Inspect a Tape Cartridge

Always inspect a tape before you insert it into a drive or a library to prevent damage.

Never use a damaged tape. A defective or dirty tape can damage the tape drive. Look for:

• Dirt or debris
• Cracked or broken housing
• Damaged hub-wheel teeth
• Damaged write-protect switch (front left of cartridge, see below). The switch should slide easily.
  
• Damaged leader door or pin (located on near rear of cartridge, see below). The door should open cleanly and snaps shut when released. The pin should be straight.
  
• Liquid in the tape cartridge
• Labels not firmly attached, or that extend over the tape cartridge edge
• Incorrect media type. The cartridge type must be supported by the drives in the library. Verify that the two digit media ID is supported .