Product Description
The IBM 3580 Model H8S LTO-8 Ultrium Tape Drive (Feature Code: 3588) is a high-capacity backup solution for IBM Power Systems, Lenovo, and midrange environments. This half-high tape drive provides reliable server storage connectivity for enterprise data protection.
Technical Specifications
- Machine Code: 3580
 - Model: H8S
 - Part Number: Not specified
 - CCIN: Not specified
 - Interface: 6 Gbps dual-port SAS
 - Form Factor: 2U half-high, stand-alone or rack-mountable
 - Capacity: 12 TB native, 30 TB compressed (2.5:1)
 - Data Rate: 300 MB/s native, 750 MB/s compressed
 - Media Support: LTO-8 and LTO-7 cartridges (read/write)
 - Features: LTFS partitioning, application-managed encryption, 1 GB buffer, 16 KB cartridge memory
 - Warranty: 60-day
 - Supported Systems: Power Systems, BladeCenters, PureFlex, Lenovo System x, OEM servers
 
The IBM 3580 H8S LTO-8 Ultrium Tape Drive offers robust backup with a native capacity of 12 TB per cartridge, doubling the LTO-7’s 6 TB, and up to 30 TB compressed at a 2.5:1 ratio. It delivers a native data transfer rate of 300 MB/s (750 MB/s compressed), supported by a 1 GB internal buffer for efficient processing. The drive features a 6 Gbps dual-port SAS interface, ensuring seamless connectivity to IBM Power Systems, BladeCenters, PureFlex, Lenovo System x, and OEM servers running Windows, UNIX, or Linux. It supports read/write operations for LTO-8 and LTO-7 cartridges, with 16 KB cartridge memory enhancing data retrieval. Key functionalities include IBM Linear Tape File System (LTFS) for media partitioning and self-describing tapes, and application-managed encryption for secure data protection. The 2U half-high form factor allows stand-alone or rack-mount configurations, with a 19-inch rack shelf enabling two drives in a 2U space for efficient space utilization. Available refurbished, the H8S provides a cost-effective backup solution with a 60-day warranty for midrange enterprise needs.
Integration requires backup software such as IBM Spectrum Protect or BRMS for optimal archive management. Dual SAS ports enhance system availability, and Mini-SAS HD cables are necessary for connectivity. The H8S serves as an ideal upgrade from older tape technologies like DLT/SDLT, 1/4-inch, 4mm, 8mm, or earlier LTO generations, offering superior capacity and performance for enterprise-grade data protection and long-term archival storage.
System Compatibility
The 3588 H8S tape drive requires SAS connectivity and backup software for high-performance server storage operations.
- Supported Systems:
- IBM Power Systems (Power7, Power8, Power9)
 - IBM BladeCenters, PureFlex (all models)
 - Lenovo System x (e.g., x3550 M4, x3650 M4)
 - OEM servers (Windows, UNIX, Linux)
 
 - Operating System: OS/400 V7R1+ for IBM i; AIX 7.1+; Linux RHEL 7.4+, SLES 12 SP3+; Microsoft Windows; UNIX.
 - Requirements: 6 Gbps SAS adapters (e.g., EJ0S, EJ14), Mini-SAS HD cables, backup software (e.g., Spectrum Protect).
 - Restrictions:
- Compatible with specified systems only.
 - Incompatible with LTO-9 or earlier media (e.g., LTO-6).
 - No direct system bay installation; external/rack-mount only.
 - Refurbished condition only.
 
 
s up to 300 MB/sec native data transfer rate.