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 LTO/Ultrium Technology product page.

What makes Imation Ultrium tape cartridges different?

When should I clean my LTO/Ultrium drive?

What is Linear Tape-Open or LTO?

What specific results has the LTO project produced?

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

What makes Imation Ultrium tape cartridges different?

No other tape cartridge manufacturer comes close to Imation's success in data storage - we've applied this experience to every aspect of Ultrium cartridge design. For example, Imation designed Ultrium tape cartridges with a proprietary three-piece tape spool that delivers improved tape handling for better tracking and fewer errors. A proprietary corner snap on the door corner, typically the weakest corner of the cartridge, improves cartridge strength and helps to keep the leader pin in place. And, Imation conducts a three-phase performance verification on every cartridge that leaves its manufacturing site for predictable tape performance.

When should I clean my LTO/Ultrium drive?

Built-in indicators alert you when your drive needs to be cleaned. Here are the indicators to look for and the number of cleanings you can expect from our Ultrium Universal Cleaning Cartridge in each of the following drives.

HP Ultrium drive: A warning mechanism flashes when drive needs cleaning. Up to 15 cleanings per cartridge depending on the drive.

IBM Ultrium drive: A "C" will display in the single-character display area & status light will turn off when drive needs cleaning. Up to 50 cleanings per cartridge depending on the drive.

Seagate Ultrium drive: There will be a continuous illumination of the amber colored LED when drive needs cleaning. Up to 50 cleanings per cartridge depending on the drive.

What is Linear Tape-Open or LTO?

The Linear Tape-Open format is the first open data storage platform. Three manufacturers - HP, IBM and Seagate - developed this technology to meet growing network and enterprise storage demands over the next decade. The result of this development is an exceptionally reliable, high performance format that allows interchangeability between drives and removable tape cartridges. As a result, Ultrium-format tape cartridges must pass stringent verification guidelines before they can be sold with the LTO format logo. Imation Black Watch Ultrium tape cartridges passed these guidelines in April 2001.

What specific results has the LTO project produced?

The LTO project's most notable achievement is the single set of unified specifications that comprise the LTO format and make it the first open data storage platform. Secondly, there are more than 25 licensees to date that comprise an open licensing organization. These licensees are multiple supply resources for this powerful, open tape architecture.

Why would three competitors work together?

The cooperation that has produced LTO has received a great deal of attention because it is a single solution from multiple sources—a significant departure from the traditional practice of a single source offering multiple technologies. This single solution actually expands the market and adds a great deal of value to it. In increasing competition, the collaboration generates numerous customer benefits, such as high-quality products, faster product innovations, and widespread availability. Check out www.ultrium.com for more information on the Linear Tape-Open format and its migration plan.