Use backup tape and replace ScheduleDuring tape backup process, the media backup tape head moves through read / write, roller alignment and drive rollers. Each step through the tape drive wears a small amount of the oxide layer used to store data. Can use a tape backup and check without error only to fail when a file needs to be restored. The trick is to maximize the use of the belt without allowing it to perform.


Our recommended use tape backup and replacement program is derived from the entry of hundreds of users, manufacturers of tape drives and recommended replacement schedules, and years and years of tracking the life and integrity of the tape backup.

In short .. Work.

The program includes, at any time, 12 movies. The tapes are labeled as follows:

1) Monday 5) Friday 1 of 9) Room 1

2) Tuesday, 6) Friday, 2 10) 2 nd quarter

3) Wednesday, 7) Friday, 3 of 11) Quarter 3

4) Thursday Friday, 4 of 12) Quarter 4

Monday to Thursday tapes are used as expected. On Friday, one of the 4 tapes are used. 1,2,3 and 4 on Friday tapes are used consecutively, so you always have a backup over a week old. We have witnessed situations where a virus has infected a network, and damaged files. Just going back to a previous backup to infection allows the reconstruction of such files, and often takes several days to detect or identify these infections.

The neighborhood of 1,2,3 and 4 tapes were used at the end of each of its fiscal quarters. These tapes are usually the tape near the end of its useful life. This will be the last use of this tape.

This rotation plan requires the purchase of four new films every year. At the time of purchase, the tapes are rotated in different roles. Each tape on Friday is set aside pending a backup role quarterly. Monday through Thursday are advanced tapes Friday 1, 2, 3 and 4 functions. 4 new tapes are inserted into the Monday - Thursday duties.

This program involves the use of each tape 66 times. We have found that it is a reasonable life expectancy for most backup tapes. The calendar provides several levels of protection that the loss or corruption occur.

Note that the tapes should be kept warm and dry and at least weekly and quarterly tapes offsite.