Cleaning Cartridge

Holds up to 320GB, with 32MB/s transfer speed

Using the SDLT320 drive, a single Super DLT cartridge can store 160GB native or 320GB compressed, with impressively fast data transfer rates reaching 16MB/s native or 32MB/s compressed.

*With the SDLT220 drive, capacity is 110GB native, 220GB compressed and transfer speed is 11MB/s native and 22MB/s compressed.

Higher durability and tape travel stability

Thanks to a new cartridge design, Sony Super DLTtape has the durability to withstand repeated load/unload cycles in library environments. The new cartridge also contributes to improved tape travel stability.

Sharply reduced error rate

Sony sharply reduced the error rate during high density recording by improving tape surface smoothness and using a thinner magnetic layer, both of which are key to higher storage capacity in magnetic tape media.

First optical servo in the industry

Increased recording track density is essential to higher storage capacity. Super DLT features the industry's first optical servo technology, providing the tracking precision that is crucial to reading these narrower tracks.

Migration path to the future

While maintaining compatibility with previous-generation DLT products, the Super DLTtape format offers continuing improvements in recording capacity. This migration path means a long-term storage platform that you can use with confidence.

Ultra-thin magnetic layers <Conceptual drawing>

Ultra-smooth backcoating layers

Thin-layer coating and smoothing technologies

Ultra-thin magnetic film technology made it possible to form magnetic coatings composed of uniform, submicron particles for high signal output and stability in high-density recording.

To achieve high recording density, the Super DLT format uses a Magneto Resistive Cluster (MRC) head. MRC is a highly sensitive playback head that detects minute projections on the tape surface as noise. For Super DLT, we developed a tape with a particularly smooth surface.

Pivoting Optical Servo (POS)

As compared to DLT IV, Super DLT has higher track density, making accurate tracking a critical factor for high-density recording. POS enables a high-capacity cartridge without wasting recording area for servo signals. The optical head traces existing grooves on the backside of the tape, with the head position adjusted on the track in sync with data fed back to the optical head. POS uses a noncontact optical head that avoids damage to the tape surface.

[PRML: Partial Response Maximum Likelihood]

Unlike DLT IV, Super DLT uses PRML signal processing for recording/playback. PRML improves data reliability and helps increase recording density.

Reliable Buckling Mechanism

Unlike DLT IV, Super DLT's cartridge has a new buckling mechanism at the tape ends that enables continued use through repeated loading and unloading cycles.