Backup Tape Cartridges and Archive Media

Cartridge generation must match the drive

The format name on the cartridge, such as LTO Ultrium 4, LTO Ultrium 5 or AIT-1, is the compatibility key. A tape drive accepts its own generation and usually one or two before it, never a newer one, so check the drive's list before choosing. The paired capacity figure is native then compressed: 800/1600 GB for LTO-4, 1.5/3.0 TB for LTO-5 and 2.5/6.25 TB for LTO-6. Older formats such as AIT use different cartridges that fit only their own drives.

Pack sizes, labels and keeping tape in good condition

Cartridges come singly or in multi-packs, which helps when a rotation schedule needs several identical tapes. Cleaning cartridges are a separate item that holds no data, so pick the one made for your drive's format. Autoloaders read barcode labels, so label-ready cartridges are handy when many tapes are in use. Keep tape in its case away from heat, damp and magnets. A few entries here are bare hard drives or drive racks, so read the media format line.

Questions about Backup Tape Cartridges and Archive Media

Can I use an LTO-5 cartridge in an LTO-6 drive?

Usually yes for reading and often for writing, because LTO drives accept their own generation and one or two before it. A newer cartridge never works in an older drive. Check the drive's compatibility table, since limits vary by generation.

What is a cleaning cartridge for?

It removes debris from the tape heads, and drives usually signal when it is needed. Use only the cleaning cartridge made for your drive's format, and follow its usage limit, since it has a limited number of uses.

How long does backup tape last?

Well-kept LTO cartridges are rated for decades of shelf life in stable, cool, dry conditions. The risk is often the drive, not the tape, as old generations become hard to read, so plan to migrate archives to newer media from time to time.