Abstract: A data storage and retrieval system. In a preferred embodiment, the data storage and retrieval system includes a polygonal array of cells that are inwardly disposed with openings configured to receive data storage units. A first robot unit to transport a data storage unit to and from the polygonal array of cells is located within the polygonal array of cells. A second robot unit is also located within the polygonal array of cells to transport a data storage unit to and from the polygonal array of cells. The second robot unit manipulates the data storage units placed in the cylindrical array of cells independently of the first robot unit.

Abstract: A tape cartridge access port includes frames defining a series of tape cartridge magazine cavities for directly loading magazines filled with tape cartridges with the labels on the front surfaces of the tape cartridges oriented towards the robotics of an automated cartridge library. The tape cartridge access port has safety doors which prevent access by an operator to the robotics of the automated cartridge library while allowing the magazines and the tape cartridges to be accessible to the operator when the robotics are in operation on other tape cartridges. The safety doors are triggered and released by a magazine loaded into the tape cartridge access port. The tape cartridge access port also has an outer door panel locked and unlocked by a library management unit of the automated cartridge library to prevent the operator and the robotics of the automated cartridge library from handling a magazine at the same time.

Abstract: An access port for loading single tape cartridges into and retrieving single tape cartridges from an automated tape cartridge library system. A door is rotatably mounted in an opening in an exterior panel of the library system. The shape of the door is designed so that the opening is blocked at all times, regardless of the position of the door. A tape cartridge tray is mounted on the rear side of the door, slanted downward at a ten degree angle. The downward slant of the tray enables the robot to accurately find tape cartridges placed therein and restrains the tape cartridge from accidental dislodgement. A latch mechanism is provided to prevent the door from rotating when the robot is operating near the access port. The latch has an actuator preventing unlatching of the door. The actuator is activated by the operating system when it is safe to rotate the door. A tape cartridge is inserted into the tray and the actuator is activated to unlatch the door.

Abstract: An access port for loading single tape cartridges into and retrieving single tape cartridges from an automated tape cartridge library system. A door is rotatably mounted in an opening in an exterior panel of the library system. The shape of the door is designed so that the opening is blocked at all times, regardless of the position of the door. A tape cartridge tray is mounted on the rear side of the door, slanted downward at a ten degree angle. The downward slant of the tray enables the robot to accurately find tape cartridges placed therein and restrains the tape cartridge from accidental dislodgement. A latch mechanism is provided to prevent the door from rotating when the robot is operating near the access port. The latch has an actuator preventing unlatching of the door. The actuator is activated by the operating system when it is safe to rotate the door. A tape cartridge is inserted into the tray and the actuator is activated to unlatch the door.

Abstract: A magazine for handling a plurality of tape cartridges. The magazine includes a plurality of vertically spaced, parallel shelves having tapered front edges with notches formed therein for ease of tape cartridge insertion. The slots slant downward to precisely position and restrain the tape cartridges magazine. A rib extends through each slot to engage in a tape cartridge notch. Improperly inserted tape cartridges will be forced to extend further out of the magazine so that they will be easily identified. A handle formed on the upper end of the front face of the magazine causes the lower end of the magazine to pivot forward to restrain the tape cartridges from accidental dislodgement. A locking strap is also provided to prevent the tape cartridges from accidentally dislodging from the magazine.