Overland Tape Drive: LTO-6 Internal SAS Tape Drive

The Overland Tape Drive delivers enterprise-grade data protection with the proven reliability of LTO-6 technology. Designed for internal server bays and backup appliances, this SAS-based tape drive combines high capacity, strong performance, and durable engineering to support long-term archiving, daily backups, and disaster recovery workflows. With native and compressed transfer options, linear serpentine storage, and a robust build, it’s ideal for data centers, MSPs, and IT teams seeking scalable, cost-effective offsite retention.

• High-capacity, flexible storage: Native capacity of 2.50 TB and compressed capacity up to 6.25 TB give you ample space for long-term backups and archival data. Benefit from efficient media utilization and simplified retention policies that help control storage costs over time.
• Fast, predictable performance: Native transfer rate of 160 MB/s and compressed rate up to 400 MB/s enable timely backups and restores, reducing backup windows and accelerating data protection cycles.
• Internal SAS architecture: 6 Gb/s SAS interface integrated into a standard internal drive bay provides reliable connectivity to servers and storage arrays, enabling straightforward deployment within existing infrastructure.
• Linear Serpentine tape technology: LTO-6 Ultrium’s linear serpentine recording maximizes data density on each tape, delivering efficient capacity, strong data integrity, and proven durability for archival workloads.
• Versatile, enterprise-grade solution: Black, rugged design built for continuous operation in data centers, with support for long-term retention, routine backups, and scalable disaster recovery strategies.

Technical Details of Overland Tape Drive

• Model/Technology: LTO-6 Ultrium (Internal Tape Drive)
• Interface: SAS 6 Gb/s
• Form Factor: Internal
• Color: Black
• Native Capacity: 2.50 TB
• Compressed Capacity: 6.25 TB
• Native Data Transfer Rate: 160 MB/s
• Compressed Data Transfer Rate: 400 MB/s
• Recording Technology: Linear Serpentine
• Height/Position: 6 Gb/s SAS; Internal drive in standard server bays

How to install Overland Tape Drive

Installing the Overland Tape Drive is straightforward when you follow standard procedures for internal SAS drives. Ensure that your server or backup appliance supports LTO-6 and has an available internal drive bay with a compatible SAS interface. Before beginning, power down the system, disconnect power, and follow your equipment manufacturer’s safety guidelines. The steps below provide a general installation workflow:

• Power down the host system completely and unplug from power sources. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Open the chassis or drive bay cover to access the internal drive bays. Identify an available, compatible slot for a 2.5- or 3.5-inch internal SAS drive depending on your enclosure.
• Slide the Overland Tape Drive into the appropriate drive bay, aligning connectors with the backplane. Secure the drive with the required screws or mounting brackets according to your chassis guidelines.
• Connect the SAS interface cable and the power cable to the drive and backplane. Ensure a snug, secure connection to avoid intermittent disconnects.
• Power on the system and enter the server’s BIOS/UEFI or storage management utility. Confirm that the new tape drive is detected and recognized as an LTO-6 Ultrium device.
• Install or update necessary drivers and management software as required by your operating system and backup software. Configure the tape drive in your backup application for media pool management, scheduling, and rotation policies.
• Run a test backup and a selective restore to verify proper operation. If you will enable barcode labeling or automated media management, ensure the library infrastructure is configured accordingly.
• Document the installation, including the drive’s model, firmware version, and location in your server chassis for future maintenance.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What are the capacity specifications for the Overland Tape Drive? A: The drive offers native capacity of 2.50 TB with a compressed capacity up to 6.25 TB, leveraging LTO-6 Ultrium technology. Real-world compression depends on data type, but the specification provides the maximum potential based on the tape format.
• Q: What interface does this drive use? A: It uses a 6 Gb/s SAS interface, designed for internal server bays and backplanes in data centers and backup appliances.
• Q: Is this drive suitable for long-term archival storage? A: Yes. LTO-6 Ultrium technology is optimized for reliability and archival longevity, making it suitable for backups, disaster recovery, and regulated data retention.
• Q: Can I use this drive in Windows, Linux, or virtualization environments? A: Most SAS-based tape drives are compatible with major operating systems and backup software, but always verify driver support and library integration with your specific platform and backup solution before purchase.
• Q: How should I care for and maintain the tape drive? A: Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning cartridges and follow best practices for media handling, media rotation, and firmware updates. Regularly test backups and restores to ensure data integrity over time.
• Q: What is the typical data transfer rate? A: Native transfer rates are up to 160 MB/s, with compressed rates up to 400 MB/s, subject to data type and compression efficiency.