Product Description
IBM 3590 Model B11 Tape Library - parts only
The IBM 3590 Model B11 Tape Library (Parts Only) is a legacy rack-mounted tape subsystem featuring an integrated Automatic Cartridge Facility (ACF) for mini-library functionality. This older-generation enterprise tape solution provides automated cartridge handling with up to 10 slots, supporting unattended operations for backup, archival, and data interchange in compatible IBM and open systems environments (sold as parts only for components or repair use).
Product Description
The IBM 3590 Model B11 is a rack-mountable tape drive subsystem from the IBM TotalStorage Enterprise Tape family, incorporating the Magstar 3590 technology (not LTO Ultrium). It includes a standard 10-cartridge Automatic Cartridge Facility (ACF) that enables mini-library-like operation, allowing access to multiple cartridges without manual intervention for higher unattended capacity. The system uses proprietary 3590 cartridges (10 GB native / 30 GB compressed per cartridge typical with compression), providing up to approximately 100 GB native / 300 GB compressed total across the ACF (depending on media and compression). It features high-performance helical-scan recording, hardware data compression (LZ1 algorithm), error correction, and robust diagnostics. Designed for midrange and open systems, it attaches via SCSI interfaces. Note: This listing is explicitly "parts only," indicating it is sold for spare components, repair, or non-functional/as-is use rather than guaranteed full operation.
Features
- 10-cartridge Automatic Cartridge Facility (ACF) for automated, unattended mini-library operation.
- Native drive data rate up to 9-14 MB/sec (model B11 specifics vary by configuration; compression up to 27-42 MB/sec sustained).
- Hardware data compression and advanced error recovery.
- Rack-mountable design for enterprise or midrange server environments.
- Backward compatibility with prior IBM tape formats in certain setups (not compatible with LTO or 3592 series).
- Suitable for high-reliability backup, save/restore, and archival applications.
Technical Specifications
- Model: 3590-B11
- Tape Format: IBM 3590 Magstar (1/2-inch cartridge, helical scan)
- Native Capacity per Cartridge: 10 GB (standard); up to 20 GB with extended media in related models
- Compressed Capacity per Cartridge: Up to 30 GB (3:1 typical)
- Total Capacity (with 10-slot ACF): Up to ~100 GB native / ~300 GB compressed (configuration dependent)
- Native Transfer Rate: Up to 9-14 MB/sec (model-dependent)
- Compressed Transfer Rate: Up to 27-42 MB/sec sustained
- Interface: Ultra SCSI or ESCON/FICON (via controller in some configurations; typically SCSI for open systems)
- Form Factor: Rack-mounted (typically 5U or similar for ACF-integrated unit)
- Cartridge Slots: 10 (via ACF)
- Media Supported: IBM 3590 High-Performance Cartridge Tape (standard and extended length)
- Power: Standard AC input, redundant options in enterprise setups
Compatibility
The IBM 3590 Model B11 attaches primarily via SCSI (or ESCON/FICON with controllers) and is compatible with:
- IBM Power Systems / RS/6000 / pSeries / AS/400 iSeries: AIX V5.x or earlier, OS/400 V5R2 or later, i5/OS
- Open systems: Sun Solaris, Hewlett-Packard HP-UX, Microsoft Windows NT/2000, Linux distributions on Intel platforms
- Various Intel-compatible servers and workstations with appropriate SCSI adapters
- Not compatible with LTO Ultrium, 3592 series, or modern 3480/3490 formats directly
It integrates with legacy backup software and IBM tape management tools of its era. Due to its age (introduced late 1990s/early 2000s), compatibility is limited to older OS versions and hardware; verify drivers and firmware for specific setups. Often used in migration or parts scenarios today.
Warranty
This product comes with a 60-day warranty covering parts and functionality.
