Upgrading drive in Autoloader

[Mike Maynard]

I have an HP autoloader that uses a DDS2 driver and would like to install a newer DDS3 or DDS4 tape drive.

Is this possible?
-Mike-

[Shaikh Imran]

Hi Mike,

What is the model of the autoloader you are currently using ?

Logically look's you cannot but if you say the model it could be more clear..

Regards,

[Mike Maynard]

This is the HP C1553A autoloader which uses the HP C1533A DDS-2 tape drive.

-Mike-

[malvin drakley · Accepted solution]

Hi Mike, How competent are you at taking things apart?. If your autoloader is not on maintenance then the drive, which is in the bottom of the autoloader could be replaced. A DDS3 is a C1537A. You will just need switch 3 off and then there are 4 screws that screw the tape in. If the autoloader is on maintenance I wouldn't do it. You could also probably get one on the 2nd hand market already with the appropriate drive in
cheers
malvin

[Mike Maynard]

Malvin,

Thanks for the information. I'm quite competent with this type of upgrade and the drive has not been under maintenance for many years. This is on my home system. I was looking for confirmation that the project was feasible before proceeding with (as you suggested) acquiring a DDS3 or DDS4 drive on the used market.

Do you know if a stand-alone DDS3 drive will need a microcode update to work in the autoloader?

Thanks,
-Mike-

[malvin drakley]

Hi Mike,
Thanks for that, I have a document that talks about the autoloaders and there is no mention about different firmware levels. If you mail me on malvind@tindirect.com, I can forward the document to you
cheers
malvin

[Mike Maynard]

You have mail.
-Mike-

[Marino Meloni_1]

I'm not sure you will be able to use a stand alone drive in a DDS autoloader, and specialy doing an upgrade. Fw in new autoloader are dedicated and you cannot force it on a stand-alone unit
I cannot confirm you for early model with DDS2.

marino