Chapter 1. Overview
The overview of the features and functions of the IBM
®
TS4300 tape library is useful for high-level
evaluation of the product and planning for the implementation of the product.
Introduction
The IBM TS4300 tape library provides compact, high-capacity, low-cost solutions for simple, unattended
data backup. The installation begins with the 3U high Base Module, with capacity for up to 40 tape
cartridges and 3 half-height LTO tape drives, or one full-height and one half-height tape drive.
Each module type has its special designation.
Table 2. Module designations
MTM Description
3555-L3A Base Module
3555-E3A Expansion Module
Figure 1 on page 1 shows a two-module version of the tape library. The library on the left shows the
base module above the expansion module. The library on the right shows the base module below the
expansion module. An individual library can consist of one base module and up to six expansion modules.
See “Structure and supported library congurations” on page 2 for supported congurations.
Figure 1. Two module tape library
The library provides the following capabilities:
• New user interface for improved usability
• Updated library communication system
• I/O magazines to allow individual cartridge handling to be done independent of the library.
• Mixed media types
• Integrated management tools
• Scalability to seven modules
• Remote management with the management GUI
• Remote monitoring with Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
• Multipath architecture
• Host-based path failover
• Sequential Mode option
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