Check out the Frequently Asked Questions to take advantage of out expert troubleshooting, get the latest updates, and learn about tips for using your Imation products. For more information, including brochures, demos, and spec sheets, visit the Data Center Tape product page.

Are "data checks" error messages?

I am getting data check errors writing to Imation 3480 compatible tape in 36 track mode. Do we need 3490E quality tapes when writing 36 track?

What is the recommended period that recorded 3490E tape cartridges can be safely archived, before needing to be refreshed or rewritten?

How much tape is in a 3590E tape cartridge?

Can I use 9840 Volsafe tapes in a new 9840 "C" version tape drive?

What is the archival life of Imation Black Watch 9840 cartridges?

If you have additional questions or comments, please contact our Technical Support.

Are "data checks" error messages?

Yes. Data check messages are triggered when errors exceed some threshold defined in the data center. The threshold depends on what tape management software is being used. Imation recommends replacing older cartridges exhibiting these errors. If your cartridges are new or you believe you should not be seeing data check errors, please contact Imation's CARE team at 800.351.8186, option 1, for technical assistance.

I am getting data check errors writing to Imation 3480 compatible tape in 36 track mode. Do we need 3490E quality tapes when writing 36 track?

Imation's Black Watch™ or Royal Guard™ 3480 cartridges are designed to work in a 36 track 3490 drive, doubling capacity to 420MB. Some reasons for excessive data check errors may include: dirty drive heads, damaged media or older media at it's end of life. Imation recommends you replace older cartridges exhibiting data check errors.

If your tapes are new or you feel they should not be reflecting errors, please contact Imation's Customer CARE team at 800.351.8186, option 1, for technical assistance.

What is the recommended period that recorded 3490E tape cartridges can be safely archived, before needing to be refreshed or rewritten?

The National Media Laboratory (NML) has determined that data stored on 3490/3490E tape cartridges can be reliably archived for up to 25 years without retensioning, refreshing, or rewriting the cartridge.

The NML states, "Lifespan is based on assumptions that media is accessed infrequently, is purchased new and is consistently stored at optimal archival conditions of 68 degrees F. and 40% RH in an environment free of dust, smoke, food, mold, direct sunlight, and gaseous contaminants."

How much tape is in a 3590E tape cartridge?

Imation shipped its 2 millionth 3590E cartridge in Summer 2003. This format, co-developed with IBM, launched in February 2000 and has seen a steady increase in adoption and demand. With 2,070 feet of tape per cartridge, 2 million 3590E cartridges contain approximately 784,313 miles of tape. Imation's headquarter office in Oakdale, Minnesota is about 1,700 miles from our Tucson, Arizona manufacturing facility. 784,313 miles of tape is equal to the roundrip distance from Oakdale to Tucson and back 226 times! This amount of tape could potentially contain (if all fully written) up to 80 (native) petabytes of data.

Can I use 9840 Volsafe tapes in a new 9840 "C" version tape drive?

9840 Volsafe tapes prepared for use on 9840 A or B drives are interchangeable between A and B drives but not directly usable on the STK 9840 C drive model. Special physical as well as magnetic characteristics differentiate the 9840 Volsafe cartridges as either applicable to A and B drives or specifically for the C drive.

A version of the Imation Volsafe cartridge, however, is now available for use on the 9840 C drive. Please specify which drive you are using when you place your order.

What is the archival life of Imation Black Watch 9840 cartridges?

Imation Black Watch™ 9840 cartridges have a 30-year archival life.