Storing magnetic tape properly involves keeping it away from magnetic fields, avoiding stacking on equipment, maintaining a cool and dry storage environment, and protecting it from direct sunlight.
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the data and physical integrity of magnetic tape, such as LTO cartridges, DLT, DDS, or older open reel and cassette formats. Following specific guidelines helps prevent data loss and extends the lifespan of the tape media.
Key Storage Principles
Based on best practices and the provided information, the fundamental rules for storing magnetic tape are straightforward:
- Keep tape away from magnetic fields: Magnetic fields can corrupt data stored on the tape. This includes fields generated by electronic equipment, motors, or even strong magnets.
- Don't stack tapes on top of equipment: Electronic equipment often generates heat and magnetic fields. Stacking tapes directly on such devices exposes them to these harmful conditions.
- Tape storage areas should be cool and dry: Extreme temperatures and high humidity can degrade the tape binder and base material, leading to "sticky shed syndrome" or physical distortion.
- Never leave open reel or cassette tapes exposed to the sun: Direct sunlight generates heat and UV radiation, both of which are damaging to magnetic tape materials.
Ideal Storage Environment
Maintaining the right environmental conditions is perhaps the most critical aspect of tape storage.
Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: Ideally, magnetic tapes should be stored at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Avoid significant temperature fluctuations. Colder storage (down to refrigerated levels) can prolong life even further for archival purposes, but requires acclimation before use.
- Humidity: Relative humidity should be kept between 20% and 50%. High humidity can lead to binder breakdown, while extremely low humidity can increase static electricity, potentially attracting dust.
Avoiding Magnetic Interference
Magnetic fields pose a direct threat to the data on the tape.
- Location: Store tapes in dedicated shelving units or cabinets, away from potential sources of magnetic interference.
- Sources to Avoid:
- Loudspeakers
- Electric motors (e.g., in HVAC systems, refrigerators)
- Power supplies (especially large ones)
- Certain types of security systems
- MRI machines (obviously!)
Protection from Light and Heat
Heat and direct light accelerate the degradation of magnetic tape materials.
- Sunlight: Never leave open reel or cassette tapes exposed to the sun. This is a quick way to damage them beyond repair.
- Artificial Light: While less damaging than sunlight, prolonged exposure to fluorescent lights (which emit some UV) is also not ideal. Store tapes in cabinets or boxes to protect them from light.
- Heat Sources: Keep tapes away from radiators, vents, hot equipment, or any other source of heat.
Practical Tips for Storage
- Storage Containers: Store tapes in their original cases or purpose-built storage containers. This provides physical protection and helps buffer against minor environmental changes.
- Shelving: Use non-metallic shelving if possible, or at least ensure shelving is stable and tapes are not crammed together.
- Handling: Handle tapes by their cases or hubs, avoiding touching the tape surface itself.
- Organization: Label tapes clearly and maintain an inventory system for easy retrieval and tracking.
- Acclimation: If moving tapes from a significantly different temperature/humidity environment (e.g., cold storage), allow them to acclimate in the use environment for several hours before attempting to play or read them.
Following these guidelines ensures that your magnetic tape library remains in good condition, safeguarding the valuable data stored on it for years to come.
