Tape cartridge IBM 3592 Advanced Type E — Capacity 20TB (model 02CE960)

IBM 3592 Advanced Type E tape cartridge provides 20TB native capacity in a removable, offline media format designed for enterprise backup, archiving and long-term retention. Compatible with tape libraries and systems that support the 3592 family, this cartridge offers a high-density magnetic tape solution for storing large datasets, regulatory archives and disaster-recovery copies while minimizing on-disk storage requirements and enabling physical portability.

Advantages

The cartridge delivers a high native capacity in a compact form factor, enabling efficient use of library slots and reducing the frequency of cartridge swaps. As removable media, it provides offline air-gapped protection that helps mitigate risks from ransomware and network failures. The design supports enterprise-class reliability with stable magnetic properties suitable for long-term retention and predictable read/write behavior when used in compatible 3592 tape drives.

Suitable for

• Long-term data archiving and compliance retention
• Periodic full backups and disaster recovery copies
• Cold storage for large scientific or media datasets
• Hierarchical storage strategies to reduce primary disk usage

Key specifications

• Native capacity: 20 TB (uncompressed)
• Media type: high-density magnetic tape cartridge
• Form factor: cartridge compatible with IBM 3592 family drives and automated tape libraries
• Suitable environment: enterprise data center storage and tape library systems
• Intended use: offline removable storage for backup, archive and retention

How to use

Insert the cartridge into a compatible IBM 3592 series drive or robotic tape library slot following the drive manufacturer's loading procedures. Use your backup or archive software to initiate read/write operations; the cartridge behaves as removable tape media inside the supported drive. For cataloging and management, record cartridge identifiers and associate them with your tape library inventory system. Follow standard procedures for secure transport and storage when moving cartridges offsite.

Usage recommendations

Store cartridges in a controlled environment with stable temperature and humidity per your tape library guidelines. Regularly verify readability by running periodic integrity checks and maintain proper handling to avoid contamination or physical damage. Use appropriate backup software settings for tape block size and data verification to ensure consistent performance.