ISO/IEC 22050:2002

INTERNATIONAL ISO/IEC
STANDARD 22050
First edition
2002-10-01
Information technology — Data interchange
on 12,7 mm, 384-track magnetic tape
cartridges — Ultrium-1 format
Technologies de l'information — Échange de données sur cartouches à
bande magnétique 12,7 mm, 384 pistes — Format Ultrium-1

Reference number
©
ISO/IEC 2002
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©  ISO/IEC 2002
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© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
ii
Contents
Section 1 – General
1 Scope 1
2 Conformance 1
2.1 Magnetic tape cartridge 1
2.2 Generating system 1
2.3 Receiving system 1
3 Normative references 1
4 Terms and definitions 2
4.1 Access Point 2
4.2 algorithm 2
4.3 algorithmically processed data 2
4.4 a.c. erase 2
4.5 Average Signal Amplitude 2
4.6 back surface 2
4.7 Beginning of Tape (BOT) 2
4.8 Beginning of Wrap (BOW) 2
4.9 bit 2
4.10 bit cell 2
4.11 Broad Band Signal-to-Noise Ratio (BBSNR) 2
4.12 byte 2
4.13 cartridge 2
4.14 Channel bit 3
4.15 Codeword 3
4.16 Codeword Pair 3
4.17 Codeword Quad (CQ) 3
4.18 CQ Set 3
4.19 cyclic redundancy check (CRC) character 3
4.20 Data Set 3
4.21 Data Set Information Table (DSIT) 3
4.22 End of Data (EOD) 3
4.23 End of Tape (EOT) 3
4.24 End of Wrap (EOW) 3
4.25 Error Correcting Code (ECC) 3
4.26 File Mark 3
4.27 flux transition position 3
4.28 flux transition spacing 3
4.29 forward tape motion 3
4.30 header 3
4.31 Housekeeping Data Set 3
4.32 logical forword 4
4.34 Logical Point 4
4.35 magnetic tape 4
4.36 Master Standard Reference Tape (MSRT) 4
4.37 LTO Cartridge Memory (LTO CM) 4
4.38 Optimum Recording Current 4

© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
iii
4.39 physical end of tape 4
4.40 physical forward 4
4.41 physical reverse 4
4.42 pre-record condition 4
4.43 processed data 4
4.44 Processed Record 4
4.45 Processing (Compression) 4
4.46 Protected Record 4
4.47 Record 5
4.48 recorded element 5
4.50 Reprocessing (Decompression) 5
4.51 reverse tape motion 5
4.52 run length limited encoding (RLL) 5
4.53 Secondary Standard Reference Tape (SSRT) 5
4.54 servo acquisition region 5
4.55 Standard Reference Amplitude (SRA) 5
4.56 Symbol 5
4.57 Synchronised Codeword Quad (SCQ) 5
4.58 Test Recording Density (TRD) 5
4.59 wrap 5
4.60 write equalisation 5
4.61 (1,7) RLL code 5
5 Conventions and notations 6
5.1 Representation of numbers 6
5.2 Dimensions 6
5.3 Names 6
5.4 Alphanumeric string encoding 6
6 Acronyms 6
7 Environment and safety 6
7.1 Cartridge and tape testing environment 7
7.2 Cartridge operating environment 7
7.3 Cartridge storage environment 7
7.4 Tape tension 7
7.5 Safety 7
7.6 Flammability 7
7.7 Transportation 7
Section 2 - Requirements for the Cartridge 8
8 Dimensional and Mechanical Characteristics of the Cartridge 8
8.1 Elements of the cartridge 8
8.2 Reference Planes of the case 8
8.3 Dimensions of the case 8
8.3.1 Overall dimension 8
8.3.2 Reference points for reference planes 9
8.3.3 Positioning notches 10
8.3.4 Handling notches 10
8.3.5 Mis-insertion protection 11
8.3.6 Stacking features 11
8.3.7 Label area of the rear side 12
8.3.8 Central window 12
8.3.9 Sliding door 12
8.3.10 Case opening 12
8.4 Write-inhibit mechanism 13
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
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8.5 Flexibility of the case 13
8.5.1 Requirements 13
8.5.2 Procedure 13
8.6 Tape reel 13
8.6.1 Locking mechanism 13
8.6.2 Axis of rotation of the reel 14
8.6.3 Reel flanges 14
8.6.4 Metallic insert 14
8.6.5 Toothed rim 15
8.6.6 Hub of the reel 15
8.6.7 Relative positions of hub and case 15
8.6.8 Characteristics of the toothed rim 15
8.7 Magnetic tape 16
8.7.1 Tape wind 16
8.7.2 Wind tension 16
8.7.3 Circumference of the tape reel 16
8.7.4 Moment of inertia 16
8.8 Leader pin assembly 17
8.8.1 Leader pin assembly dimensions 17
8.8.2 Leader tape attachment to leader pin assembly 17
8.8.3 Latching the leader pin assembly in the case 17
8.8.4 Mechanism and tape exit keepout area 18
8.9 LTO CM 18
8.10 Areas reserved for cartridge presence sensing 19
8.11 Handling grips and insertion indicator 19
8.11.1 Side grips 19
8.11.2 Insertion indicator 19
8.11.3 Top grip 19
8.11.4 Bottom grip 20
8.12 Pad Printing Areas 20
8.13 Opacity 20
Section 3 - Requirements for the Unrecorded Tape 35
9 Mechanical, physical and dimensional characteristics of the tape 35
9.1 Materials 35
9.2 Tape length 35
9.2.1 Length of magnetic tape 35
9.2.2 Length of leader tape 35
9.2.3 Length of splicing tape 35
9.3 Tape Width 35
9.3.1 Width of magnetic tape 35
9.3.2 Width of leader tape 35
9.3.3 Width of splicing tape 35
9.3.4 Procedure 36
9.4 Tape Thickness 36
9.4.1 Procedure 36
9.5 Longitudinal curvature 36
9.5.1 Procedure 36
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
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9.6 Edge Quality 36
9.6.1 Edge deviation 36
9.7 Tape flatness 37
9.7.1 Cupping 37
9.7.2 Curl/Twist 38
9.8 Coating adhesion 38
9.8.1 Procedure 38
9.9 Layer-to-layer adhesion 38
9.9.1 Requirement 38
9.9.2 Procedure 39
9.10 Coefficient of friction 40
9.10.1 Requirement 40
9.10.2 Procedure for the measurement of the dynamic friction between the magnetic surface and the back surface 40
9.10.3 Procedure for the measurement of the dynamic friction between the back surface and SS-310 stainless steel 40
9.10.4 Procedure for the measurement of the dynamic friction between the magnetic surface and AlO /TiC ceramic 40
9.11 Surface quality 41
9.11.1 Surface roughness 41
9.12 Abrasivity 41
9.13 Tensile strength 41
9.13.1 Breaking strength 41
9.13.2 Offset yield strength 41
9.14 Longitudinal compliance 41
9.14.1 Procedure 42
9.15 Residual elongation 42
9.15.1 Requirement 42
9.15.2 Procedure 42
9.16 Flexural rigidity 42
9.16.1 Requirement 42
9.16.2 Procedure 42
9.17 Transverse dimensional stability 42
9.18 Electrical resistance of coated surfaces 42
9.18.1 Requirement 42
9.18.2 Procedure 42
10 Magnetic Recording Characteristics 43
10.1 General 43
10.2 Test conditions 43
10.3 Optimum Recording Current 44
10.4 Signal amplitude 44
10.5 Resolution 44
10.6 Overwrite 44
10.6.1 Requirement 44
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
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10.7 Ease of erasure 44
10.8 Broad Band Signal-to-Noise Ratio 44
10.8.1 Requirement 44
10.9 Tape quality 44
10.9.1 Missing pulses 44
10.9.2 Missing pulse zone 45
Section 4 - Requirements for an Interchanged Tape 45
11 Method of recording servo bands 45
11.1 General 45
11.2 Servo bands 45
11.2.1 Servo stripes 46
11.2.2 Servo bursts 46
11.2.3 Servo frames 46
11.2.4 Servo signal amplitude 47
11.2.5 Servo signal polarity 47
11.2.6 Servo defects 48
11.3 Servo frame encoding 48
11.3.1 Method of encoding position and manufacturer's data 48
11.3.2 LPOS word construction 50
11.3.3 Tape manufacturer encoding 51
11.3.4 Cross tape identification 53
11.4 Servo band location 53
11.5 Servo band pitch 53
11.6 Nominal servo locations 53
11.7 Long-term average servo location 53
12 Method of recording data tracks 54
12.1 Physical recording density 54
12.2 Nominal bit cell length 54
12.3 Long-term average bit cell length 54
12.4 Short-term Average Bit Cell Length (STA) 54
12.5 Rate of change of the STA 54
12.6 Bit shift 54
12.7 Recording performance test conditions 54
12.8 Track sequence addressing 54
12.9 Location of data tracks 55
12.10 Track width 55
12.11 Adjacent track pitch 56
12.12 Azimuth 56
12.13 Total character skew 56
12.14 Channel Layout 56
13 Format 57
13.1 General 57
13.2 Protected Record 58
13.3 Processed Protected Record Sequence 59
13.3.1 Control Symbols 59
13.3.2 End Marker 60
13.3.3 Access Points 60
13.3.4 Alignment and append points 61

© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
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13.4 Data Set 61
13.4.1 Format Identification Data Set (FID) 61
13.4.2 User Data Set 62
13.4.3 EOD Data Set 62
13.4.4 Housekeeping Data Set 62
13.5 Data Set Information Table (DSIT) 62
13.5.1 Drive Manufacturer Use 63
13.5.2 Drive Manufacturer Use C1 63
13.5.3 Reserved 63
13.5.4 Drive Manufacturer's Identity 63
13.5.5 Data Set number 63
13.5.6 Valid Data Length 64
13.5.7 Access Point Offset 64
13.5.8 Total Records 64
13.5.9 Total File Marks 65
13.5.10 Record Count 65
13.5.11 File Mark Count 66
13.5.12 Thread Count 66
13.5.13 Data Set Type 66
13.5.14 Data Set Flags 67
13.5.15 Thread Write Pass 67
13.5.16 Tape Write Pass 67
13.6 ECC 67
13.6.1 Sub Data Set 68
13.6.2 C1 Sub Data Set 68
13.6.3 ECC Encoded Sub Data Set 69
13.6.4 Codeword Pair designation 70
13.7 Codeword Quads (CQ) 70
13.7.1 Codeword Pair Header 71
13.7.2 First Codeword Pair 72
13.7.3 Second Codeword Pair 72
13.8 Allocation of CQs to Logical Tracks 73
13.9 Data randomisation 74
13.10 RLL encoding 74
14 Recording of data on tape 75
14.1 Synchronised Data Set 75
14.1.1 Data Set Separator (DSS) 75
14.1.2 VFO Field 1 76
14.1.3 VFO Field 2 76
14.1.4 Synchronised Codeword Quad (SCQ) 76
14.2 Write equalisation bit encoding 77
14.3 Writing cells on tape 77
15 Regions on tape 77
15.1 Logical Points and regions 77
15.2 Calibration Region 79
15.3 User Data Region 79
15.4 Interrupted Data Sets 79
15.5 Repeated CQ Sets 80
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
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15.6 Amble CQs 80
15.7 Beginning of Wrap (BOW) 81
15.8 End of Wrap (EOW) 81
15.9 Appending and Overwriting 81
15.10 Servo Tracking Faults 82
Annexes
A - Measurement of Bit Shift 83
B - Measurement of Broad Band Signal-to-Noise Ratio 84
C - Tape Abrasivity Measurement Procedure 86
D - LTO Cartridge Memory 88
E - Flexural Rigidity Procedure 107
F - LTO CM electrical interface 109
G - Recommendations for transportation 126
H - Inhibitor Tape 127
I - Vendor code lists 128
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
ix
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (the International Electrotechnical Commission) form the
specialized system for worldwide standardization. National bodies that are members of ISO or IEC participate in the
development of International Standards through technical committees established by the respective organization to deal with
particular fields of technical activity. ISO and IEC technical committees collaborate in fields of mutual interest. Other
international organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO and IEC, also take part in the work. In the
field of information technology, ISO and IEC have established a joint technical committee, ISO/IEC JTC 1.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 3.
The main task of the joint technical committee is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards adopted by
the joint technical committee are circulated to national bodies for voting. Publication as an International Standard requires
approval by at least 75 % of the national bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this International Standard may be the subject of patent rights.
ISO and IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO/IEC 22050 was prepared by ECMA (as ECMA-319) and was adopted, under a special “fast-track procedure”, by Joint
Technical Committee ISO/IEC JTC 1, Information technology, in parallel with its approval by national bodies of ISO and IEC.
Annexes A to F form a normative part of this International Standard. Annexes G to I are for information only.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
x
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/IEC 22050:2002(E)

.
Information technology — Data interchange on 12,7 mm, 384-track
magnetic tape cartridges — Ultrium-1 format
Section 1 — General
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies the physical and magnetic characteristics of magnetic tape cartridges, using magnetic tape
12,65 mm wide so as to provide physical interchange of such cartridges between drives. It also specifies the quality of the
recorded signals, the recording method and the recorded format, thereby allowing data interchange between drives by means of
such cartridges. The format supports variable length Logical Records, high speed search, and the use of a registered algorithm
for data compression.
This International Standard specifies four types of cartridges depending on the length of tape contained in the case. These four
types are referred to as Type A, Type B, Type C and Type D; their nominal capacity is 100 Gbytes, 50 Gbytes, 30 Gbytes and
10 Gbytes, respectively.
NOTE - One Gbyte contains 1 000 000 000 bytes.
Information interchange between systems also requires, at a minimum, agreement between the interchange parties upon the
interchange code(s) and the specification of the structure and labeling of the information on the interchanged cartridge.
This International Standard shall be used only in conjunction with ISO/IEC 22091.
Together with a standard for volume and file structure, e.g. Standard ISO 1001, this document provides for full data
interchange between data processing systems.
2 Conformance
2.1 Magnetic tape cartridge
A tape cartridge shall be in conformance with this International Standard if it meets all the mandatory requirements specified
herein. The tape requirements shall be satisfied throughout the extent of the tape.
2.2 Generating system
A system generating a magnetic tape cartridge for interchange shall be in conformance with this International Standard if all the
recordings that it makes meet the mandatory requirements of this International Standard.
2.3 Receiving system
A system receiving a magnetic tape cartridge for interchange shall be in conformance with this International Standard if it is
able to handle any recording made on the tape according to this International Standard.
3 Normative references
The following normative documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this
International Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any of these publications do not apply.
However, parties to agreements based on this International Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying
the most recent editions of the normative documents indicated below. For undated references, the latest edition of the normative
document referred to applies. Members of ISO and IEC maintain registers of currently valid International Standards.
ISO 1001:1986 Information processing — File structure and labelling of magnetic tapes for information
interchange
ISO 527 (all parts) Plastics — Determination of tensile properties
ISO 3574:1999 Cold-reduced carbon steel sheet of commercial and drawing qualities
ISO 4287:1997 Geometrical product specification (GPS) — Surface texture: Profile method — Terms, definitions
and surface texture parameters
ISO/IEC 646:1991 Information technology — ISO 7-bit coded character set for information interchange
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
ISO/IEC 11576:1994 Information technology — Procedure for the registration of algorithms for the lossless compression
of data
ISO/IEC 14443-2:2001 Identification cards — Contactless integrated circuit(s) cards — Proximity cards — Part 2: Radio
frequency power and signal interface
ISO/IEC 22091:2002 Information technology — Streaming Lossless Data Compression algorithm (SLDC)
IEC 60950-1:2001 Information technology equipment — Safety — Part 1: General requirements
ASTM D4065-01:1995 Standard Practice for Plastics: Dynamic Mechanical Properties: Determination and Report of
Procedures
ASTM D4092-01:1996 Standard Terminology: Plastics: Dynamic Mechanical Properties
4 Terms and definitions
For the purpose of this International Standard the following terms and definitions apply.
4.1 Access Point
A point, at the start of a sequence of Processed Records, at which the presentation of Symbols to a reprocessing algorithm is
required to start at a known state to enable recovery, regardless of whether the data of interest in a retrieval operation starts at
that point or at a subsequent point.
4.2 algorithm
A set of rules for transforming the logical representation of data.
4.3 algorithmically processed data
Data that has been processed by a defined processing algorithm.
4.4 a.c. erase
A process of erasure utilising alternating fields of decaying level.
4.5 Average Signal Amplitude
The average peak-to-peak value of the output signal from the read head at the fundamental frequency of the specified physical
recording density over a minimum of 25,4 mm of track, exclusive of missing pulses.
4.6 back surface
The surface of the tape opposite to the magnetic coating which is used to record data.
4.7 Beginning of Tape (BOT)
The reference point on the tape nearest to the leader pin assembly.
4.8 Beginning of Wrap (BOW)
The Logical Point that indicates the beginning of a wrap: LP3 for forward wraps, LP4 for reverse wraps.
4.9 bit
A single digit in the binary number system, a ZERO or a ONE.
4.10 bit cell
A distance along the track between adjacent RLL encoded bits.
4.11 Broad Band Signal-to-Noise Ratio (BBSNR)
The average read signal power divided by the average integrated broad band (floor) RMS noise power and expressed in dB.
4.12 byte
An ordered set of eight bits (12 Channel bits) that are acted on as a unit.
4.13 cartridge
A case holding a single supply reel of magnetic tape and leader tape with an attached leader pin assembly at the BOT end.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
4.14 Channel bit
A bit output from RLL channel encoding.
4.15 Codeword
A set of bytes containing data and the ECC bytes calculated on that data.
4.16 Codeword Pair
An interleaved pair of Codewords.
4.17 Codeword Quad (CQ)
A set of two Codeword Pairs.
4.18 CQ Set
A group of CQs that are written at the same time, i.e. one on each of the active tracks.
4.19 cyclic redundancy check (CRC) character
A mathematically computed code which yields check bytes used for the detection of errors.
4.20 Data Set
The smallest complete unit of information written to, or received from, the tape.
4.21 Data Set Information Table (DSIT)
A table within a Data Set which describes the content of the Data Set.
4.22 End of Data (EOD)
The point on the tape at the end of the last valid Data Set recorded on tape.
4.23 End of Tape (EOT)
The point on a track farthest from BOT up to which recording is allowed.
4.24 End of Wrap (EOW)
The Logical Point that indicates the end of a wrap: LP4 for forward wraps, LP3 for reverse wraps.
4.25 Error Correcting Code (ECC)
A mathematically computed code which yields check bytes used for the detection and correction of errors.
4.26 File Mark
A recorded element requested to be written (or read) by the host that is typically used to mark organisational boundaries in a
serial file structure, such as directory boundaries.
4.27 flux transition position
The point on the magnetic tape that exhibits the maximum free-space flux density normal to the tape surface.
4.28 flux transition spacing
The distance along a track between successive flux transitions.
4.29 forward tape motion
The tape is moving forward when it is leaving the reel in the cartridge and being wound onto the reel in the mechanism.
4.30 header
Data that is prefixed to a data entity to provide identification and checking.
4.31 Housekeeping Data Set
A Data Set which contains no user data and which is identified as such by the values in the data fields therein.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved

4.32 logical forward
The direction of tape motion toward End of Wrap.
4.33 logical reverse
The direction of tape motion away from End of Wrap.
4.34 Logical Point
Defined bound where regions of the tape begin or end.
4.35 magnetic tape
A tape that accepts and retains magnetic signals intended for input, output, and storage of data for information processing.
4.36 Master Standard Reference Tape (MSRT)
A tape selected as the standard for reference recording current, signal amplitude, resolution, BBSNR, overwrite ratio, servo
signal amplitude, and servo signal polarity.
NOTE - A Master Standard Reference Tape has been established at Ladas and Parry.
4.37 LTO Cartridge Memory (LTO CM)
A contactless storage device that is mounted in the case, and which can be used to hold information about that specific
cartridge, the tape in the cartridge, and the data on the tape.
4.38 Optimum Recording Current
1,15 times the minimum current which, when applied to a magnetic tape, will cause the average signal amplitude to equal 95 %
of the maximum average signal amplitude when recorded at density TRD1.
4.39 physical end of tape
Position of the tape farthest from the leader pin assembly at which the tape is cut and wrapped onto the hub during
manufacture.
4.40 physical forward
The direction of tape motion from BOT to EOT. This will be logical forward for even numbered wraps.
4.41 physical reverse
The direction of tape motion from EOT to BOT. This will be logical forward for odd numbered wraps.
4.42 pre-record condition
A tape cartridge that has been a.c. erased and subsequently servo-written in preparation for data recording is in a pre-record
condition.
4.43 processed data
A sequence of Symbols which results from the application of processing to data.
Data that has been processed by an algorithm.
4.44 Processed Record
A sequence of Symbols which results from the application of processing to a Protected Record.
4.45 Processing (Compression)
The use of an algorithm to transform host data into Symbols.
4.46 Protected Record
A Record with a 4-byte CRC added to the end. The CRC is checked during the deformatting process to ensure that the Record
is uncorrupted.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
4.47 Record
A Record is the smallest distinct set of data bytes supplied, e.g. from a host, for processing and recording by a tape drive
system, and the smallest distinct set of data to be read from tape, reprocessed and made available, e.g. to a host, by a tape drive
system.
4.48 recorded element
A File Mark or Record.
4.49 Reference Recording Current
The Optimum Recording Current of the Master Standard Reference Tape.
4.50 Reprocessing (Decompression)
The use of an algorithm to transform Symbols into data as required by the host.
4.51 reverse tape motion
The tape is moving in reverse when it is leaving the reel in the mechanism and being wound onto the reel in the cartridge.
4.52 run length limited encoding (RLL)
An algorithmic process applied to an arbitrary input binary sequence that produces an output binary sequence that has a
specified minimum number of ZEROs between ONEs, and a specified maximum number of ZEROs between ONEs.
4.53 Secondary Standard Reference Tape (SSRT)
A tape, the performance of which is known and stated in relation to that of the Master Standard Reference Tape.
NOTE - Secondary Standard Reference Tapes can be ordered as "Ultrium Format Specification Generation 1 SSRT" from Ladas and Parry,
5670 Wilshire Blvd., 21st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90036. In principle such tapes will be available for a period of 10 years from the
publication of the first edition of this International Standard. However, by agreement between ECMA and Ladas and Parry, this period may
be shortened or extended to take account of demands for such SSRTs.
It is intended that these SSRTs be used for calibrating tertiary reference tapes for use in routine calibration.
4.54 servo acquisition region
A region on tape that may be used by the servo circuitry.
4.55 Standard Reference Amplitude (SRA)
The average signal amplitude from the Master Standard Reference Tape when it is recorded with the Reference Recording
Current at density TRD1. Traceability to the Standard Reference Amplitude is provided by the calibration factors supplied with
each Secondary Standard Reference Tape.
4.56 Symbol
An associated string of bits generated by a processing (compression) algorithm, which represents a byte of data, a string of
bytes of data, or control information.
4.57 Synchronised Codeword Quad (SCQ)
A serial bit stream formed by inserting synchronisation patterns into an RLL encoded Codeword Quad.
4.58 Test Recording Density (TRD)
The recording density at which specific tests are performed. There are three test recording densities: TRD1, TRD2 and TRD3.
See 12.1.
4.59 wrap
A track group recorded in the physical forward or physical reverse direction.
4.60 write equalisation
An algorithmic process that linearly transforms an input binary sequence into another binary sequence.
4.61 (1,7) RLL code
A run length limited encoding scheme the output of which has no fewer than one ZERO between ONEs and no more than seven
ZEROs between ONEs.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved

5 Conventions and notations
5.1 Representation of numbers
The following conventions and notations apply in this International Standard unless otherwise stated.
− A measured value is rounded off to the least significant digit of the corresponding specified value. It implies that a
specified value of 1,26 with a positive tolerance +0,01, and a negative tolerance -0,02 allows a range of measured values
from 1,235 to 1,275.
− In each block and in each field the bytes shall be arranged with Byte 0, the most significant, first. Within each byte the bits
shall be arranged with Bit 7, the most significant, first and Bit 0, the least significant bit, last.
− Letters and digits in parentheses represent numbers in hexadecimal notation.
− The setting of bits is denoted by ZERO or ONE.
− Numbers in binary notation and bit patterns are represented by strings of digits 0 and 1 shown with the most significant bit
to the left. Within such strings, X may be used to indicate that the setting of a bit is not specified within the string.
5.2 Dimensions
Unless otherwise stated, all dimensions in the figures are in millimetres with a tolerance of ± 0,50 mm.
5.3 Names
The names of basic elements, e.g. specific fields, are written with a capital initial letter.
5.4 Alphanumeric string encoding
Unless otherwise stated, all alphanumeric strings shall be encoded using ISO/IEC 646.
6 Acronyms
ACN  Absolute CQ Sequence Number
BOT  Beginning of Tape
BBSNR  Broad Band Signal-to-Noise Ratio
BOW  Beginning of Wrap mark
CRC  Cyclic Redundancy Check character
DSIT  Data Set Information Table
ECC  Error-Correcting Code
EOD  End of Data
EOT  End of Tape
EOW  End of Wrap mark
FID  Format Identification Data Set
LPn  Logical Point, where n = 0 to 7
LPOS  Longitudinal Position
lsb  Least Signicant Bit
LSB  Least Significant Byte
msb  Most Significant Bit
MSB  Most Significant Byte
MSRT  Master Standard Reference Tape
RLL  Run Length Limited
RWW  Read-While-Write
SCQ  Synchronised Codeword Quad
SNR  Signal-to-Noise Ratio
SRA  Standard Reference Amplitude
SSRT  Secondary Standard Reference Tape
TRD  Test Recording Density
7 Environment and safety
The conditions specified below refer to the ambient conditions immediately surrounding the cartridge.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
7.1 Cartridge and tape testing environment
Unless otherwise stated, tests and measurements made on the cartridge and tape to check the requirements of this International
Standard shall be carried out under the following conditions:
− temperature:  23 °C ± 2 °C
− relative humidity: 40 % to 60 %
− conditioning before testing: 24 h min.
7.2 Cartridge operating environment
Cartridges used for data interchange shall be capable of operating under the following conditions:
− temperature:  10 °C to 45 °C
− relative humidity: 10 % to 80 %
− wet bulb temperature: 26 °C max.
NOTE - Local tape temperature in excess of 52 °C may cause permanent tape damage.
If during storage and/or transportation a cartridge has been exposed to conditions outside the above values, it shall be
conditioned before use by exposure to the operating environment for a time equal to, or greater than, the time away from the
operating environment up to a maximum of 24 h. There shall be no deposit of moisture on or in the cartridge.
7.3 Cartridge storage environment
Cartridges shall be stored under the following conditions:
− temperature:  16 °C to 32 °C
− relative humidity:  20 % to 80 %
− wet bulb temperature: 26 °C max.
The stray magnetic field at any point on the tape shall not exceed 4 000 A/m. There shall be no deposit of moisture on or in the
cartridge.
7.4 Tape tension
The tape between LP1 and LP6 shall not be subjected to a tension higher than 2,0 N under any circumstance. Outside of this
area the tape shall not be subjected to a tension higher than 6,0 N.
7.5 Safety
The cartridge and its components shall satisfy the requirements of IEC 60950-1 when used in the intended manner or in any
foreseeable use in an information processing system.
7.6 Flammability
The cartridge as an assembly shall be constructed such that, if ignited from a match flame, and when so ignited does not
continue to burn in a still carbon dioxide atmosphere.
7.7 Transportation
Recommended limits for the environments to which a cartridge may be subjected during transportation, and the precautions to
be taken to minimise the possibility of damage, are provided in annex G.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved

Section 2 - Requirements for the Cartridge
8 Dimensional and Mechanical Characteristics of the Cartridge
8.1 Elements of the cartridge
The tape cartridge shall consist of the following elements:
- a case
- positioning notches
- handling notches
- a write-inhibit mechanism
- a reel for magnetic tape
- a locking mechanism for the reel
- a magnetic tape wound on the hub of the reel
- a leader pin
- a parking mechanism for the leader pin
- a sliding door
- a cartridge memory
- handling features
Dimensional characteristics are specified for those parameters deemed mandatory for interchange and compatible use of the
cartridge. Where there is freedom of design, only the functional characteristics of the elements described are indicated. In the
figures a typical implementation is represented in third angle projection.
Figure 1 : General view of the cartridge
Figure 2 : View of the Reference Planes A, B and C
Figure 3 : Bottom side
Figure 4 : Top side
Figure 5 : Rear side
Figure 6 : Front side
Figure 7 : Right side
Figure 8 : Left side with access door open
Figure 9 : Locking pad features in the reel
Figure 10 : Cross-section of the hub/brake assembly in the in-hand position
Figure 11 : Enlarged partial view from figure 10
Figure 12 : Cross-section of the hub/brake assembly in the cartridge-in-drive position
Figure 13 : Cross-section as viewed toward centre of reel through the teeth at diameter 37,50 mm
Figure 14 : Cross-section of a tooth part
Figure 15 : Leader pin assembly with attached tape seen from the top and from the side
Figure 16 : Leader pin assembly in parked position and detail of the door in closed position
Figure 17 : Leader pin assembly in parked position and door in open position, viewed from the left side
Figure 18 : Location of the LTO CM
Figure 19 : Handling grips and cartridge insertion indicator
8.2 Reference Planes of the case (figure 2)
Where they are purely descriptive, the dimensions are referred to three orthogonal reference planes – A, B, and C. Where the
dimensions are related to the position of the cartridge in the drive, they may be referenced to Plane P.
Three locating areas A , A , and A shall be in Plane A. Plane B is perpendicular to Plane A and passes through the centre of
1 2 3
locating hole B and the centreline of locating slot B . Plane C is perpendicular to Planes A and B and passes through the
1 2
centre of locating hole B .
8.3 Dimensions of the case
The dimensions of the case shall be measured in the Test Environment. The dimensions of the case in any operating
environment can be derived from the dimensions specified in this clause.
8.3.1 Overall dimension (figures 4, 6, 8)
The length of the case shall be
l = 102,00 mm ± 0,30 mm
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
The width of the case shall be
l = 105,40 mm ± 0,30 mm
The height of the case shall be
l = 21,50 mm ± 0,25 mm
The height of the stacking features is not included in l .
The case shall have general radii for vertical edges and horizontal edges.
The radius of the specified vertical edges shall be
r = 2,00 mm ± 0,50 mm
The radius of the specified horizontal edges shall be
r = 1,00 mm ± 0,50 mm
All other features shall have general radii of 0,50 mm max.
8.3.2 Reference points for reference planes (figure 3)
The locating areas A , A , and A shall be flush with the bottom of the cartridge. The locating area A shall be within 0,25 mm
1 2 3 4
from Plane A in the free state. These locating areas shall be non-textured to allow accurate locating of the cartridge on
reference points in the mechanism and handling equipment.
The size and location of the four locating areas, A , A , A , and A (see figure 3), are specified as follows.
1 2 3 4
The centre of locating area A is on the intersection of Planes B and C, thus its position is specified by
l = 20,50 mm ± 0,20mm
l = 11,45 mm ± 0,20 mm
Its diameter shall be
d = 7,80 mm min.
The locating area A presents an oval area. The length shall be
l = 1,80 mm min.
The radius at the end of the oval shall be
r = 3,80 mm min.
The centre of locating area A is on Plane B at a distance
l = 86,15 mm ± 0,25mm
from Plane C.
The position of the rectangular locating area A shall be
l = 13,75 mm min.
l = 4,75 mm min.
The position of the rectangular locating area A shall be
l = 13,75 mm min.
l = 4,75 mm min.
The position of the locating features B and B for Plane B shall be specified as follows.
1 2
B shall be centred within locating area A . It shall be a square hole of side
1 1
l = 3,00 mm ± 0,08mm
with rounded corners with a maximum radius of 1,00 mm.
B shall be centred within location area A . It shall be a slot of side
2 2
l = 3,00 mm ± 0,08 mm
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved

Both B and B shall have a depth specified by
1 2
l = 5,00 mm min.
8.3.3 Positioning notches (figures 3, 6, 7)
There shall be three positioning notches, open toward the bottom side, and one secondary datum area on the front of the
cartridge. Where surfaces have draft angle, dimensions shall be controlled at Plane A (except as noted), and the angle shall be
0° 45' nominal.
The location of the centre of the V-shaped notch shall be specified by
l = 81,95 mm ± 0,15 mm
l = 15,47 mm ± 0,15 mm
Its radius at the bottom shall be
r = 1,50 mm max.
Its opening shall be
α = 60° ± 1°
The depth of the V-shaped notch shall be
l = 8,90 mm min.
This notch position is measured with a 3,50 mm spherical probe, 3,0 mm above Plane A.
The dimensions of the two side notches shall be specified as follows.
Their dimension shall be
l = 47,50 mm ± 0,15 mm
The length of the notches shall be
l = 5,00 mm ± 0,15 mm
The width of the notches shall be
l = 2,80 mm min.
The depth of the notches shall be
l = 8,70 mm min.
The secondary datum area on the front of the cartridge shall be specified by
l = 8,00 mm min.
l = 7,50 mm max.
l = 13,50 mm min.
This surface may have draft from Plane A and shall be located at a distance from Plane B by
l = 20,36 mm ± 0,10 mm
when measured with a spherical probe, 3,0 mm above Plane A.
8.3.4 Handling notches (figures 3, 4, 7)
There shall be three notches used for handling. They shall be specified as follows:
The dimensions of the bottom notches shall be
l = 81,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
l = 82,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
l = 6,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
The width of the bottom notches shall be
l = 4,75 mm min.
The depth of the bottom notches shall be
l = 8,70 mm min.
The dimensions of the side notch shall be
l = 6,00 mm ± 0,50 mm
l = 18,00 mm ± 0,50 mm
α = 30° ± 2°
α = 60° ± 2°
l = 2,25 mm ± 0,50 mm
l = 10,75 mm ± 0,50 mm
8.3.5 Mis-insertion protection (figures 4, 6)
The cartridge shall have a cut-out in the front side of the case to prevent the cartridge from being inserted into the drive in the
wrong orientation. This feature further prevents the use of unsuitable cartridges of similar, but not identical, construction.
The depth of the notch shall be
l = 5,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
The surface it forms shall be defined by l = 16,80 mm nominal and the tangent to an arc r = 51,50 mm nominal with the
29 5
same centre as the central window as described in 8.3.8. The actual surface shall be within 0,50 mm of this nominal geometry.
8.3.6 Stacking features (figures 3, 4, 5, 8)
The bottom side of the case shall have four parallel stacking ribs. The dimensions shall be
l = 3,00 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 67,45 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 6,00 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 1,20 mm max.
l = 50,00 mm ± 0,30 mm
The corners shall have a radius
r = 0,60 mm min.
The height shall be defined by
l = 0,50 mm ± 0,15 mm (measured locally around each pad)
The top side of the case shall have recess areas for the stacking ribs to fit into. The dimensions shall be
l = 67,45 mm ± 0,30 mm
l = 6,60 mm ± 0,30 mm
l = 4,30 mm ± 0,30 mm
l = 50,00 mm ± 0,30 mm
The depth of the recess areas shall be
l = 0,85 mm min. (measured locally around each recess)
The radii of the recess areas shall be
r = 0,35 mm max.
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved

8.3.7 Label area of the rear side (figure 5)
There shall be one label area on the rear side of the case.
The distance of the bottom edge of the label area from the bottom side of the case shall be
l = 2,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
It shall be recessed from the rear side by 0,20 mm min. and 0,50 mm max.
The radii of the corners shall be
r = 1,25 mm max.
The distance of the edge of the label area from the left side of the case shall be
l = 7,50 mm ± 0,25 mm
The width of the label area shall be
l = 80,00 mm ± 0,35 mm
The top of the label area shall be
l = 19,50 mm ± 0,35 mm
8.3.8 Central window (figure 3)
The bottom side of the case shall have a central window to allow penetration of the drive spindle into the hub.
Its diameter shall be
d = 40,00 mm min.
Its centre shall be defined by
l = 42,45 mm ± 0,15 mm
l = 30,50 mm ± 0,15 mm
8.3.9 Sliding door (figures 8, 16)
On the left side of the cartridge, there shall be a door that slides toward the rear of the cartridge when opened. This door shall
be held in place by features internal to the case. The force required to slide the door fully open shall be no greater than 1,30 N
at l dimension. The cartridge means to close the door shall provide a minimum of 0,20 N closing force at the fully closed
position.
The door shall have a feature for opening as detailed with the following dimensions
l = 10,00 mm min.
r = 0,50 mm ± 0,25 mm
l = 0,75 mm max. (no protrusion beyond cartridge case)
l = 0,60 mm ± 0,25 mm
l = 2,95 mm min.
The door shall provide protection on one side of the cartridge and when in the open position, the door shall provide the opening
as outlined in 8.3.10.
8.3.10 Case opening (figures 8, 16)
The case shall have an opening that is visible when the door is in the open position. This opening is where the leader pin
assembly is seated.
The opening shall be defined by
l = 12,50 mm ± 0,25 mm (located with respect to the centreline shown)
l = 17,20 mm min.
l = 4,00 mm min.
r = 2,50 mm max.
r = 1,00 mm ± 0,25 mm
© ISO/IEC 2002 – All rights reserved
8.4 Write-inhibit mechanism (figures 3, 5)
The write-inhibit mechanism shall have a flat surface identified by a visual lock mark, such as a padlock on the rear of the
cartridge, when in the position in which writing is inhibited. In the write-enabled position the surface of the write-inhibit
mechanism shall be flush to 0,30 mm from the bottom surface of the cartridge case. In the write-inhibit position the write-
inhibit mechanism shall be at a minimum distance of 5,00 mm from the bottom surface. The force needed to move the write-
inhibit assembly, when applied tangentially to the surface of the cartridge, shall be in the range 2 N to 7 N.
The target area for sensing on the bottom of the case shall be
l = 77,50 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 82,95 mm ± 0,20 mm
The sensing area on the bottom of the case shall be defined by
d = 4,00 mm min.
The write-inhibit indication window on the rear side of the case shall be defined by
l = 7,50 mm ± 0,50 mm
l = 14,50 mm ± 0,50 mm
l = 5,75 mm ± 0,50 mm
l = 15,75 mm ± 0,50 mm
8.5 Flexibility of the case
The flexibility of the top and bottom sides of the case of the assembled cartridge (see figure 4) is the amount of deflection
observed when they are subjected to a perpendicular force, with the cartridge resting on a flat surface.
8.5.1 Requirements
The case shall not deflect by more than 2,50 mm max. when a force of 35,0 N is applied as described in 8.5.2.
8.5.2 Procedure
Measure the flexibility of the case in a universal testing machine operating in compression mode, using a suitable load cell for
the test.
Apply a single point load with a radius of 10 mm ± 1 mm to the top side of the case at the point shown in figure 4 and specified
by
l = 53,90 mm nominal
l = 76,00 mm nominal
Repeat for the bottom side at the same point and specified by the same method.
8.6 Tape reel
8.6.1 Locking mechanism (figure 9)
The locking mechanism for the tape reel maintains pack tension du
...