Abstract: A system and method to automatically provide frame count, frame identification and status information to each frame within a modular, multi-frame tape library system. In the exemplary embodiment, signals are generated by each frame that have a delay value specific to each frame, which are accumulated and supplied to each frame to determine the total number of frames within the tape library system. A reference pulse is generated by each frame and compared to the delay signal generated by each frame to determine its own identification among the plurality of individual frames. Similarly, a status signal is generated by each frame and supplied to each frame which is indicative, for example, of a door open or other anomaly that can be monitored by all the frames within the tape library system.

Abstract: A power limiting system and method are provided for limiting power delivered to a common bus in a one or multi-frame tape library environment. The system includes one or more frames coupled to a common bus, each of which is capable of delivering power to the common bus. Each frame comprises current limiting circuitry to limit the power delivered by that frame to the common bus. In exemplary embodiments, the current limiting circuitry of each frame includes a current limiting resistor and a blocking diode coupled to a local power source to limit the power delivered by that frame and to prevent feedback respectively. Additionally, each frame of the system includes a relay capable of receiving a limited power from the common bus, being energized, and, consequently, providing for the respective frame to be powered by a main power supply.

Abstract: A distributed control system is provided for an automated data storage library. The library accesses data storage media in response to received commands, and comprises an accessor having a gripper for accessing the data storage media, and an XY system having servo motors for moving the accessor and the gripper. The distributed control system comprises a communication processor node for receiving commands, providing a communication link for the commands. An accessor processor node, which may be located at the accessor, is coupled to the communication processor node, the accessor processor node responsive to the linked commands, operating the gripper and providing move commands. An XY processor node may be provided at the XY system, coupled to the accessor processor node, the XY processor node responsive to the move commands, operating the servo motors. A common bus couples the communication processor node to the accessor processor node, and couples the accessor processor node to the XY processor node.