Scalar i500 User’s Guide 9Chapter 11 DescriptionThe Scalar i500 tape library automates the retrieval, storage, andmanagement of tape cartridges. Tape cartridges are stored in the libraryand mounted and dismounted from tape drives using firmware runningon the library or software running on the host systems.The Scalar i500 tape library is different from other tape libraries because itis an intelligent library (see Intelligent Storage on page 13). The Scalari500 tape library offers advanced management features and reliability aswell as scalable performance and storage capacity. As your storagecapacity and tape drive requirements change, expansion modules can beadded to the library, allowing a configuration of up to a full 41 rack units(41U, where 1U = 1.75”).The Scalar i500 library is designed for ease of installation, configuration,and field upgrades. The Scalar i500 library is built upon two basicbuilding blocks: the 5U control module and 9U expansion module.These building blocks form the basis of the following libraryconfigurations:• A 5U library, consisting of a 5U stand-alone control module. Figure 1shows the front view of a 5U library.• A 14U library, consisting of one 5U control module and one 9Uexpansion module. Figure 2 on page 11 shows the front view of a 14Ulibrary.• A 23U library, consisting of one 5U control module and two 9Uexpansion modules. Figure 3 on page 12 shows the front view of a23U library.
