I doubt such a white paper even exists...

I think the only 'data' a tape drive can retain is its own
firmware/serial number/model number, etc....

Beyond that, it can't retain any data, it's primary function is to read
and write magnetic media, it is not designed to 'retain' any data other
than what it needs to function (i.e.. Firmware). 

> -----Original Message-----
> From: EMC NetWorker discussion 
> [mailto:NETWORKER AT LISTSERV.TEMPLE DOT EDU] On Behalf Of Clark, Patti
> Sent: Wednesday, August 06, 2008 11:02 AM
> To: NETWORKER AT LISTSERV.TEMPLE DOT EDU
> Subject: [Networker] Tape drive hw specs & residual data (off topic)
> 
> I know this is off topic, but I've looked at Dell (library) and IBM
> (LTO-2 manufacturer) and Google.  The question that I'm 
> trying to solve is whether there are any components on the 
> tape drive that might retain residual data.  Can someone 
> point me to a white paper, a component spec, anything that 
> would support a conclusion?
> 
> Patti Clark
> Sr. Unix System Administrator - RHCT, GSEC Office of 
> Scientific and Technical Information
> 
> 
> 
> 
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