History (1988): StorageTek 4980, 18-Track Cartridge Tape Subsystem

StorageTek Announces the 4980 OEM 18-track Cartridge Tape Subsystem

Storage Technology Corp. (Louisville, CO) announced the model 4980 18-track cartridge tape subsystem for the OEM market.

It permits users of mini and super mini computer systems to interchange data with IBM and compatible mainframe systems using cartridges written in the standard 18-track, 3480 format.

The controller contains dual microprocessors and a 1MB cache buffer that allows multiple tape drives to be accessed concurrently.

Standard features include standalone cabinets with one or two transports, exclusive StorageTek designed and built thin-film read/write head, and universal single phase power supply. OEM interface choices consist of SCSI and StorageTek.

Optional cartridge stacker loaders can be attached to one or both transports. Cartridge stacker loaders each hold ten cartridges for automatic tape loading.

In disk backup applications, 2GB of data can be stored within 23 minutes without operator intervention.

Availability of the 4980 will debut during 3Q88 with some limited earlier availability of evaluation equipment.

StorageTek announced formerly it has signed a multi-year OEM agreement worth in excess of $1 million with ICL (International Computers limited) to supply them with the StorageTek model 4980-track cartridge tape drive for use on ICL mainframe systems.

This article is an abstract of news published on the former paper version of Computer Data Storage Newsletter on issue ≠2, volume ≠1, published on March 1988.