration. This will help with
the configuration and fault isolation if necessary.
4. Important: The date and time of the SL8500 must also be checked and, if
necessary, set through the CLI interface.
Supported Configurations
Important:
Because of the complexity in Dual TCP/IP network configurations, initial

installations should be reviewed by the Sun Storage TSC Tape Library
Team before the installation.
Service also recommends TSC involvement during all Dual TCP/IP

installation, planning, and implementation phases.
Technical support will be limited to those configurations approved by the

Sun Storage TSC Tape Library team.
Any services provided for Dual TCP/IP installations not approved by

Services will be billed on a time and materials basis.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 9 Ethernet Connectivity
97
ACSLS and Dual TCP/IP Support

The purpose of dual TCP/IP is to automatically recognize and avoid a failing
communication path. Since this is automated, there is no need for you to
manually switch from an inoperative connection. The best solution is having
ACSLS keep two connections to the library open because ACSLS will use all
active connections. If one connection is inoperative, ACSLS will just use the
remaining operative connection, while continuing to try to reestablish
communication on the failing connection.
ACSLS provides the ability to configure two TCP/IP connections to a single
library using acsss_config or the Dynamic Configuration config.
When configuring libraries, the user is asked how many connections there
are to the library and then the name of the devices (IP addresses).
In order to take full advantage of Dual TCP/IP support on the SL8500, use the
route command to manipulate the routing tables on the ACSLS server.
Is there a preferred configuration?
The preferred configuration for Dual TCP/IP implementations is two network
interfaces on two separate subnets for the ACSLS server. This provides
maximum throughput and minimum resource contention with regard to network
communications while adding a second physical connection improving
reliability.
For more information about ACSLS, the SL8500, and Dual TCP/IP, refer to the
ACSLS Installation Configuration and Administration Guide (ICAG).
Notes:
Always refer to the Customer Resource Center (CRC) for the latest Tech Tips,
code updates, and information.
Make sure you use and reference the ACSLS documentation to configure the
routing tables on the ACSLS server to support Dual TCP/IP.
The minimum level of software required is:

For ACSLS 7.1 for Solaris on SPARC or AiX.
Apply PUT0601 and the following PTFs:

- ACSLS 7.1.0 for Solaris on SPARC: PTF849144S
- ACSLS 7.1.0 for AiX:PTF849144A
For ACSLS 7.1.1 for Solaris on X86.
Apply PTF849144x
For ACSLS HA.
Refer to the ACSLS documentation for information about Dual TCP/IP.

Contact Sun Professional Services to configure HA systems
Revision C TM0017
ACSLS Configuration One

The following example is one of the preferred configurations for ACSLS with
the Dual TCP/IP feature.
In this configuration, the ACSLS server contains two network interfaces that
reside on two separate subnetsboth going directly to the SL8500 library on
the same two subnets as the server, one port each.
Figure 23. ACSLS Configuration One
ACSLS
Server
Subnet 1
Subnet 2
qfe0
192.168.0/23
qfe1
192.168.1/23
192.168.1.1
192.168.0.1
Router 1
192.168.0.254
Router 2
192.168.1.254
192.168.0.50
192.168.1.50
2A
2B
SL8500
In this example, the SL8500 uses a one-to-one relationship with the network
interfaces on the ACSLS server in which the:
qfe0 interface communicates with the 2A interface on the SL8500

qfe1 interface communicates with the 2B interface on the SL8500
Note: qfe0 and qfe1 are simply network interface card (NIC) identifiers for
these ACSLS examples.
TM0017 Revision C
Chapter 9 Ethernet Connectivity
99
Using the UNIX route commands, you force this relationship. To do this:
For Solaris: as user root, enter the following commands:

# route add 192.168.0.50 -ifp qfe0 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.50 -ifp qfe1 192.168.1.254
For AIX: as user root, enter the following commands:

# route add 192.168.0.50 -if qfe0 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.50 -if qfe1 192.168.1.254
The first route command routes any communication with 192.168.0.50 to go

through qfe0 on the ACSLS server and then go through Router 1.
The second command routes any communication with 192.168.1.50 to go
through qfe1 on the ACSLS server and then go through router 2.
To validate the routes in the routing table, enter:

# netstat -r
Table 14. Routing Table ACSLS Configuration One

Destination
Gateway
Flags
Ref
Use
Interface
192.168.0.50
192.168.0.254
UGH1
qfe0
192.168.1.50
192.168.1.254
UGH
qfe1
192.168.0.0
192.168.0.1
qfe0
192.168.1.0
192.168.1.1
qfe1
BASE-ADDRESS.MCAST.NET
192.168.0.1
qfe0
default
192.168.0.254
UG
33
localhost
localhost
UH
77
lo0
1.U = User, G = Group, H = Host
You can see the first two entries are the ones that were just added. All
communication with 192.168.0.50 will go through qfe0 and communication with
192.168.1.50 will go through qfe1.
Remember: You must also configure the SL8500 routing tables. Refer to the
Dual TCP/IP Technical Brief, TM0019 or the SL8500 Installation Manual,
PN 96138 for more information.
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ACSLS Configuration Two

The following is another preferred example of an ACSLS configuration with
Dual TCP/IP.
In this configuration, the ACSLS server contains two network interfaces that
reside on two separate subnets, same as the previous example. However,
both interfaces pass through a public network and into two different subnets
before connecting to the SL8500 library.
Even with this difference, the commands stay the same.
Figure 24. ACSLS Configuration Two
ACSLS
Server
Subnet 1
qfe0
192.168.0/23
Subnet 2
qfe1
192.168.1/23
192.168.1.1
192.168.0.1
Router 2
192.168.1.254
Router 1
192.168.0.254
Public Network
Router 1
192.168.0.254
Router 2
192.168.1.254
192.168.2.50
Subnet 3
192.168.3.50
2A
2B
192.168.2/23
Subnet 4
192.168.3/23
SL8500
In this example, the SL8500 uses a one to one relationship with the network
interfaces on the ACSLS server in which the:
TM0017 Revision C
qfe0 interface communicates with the 2A interface on the SL8500

qfe1 interface communicates with the 2B interface on the SL8500
Chapter 9 Ethernet Connectivity 101
Using the UNIX route commands, you force this relationship. To do this:
For Solaris: as user root, enter the following commands:

# route add 192.168.0.50 -ifp qfe0 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.50 -ifp qfe1 192.168.1.254
For AIX: as user root, enter the following commands:

# route add 192.168.0.50 -if qfe0 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.50 -if qfe1 192.168.1.254
The default routes for the ACSLS remain the same as configuration one.
The routes within the subnets know how to route communication to the
SL8500 through the public network and still enforce the one-to-one
relationship between the interfaces.
To validate the routes in the routing table, enter:

# netstat -r
Destination
Gateway
Flags
Ref
Use
Interface
192.168.0.50
192.168.0.254
UGH1
qfe0
192.168.1.50
192.168.1.254
UGH
qfe1
192.168.0.0
192.168.0.1
qfe0
192.168.1.0
192.168.1.1
qfe1
BASE-ADDRESS.MCAST.NET
192.168.0.1
qfe0
default
192.168.0.254
UG
33
localhost
localhost
UH
77
lo0
1.U = User, G = Group, H = Host
Remember: You must also configure the SL8500 routing tables. Refer to the
Dual TCP/IP Technical Brief, TM0019 or the SL8500 Installation Manual,
PN 96138 for more information.
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ACSLS High Availability Configuration

The following example is a preferred configuration for an ACSLS High
Availability (HA) environment.
The purpose of the High Availability environment is to build in redundancy and
eliminate single points of failure by using and connecting together two ACSLS
servers.
In this configuration, two ACSLS servers connect six network interfaces
(three on each server) to two separate subnets.
A third subnet inter-connects the two ACSLS servers through a public
network.
Figure 25. ACSLS HA Configuration
The big difference with this configuration is that ACSLS HA uses two different
serverseach using different network interfaces. This means that custom
route entries must be added to both ACSLS servers.
TM0017 Revision C
For the Solaris user:
On ACSLS server 1, enter:

# route add 192.168.0.50 -ifp qfe0 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.1 -ifp qfe1 192.168.0.254
On ACSLS server 2, enter:

# route add 192.168.0.2 -ifp qfe1 192.168.0.254
# route add 192.168.1.2 -ifp qfe2 192.168.1.254
You must add the IP addresses for both servers to the SL8500 configuration.
It is important that you separate the SL8500 network interfaces over two
different subnets when using ACSLS HA.
Remember: You must also configure the SL8500 routing tables.
Retaining Customized Routing Table Entries

Important:
Any customized routing table entries will be lost after a system reboot. This is
the nature of the system routing tables and is an expected behavior. In order
to support the Dual TCP/IP feature on the SL8500, it is necessary to add
custom entries to the routing tables. There are a couple ways to handle this:
1. Create scripts to add custom routes to be initialized at boot time. These
scripts can then be placed in the rc directory structure for automatic
execution at boot time. Refer to the system documentation for information
about how to implement these scripts.
2. Install the appropriate PTFs for the operating system. Refer to the PTF
README files for installation instructions. This allows the ACSLS startup
script to add the custom routing entries at boot time. The PTFs include
new script entries that check for customized route table entries.
Removing Special Routing Commands

Use the route command to remove any special routing commands that have
been added erroneously or are no longer needed to the earlier configuration.
Example: As the user root, type the following commands:
# route delete 192.168.0.50 192.168.0.254
This command removes the route to 192.168.0.50 (the SL8500) using the
default route of 192.168.0.254. The route is then removed.
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Revision C TM0017
HSC and Dual TCP/IP Support

HSC provides support to configure two TCP/IP connections using the
LMUPATH control statement. This statement allows users to define network
LMU attachments in a dual TCP/IP environment for an SL8500.
You must also specify a second LMUADDR parameter to define the dual TCP/
IPs. HSC then automatically determines whether the connection is dual TCP/
IP or dual LMU.
Once this is completed, vary the ACS offline and back online to pick up the
revised LMUPATH statement that includes the second connection.
For more information about HSC, the SL8500, and Dual TCP/IP, refer to the:
HSC Systems Programmers Guides
Notes:
Always refer to the Customer Resource Center (CRC) for the latest Tech
Tips, code updates, and information.
Make sure you use and reference the HSC Programmers Guide to
configure the routing tables on the mainframe systems to support
Dual TCP/IP.
The minimum level of software required is:

NCS 6.0 or 6.1 with the appropriate PTFs (below):
HSC/MVS/VM:
- SOS600 L1H131L
- SMS600 L1H131K
- SOS610 L1H131N
- SMS610 L1H131M
MSP:
- MSP PTF LF61005 includes MVS PTF L1H131N
Dual IP Connection
The LMUPATH control statement allows users to define network LMU
attachments. In a Dual TCP/IP connection environment for an SL8500, specify
a second LMUADDR parameter to define dual IP. The HSC automatically
determines whether or not the connection is dual IP or dual LMU.
Note: Vary the ACS offline and back online to pick up the revised LMUPATH
statement that includes the second connection.
TM0017 Revision C
HSC Configuration One

The following is a preferred configuration for mainframe systems using
Dual TCP/IP.
In this configuration, the mainframe host contains two network interfaces that
reside on two separate subnets go through a public network; then connect to
two different subnets before connecting to the SL8500 library.
Figure 26. HSC Configuration One
Mainframe
MVS Host
HSC
Subnet 1
OSA Gig-E
CHPID 2
129.80.16/23
OSA Base-T
CHPID 5
129.80.16.239
Subnet 2
129.80.65/23
129.80.65.203
Router 1
129.80.16.254
Router 2
129.80.65.254
Public Network
Subnet 3
Subnet 4
172.27.3/23
129.80.71/23
Router 4
129.80.71.254
Router 3
172.27.3.254
172.25.2.5
2A
129.80.71.3
2B
SL8500
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Revision C TM0017
1. Complete a Network Entries Worksheet for each port of the SL8500.

Table 15. Network Entries
Port 2B
Port 2A
Description
IP Address
129.80.16.239
HBC Card Port 2A
172.27.2.5
Gateway Port 2A
172.27.3.254
Netmask
/23
129.80.65.203
HBC Card Port 2B
129.80.71.83
Gateway Port 2B
129.80.71.254
Netmask
/23
2. Define a second DEVICE and LINK statement in your TCP/IP profile data
set for a second mainframe network connection:
; OSA CARD #1
DEVICE ECCQD01 MPCIPA NONROUTER AUTORESTART
LINK ZIPBMVS IPAQENET ECCQD01
; OSA CARD #2
DEVICE ECCQA01 MPCIPA NONROUTER AUTORESTART
LINK ZIPB2MVS IPAQENET ECCQA01
3. Define a second home address in your TCP/IP profile data set.

For example:
HOME
129.80.16.239 ZIPBMVS
129.80.65.203 ZIPB2MVS
TM0017 Revision C
4. Define a second router on the second subnetwork in the routing paragraph

of your TCP/IP profile data set. For example:
BEGINROUTES
; NETWORK MASK FIRSTHOP LINKNAME PACKETSIZE
ROUTE 129.80.16.0/24 = ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 129.80.65.0/24 = ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 172.27.2.5 HOST 129.80.16.254 ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 129.80.71.83 HOST 129.80.65.254 ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE DEFAULT 129.80.16.254 ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE DEFAULT 129.80.65.254 ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ENDROUTES
; NETWORK MASK ROUTER LINKNAME PACKETSIZE
ROUTE Sl8500-port-2A-IP-Address HOST 129.80.16.254 MVSHOST1
MTU 1492
ROUTE Sl8500-port-2B-IP-Address HOST 129.80.64.254 MVSHOST2
MTU 1492
BEGINROUTES
; NETWORK MASK FIRSTHOP LINKNAME PACKETSIZE
ROUTE 129.80.16.0/24 = ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 129.80.65.0/24 = ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 172.27.2.5 HOST 129.80.16.254 ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 129.80.71.83 HOST 129.80.65.254 ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE DEFAULT 129.80.16.254 ZIPBMVS MTU 1492
ROUTE DEFAULT 129.80.65.254 ZIPB2MVS MTU 1492
ENDROUTES
5. Define two dedicated static routes to the SL8500 destination port (2A and
2B) IP addresses over two different routers.
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Revision C TM0017
6. Start the second mainframe network connection device.

V TCPIP,tcp-stc-name,START,device_name
7. Define a second LMUADDR parameter for the port 2A IP address.

LMUPATH ACS(00) LMUADDR(129.80.71.83,172.27.2.5)
8. Enter the LMUPDEF command containing the LMUPATH statements that

define the host name or IP address for each ACS.
LMUPDEF DSN(xxx.xxx.xxx(xxx))
LMUPDEF DSN(YOUR.DSN(MEMBER))
In this example, LMUPDEF loads the LMUPATH parameters from

YOUR.DSN(MEMBER).
9. Allow the trained SL8500 service representative to enter the network
connections to the SL8500 library for either port 2A and 2B, whichever is
applicable.
10. Vary the ACS offline and back online to pick up the revised LMUPATH
statement that includes the second connection. This can be done one host
at a time to minimize down time.
.vary acs xx, offline
.vary acs xx, online
TM0017 Revision C
HSC Configuration Two

The following is a preferred configuration for mainframe systems using
Dual TCP/IP. In this configuration, one mainframe address connect to two
SL8500 connections.
To establish one host IP route from the HSC to two routes to the SL8500, use
the process described in this section.
Figure 27. HSC Configuration Two
Mainframe
MVS Host
HSC
Subnet 1
129.80.16/23
OSA Gig-E
CHPID 2
OSA Base-T
CHPID 5
129.80.16.239
129.80.16.68
Router 1
129.80.16.254
Public Network
Subnet 2
Subnet 3
172.27.3/23
129.80.71/23
Router 3
129.80.71.254
Router 2
172.27.3.254
172.25.2.5
2A
129.80.71.3
2B
SL8500
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Revision C TM0017
1. Complete the Network Entries Worksheet (see Table 26 for a sample) for
each set of routes to the SL8500.
Port 2B
Port 2A
Description
IP Address
129.80.16.239
HBC Card Port 2A
172.27.2.5
Gateway Port 2A
172.27.3.254
Netmask
/23
129.80.16.239
HBC Card Port 2B
129.80.71.83
Gateway Port 2B
129.80.71.254
Netmask
/23
2. Define two dedicated static routes to the SL8500 destination port

(2A and 2B) IP addresses over one router.
BEGINROUTES
; DESTINATION FIRSTHOP LINKNAME PACKETSIZE
ROUTE 129.80.16.0/24 = &SYSNAME.MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 172.27.2.5 HOST 129.80.16.254 &SYSNAME.MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE 129.80.71.83 HOST 129.80.16.254 &SYSNAME.MVS MTU 1492
ROUTE DEFAULT 129.80.16.254 &SYSNAME.MVS MTU 1492
ENDROUTES
3. Define a second LMUADDR parameter for port 2A IP address.

LMUPATH ACS(00) LMUADDR(129.80.71.83,172.27.2.5)
4. Enter the LMUPDEF command containing the LMUPATH statements that

define the host name or IP address for each ACS.
LMUPDEF DSN(xxx.xxx.xxx(xxx))
LMUPDEF DSN(YOUR.DSN(MEMBER))
In the following example, LMUPDEF loads LMUPATH parameters from

YOUR.DSN(MEMBER).
5. Allow the trained SL8500 service representative to enter the network
connections to the SL8500 library for either port 2A and 2B.
6. Vary the ACS offline and back online to pick up the revised LMUPATH
statement that includes the second connection. This can be done one host
at a time to minimize down time.
.vary acs xx, offline
.vary acs xx, online
TM0017 Revision C
Service Connectivity
If the customer is only using one connection into the SL8500, the second port
(2A) can be used as a connection for service.
Figure 28. Service Connections
112
Revision C TM0017
Example connections include:
Service Delivery Platform (SDP).

In the past, SDP connections to an SL8500 library used the customers
public networkwhich often changed the customers reasoning to have an
SDP connection.
With the Dual TCP/IP feature and enabling Port 2A, a service connection
can be created to provide a privateseparatenetwork for SDP
connectivity to the SL8500 and appropriate T-Series tape drives.
StreamLine Library Console (SLC).

can be created to provide a remote SLC connection at the rear of the
library.
Laptop diagnostic connections.

can be created to provide connection for the command line interface (CLI)
and TCP/IP connection to:
-
TM0017 Revision C
Configure the library (using PuTTY),

Perform diagnostic functions (load and unload drives), and
Initiate an audit
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Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
10
The definition of a partition according to the MerriamWebster dictionary is:

1. to divide into parts or shares.
2. to separate or divide by a partition, such as a wall.
In computing, many people are familiar with hard disk drive partitioning to
create several logical divisions on the same hard drive. This separation
allows administrators to apply different operating system functions, files,
and formatting to the same physical hard drive. In laymans terms,
partitioning a hard drive makes it appear to be more than one hard drive.
The SL8500 Modular Library System now provides the ability to partition the
librarywithin hardware boundariesto support from one to four physical
partitions.
Purpose
Partitioning the SL8500 library means the customer can have:
More than one operating system and application manage the library.
An improvement in the protection or isolation of files.
An increase in system and library performance.
A higher level of data organization.
An increase in user efficiency.
Partitions may be customized to fit different requirements, for example:

-
allowing for special partitions to protect or archive data

enabling multiple organizations, companies, or departments access
isolating clients (such as for service centers)
separating different encryption key groups
dedicating partitions as test systems for new technologies or data
migration to new tape drives
This chapter:
TM0017 Revision C
Contains guidelines and essential elements for SL8500 partitions.

Provides templates to help plan the partitioning of the library.
Describes how to license and enable the partitioning feature.
Shows how to partition the rails in the library.
Describes how to override reserved cartridge access ports (CAPs)
115
Partitioning
Guidelines
Essential elements for understanding partitions are:
Clear communication between the system programmers, network

administrators, both ACSLS and HSC administrators, and Sun service
representatives.
Only a single library may be partitionedpass-thru port (PTP) operations

are not allowed. However, if libraries are currently connected using PTPs,
and youthe customerwhat to keep that structure for future
development; a service representative can disconnect the local network
interface and connections within the library to disable this configuration.
You will not need to disassemble the complex.
Customers must be current on maintenance levels of their library

management software (ACSLS and HSC). See the software and firmware
requirements on page 118.
Depending on the library configuration, each rail has:

-
Minimum capacity of 362 cartridges1.

Maximum capacity of 2,522 cartridges2.
From 1 to 16 tape drives.
Each rail is the smallest element of a partition, but partitions may include
more than one rail. If a partition includes more than one rail, those rails
must be adjacent.
Hosts with a common databaseHSC hosts using a common Control

Data Set (CDS)can share a partition; these hosts are called a host
group.
A single HSC CDS cannot connect to more than one partition within the
same SL8500 library; however, you can have one partition from each
library in the same CDS. If you have two partitions in a library, you must
also have two CDS; three partitions, three CDS.
When partitioned, the library controller reports rails assigned to another

partition within the library as unallocated (HSC) or as a new
SL8500_Unalloc LSM (ACSLS). This provides two things:
-
It displays the entire library, and

If partitioning is changed (rails added to or removed from a partition),
cartridge locations remain constant.
1.
LSMs provides 362 cartridges per rail.
The maximum configuration of an SL8500 library is 10,088 cartridges; spread across
four LSMs provides 2,522 cartridges per rail.
2.
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Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Remember:
Partitioned LSMs will not recognize other LSMs within the library unless
they are in the same partition.
Elevators and CAPs are shared resourceseach partition can fully use
these resources for enter and eject operations.
No elevator pass-thru operations will occur between LSMs unless they are
defined in the same partition, except when using the CAP to service Rail 1,
regardless of its configured partition.
Elevator operation is under the control of the library controller when CAP
operations are issued. The library controller uses the elevators and
HandBots to access the entire capacity of the CAPs for enters and ejects
without regard for the partitions.
Partitions can share the ownership of the CAPs. That is, if one host/
partition has CAP A reserved, a different host/partition can have CAP B
reserved, or one host/partition can have both CAPs reserved.
SeeCAPs and Partitions on page 134 for more information.
Automatic mode is not supported in a partitioned library.
Duplicate VOLSERs3 are supported by the library; however, ACSLS and

HSC do not, unless:
-
The duplicate VOLSERs are in different partitions.
With HSC managed partitions, the duplicate VOLSERs are in different

control data sets.
With ACSLS managed partitions, the duplicate VOLSERs are on

different ACSLS servers.
All drives, storage slots and cartridges within a partition are solely owned
by that host or host group.
Library complex considerations:

When breaking apart an established library complex to partition libraries
within it, you need to understand the numbering and addressing scheme of
the library.
Rails do not need to be included in a partition, they can remain unassigned

to allow for future growth.
3.
TM0017 Revision C
VOLSER = volume serial numberthe cartridge tape label.
Chapter 10 Partitioning 117
Partitioning
Software and Firmware Requirements

Requirements for partitioning the SL8500 library include:
Order number: SL8500-UPG-PART
Upgrade number: XSL8500-UPG-PART
Library firmware FRS_3.7x or higher
StreamLine Library Console (SLC) at Version FRS_3.25 or higher
ACSLS Versions 7.1 and 7.1.1 with PUT0701
ACSLS HA 2 also requires PTF 6514766
NCS (NearLine Control Solution) Version 6.1
HSC (MVS) Version 6.1 with PTF L1H13GW and L1H13JK
HSC (VM) Version 6.1 with PTF L1H13GX and L1H13JJ
VSM (Virtual Storage Module) Versions 3, 4, or 5
ExPR (Expert Performance Reported) with PTF L1E025H
ExLM (Expert Library Manager)

- Version 6.0 with PTF L1L00F6,
- Version 6.1 (none),
Version 6.2 with PTF L1L00F7
Hosts without the latest level of software (ACSLS or HSC) or without the latest
PUTs and PTFs will not be able to bring a partitioned ACS online.
Always refer to the Customer Resource Center (CRC) for the latest versions of
software, firmware, and documentation.
Note: Software and firmware levels can be downloaded and ready in advance
of activation. When the time and window is available, these codes can
be activated. This preparation can limit down time of the library and
operating system.
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Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Capacities
Figure 29 shows an example of an SL8500 library with the capacities of each
module; partition capacities per rail and per library configuration, plus drive
modules (from 1 to 16 tape drives) for each rail.
Figure 29. Partition Planning and Capacities
10,088
Table 16. Partitioned Capacities
Basic Library
Partition Capacity per Rail
Drive & Electronics Module
200
162
Base configuration per rail (total)
362
Expansion Modules
Library Configuration
When adding expansion module, each rail gets 432 additional data cartridge slots
794
1,226
1,658
2,090
Five expansion modules (maximum)
2,522
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Getting Started
Table 17. Steps and Tasks for Partitioning
Step
Task
1. Team
Create a Team.
Reference
Responsibility*
Customer
Sun SE, PS
Sun Service
Software and Firmware

Requirements on
page 118
Customer
Sun SE, PS
Sun Service
Planning on page 121
Customer
Sun SE, PS
Sun Service
When planning for partitions, using a process similar to that of

the system assurance process, which is the exchange of
information among team members. Team members should
include representatives from both the customer and Sun
Microsystems to ensure that all aspects of the process are
planned carefully and performed efficiently.
2. Codes
3. Planning
Review the software and firmware

requirements. Update as required.
Create a planning team

Define the customer
expectations
Complete the assessment
Identify the configurations
Complete the planning diagrams
4. Media
Verify the distribution of

cartridges and required tape
drives are available and ready.
Customer
5. Library
Convert a library complex

(if necessary).
Sun Service
6. Enable
License and enable partitioning.
Enabling Partitions on
page 129
Sun Service
7. Hosts
Momentarily stop all host activity.

Make the hosts inaccessible.
Host Software
Precautions on
page 129
Customer
8. Use
Instruct the customer how to:
Assigning Partitions on
page 130
Customer
Sun Service
120
Partition and re-partition the

library
Override a CAP reservation
SE = Systems engineer
PS = Professional services representative
Service = Service representative (Svc)
Customer = System administrators, network administrators, system programmers, operators
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Planning
Team members should include representatives from both the customer and Sun Microsystems to ensure that all
aspects of the process are planned carefully and performed efficiently. Tasks include:
Identify and define the customer requirements and expectations

Identify the proposed configurations
Complete the following assessment:
Is this a new installation or an existing installation?
New:
Existing:
If existing, cartridge migration may be
required to configure the partitions correctly.
Cartridge migration required? Yes No
How many partitions are there going to be in the library?

How many rails are there going to be for a partition?
Remember to configure the elevator for use between partitions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
What is the name and purpose for each partition?
1.
2.
3.
4.
What type of operating systems for each partition?
1.
2.
3.
4.
What type of library management software for each partition?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Make sure the customer has the latest versions and updates.
See page 118 for information.
What type of applications are being used?
1.
2.
3.
4.
How many cartridges are needed for each partition?
1.
2.
3.
4.
How many free slots are needed for each partition?
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are the tape drive types and quantities?
1.
2.
3.
4.
ACSLS:
ACSLS:
ACSLS:
ACSLS:
HSC:
HSC:
HSC:
HSC:
Complete a plan using the figures in this chapter as an example.

Place this information with the library.
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Figure 30 provides an example to show the flexibility that partitions provide for
host connections, applications, capacities, tape drive types and interfaces.
Figure 30. Partition Planning Example
Rail 1 and Rail 2 Combined as one Partition (ACS 0)

Partition ID
hli1 / MVS combined
Partition ID
hli1 / MVS combined
Hosts
z/OS V1R1
Hosts
z/OS V1R1
ACSLS or HSC
HSC Version 6.1
ACSLS or HSC
HSC Version 6.1
Applications
Tivoli Version 5.3
Applications
Tivoli Version 5.3
Cartridge capacity
1,000
Cartridge capacity
580
Free slots
658
Free slots
1,078
Tape Drive types
4 T9840 C FICON
Tape Drive types
6 T9840 C FICON
Rail 3 (ACS 1)
Rail 4 (ACS 2)
Partition ID
hli2 / Open Systems
Partition ID
hli3 / Encryption
Hosts
Solaris 9
Hosts
Solaris 10
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS
Applications
Veritas NBU 4.5 Media

Manager DataCenter
Applications
Oracle, Siebel, SAP, SQL,

NetWorker
Cartridge capacity
1106
Cartridge capacity
830
Free slots
552
Free slots
828
Tape Drive types
12 HP LTO 3, 2Gb FC
Tape Drive types
4 T10K, 4Gb FC, Crypto
Figure 31 on page 123 through Figure 36 on page 128 provide work sheets for
planning partitions with the six different library configurations.
Make copies as necessary.
122
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Partitioning
Figure 31. Base Library Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Figure 32. One Expansion Module Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
124
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Figure 33. Two Expansion Modules Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Figure 34. Three Expansion Modules Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
126
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Partitioning
Figure 35. Four Expansion Modules Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Figure 36. Five Expansion Modules Partition Planning
Rail 1
Rail 2
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
Rail 3
Rail 4
Partition ID
Partition ID
Hosts
Hosts
ACSLS or HSC
ACSLS or HSC
ACS, LSM Address
ACS, LSM Address
Applications
Applications
Cartridge capacity
Cartridge capacity
Free slots
Free slots
Tape Drive types
Tape Drive types
128
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Enabling Partitions
Partitioning is an optional feature that the customer can purchase.
Once purchased, a qualified Sun service representatives can connect to the
SL8500 library service interfacecommand line interface (CLI)and:
License and Enable the partitioning feature
License Command
The license commands allows a service representative to:
List all of the licensed features in the library controller database.

Import a license file and add it to the library database.
License the partitioning feature.
Host Software Precautions

Important:
When you partition or re-partition a library, you do not have to reboot (IPL) the
library; however, when you apply the changes to the partitions, the library will
go offline temporarily. For this reason, it is best to minimize any disruptions to
the operating systems and library management software before you partition.
Notes:
The amount of time the library goes offline is minimal,

less than 2 to 3 seconds.
This action affects the whole library whether we think it may not.
Any changes of this type are considered disruptive.
An example of a procedure that all hosts (ACSLS or HSC) should follow when
partitioning or changing partitions is:
1. Plan the distribution of cartridges (such as enters, ejects, and moves).
2. Momentarily stop all host activity (such as mounts and dismounts, enters
and ejects, any moves, plus any tape drive activity).
3. Make the hosts inaccessible to the library (such as vary the ACS offline).
4. Using the touch screen operator panel or remote SLC software, change
the partitioning configuration.
5. Make the hosts accessible to the library (vary the ACS back online).
Note: It may be necessary for some host software to obtain a new
inventory of the library to keep an accurate database.
6. Restart the host activity.
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Assigning Partitions
The touch screen operator control panelwhich mounts on the front of the
libraryis an optional feature. This panel consists of a flat screen display, with
a touchable interface, and a panel-mounted personal computer.
This panel provides a graphical user interface (GUI) to all library functions:
Status, monitoring, and functional information

Instructions and help information
Diagnostic capabilities
Configurations, including assigning partitions
Note: If no touch screen operator control panel is available, you can use the
Remote SLC software, which is installed on a PC and connected to an
SL8500 Ethernet port.
Figure 37. Touch Screen Operator Control Panel
The operator panel consists of:
130
StreamLine Library Console software

12-inch flat screen display (diagonal measurement)
Touch screen interface (no mouse or keypad necessary)
20 GB hard drive
512 MB memory and 32 MB RAM
Java applet as the graphical user interface (GUI).
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Partitioning
To assign or create partitions:
1. Log in to the StreamLine Library Console.
2. Select Tools Partitions.
3. Select the Partition ID and desired rails for that partition. For example:
:
Table 18. Partitioning Examples

Partition ID Screen
1
This example has no

partitions created;
all of them are unassigned.
Unassigned
Rail 1
Rail 2
Rail 3
Rail 4
X
Disable All
Partition ID Screen
1
This example has two

partitions.
Rails 1 and 2 create

Partition 1.
Rail 1
Rail 3 creates Partition 2.
Rail 2
Rail 4 is still unassigned.
Note: Rails must adjacent to

join them and create a single
partition.
Rail 3
Unassigned
Rail 4
X
Disable All
4. Click Apply to implement the partitions.
Important: A message appears that states:

This operation will take the library offline temporarily. Do you wish to continue?
OK or Cancel.
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
Removing Partitions
To remove partitions:
1. Momentarily stop (quiesce) all host activity (such as mounts and
dismounts, enters and ejects, any moves, plus any tape drive activity).
See the ACSLS and HSC documentation for details.
2. Select Tools Partitions.
3. Select Unassigned for each rail you want to remove from a partition, or
select Disable ALL Partitions to remove all rails from all partitions.:
Table 19. Removing Partitions
Partition ID Screen
This example removes

Partition ID 2
from the previous example.
1
Rail 1
Rail 2
Unassigned
Rail 3
Rail 4
X
Disable All
Select Apply to apply the updates and continue to Step 4.

Select Refresh to cancel the updates and restore the screen settings.
4. A dialog displays, This operation will take the library offline temporarily.
Do you wish to continue?
Select OK to make the updates. The library goes offline and all host
connections are dropped while the updates are made.
Select Cancel to cancel the updates and return to Step 2.
5. Reconfigure all library hosts to activate these updates. See the ACSLS
and HSC documentation for details.
Partitioning Contact Sheet

After creating the partitions, complete a contact sheet similar to Table 20 with
information that will be useful if you need to override a CAP or contact
administrators. Make copies as necessary.
132
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
Table 20. Partition Contact Sheet

Partitions in this library?
Library
TCP/IP addresses
Partition ID 1
(hli1)
Port 2A
Port 2B
Rails
ACSLS:
HSC:
Contact Information:
Operating System:
Connectivity:
Location:
Partition ID 2
(hli2)
Rails
ACSLS:
HSC:
Operating System:
Connectivity:
Location:
Partition ID 3
(hli3)
Rails
ACSLS:
HSC:
Operating System:
Connectivity:
Location:
Partition ID 4
(hli4)
Rails
ACSLS:
HSC:
Operating System:
Connectivity:
Location:
Unassigned
Rails
Comments:
TM0017 Revision C
Partitioning
CAPs and Partitions
A second CAP is not required to support partitioning.
CAPs are a shared resourcethat is, CAPs can be used by all partitions in
the library; however, they can only be used by one partition at a time.
-
That is, if one partition has CAP A reserved, a different partition can
have CAP B reserved, or one partition can have both CAPs reserved.
One partition can being doing an enter, while another partition is doing
an ejector two partitions doing enters or two partitions doing ejects.
While a partition is using a CAP (for enters or ejects), the CAP is reserved
to that partition and is unavailable to all others.
Automatic mode is not supported in a partitioned library. This change may

be an operational change for some customers.
Reserving the CAP

In order for a partition to reserve a CAP, the following conditions must be met:
The CAP must be available and not reserved by any other partition.
The CAP must be empty.
The CAP must be closed and locked.
Each host must reserve the CAP to use it; and then unreserve it to release the
CAP for another host.
Note: ACSLS and HSC reserve a CAP when they start an enter or eject
operation; and release the CAP using either a cancel (ACSLS) or
drain (HSC) command.
Unreserving the CAP

If for some reason a CAP reservation is not released, the CAP will be
unavailable to all other partitions and cartridges.
In this case, you must identify the host holding the CAP reservation and
then terminate the enter or eject operation from that host.
This ensures a clean release of the CAP.
This is the best and recommended way to release the CAP; using either a
cancel (ACSLS) or drain (HSC) command.
Note: A reservation of the CAP can be released or overridden by any
host joined to the same partition using HLI, not just the host that
issued the reserve.
134
Revision C TM0017
Partitioning
In some cases, however, you may not be able to access the host holding
the reservation and therefore cannot perform a clean release of the CAP.
In these cases, you can use the StreamLine Library Console (SLC) to
override the CAP reservation.
Note: You can use the SLC to both identify the host and override a CAP
reservation. If a library is not partitioned, CAP reservations can only be
released through ACSLS or HSC.
Figure 38 shows an example of how to identify a host and CAP reservation.
Figure 38. CAP Reservations
Six different reservations are possible:

hli1 = Partition ID 1
None = Currently not reserved
Default = Library (for example, the CAP is unlocked
and cartridges need to be removed)
Overriding a CAP Reservation

Caution:
Use extreme care when using SLC to override a CAP reservation. In the event
that a host cannot release the CAP, the StreamLine Library Console is the only
avenue for overriding a reservation.
TM0017 Revision C
When a CAP reservation must be overridden, any cartridges within the

CAP must be removed to prevent them from being entered into another
host's partition or lost.
Partitioning
If you do not complete the following procedure, the CAP could be left
unavailable to all partitions.
Use this procedure only when a host has reserved a CAP, but the
reservation cannot be released through ACSLS or HSC.
To override a reservation:
1. At the StreamLine Library Console, select Tools Diagnostics.
2. Select the CAP Folder on the device tree to expand it.
3. Select the CAP whose reservation you want to override.
4. Select the Unreserve tab. See Figure 38 on page 135 for an example.
The SLC displays the partition ID that held the CAP reservation.
The library sets the CAP user to Default, which makes the CAP
unavailable to all partitions.
5. Click Apply to override the reservation.

The CAP will remain in Default until it is closed, locked, and empty.
If the CAP is empty, proceed to Step 6.

If the CAP contains cartridges, follow this procedure:
a. At the SLC, select: CAP Diagnostics Access.
b. At the Locked drop-down select False to unlock the CAP.
Click OK.
c.
Open the CAP by pressing the appropriate (A or B) CAP Open button

on the operator panel.
d. Remove all the cartridges.

e. Identify the cartridge VOLSERs with the partition ID and with as much
additional information as possible. This is to avoid any data integrity
issues, being entered into another partition, or getting lost.
f.
Close the CAP.

The CAP, locks automatically, audits the CAP to verify that it is empty,
and sets the CAP user to None; making it available to all partitions.
g. Consult with the owner of the removed cartridges regarding

their disposition.
h. Complete a Partitioning Contact Sheet on page 132.
This information will be very useful if you need to override a CAP.
6. Go to Tools System Detail and click Refresh.

7. Select the CAP Folder CAP Unreserve tab and verify that the
CAP is not reserved (None).
136
Revision C TM0017
Structural Elements
This appendix describes the library walls, explains how the numbering scheme
works, and tape drive locations and numbers.
Types of Library Walls and Storage Slots

The SL8500 library has two types of walls:
Outer wallsconsist of 13-slot arrays with space for the robotic rails
Inner wallsconsist of 14-slot arrays with gaps for the robotic rails
A service area is in the front of the Customer Interface Module that is reserved
for the diagnostic and cleaning cartridges (198 slots).
In addition to the 13- and 14-slot arrays, there are:
8-slot arrays in columns 6 and -6 with the pass-thru ports

4-slot arrays for the elevators and pass-thru ports
3-slot arrays at the end of each railnear the end stops.
Each array has two targets centered vertically with allowances that | \ |
accommodate the different sizes and depths of the tape cartridges.
Cartridges placed in cells lie flat, hub down, and parallel to the floor. To prevent
slippage, cartridges are held within their cells by internal retainer clips.
Aisle space between the inner and outer walls is limited to 0.5 m (18 in.).
Because of this, entry into the library beyond the maintenance area should be
limited.
TM0017 Revision C
137
Structural Elements
Internal Addressing Design

Cartridge cell locations in previous libraries were listed by:
Panel, Row, and Column.
Cartridge slot designations in an SL8500 library uses five parameters:
Library, Rail, Column, Side, Row (L,R,C,S,W):
1. Library: Is the number of that library or within a library complex
2. Rail: Rails are numbered top down from 1 4 with rail 1 being on top.
Each rail is considered a separate library storage module (LSM).

LSMs are numbered 0 3 (top down).
3. Column: Indicate the horizontal location of a tape cartridge are assigned

numbers referenced from the center of the drive bay at the rear of the
library forward, where:
+1 is just right of the center of the drive bays and

-1 is just to the left of the drive bays
Column numbering is consecutivethe first columns that contain tape

cartridges are +3 and -3 and continue forward to the front access doors.
Note: Floor labels can be placed inside the library to help identify column
numbers and locationspart number: 314864902.
4. Side: Indicates the inner and outer walls, or left and right HandBots in a
redundant configuration.
Outer wall = 1, Inner walls = 2

Left HandBot = 1, Right HandBot = 2
5. Row: Is the vertical location of a tape cartridge and are consecutively

numbered from the top (1) down (13 outer wall and 14 inner wall).
Figure 39 on page 139 uses the Internal Addressing Poster an example of
how the numbering scheme works. These posters measure 36 -by- 24 inches
(91 -by- 61 centimeters).
138
Revision C TM0017
TM0017 Revision C
TOP
RAIL 4
BOTTOM
RAIL 3
RAIL 2
RAIL 1
TOP
RAIL 4
BOTTOM
RAIL 3
RAIL 2
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Left Side Expansion Modules
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2005 by Storage Technology Corporation. All rights reserved.
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NOT DATA SLOTS
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Elevator
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The SL8500 library uses five parameters separated by commas to indicate a cartridge location (address). These parameters are: <L, R, C, S, W>
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COLUMNS 3 to 8 are not valid columns onSIDE 2
Right Side Robotics Module with PTP
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PTP AWAY SIDE
(SIDE 1)
INNER WALL SLOT LAYOUT (SIDE 2)
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OUTER WALL SLOT LAYOUT

LIBRARY CENTER
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StreamLine, StorageTek and the StorageTek logo are registered trademarks of Storage Technology Corporation.
AS VIEWED FROM THE FRONT OF THE LIBRARY
COLUMNS 3 to 8 are not valid columns onSIDE 2
Left Side Robotics Module with PTP
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NOT DATA SLOTS
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Elevator
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5 RO W s indicate the vertical location of a cartridge and are numbered from the top (1) down (13 on the outer walls; 14 on the inner walls) for each rail.
4 S IDES indicate the inner or outer walls of the library. The outer wall is indicated by 1; the inner wall is indicated by 2.
a minus sign () indicating locations to the left of center. These numbers vary depending on the number of expansion modules added to the library.
3 C OLUMNS indicate the horizontal location of a cartridge from the "center" of the drive bays with the numerals getting larger as you get farther away from the drives, with
2 R AILS are the physical structures in this library on which the robotics move and are numbered 1, 2, 3, and 4. Rail 1 is at the top and Rail 4 is at the bottom.
1 L IBRARY is the first number within an SL8500 cartridge location. This number can be from 0 to 31 depending on the number of libraries in the complex.
12
13
2
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8
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SIDE 2
LAST
COLUMN
CAP "A"
CAPs A & B
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CAPs A & B
LAST
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CAP "B"
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13
SLOT
HANDLE
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4 SLOT
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ELEVATORS &
TURNTABLES
ARRAY "N" TARGET
CSE RESERVED SLOT
END STOP LABEL

ROBOTIC CALIBRATION
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LABEL
3 SLOT
MASTER TARGET (End Stop)
Note: RESERVED FOR REDUNDANT

ROBOT CARTRIDGE EXCHANGE
(BELOW THE PTP)
TP0012A 05/05
64 TOTAL
DRIVES
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Inner Wall
14 SLOT
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8 SLOT
PTP
2 SLOT
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Removable CAP
Magazine
LEGEND for ARRAY SLOTS

13 SLOT
Outer Wall
Structural Elements
Figure 39. Internal Addressing Map PosterPart Number TP0012
These posters can be ordered through Sun Learning Services (SLS).
Appendix A Structural Elements 139
Structural Elements
Tape Drives
All of the tape drives in the SL8500 library are physically located in the Drive
and Electronics Module and are identified in the same way that the tape
cartridges areusing the five parameters: Library, Rail, Column, Side, and
Row. Table 21 shows the addressing scheme for the tape drives.
Table 21. Tape Drive Numbering . (Looking at the rear of the library)
Library1
1 - 32
Rail2
1
Library1
Column3
Side4
Row5
-1
-2
61
62
63
64
57
58
59
60
53
54
55
56
49
50
51
52
45
46
47
48
41
42
43
44
37
38
39
40
33
34
35
36
29
30
31
32
25
26
27
28
21
22
23
24
17
18
19
20
13
14
15
16
10
11
12
Rail2
Column3
Side4
Row5
Notes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Library, 1 through 32
Rail, which corresponds to the LSM, 1 through 4, (top down)
Column, relative to the centerline (as viewed from rear outside)
Side, always 1 (tape drives are only on the outer wall)
Row, 1 through 4 (top down)
For example:
1, 2, -1, 1, 3 would be drive 39
1, 1, -2, 1, 1 is drive 64
140
Revision C TM0017
Structural Elements
The tape drives are associated with and belong to an LSM. To mount a
cartridge tape in a different LSM, the cartridge must go through an internal
pass-thru operation (in this case, the elevator) to the drive.
Table 22 shows the internalsoftwaremapping (viewed from looking inside
the library at the tape drives), and
Table 23 shows the externalphysicalnumbering of the drives (looking
outside at the rear of the Drive and Electronics Module).
Table 22. Software Drive Numbering
ACSLS or HSCDrives Numbers
LSM
Rail 1
LSM 0
Rail 2
LSM 1
Rail 3
LSM 2
Rail 4
LSM 3
Table 23. Physical Drive Numbering

ExternalPhysical Drive Numbers
Drive 0
Drive 4
Drive 8
Drive 12
Drive 61
Drive 62
Drive 63
Drive 64
Drive 1
Drive 5
Drive 9
Drive 13
Drive 57
Drive 58
Drive5 9
Drive 60
Drive 2
Drive 6
Drive 10
Drive 14
Drive 53
Drive 54
Drive 55
Drive 56
Drive 3
Drive 7
Drive 11
Drive 15
Drive 49
Drive 50
Drive 51
Drive 52
Drive 0
Drive 4
Drive 8
Drive 12
Drive 45
Drive 46
Drive 47
Drive 48
Drive 1
Drive 5
Drive 9
Drive 13
Drive 41
Drive 42
Drive 43
Drive 44
Drive 2
Drive 6
Drive 10
Drive 14
Drive 37
Drive 38
Drive 39
Drive 40
Drive 3
Drive 7
Drive 11
Drive 15
Drive 33
Drive 34
Drive 35
Drive 36
Drive 0
Drive 4
Drive 8
Drive 12
Drive 29
Drive 30
Drive 31
Drive 32
Drive 1
Drive 5
Drive 9
Drive 13
Drive 25
Drive 26
Drive 27
Drive 28
Drive 2
Drive 6
Drive 10
Drive 14
Drive 21
Drive 22
Drive 23
Drive 24
Drive 3
Drive 7
Drive 11
Drive 15
Drive 17
Drive 18
Drive 19
Drive 20
Drive 0
Drive 4
Drive 8
Drive 12
Drive 13
Drive 14
Drive 15
Drive 16
Drive 1
Drive 5
Drive 9
Drive 13
Drive 9
Drive 10
Drive 11
Drive 12
Drive 2
Drive 6
Drive 10
Drive 14
Drive 5
Drive 6
Drive 7
Drive 8
Drive 3
Drive 7
Drive 11
Drive 15
Drive 1
Drive 2
Drive 3
Drive 4
These tables show a matching of drives (the highlighted drives). For example:
Internal/software LSM 0 Drive 0 matches with external/physical Drive 64.

Internal LSM 1 Drive 15 matches with external/physical Drive 33.
Internal LSM 2 Drive 3 matches with external physical Drive 20.
A default behavior of some tape management software (such as ACSLS) is to

dismount the drive and leave the cartridge in the same LSM (rail). This
depends on software features such as fixed volume location, float/no float, or
extended store.
TM0017 Revision C
Appendix A Structural Elements 141
Structural Elements
142
Revision C TM0017
Comparisons
This appendix provides additional comparisons between the SL8500 modular

library system and the 9310 PowderHorn.
Terminology
Table 24. Differences in Terminology
Term
Explanation
Away library
For two libraries connected by PTPs, the away library is the library on the
left side of the home library (as referenced from the front of both libraries).
Elevators
Devices that transports cartridges vertically, across rail boundaries. This

amounts to pass-thru operations. Two elevators are standard.
Home library
For two libraries connected by PTPs, the home library is the library on the
right, supplying power and signals through its left side (as referenced from
the front of both libraries) to the PTP.
Storage expansion
module (SEM)
One to five expansion modules can be added to the basic configuration.
Library complex
Two or more libraries joined together with multiple PTPs. In this

configuration, all libraries operate in a peer-to-peer relationship. The
concepts of master and standby do not apply to SL8500 libraries.
Power rail
One of four sections in a library that provides:
Power and communications for HandBot electronics

A path for HandBots to put and get cartridges to or from a slot or tape drive
A physical partition that is equivalent to an LSM for single or multiple hosts
Rack area
Up to four internal 48 cm (19-in.) racks are available for qualified customer

hub and switch components. Note: Internal racks and Ethernet switches
are required for PTP operations.
HandBots
Components that moves linearly along a rail and vertically along their own
Z columns. The linear path is U-shaped rather than circular. The track
shape and the ability to handle multiple HandBots is termed StreamLine
RaceTrackTM architecture.
StreamLine
RaceTrackTM
HandBots move along U-shaped tracks or rails.
Turntable assemblies
Devices that transport cartridges laterally from one HandBot to another.

One, lower turntable is standard and a second (upper) is available as an
option. Turntables are not currently used.
TM0017 Revision C
143
Comparisons
Contrasts Between Libraries

Many concepts and terms used for earlier libraries apply to SL8500 libraries.
However, many terms for the SL8500 have been modified from their original
meanings. As the SL8500 library product is substantially different from earlier
Sun StorageTek library products, a general list of terms that relate old with new
concepts is supplied in Table 25.
Table 25. Old versus New Terminology
9310 PowderHorn
Automated Cartridge System (ACS): An LMU

and its associated LSMs.
Library complex: Two or more libraries joined

together with PTPs
Audit: The process of reading and cataloging all

cartridges within an LSM or ACS; this is done
through the Host Software Component (HSC)
and the updated data is sent to the Control Data
Set (CDS).
Physical audit: Cartridge volume identifiers

(VOLIDs) and locations are stored within the
librarys memoryat power-on or when access
doors are closed.
Verified audit: By a StreamLine Library
ConsoleTM command, cartridge VOLIDs and
locations are validated.
Virtual audit: Cartridge database is displayed
through StreamLine Library Console.
Audit is described in Audit Types on page 29.
Cartridge Access Port (CAP): Standard 21-slot

or optional 80-slot, access door
CAP: Located on the right access door. CAP A is

standard (39-slots); CAP B is optional.
Dual LMU: A master LMU that controls

operation of the LSMs and a standby LMU that
monitors the master; if a master LMU failure
occurs, the standby LMU assumes control.
Library complex: Two or more libraries joined

together with PTPs. SL8500 libraries in this
configuration operate as peer-to-peerthere are
no longer master or standby designations.
Enter: Enter a cartridge through the CAP
Import: Enter a cartridge through the CAP.
Eject: A specified cartridge is placed into the

CAP by the robot for removal by the operator.
Export: A specified cartridge is placed into the

CAP by a HandBot for removal by the operator.
Hand: The component that reads cartridge

VOLIDs, stores, and retrieves cartridges;
cartridge VOLIDs are read before retrieval by the
robot.
HandBot: The component that stores and

retrieves cartridges; it reads cartridge VOLIDs:
When entered through a CAP

During an audit
When retrieved through a PTP
Since the location and VOLIDs of cataloged

cartridges are resident on the HBC card, VOLIDs
are not read during normal mount/dismount
activities; mounts/dismounts are done by dead
reckoning.
144
Revision C TM0017
Comparisons
Table 25. Old versus New Terminology (Continued)
9310 PowderHorn
Library: All software and hardware related to

Automated Cartridge Systems.
SL8500 Modular Library: A single unit

composed of at least three modules (drive and
electronics module, robotics interface module,
customer interface module); up to five storage
expansion module may be added.
Library Control Unit (LCU): The power source

and robotic controller for an LSM.
An LCU is not attached to the library; its function

is now contained within librarys HBC and HBT
controller cards.
Library Management Unit (LMU): The

controller of all LSMs connected to it; the
interface between the LSMs and the host. The
term is still used in relation to addressing.
An LMU is no longer housed in a separate unit;

its function is now contained within library HBC
(controller) cards. See also Library Complex on
page page 143.
Library Storage Module (LSM): Storage

module, up to sixteen per ACS (LMU).
Rail: Each rail within an SL8500 is designated

as one LSM (4 LSMs per SL8500 Library) by
host software.
Master PTP: The controlling PTP; its commands

originate from the LCU that contains the LP/LPP
card.
Home library: Home denotes the library

supplying power and communication to the PTP.
Power and communication originate from the left
side (as viewed from the front) of the home
library; either library may initiate a PTP activity.
Two SL8500 libraries are joined together by four
PTPs because there are four rails per library.
An SL8500 library PTP cannot perform a passthru operation to or from a 9310 or L5500 LSM.
Note: Internal racks and Ethernet switches are
required for PTP operations.
Robot: A component that revolves around a

central point in a circular LSM.
HandBots: Components that move linearly

along rails and vertically along the hands Z
column. A single library can have from four to
eight HandBots.
Size/capacity: Determined by firmware and

number of installed arrays; approximately 6,000
cartridges per LSM.
Size/capacity: Determined by the number of

modules installed: three are required (1448
cartridges), but an additional five storage
expansion modules can be added
(10,088 cartridges each).
Slots are enabled to allow capacity on demand.
TM0017 Revision C
Appendix B Comparisons 145
Comparisons
Table 25. Old versus New Terminology (Continued)
9310 PowderHorn
Standby PTP: The LSM whose PTP mechanism

does not contain the PTP motor or LP/LPP card
(LCU).
Away library: Away denotes the library not

supplying power or communication to the PTP.
Away libraries are on the left side (as viewed
from the front) of the home library; either library
may initiate a PTP activity.
SL8500 libraries are joined together by four
PTPs because there are four rails.
Note: Internal racks and Ethernet switches are
required for PTP operations.
Tape drive capacity: Up to 80 (with 9741e

cabinets).
Tape drive capacity: From 1 to 64, with 16 per

drive array assembly
Theta: Describes the circular path of the robot.
Because the path for the HandBots is no longer

circular, the term theta motion does not apply.
Wrist: Describes outer-to-inner wall hand

motion.
Wrist: Describes outer-to-inner wall HandBot

motion.
Z motion: Describes the vertical path of the

robot (4410) or hand (9310/L5500)
Z motion: Describes the vertical path of a

HandBot hand assembly.
Capacity Comparison with 9310 Libraries

The advantages of the SL8500 library can be seen when compared to a 9310
ACS that contains three, dense pack library storage modules (LSMs).
Three 9310 LSMs provide storage for 33 cartridges per 0.1 m2 (1 ft2), whereas
an SL8500 library complex, composed of three SL8500s provides storage
for 59 cartridges per 0.1 m2 (1 ft2).
146
Revision C TM0017
Comparisons
Library Comparisons
Because the SL8500 is a new library, a comparison between the existing
Powderhorn, 9310 might help to put things into perspective.
Table 26 compares libraries between weights, measures, and capacities

Table 27 compares power requirements
Table 26. Comparisons Between PowderHorn and the SL8500 Library

9310 PowderHorn
SL8500
Measurements
Storage Module (LSM)
Modular Library
Height
235 cm (92.5 in.)
Height:
236.6 cm (93.15 in.)
Diameter
325 cm (128.0 in.)
Width:
170.8 cm (67.25 in.)
Control Unit (LCU)

Height
Width
Length
161 cm (63.5 in.)

39.1 cm (15.4 in.)
58.1 cm (22.9 in.)
Management Unit (LMU)

Height
Width
Length
93.0 cm (36.6 in.)

74.4 cm (29.3 in.)
59.7 cm (23.5 in.)
Length:
Base library
1 expansion module
2 expansion modules
3 expansion modules
4 expansion modules
5 expansion modules
276.9 cm (109 in.)

372.1 cm (146.5 in.)
467.4 cm (184 in.)
562.6 cm (221.5 in.)
657.8 cm (259 in.)
753.1 cm (296.5 in.))
Note: One of the benefits of the SL8500 is the

consolidation LMU, LCU, Drive Cabinets, and LSM
within the SL8500.
Drive Cabinet (9741e)

Height
Width
Length
Drives per cabinet
183 cm (72.0 in.)

74.9 cm (29.5 in.)
58.4 cm (23 in.)
20 drives
Total Area (60 drives)
10.3 m2 (110.8 ft2)
Total Area (64 drives)
9.6 m2 (103.4 ft2)
LSM
Empty
Fully Loaded
2449 kg (5,400 lb)

3810 kg (8,400 lb)
Base library
Empty
Loaded
1497 kg (3,300 lb)

2835 kg (6,250 lb)
LCU
LMU
136 kg (300 lb)

113 kg (250 lb)
1 expansion module
Loaded
1883 kg 4,150 lb)

3640 kg (8,025 lb)
9741e Drive Cabinet

One T9940 drive
9741e with 20 drives
186 kg (410 lb)

7.7 kg (17 lb)
340.2 kg (750 lb)
680.3 kg (1,500 lb)
1020.5 kg (2,250 lb)
1361 kg (3,000 lb)
2 expansion modules
Loaded
2268 kg (5,000 lb)

4445 kg (9,800 lb)
3 expansion modules
Loaded
2654 kg (5,850 lb)

5250 kg (11,575 lb)
4 expansion modules
Loaded
3039 kg (6,700 lb)

6055 kg (13,350 lb)
5 expansion modules
Loaded
3425 kg (7,550 lb)

6860 kg (15,125 lb)
Total Weight (64 drives)
5250 kg (11,575 lb)
Plus additional consolidation with internal rack

space for network components.
Weight
Total Weight (60 drives)
TM0017 Revision C
5420 kg (11,950 lb)
Comparisons
Table 26. Comparisons Between PowderHorn and the SL8500 Library (Continued)
9310 PowderHorn
SL8500
Service Clearances
LSM (door opening)
86.36 cm (34 in.)
Front
66 cm (26 in.)
LCU
39.0 cm (15.4 in.)
Rear
85 cm (33.5 in.)
LMU
81.3 cm (32.0 in.)
Pass-thru ports
15.25 cm (6 in.)
9741e Drive Cabinet
81.3 cm (32.0 in.)
Door width
10.16 cm (4 in.)
Raised Floor Loading
244-293 kg/m2
(50-60 lb/ft2)
Raised Floor Loading
260 kg/m2
(120 lb/ft2)
Loading per pad
454 kg (1,000 lb)
Loading per pad
454 kg (1,000 lb)
Distribution pads
18 (per library)
Distribution pads
26 (with 3 expansions)
Assembly area
35 m2 (400 ft2)
Assembly area
56 m2 (600 ft2)
Voltage (selectable)
200 to 240 VAC
Voltage
200 to 240 VAC
Frequency
47 to 63 Hz
Frequency
47 to 63 Hz
Phases (Current)
Single
Phases (Current)
Planning Requirements
Power Requirements
12 Amps
8 Amps
Single Phase
3 inputs (24 Amps)

6 redundant
9741e Drive Cabinet
20 Amps
Three Phase:
(recommended)
Delta (40 Amps)

Wye (24 Amps)
SUVA (24 Amps)
Power Consumption
LCU/LSM
LMU
9741e Drive Cabinet
1.5 kW
0.126 kW
1.47 kW
Heat Output
LCU/LSM
LMU
9741e Drive Cabinet
3,750 Btu/hr
2,050 Btu/hr
8,047 Btu/hr
Minimum system
(16 drives)
3.56 kW
12,140 Btu/hr
Minimum system
(16 drives)
3.32 kW
11,320 Btu/hr
Maximum system
(60 drives, 3 x 9741E)
10.76 kW
36,700 Btu/hr
Maximum system
(64 drives, plus
8 HandBots, 4 racks)
12.27 kW
41,840 Btu/hr
LCU/LSM
LMU
Note:
148
Power Consumption
(maximum loading**)
13.0 kW
Heat Output
(maximum loading**)
44,380 Btu/hr
** Maximum loading = 64 tape drives, 4 fully

loaded racks, 8 HandBots, all front frame
components, plus redundant control modules
See Table 27 on page 150 for additional comparisons for power requirements
Revision C TM0017
Comparisons
Table 26. Comparisons Between PowderHorn and the SL8500 Library (Continued)
9310 PowderHorn
SL8500
Capacities
Tape drives (max)
single library
ACS
80 (four 9741e)
960
Tape cartridges (max)

single library
ACSLS managed
NCS/HSC managed
6,000 (5,500)
144,000
96,000
Tape drives (max)

single library
complex
64
2,048
Tape cartridges (max)

single library
complex
6,632
greater than 200,000
Storage Density
33 cartridges per
0.1 m2 (1 ft2)
Storage Density
59 cartridges per
0.1 m2 (1 ft2)
Libraries in an ACS
24 (ACSLS control)
16 (HSC control)
Libraries in a Complex
31 (ACSLS) or
32 (HSC)
21-cells standard
80-cells optional
39-slots standard
39-slots optional
78 total
Single Library
T9840 A (20 GB)
T9840 B (20 GB)
T9840 C (40 GB)
T9940 B (200 GB)
LTO Gen 2 (200 GB)
1,500 cartridges (min.)

30 TB
30 TB
60 TB
300 TB
300 TB
Single Library
T9840 A (20 GB)
T9840 B (20 GB)
T9840 C (40 GB)
T9940 B (200 GB)
LTO Gen 2 (200 GB)
1,448 cartridges (min.)

29 TB
29 TB
58 TB
290 TB
290 TB
ACS (24 libraries)

T9840 A (20 GB)
T9840 B (20 GB)
T9840 C (40 GB)
T9940 B (200 GB)
84,000 cartridges
1.68 PB
1.68 PB
3.36 PB
16.8 PB
132,000 cartridges
26.4 PB
Complex (32 libraries)

T9840 A (20 GB)
T9840 B (20 GB)
T9840 C (40 GB)
T9940 B (200 GB)
LTO Gen 2 (200 GB)
300,000 cartridges
6 PB
6 PB
12 PB
60 PB
60 PB
Single Library
T9840 A (10 MB/s)
T9840 B (19 MB/s)
T9840 C (30 MB/s)
T9940 B (30 MB/s)
LTO Gen 2 (32-35 MB/s)
80 drives
2.9 TB/hr
5.5 TB/hr
8.6 TB/hr
8.6 TB/hr
10 TB/hr
Single Library
T9840 A (10 MB/s)
T9840 B (19 MB/s)
T9840 C (30 MB/s)
T9940 B (30 MB/s)
64 drives
2.3 TB/hr
4.4 TB/hr
6.9 TB/hr
6.9 TB/hr
8.1 TB/hr
ACS (24 libraries)

T9840 A (10 MB/s)
T9840 B (19 MB/s)
T9840 C (30 MB/s)
T9940 B (30 MB/s)
960 drives
34.56 TB/hr
65.56 TB/hr
103.68 TB/hr
103.68 TB/hr
120.96 TB/hr
Complex (32 libraries)

T9840 A (10 MB/s)
T9840 B (19 MB/s)
T9840 C (30 MB/s)
T9940 B (30 MB/s)
2,048 drives
74 TB/hr
140 TB/hr
221 TB/hr
221 TB/hr
258 TB/hr
Storage (Tape Cartridges)
LTO Gen 2 (200 GB)

Performance (Tape Drives)
TM0017 Revision C
Comparisons
150
Table 27. Power Requirement Comparisons

Between PowderHorn and the SL8500 ~ A Quick Reference
9310 PowderHorn
2 Hands
Component
SL8500 modular library system

Watts
4 Robots
Qty
Idle
Max
Component
LCU & LSM
200
1500
LMU
126
Dual LMUs
252
Rack space (9741)
each
LTO/SDLT
8 Robots
Watts
Qty
Idle
Max
Qty
Idle
Max
Modular Library
200
1500
400
3000
126
Control Module
100
100
100
100
252
Control Module
200
200
200
200
Rack space (base)
1440
1440
Rack space (redundant)
2880
2880
490
Tape Drives:
T9x40
Watts
Tape Drives:
4
554
642
16
1586
20
Revision C TM0017
344
432
344
432
1938
16
1370
1728
16
1370
1728
1930
2370
20
1720
2160
20
1720
2160
40
3860
4740
40
3440
4320
40
3440
4320
64
6134
7542
64
5504
6192
64
5504
6192
390
490
180
280
180
280
16
930
1330
16
720
1120
16
720
1120
20
1110
1610
20
900
1400
20
900
1400
40
2220
3220
40
1800
2800
40
1800
2800
64
3510
5110
64
2880
4480
64
2880
4480
Example (maximum case):

For a Powderhorn LCU, LSM with 2 LMU's and
16 T9X40 drives:
1500 + 252 + 1938 = 3690 watts
T9x40
LTO/SDLT

For a SL8500 with 4 robots, 2 ECM's and 16
T9X40 drives:
1500 + 200 + 1728 = 3428 watts

SL8500 with 8 robots and 16
T9X40 drives:
3000 + 200 + 1728 = 4928 watts
Glossary
This glossary defines terms and
abbreviations in this and other SL8500
library related publications.
This glossary defines terms and
abbreviations used in this publication.
A
aggregate backup and recovery support
(ABARS) A function that backs up a userdefined related group of data sets, called an
aggregate, and recovers those data sets on
the same system or on a recovery system.
Automated Cartridge System (ACS) A
system that automatically mounts cartridges
into tape drives in response to requests from
host software.
D
Data Facility Storage Management
Subsystem (DFSMS) An operating
environment that helps automate and
centralize the management of storage. To
manage storage, DFSMS provides the
storage administrator with control over data
class, storage class, management class,
storage group, and automatic class selection
routine definitions.
DFSMShsm A DFSMS functional
component or base element of z/OS that
provides functions for backing up and
recovering data, and managing space on
volumes in the storage hierarchy. See
Hierarchical Storage Management (HSM).
back up To copy information for

safekeeping.
Expert Library Manager (ExLM) Software

that manages the contents of LSMs and
provides virtual tape management functions.
cache A block of memory that temporarily

collects and retains data that allows quicker
retrieval of frequently-used data to improve
overall system performance.
fast load Once a HandBot successfully

inserts a tape cartridge into a drive, it is
immediately available for the next operation
and does not wait until the drive reports that
the cartridge has been loaded.
cartridge A protective container that

consists of magnetic tape on supply and
take-up reels.
control data set (CDS) The host software
component (HSC) database. This data set
contains all configuration and volume
information that the host software uses to
control the functions in an automated library.
TM0017 Revision C
H
Hierarchical Storage Management
(HSM) A data storage system that
automatically manages and distributes data
between high-cost and low-cost storage
devices.
151
Glossary
The objectives are to minimize access time

to data and maximize media capacity.
In effect, HSM turns the fast disk drives into
caches for the slower storage devices such
as tape drives. Hierarchical storage
management is implemented in Tivoli
Storage Manager, AS/400, and z/OS in
combination of the storage management
subsystem (SMS). See also Virtual Storage
Manager (VSM).
N
N+1 an SL8500 power configuration that
provides AC power and redundant DC
power by adding a second DC power supply
to each DC bus.
P
PTF Program Temporary Fix.
PUT Program update tape. As in PUT 0502
for ACSLS.
L
LIBGEN The process of defining the
configuration of the library to the host
software.
library A robotic system that stores, moves,
mounts, and dismounts tape cartridges that
are used in data read or write operations.
LibraryStation Software that allows MVS
hosts to share Automated Cartridge System
(ACS) facilities with heterogeneous network
client systems.
library storage module (LSM) A housing
that contains tape cartridges and robotics
systems that moves the cartridges between
storage cells and tape drives.
M
migration (1) The movement of data from
one storage subsystem to another.
Examples are hierarchical storage
management (HSM) and virtual storage
manager (VSM).
multiple volume cartridge (MVC) A
physical tape cartridge in a library that
contains one or more virtual tape volumes.
The information about the MVC is stored in
the HSC control data set (CDS).
R
real tape drive (RTD) The physical tape
drive attached to the library.
recall The process of moving or returning a
migrated data set.
reclaim The ability of a multiple volume
cartridge to recover space from removed
virtual tape volumes.
restore To return a backup copy to the
active storage location for use.
S
symmetric multiprocessor (SMP) A
system in which functionally-identical
multiple processors are used in parallel,
providing simple and efficient loadbalancing.
System Modification Program/Extended
(SMP/E) An IBM licensed program to install
software and software changes on z/OS
operating systems. A basic tool for installing,
changing, and controlling changes to
programming systems.
T
tape cartridge A protective container that
consists of magnetic tape on supply and
take-up reels.
152
Revision C TM0017
Glossary
TAPEREQ An HSC control statement that

defines a specific tape request and consists
of two parts, input and output.
Input: job, step, program, and data set
names, expiration date or retention period,
and an indication for specific requests or
nonspecific (scratch) requests
Output: media type and recording technique
capabilities.
V
Virtual Storage Manager (VSM) A
storage solution that virtualizes volumes
(tape cartridges) and tape drives in a virtual
tape storage subsystem (a disk buffer or
cache) to improve media and tape drive
usage.
The hardware in this solution includes a
virtual tape storage subsystem (VTSS)the
disk buffer, and real tape drives (RTDs)the
library and physical tape drives.
Virtual Tape Drive (VTD) The emulation of

a physical tape drive in virtual tape storage
subsystem. The data written to a VTD is
really being written to disk.
Virtual Tape Storage Subsystem (VTSS)
The disk buffer that contains the virtual tape
volumes and emulates the virtual tape
drives.
VTSS is a RAID 6 disk subsystem with
microcode that enables emulation of up to
32 and 64 tape drives.
Virtual Tape Volume (VTV) A portion of
the disk buffer that appears to the operating
system as a real tape volume (RTV).
Virtual Telecommunications Access
Method (VTAM) An IBM host-resident
communications software for
communications between processors. For
use with HSC and VSM when defining the
communications path (COMMPATH).
The software in this solution includes Virtual

Tape Control System (VTCS)an HSCbased host software, and VTSS microcode.
See also hierarchical storage management
(HSM).
virtual tape A virtual device with the
characteristics of a tape cartridge.
Virtual Tape Control System (VTCS) The
software that controls the activity and
coordinates operations between the host
operating system and the virtual tape
storage subsystem, virtual tape volumes,
real tape drives, and multiple volume
cartridges.
VTCS software operates in the same
address space and communicates closely
with the host software component (HSC).
TM0017 Revision C
Glossary
153
Glossary
154
Revision C TM0017
Index
Numerics
9310
comparisons, 2
library specifications, 147
9741e Drive Cabinet, 148
A
ABARS, 68
access door operations, 28
ACSLS
adding libraries, 83
cartridge management, 74
configuring tape drives, 73
expanding libraries, 84
float, 72
library configuration, 80
managing cartridges, 74
merging libraries, 84
minimizing pass-thru activity, 72
Service Safety Door, 77
software levels, 72
splitting libraries, 84
vary commands, 76
versions, 118
adding libraries
ACSLS, 83
HSC, 55
addressing
poster, 139
scheme, 7
translating, 10
aggregate backup and recovery support, 68
alert messages in manual, xv
American Eagle, cartridge labels by, 32
ANSI label specifications, 34
Any Cartridge, Any Slot, 33
architecture, robotic, 12
archiving cartridges, 38
area, total dimensions for the library, 2
TM0017 Revision C
arrays
locating the cartridges, 6, 138
targets, 6, 137
assessment, 121
audience, xv
audit
non-labeled cartridges, 34
time estimates, 30
types, 29
away library, definition, 143
B
background audits, 30
barcode labels, 33
barrier, service safety door, 28
books, related publications, xvii
C
CAP
addressing, 21
description, 19
optimization guidelines, 41
partitioning, 134
requirements, 20
reservations, 134
Capacity on Demand for HSC, 43
cartridge access ports
enter/eject cartridges, 38, 74
guidelines, 41
optimization, 39
See CAP
cartridge management
ACSLS, 74
ExLM, 65
HSC, 46
VSM, 62
cartridges
data locations, 6, 138
155
Index
float option, 26
labels, 34
optimization, 37
per square foot/meter, 146
placement in cells, 6, 137
cautions, meaning of, xv, 129, 131
cell capacity, 5
cells
CAP, 19
locations in a library, 6, 138
partitioning, 119
planning, 119, 121
poster, 139
targets, 6, 137
classes, xviii
clustering
cartridges, 37, 74
drives, 39
Code 39 Barcode Specification, 34
Colorflex, labels by, 32
columns
floor labels, 3
combining workloads, 36
COMMPATH, HSC command, 59
comparison
between libraries, 143
between PowderHorn and SL8500, 2
capacity, 146
power requirements, 150
comparisons between libraries, 147
configuration hierarchy, VSM, 62
configuring
ACSLS, 80
elevators, 13
ExLM, 70
HSC, 53
partitions, 119
pass-thru ports, 15
tape drives
ACSLS, 73
HSC, 45
layouts, 141
VSM, 58
VSM, 57
connectivity, 87
content management
cartridges, 37
drives, 37
156
elevators, 40
media, 37
pass-thru port, 40
philosophy, 35
planning, 41, 121
rails, 36
tape cartridges, 37
tape drives, 39
contrasts between libraries, 143, 147
courses, xviii
capacity, 5
components in, 4
customer interface module (CIM)
capacity, 119
Customer Resource Center (CRC), xix
customized routing table entries, 104
D
DEVICE statements, 107
dimensions, 2
dismount commands, 25
domain type, media, 33
doors, safety, 28
Drive and Electronics Module
capacity, 5
components in, 4
drive and electronics module (DEM)
capacity, 119
drive preferencing, VSM, 64
Dual LMU, 23
Dual TCP/IP
overview, xvi, 95
terminology, 23
duplicate VOLSERs, 117
dynamic hardware reconfiguration, HSC, 52
E
education, xviii
eject
cartridges, 38
commands, 26
optimization, 38
sequence, ExLM, 66
elevators
configuration, 13
Revision C TM0017
Index
content management, 40
description, 12
slot descriptions, 137
Engineered Data Products, labels by, 32
enter
cartridges, 38, 72, 74
commands, 26
optimization, 38, 74
Ethernet interface, 22
ExLM
management philosophy, 66
overview, 65
Sync run, 69
ExLM version, 118
expanding libraries
ACSLS, 84
HSC, 56
Expert Library Manager, 65
export commands, 26
ExPR version, 118
F
Fast Load capability, 26
features
adding capacity, 5
cartridge access ports, 20
interface, 22
operator panel, 130
pass-thru ports, 14
service safety door, 28
touch screen pen and stylus, 9
finding missing cartridges
ACSLS, 75
HSC, 47
firmware requirements, 118
firmware requirements, CAP, 20
float
ACSLS, 72
description, 26
enabling, 40
HSC, 44
optimization, 37, 74
VSM, 63
floor label part numbers, 3
free cells per LSM, 66
front door operations, 28
TM0017 Revision C
G
gateway, 97
graphical user interface (GUI), 130
guides and related publications, xvii
H
HandBots
description, 12
workload optimization, 39
hardcopy publications from StorageTek, xix
hardware requirements, CAP, 20
HBC card ports, 97
HBZ module, 20
heat output, 2
HLIPRC, description of, 7
home library, definition, 143
horizontal pass-thru operations, 14
host name, 97
HSC
adding libraries, 55
addressing, 48
dynamic hardware reconfiguration, 52
expanding libraries, 56
merging libraries, 56
minimizing pass-thru activity, 44
modify configuration, 52
PTFs, 43
recording interval, 52
software levels, 43
splitting libraries, 56
supported software levels, 43
vary commands, 49
I
identification of tape drives, 140
import commands, 26
initialization, 29
inner walls, 6, 137
installing redundant HandBots, 39
intended audience, xv
interface, Ethernet, 22
internal addresses
description, 7
Index
157
Index
poster, 139
interoperability, 87
IP addresses, 97
L
labels
barcode, 33
columns, 3
types of, 32
LCU, 23
library
audits and initialization, 29
capacities, cartridge tapes, 6
firmware, 118
module types, 3
partitions, 131
physical limits, 25
planning, 119
system assurance, 120
wall types, 137
library complex
away library, definition, 143
definition, 143
home library, definition, 143
library configuration for VSM, 57
library control unit, 23
library management unit, 23
limits, physical, 25
line scan camera technology, 32
LINK statements, 107
LMU, 23
LMUADDR parameter, 109
LMUPATH control statement, 105
LMUPDEF command, 109
loading per pad, 148
LSM preferencing, 25
M
main doors, 28
managing cartridges
ACSLS, 74
ExLM, 66
for optimization, 37
HSC, 46
VSM, 63
158
manuals, xvii
matrix and sales tools, 87
maximum capacity, 116
media ID labels, 33
media optimization, 38, 72, 74
merging libraries
ACSLS, 84
HSC, 56
migrating, cartridges, 38
minimizing pass-thru activity
ACSLS, 72
ExLM, 66
for optimization, 40
HSC, 44
minimum capacity, 116
modify configuration
ACSLS, 82
HSC, 52
modules
Customer Interface, 4
planning, 119
Robotics Interface, 4
Storage Expansion, 4
modules in the library, 3
mount commands, 25
MVC, separations of, 62
MVCPool, 60
MVS versions, 118
N
NCO, 43
NCS software levels, 43
Near Continuous Operation, 43
netmask, 97
network
configurations, 97
entries, 97
planning, 97
recommendations, 95
non-labeled cartridges and the audit, 34
notes, description, xv
numbering, cartridge cell locations, 6, 138
O
operator panel, 9, 130
See also SLC
Revision C TM0017
Index
optimization guidelines
access door, 28
ACSLS, 71
audits, 29
basic, 26
cartridge float, 26
cartridges, 38, 72, 74
details, 36
elevators, 40
fast load, 26
float, 26
front door, 28
HSC, 43
initialization, 29
media, 38, 72, 74
pass-thru ports, 40
planning, 41
rails, 36
RTD configurations, 58
tape cartridges, 38, 72, 74
tape drive placement, 27
tape drives, 39
top rail, 37
VSM workloads, 61
VTCS parameters, 59
optional CAP, 20
order number, 118
ordered eject, 26
organization of this guide, xvi
outer walls, 6, 137
P
panel numbering, 8
panel, row, column addressing, 7
panel, touch screen, 9
panels in a library, 25
partitioning
assigning, 130
capacities, 116
creating, 131
definition, 115
guidelines, 116
requirements, 118
Partners Web site, xix
Pass-thru Ports
configuration, 14
TM0017 Revision C
description, 14
locations, 3
slot descriptions, 137
pen and stylus, 9
Performance Zone, 66
philosophy for content management, 35
physical audit, 29
physical limits, 25
placement of data cartridges, 6, 137
planning for content, 41, 121
populating the rails, 36
poster, 139
PowderHorn
comparison, 2
introduction, 1
power requirements, 150
power consumption, 2
power cords, 2
power rails, defined, 143
preferencing
overview, 25
RTDs, 64
process, for system assurance, 120
PTP
installation considerations, 14
management, 40
PTPs description, 14
publications related to this guide, xvii
PuTTY, 113
PZ, 66
R
rail optimization, 36
rails. See power rails
raised floor loading, 148
recording interval, 52
related publications, xvii
releasing the CAP, 21
remove partitions, 132
report volume, ExLM, 66
requirements, software and firmware, 118
reserving the CAP, 21, 134
robotic architecture, 12
capacity, 5
components in, 4
robotics interface module (RIM)
capacity, 119
Index
159
Index
route commands, 100

routing tables, 100
S
scan engine, 32
scratch
cartridge optimization, 38, 74
tape philosophy, 66
SDP, 113
second CAP, 20
selection criteria for ExLM, 65
separating rails, 36
service area, 137
service connections, 112
Service Delivery Platform, 113
Service Safety Door
ACSLS, 77
description, 28
HSC, 50
service safety door
CAP operations, 19
shared networks, 96
SL8500 library complex, 14
SL8500 power requirements, 150
SLC
CAP release, 21
creating partitions, 131
firmware requirements, 118
slot capacity, 5
slots
addressing, 7
CAP, 19
cells, xv
location, 10
partitioning, 119
planning, 119, 121
SMF, 52
software levels
ACSLS, 72
ExLM, 65
HSC, 43
software requirements, 118
space between the walls, 6, 137
specifications, 2, 147
splitting libraries
ACSLS, 84
HSC, 56
square foot/meter of the library, 147
160
steps for partitioning, 120

Storage Expansion Module
capacity, 5
components in, 4
number of cartridge slots in, 4
StorageTek
hardcopy publications, xix
Partners site, xix
Web site, xix
StreamLine Library Console, 9, 130
See SLC
structural elements, 137
stylus feature, 9
Sun
Partners Web site, xix
Web site, xix
Sun Microsystems, Inc, ii
SunSolve Web site, xvii
supported configurations, 97
system assurance
process overview, 120
System Management Facility, 52
T
tape cartridge content management, 37
tape drive
locations and numbers, 137
numbering, 140
placement, 27
tape drive configurations
HSC, 45
VSM, 58
tape drives
partitioning, 116
Tape Library Configurator Field Simulation
Model, 93
tape management systems, 65
targets, 6, 137
tasks for partitioning, 120
TCP/IP configurations, 97
team members, 120, 121
technical manuals, xvii
terminology, 144
terminology in manual, xv
TLC/FSM, 93
Revision C TM0017
Index
TMS, 65
top rail usage, 37, 41
total area
in general, 2
library, 147
total weight of the library, for comparison, 147
touch screen operator panel, 9
See SLC
training, xviii
translating addresses, 10
Tricode, labels by, 32
types of audits, 29
Watts, 150
Webinars, xviii
weights and measures, 2
workload optimization, 36
Writeline, labels by, 32
Z
zone, performance, 66
U
unreserving the CAP, 21
upgrade number, 118
V
vary commands for HSC, 49
verified audit, 29
vertical pass-thru operations, 13
virtual audit, 29
Virtual Storage Manager, 57
VM version, 118
VOLSERs, 117
VSM
configuration hierarchy, 62
library configuration, 57
maintenance, 58
overview, 57
workload separation, 61
VTAM, 59
VTCS
coupling facility, 59
migration policies, 60
parameters, 59
VTSS lists, 60
W
walls, inside the library, 137
walls, space between, 6
watch_vols for ACSLS, 38
TM0017 Revision C
Index
161
Index
162
Revision C TM0017
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SL8500

Modular Library System

Best Practices Guide

SL8500 Modular Library System

Sun Microsystems, Inc.

Part Number: TM0017

Sun Confidential: Internal Use Only

Initial release of the Best Practices Guide.

Changes to the revision include:

Change bars included.

SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

Data Cartridge Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Adding SL8500 Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Dual CAP Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

2: Library Content Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

3: HSC Best Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

vi SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

Adding Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

4: VSM Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

5: ExLM Best Practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

6: ACSLS Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Adding Libraries to the Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

7: Independent Software Vendors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

viii SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

10: Partitioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Overriding a CAP Reservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

x SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

Figure 37. Touch Screen Operator Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

xii SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

xiv SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

Terminology and Usage

SL8500 modular library system, SL8500 library, SL8500, or just library

Media, cartridges, tape cartridges, volumes, tape volumes, or just tapes

Rail (hardware) and library storage module or LSM (software)

Library complex (hardware) and ACS (software)

Slots (hardware) and cells (software)

Tape drives, transports, tape transports, and just drives

Use this chapter to...

Understand the architecture of the SL8500 modular library system and

Discover ways to optimize the SL8500 library and improve performance.

Chapter 3, HSC Best

Chapter 4, VSM Best

Discover configuration recommendations for Virtual Storage Manager (VSM)

Chapter 5, ExLM Best

Understand reasons for adjusting and re-evaluating the content management

Chapter 6, ACSLS Best

Learn some guidelines for optimizing the Automated Cartridge System

Become aware of the characteristics for various applications in which

Get an introduction to the Tape Library Configurator Field Simulation Model

Learn about the supported configurations and network examples for

Chapter 10, Partitioning

xvi SL8500: Best Practices May 2007

HSC 6.1 Operators Guide

HSC 6.1 Systems Programmers Guide

NearLine Control Solution (NCS) 6.1 Installation Manual

Introduction to Virtual Storage Manager

Virtual Tape Control System Installation and Configuration Guide

ExLM 6.0 Installation Guide