IBM 3575-L18 Magstar MP Tape Library Dataserver

© IBM Corporation 2002

IBM U.S. Product Life Cycle Dates

Type Model / Announced / Available / Marketing Withdrawn / Service Discontinued / Replaced By
3575-L18 / 1997/06/24 / 1997/09/26 / 2002/06/28 / - / -

Abstract

The Magstar(TM) MP (Multi-purpose) 3575 Tape Library Dataserver has been enhanced with the addition of a patented new Multi-Path architecture, supporting sharing by homogeneous and heterogeneous hosts. The 3575 supports up to six SCSI-attach systems, in up to three logical libraries, sharing a common tape cartridge inventory and robotics. Support for Magstar MP Model C tape drives, with increased aggregate data rates (up to 15 MB/second using maximum data compression), and the ability to configure 14 bulk I/O slots within the library, in addition to the 2-cartridge I/O slot, are part of the Multi-Path feature.

The 3575 Tape Library provides a mid-range and network server tape storage solution combining reliable, field-proven, automated tape handling and storage with reliable, high-performance Magstar MP tape drives. Customers can tailor the library to match their system capacity and performance needs from 420 GB to 2.26 TB (1.26 TB to 6.8 TB with 3:1 compression) with Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridge, using up to six Magstar MP tape drives. Aggregate sustained data rates of 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression allow extremely high data transfer performance. The 3575 offers outstanding retrieval performance with typical cartridge move times of less than four seconds. Native device driver support is included for AS/400, RS/6000(TM), and other popular SCSI-attach open systems from manufacturers such as Hewlett-Packard** (HP), Sun**, and Microsoft Windows.

Effective July 3, 1998, IBM is withdrawing features 1452, and 9451 from the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library, and feature 9451 from the Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A tape drive. The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library and the Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A tape drive are NOT being withdrawn from marketing. Field orders and installation are still available.

Effective June 5, 1998, IBM is withdrawing Custom Quickship delivery, feature 1748, from the IBM 3570 Model B00, B01, B02, B11, and B12 Tape Subsystems. These models will continue to be available via the Industry Standard ordering and delivery process.

Model Abstract 3575-L18

(For IBM US, No Longer Available as of June 28, 2002)

The IBM 3575 Model L18 offers customers up to 1.26 TB of uncompressed data storage with their choice of two through six Magstar MP Model C tape drives. The library has 180 cartridge slots and, with feature 1400, includes two Magstar MP Model C tape drives. Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridge, data capacity is 1.26 TB in native mode, 3.78 TB with Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. Using C-format Tape Cartridges in Magstar MP Model C tape drives results in an aggregate sustained data rate of 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression.

Note: Customers requiring plant-installed Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A tape drives refer to feature 9451.

Highlights

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library provides Magstar MP tape reliability with reliable automation at open systems prices. Other features include:

  • Single or multi-host attachment for homogeneous or heterogeneous systems
  • Configurable for up to six SCSI control paths
  • Support for up to three logical libraries
  • Supports the Magstar MP Model C tape drive using new C-format or existing B-format cartridges
  • Support for AS/400 attachment and Hierarchical Storage Management
  • Drive average search time of 8 seconds
  • Library cartridge move time of less than 4 seconds (typical)
  • Aggregate sustained data rates from 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-format tape cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives
  • 7 MB/second sustained drive data rates with no compression using Magstar MP Model C tape drives
  • Mid-point tape load for fast time to data
  • User-configurable bulk I/O slots (0 or 14)
  • Library cartridge capacity: 180
Model Highlights 3575-L18
  • Native data capacity, with Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridge: 1.26 TB
  • Compressed data capacity, with Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridge: 3.78 TB using 3:1 compression

Description

Designed for Automated Tape Handling

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is a new family of tape library storage solutions designed for the large, unattended storage requirements of today's mid-range systems and network servers. Each aspect of the subsystem is designed to optimize access to data and reliability. Magstar MP tape drives are compact storage devices that support the highly intensive read and write operations required by today's network server systems. The Magstar MP Fast Access Linear Tape Cartridge utilizes an innovative new mid-point load design providing faster access to data than traditional tape cartridges.

High Performance

Cartridge move time within the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is typically less than 4 seconds. A dual-gripper picker can retrieve the next cartridge to be mounted, unload the current cartridge, and load the next cartridge, providing the following benefits:

  • Saves complete move operations
  • Further improves overall library performance
  • Offers increased redundancy and higher reliability.

The average drive search time to first byte of data is eight seconds. Sustained data rates using Magstar MP Model C tape drives and C-format cartridges during reads and writes are 15 MB/second using maximum compression and 7 MB/second in native mode. The Magstar MP Model C tape drives are designed for high performance in both streaming and start/stop modes of operation. Automatic data caching, using an expanded cache memory and read/write buffering, enhances performance even further. Increased tape speeds, double the read/write heads, and a new (patent pending) digital data flow circuit take performance to new levels. Aggregate sustained data rates for the library are 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression. Users with B-format data cartridges can realize significant performance improvements over 3570 Model B1A drives. Aggregate sustained data rates of 75 GB/hour up to 226 GB/hour, with 3:1 compression on B-format media, assure maximum utilization of existing library data.

High Reliability

Leading-edge technology from IBM positions the Magstar MP tape drives as industry leaders. Highly accurate recording is provided by an exclusive thin-film write module designed by IBM with read after write data verification. Data read is managed by IBM's industry-leading magneto-resistive (MR) heads, designed for accuracy, high reliability, and durability. High-availability redundant servo readers also ensure consistent data integrity.

Picker design in the library has been extensively field-proven in repeated cartridge handling operations. The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is designed to minimize the amount of travel for robotic pickers within the library and improve performance.

Drive cleaning is an automatic function performed by the library when required by the drive, without requiring operator intervention.

High Granularity in Library Configurations

Features and capacities are designed to match the wide variety of customer requirements. The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library, with the Multi-Path feature, allows Magstar MP Model C and 3570 Model B1A drives to be intermixed within the library, but only if separated by logical libraries.

Note: Customers can install Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A as field options or, until July 3, 1998, can specify feature 9451 to have Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A drives plant installed. Refer to the Sales Manual for detailed ordering information. Customers ordering the Magstar MP 3570 Model B1A drives need to order the drives separately.

L06

Customers with moderate library needs can choose the Model L06. The library has 60 cartridge slots, and support for up to two Magstar MP Model C tape drives (refer to Note above). Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges, data capacity is 420 GB of data in native mode, 1.26 TB using Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. The aggregate sustained data rate is 108 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-Format Tape Cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives. With features 1401 and 1453 or with feature 1400 (withdrawn September 1, 1998), up to two SCSI control paths can be configured.

L12

The Model L12 has 120 cartridge slots and support for up to four Magstar MP Model C tape drives (refer to Note above). Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges, data capacity is 840 GB native and 2.52 TB using Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. The aggregate sustained data rate is 108 GB to 216 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-Format Tape Cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives. Up to two logical libraries and/or up to four SCSI control paths can be configured. Model L12 can be field upgraded to a Model L18.

L18

The Model L18 has 180 cartridge slots and support for up to six Magstar MP Model C tape drives (refer to Note above). Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges, data capacity is 1.26 TB native and 3.78 TB using Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. The aggregate sustained data rate is 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-Format Tape Cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives. Up to three logical libraries and/or up to six SCSI control paths can be configured.

L24

The Model L24 has 240 cartridge slots and support for up to six Magstar MP Model C tape drives (refer to Note above). Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges, data capacity is 1.68 TB native and 5.04 TB using Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. The aggregate sustained data rate is 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-Format Tape Cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives. Up to three logical libraries and/or up to six SCSI control paths can be configured. Model L24 can be field upgraded to a Model L32.

L32

The largest Dataserver Series Library, the Model L32, has 324 cartridge slots and support for up to six Magstar MP Model C tape drives (refer to Note above). Using Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges, data capacity for the Model L32 is 2.26 TB native and 6.8 TB using Lempel-Ziv (3:1) compression. The aggregate sustained data rate is 108 GB to 324 GB/hour with maximum compression using C-Format Tape Cartridges and Magstar MP Model C tape drives. Up to three logical libraries and/or up to six SCSI control paths can be configured.

Each library has a two-slot cartridge input/output station for importing or exporting cartridges from the library without requiring a re-inventory. For bulk-loading of Magstar MP Tape Cartridges, a side door on the library can be opened. Users can configure 14 of the library storage slots as bulk I/O slots. Intelligent re-inventory of the cartridges in the library is done each time the library door is closed. Column sensors determine where cartridge changes have been made and reduce library inventory time. A bar code reader mounted on the autochanger scans the cartridge labels. A door lock is included to restrict physical access to cartridges in the library.

Customers can also expand their capacity and number of drives to meet their changing needs. The Model L12 can be upgraded to a Model L18, increasing capacity by 50%. Model L24 can be upgraded to a Model L32, increasing capacity by 30%.

Support for Heterogeneous Host Platforms With up to Three Logical Libraries

The heterogeneous sharing provided by the Multi-Path feature of the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is a sharing of the library robotics. This is accomplished in the Model L12, and larger, by partitioning the library into two or three logical SCSI libraries. Each logical library has its own separate and distinct drives and storage slots. I/O slots are shared on a first-come first-served basis. This type of partitioning allows heterogeneous applications to share the library robotics independently of each other. Cartridges under library control are not shared between logical libraries, nor allowed to be moved between logical libraries. An example of heterogeneous sharing is an AS/400 application using a drive and storage slots of one logical library while a UNIX application uses the drive and slots of another logical library.

Logical libraries can also be used for scalable application performance, such as up to three ADSM servers, or for protecting investment in existing 3570 Model B1A tape drives while adding the new Magstar MP Model C tape drives in a different logical library.

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library can be configured to support from one to six SCSI control paths. Multiple control paths allow maximum flexibility in multi-host support and control path redundancy. AS/400 users can connect up to six AS/400 host systems, sharing library resources and even the cartridge inventory while maintaining dedicated SCSI control paths.

High-Performance Tape Cartridge

The Magstar MP Fast Access Linear Tape Cartridge has been designed to provide several enhancements over previous tape technologies. The case is specially designed for use in automated libraries and is designed for repeated handling. The tape medium is enclosed in a rugged cartridge, protecting the tape medium from outside environmental factors. The tape is contained in a self-enclosed tape path within the cartridge, remaining protected at all times. Two tape spools inside the cartridge hold the tape. The tape path, unique in design, also eliminates tape thread time, creates a simplified tape path, and provides higher reliability. Load point is established at the tape mid-point for fastest possible threading and access to data. The tape itself is an advanced metal particle tape developed for durability and capacity.

The Magstar MP Model C tape drive supports Fast Access Linear Tape C-Format XL Data Cartridges and C-Format Fast Linear Access Tape Cartridges. Designed for increased tape speeds and high-density data recording. Data is recorded eight tracks at a time for increased performance. Data currently stored on B-Format cartridges, as used in the 3570 Model B1A tape drive, is read and written by the new Magstar MP Model C tape drives, and at speeds 50% higher than 3570 Model B1A drives. Data on the B-Format cartridges is read and written four tracks at a time. The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library, with the Multi-Path feature, allows Magstar MP Model C and 3570 Model B1A drives to be intermixed within the library, but only if separated by logical libraries.

Product Positioning

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is designed to meet the demanding needs of the mid-range and network server marketplace. Fast time to data, multiple drive capability, and a wide choice of data storage capacity allow customers to tailor the libraries to their specific needs. Magstar MP tape technology offers superior reliability and performance, standing up to the demands of multiple users and automated tape handling. Customers with data-intensive applications will appreciate the performance of the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library in heavy usage, backup/restore, and archive/retrieval applications.

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library, Featured for Benefits

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library has been designed with features that provide maximum customer benefits:

  • Proven library design

Proven Magstar MP tape technology, coupled with proven Library Technology, provides fast move times, and high reliability.

  • Wide-ranging modularity

Sizes available from 420 GB to 2.24 TB allow customizable capacity and performance tuning for each system. Upgradeable models allow for expansion as needed.

  • Multi-Path architecture

The IBM-patented Multi-Path architecture feature allows multiple SCSI control paths and up to 3 logical libraries, depending on model.

  • Multi-bus design

Subsystem support for multiple SCSI busses allows multi-host attachment and higher data throughput, and provides higher redundancy.

  • Input/output station

The two slot I/O station allows import and export of Magstar MP Tape Cartridges without requiring a re-inventory of the library.

  • Improved bulk loading

14 storage slots can be allocated as user-selectable bulk I/O slots. Access is through the bulk load door. Intelligent library re-inventory using column sensors improves library efficiency.

  • Auto-cleaning of Magstar MP tape drives

Automatic detection and cleaning improve ease of use and increase reliability.

  • Bar code reader

A bar code reader improves inventory times and inventory management.

  • Dual-gripper picker

The picker allows two cartridges to be handled simultaneously for faster moves, transactions, and subsystem performance.

  • Self-contained diagnostics

An advanced error detection system reports errors accurately for higher reliability and less subsystem downtime; all diagnostics can be run from the Operator Panel without host interaction.

  • Protection against unauthorized access

A key lock provides additional protection against unauthorized entry through the bulk load door.

  • Operator interaction

A key touch panel and LCD display allow the operator to perform library functions and interact with the library.

Model

Model Summary Matrix

Maximum

Magstar MP

Data Data Model C or

Cart Capacity Capacity Magstar MP 3570

Model Slots (Native) (Comp.) Model B1A Drives

------

L18 180 900 GB 2.7 TB 6

Maximum

Not applicable.

Customer Setup (CSU)

None.

Devices Supported

None.

Model Conversions

  • L12 to L18
  • L24 to L32

Technical Description

The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library is a high-performance, reliable, low-cost tape subsystem. Designed for tape automation, the IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library can be attached to RS/6000 systems and other open systems using SCSI attachment. The libraries use the IBM Magstar MP 3570 tape drives for faster data access and reliability in automated library service. Each aspect of the library subsystem has been optimized for repeated, reliable unattended tape handling. The IBM Magstar MP 3575 Tape Library design minimizes the travel distances tape cartridges must travel during moves. The dual-picker gripper autochanger reliably moves cartridges within the library and the Magstar MP tape drives. The Magstar MP Fast Access Linear Access Tape cartridges have been refined using the many years of IBM tape experience to provide a tape cartridge that provides extremely fast data access, but stands up to the rigors of automated handling.