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Linear Tape-Open
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=== Cleaning === [[File:LTO2-internal-head-cleaning-brush-detail.jpg|thumb|Internal head cleaning brush from an IBM LTO-2 FH drive. Swipes once for every insert and eject]] Although keeping a tape drive clean is important, normal cleaning cartridges are abrasive and frequent use will shorten the drive's lifespan. LTO drives have an internal tape head cleaning brush that is activated when a cartridge is inserted. When a more thorough cleaning is required the drive signals this on its display and/or via Tape Alert flags.<ref name="tapealert"/> Cleaning cartridge lifespan is usually from 15 to 50 cleanings. There are 2 basic methods of initiating a cleaning of a drive: robot cleaning and software cleaning. In addition to keeping the tape drive clean, it is also important to keep the media clean. Debris on the media can be deposited onto drive components that are in contact with the tape. This debris can result in increased media wear which generates more debris. Removing excessive debris from tape can reduce the number of data errors. Cleaning of the media requires special equipment.<ref name="HPE Cleaning"/> These cleaners are also used by Spectra Logic to clean new media that is marketed as "CarbideClean" media.<ref name="Certified"/> HP LTO Gen.1 drives have a cleaning strategy<ref name="HP cleaning strategy"/> that will prevent the drive from using the cleaning tape if it is not needed. In a change of strategy, HP LTO Gen 2, 3 and 4 drives will always clean when a Universal Cleaning Cartridge is inserted, whether the drive requires cleaning or not.<ref name="HP cleaning strategy" />
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