LTO Technology Primer - Part Four
During a write operation, the servo system aligns TS0 with servo position 0 as the first track group is written in the forward direction. This view shows a close-up of two elements in an eight element head.
When the end of the tape marker passes the head, the servo system aligns TS1 with servo position five on the servo band. The second track group is then written in the reverse direction. This process repeats as the data is written in an inward spiral, or serpentine pattern, with the third, fourth, and subsequent passes of head.
The space between tracks written in opposing directions is called a Direction Buffer. This space is designed to minimize magnetic interference between tracks written in opposing directions, or "cross-track interference".
The innovation of this design is based in part on a bi-directional, multi-channel adaptation of the linear format in common usage in the storage industry. Powerful new error connection techniques and state-of-the-art head manufacturing combine to produce a format which provides unparalleled data storage capacity with the Ultrium product line, and fast access time with the Accellis product line.