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Dirty
media is a major cause of drive failure and data loss in data processing
operations of all sizes. Corrupted media can not only damage drives,
but can also degrade the performance of subsequently run media,
acting almost like a virus being transferred from one tape to another---this
process is called cross contamination.
Taking a pro-active
approach to library cleaning extends tape life, eliminates debris,
and reduces data errors. Data Link Associates can help you clean
your library as a service or can provide cleaning systems for you
to perform this necessary task in-house.
Facts From the Experts
NCITS (National
Committee for Information Technology Standards, formerly called
ANSI)
An inhibitor tape is any tape that degrades the performance of the
tape drives or other tapes. (From "Specification X3B5/88-091, Section
5.15 Inhibitor Tape Definition")
ISO 9002
7.1 Cleaning
and Maintenance: Cleaning and maintenance should be performed on
a regular basis or as required.
IBM
"Dirty cartridges
can reduce subsystem reliability and cause the loss of recorded
data." (From Care & Handling, Doc. GA 320047.1)
ICL
"Cleaning and
maintenance should be performed on a regular basis." (From Care
& Handling, Doc. 80089574)
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Media Management Services 
