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Supplies guide

LTO Cleaning Tapes, Labels and Handling

A universal LTO cleaning cartridge works in every generation and lasts up to 50 cleanings, but clean only when the drive asks; library barcode labels end in a media code such as L9 for LTO-9 data or LZ for LTO-9 WORM.

Cleaning

LTO cleaning cartridges

One universal LTO cleaning cartridge works in drives of every generation. It is rated for up to 50 cleanings, fewer in some drives, and the drive refuses it once it is used up.

Clean only when the drive asks for it. LTO drives signal when cleaning is needed and libraries can clean automatically; cleaning on a fixed schedule just wears the head. If a drive asks for cleaning very often, suspect a bad cartridge or a failing head.

A cleaning cartridge marked CLN, a barcode label ending in L9 and a storage case.
One universal cleaning cartridge is rated for up to 50 cleanings, and the last two characters of a data barcode give the generation, for example L9 for LTO-9. Keep each cartridge in a case on the shelf and in a padded case when it travels.

Labels

Barcode labels

Libraries and autoloaders identify cartridges by barcode. The standard LTO label has six characters you choose, then a two-character media code: for example 000001L9 is an LTO-9 data cartridge and 000001L8 an LTO-8 one. WORM cartridges use their own codes (LZ for LTO-9 WORM, LY for LTO-8 WORM), and cleaning cartridges start with CLN.

Buy labels printed for your generation, keep the numbers unique across the whole library, and never put a label over the cartridge's write-protect switch or edges.

Cases and transport

Cases for storage and offsite copies

Keep each cartridge in its jewel case on a shelf, and use padded turtle-style cases for 5, 10 or 20 cartridges when moving tapes offsite. Avoid loose cartridges in a box: drops and dust are the most common causes of handling damage. Storage conditions, cabinets and racks are in how to store LTO tapes.

Disposal

Destroying old tapes

Erasing or overwriting a tape takes as long as filling it. For tapes with sensitive data, use a tape shredder or a destruction service that issues a certificate. Degaussing needs a degausser rated for high-coercivity barium ferrite media, and it also erases the servo tracks, so the cartridge cannot be reused afterwards.

More guides

Other LTO guides

What is LTO tapeThe format in one pageLTO storageHow tape storage works and costsLTO capacity chartLTO-1 to LTO-14LTO tape drive buying guideWhich drive to buyLTO tape librariesAutoloaders and librariesLTO tape lifespanHow long tapes lastLTFS explainedTape as a file systemLTO tape data recoveryReading old tapesLTO tape newsWhat changed this month

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How many times can an LTO cleaning tape be used?

Up to 50 times, fewer in some drives. The cartridge records its uses and the drive rejects it when it is used up.

How often should I clean an LTO drive?

Only when the drive or library asks for it. Scheduled cleaning wears the head without benefit.

What does L9 mean on an LTO label?

It is the media code for an LTO-9 data cartridge. L8 is LTO-8, L7 is LTO-7, and WORM cartridges use different codes such as LZ for LTO-9 WORM.

How do I safely destroy LTO tapes?

Shred them or use a destruction service with a certificate. Degaussing works only with a degausser rated for the media, and the cartridge cannot be reused afterwards.