Abstract: A plurality of data storage modules form a library, with a directory archive maintaining a directory of the information contained on each data storage module (file server application) or on the storage modules retained in the library (volume server application). A plurality of interface computers are coupled to a plurality of host computers for receiving data and for generating request signals to access the library. In response to a received request signal, the directory archive locates a data storage module and generates a location output signal. A control computer receives the location output signal and generates a media access signal for causing the data storage module to be loaded into a selected data recorder. An input/output data channel couples the interface computer generating the access request signal to the selected data recorder for reading or writing an entire volume of information or selected file information to/from the data storage module.

Abstract: A mass data storage unit includes a plurality of first data storage modules that form a mass information storage library, a data directory archive for maintaining a directory of the information contained on each data storage module, and data record/playback modules for receiving any selected any data storage module in the mass storage library. A plurality of interface computers are coupled to a plurality of host computers for receiving data and for generating request signals to access information stored in the mass storage library. A file directory is coupled to the interface computers and the data directory archive for receiving the request signals, locating in the data directory archive the address containing the stored information and generating a data address location output signal for the stored information.

Abstract: A mass data storage unit includes a plurality of first data storage modules that form a mass information storage library, a data directory archive for maintaining a directory of the information contained on each data storage module, and data record/playback modules for receiving any selected data storage module in the mass storage library. A plurality of interface computers are coupled to a plurality of host computers for receiving data and for generating request signals to access information stored in the mass storage library. A file directory is coupled to the interface computers and the data directory archive for receiving the request signals, locating in the data directory archive the address containing the stored information and generating a data address location output signal for the stored information.