Short answer:  ordering them initialized means you don't have to write the 
internal label when you get them (label libv).

Long answer:
TSM requires a standard IBM tape (internal) label to be written at the 
beginning of the tape before they are used the first time.  
If you order the tapes initialized, you receive them with that label already 
written.
If you order the tapes uninitialized, you must write the internal label by 
running LABEL LIBV.

Or, if you set your tape library to AUTOLABEL=YES, TSM will write the label 
automatically on any uninitialized tapes the first time they are used.  In this 
case, it Just Doesn't Matter which way you order them.

W


 

-----Original Message-----
From: ADSM: Dist Stor Manager [mailto:ADSM-L AT VM.MARIST DOT EDU] On Behalf Of 
Loy, Mark W
Sent: Wednesday, September 08, 2010 9:28 AM
To: ADSM-L AT VM.MARIST DOT EDU
Subject: [ADSM-L] 3592 JB Tapes Initialized or Not?

OK, I hate to admit this but when purchasing 3592JB media, the question is 
always asked, "Do you want them initialized?"

What exactly does "initialized" mean as far as 3592JB cartridges are concerned 
and why would I want or not want them initialized?

I've searched online and cannot seem to find an answer.

TSM 5.5.3
TS3500 Library
3592-E05 Drives

Mark W Loy | Network Administrator - 1
PA Department of Transportation
Bureau of Infrastructure and Operations