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From: jnp@calmasd.UUCP
Newsgroups: ca.general,comp.unix.questions,comp.misc
Subject: Re: Should we reuse mag tapes?
Message-ID: <2176@calmasd.GE.COM>
Date: Thu, 26-Feb-87 12:11:09 EST
Article-I.D.: calmasd.2176
Posted: Thu Feb 26 12:11:09 1987
Date-Received: Sun, 1-Mar-87 09:25:21 EST
References: <1058@megatest.UUCP> <484@apple.UUCP>
Organization: G.E.- Calma R&D, San Diego, CA
Lines: 21
Xref: utgpu junk:4829 comp.unix.questions:1213 comp.misc:296
Summary: Used Tapes - Video

> jacobo@megatest.UUCP (Jacobo Bulaevsky) writes:

>   The question is:  Is it safe to reuse mag tapes  for  important  data  or
>   should we use brand new tapes when storing critical information?


In the broadcast field (yes - I know that the recording techniques are 
different - but the media isn't) it is generally accepted that used but not
worn-out tapes are best for archival storage.  Has something to do with the 
original-factory-fresh erasing done, and that it takes several recording
erasing cycles to make the tape really "take" a recording well.

I have heard this arguement applied to Video tapes as well.

My guess is that - at least to some extent - it would be true for digital
tapes as well.

-- 
These opinions are solely mine and in no way reflect those of my employer.  
John M. Pantone @ GE/Calma R&D, Data Management Group, San Diego
...{ucbvax|decvax}!sdcsvax!calmasd!jnp          jnp@calmasd.GE.COM