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DLT VS cleaning cartridge improved drive accuracy.
18P8924
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IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge
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18P8924
- Description:
- IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge
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- Brand:
- Data Tape Media
- Condition:
3 Year Extended Warranty
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18P8924 Overview
18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge is an officially certified DLT tape cleaning cartridge designed for use with DLT VS1 and DLT VS160 drives. This cartridge is classified as a DLT (Digital Linear Tape) cleaning cartridge and is specifically engineered for the routine maintenance of DLT tape drives by removing debris and magnetic residue from read/write heads, ultimately ensuring optimal performance and drive reliability. As a cleaning cartridge, it does not offer native or compressed data storage capacity and is not used for data transfer or archival, but rather for maintaining the integrity of the tape hardware.
The 18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge does not include WORM support or encryption capability, as its sole function is cleaning. The cartridge is compatible with DLT VS1 and DLT VS160 tape drives and should be used according to the drive manufacturer’s recommended cleaning cycles. Typical use cases include use in enterprise backup tape libraries and cold storage environments as part of a regular maintenance schedule. The archival life of the cartridge is generally rated for up to 50 uses or as specified by the drive manufacturer. Its robust construction ensures compatibility with IBM and other DLT VS1/VS160-compliant systems, contributing to prolonged device longevity and reliable data protection processes.
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18P8924 Specifications
- Compliance
- N/A
- Depth
- 1.0
- Weight
- 0.34
- Product Type
- Data Tape
- Tape Generation
- N/A
- Data Transfer Rate (Compressed)
- N/A
- WORM Support
- No
- Data Transfer Rate (Native)
- N/A
- Tape Length
- N/A
- Tape Color
- N/A
- Write Compatibility
- N/A
- Width
- 4.15
- Compressed Capacity
- N/A
- Cartridge Type
- Cleaning
- Native Capacity
- N/A
- Encryption Support
- N/A
- Archival Life
- N/A
- Tape Format
- DLT
- Use Case
- Tape Libraries
- Media Type
- N/A
- Environment
- Data Center
- Height
- 4.2
- Read Compatibility
- DLT VS1, DLT VS160 drives
- Product Name
- IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge (18P8924)
18P8924 Use Case
Scheduled Preventive Cleaning with 18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 in Enterprise Data Centers
In large-scale enterprise data centers, IT teams integrate the 18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge into monthly maintenance windows to remove particulate buildup on tape heads. This proactive cleaning regimen maximizes tape drive reliability, stabilizes sustained backup throughput, and reduces unplanned downtime by up to 40%, ensuring uninterrupted data protection for mission-critical applications.
On-Demand Maintenance for HIPAA-Compliant Healthcare Backup Systems
Healthcare providers deploy the 18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge between high-volume backup jobs to maintain error-free writes and reads on DLT tape libraries. By preserving optimal head cleanliness, facilities achieve consistent restore speeds, uphold HIPAA data integrity standards, and eliminate costly data recovery delays, delivering reliable patient record access when it matters most.
High-Throughput Archival Cleaning for Financial Trading Backup Drives
Financial trading firms handling terabytes of daily market data employ the 18P8924-IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge during peak trading hours to prevent tape head signal degradation. This targeted cleaning approach supports sustained low-latency backups, minimizes write errors, and ensures rapid end-of-day archiving, safeguarding regulatory compliance and reducing operational risk in volatile market environments.
Quality Certifications
To get the detailed certification, please go to the Compliance Center.
Product Comparison Table 
| 18P8924 |  95P4436-T | |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Data Tape | Data Tape |
| Tape Format | DLT | LTO |
| Tape Generation | N/A | LTO-4 |
| Cartridge Type | Cleaning | Standard |
| Use Case | Tape Libraries | Backup / Long-Term Archiving / Compliance Storage / Tape Libraries |
| Native Capacity | N/A | 800 GB |
| Compressed Capacity | N/A | 1.6 TB |
| Tape Length | N/A | 820m |
| Data Transfer Rate (Native) | N/A | Up to 120 MB/s |
| Data Transfer Rate (Compressed) | N/A | Up to 240 MB/s |
| Encryption Support | N/A | Yes |
| WORM Support | No | Yes |
| Media Type | N/A | Magnetic |
| Archival Life | N/A | Up to 30 Years |
| Read Compatibility | DLT VS1, DLT VS160 drives | LTO-4, LTO-5, LTO-6 drives |
| Write Compatibility | N/A | LTO-4 drives only |
| Tape Color | N/A | Purple |
| Environment | Data Center | Data Center / Offsite Backup / Cold Storage / Compliance Archiving |
| Compliance | N/A | RoHS |
| Product Name | IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge (18P8924) | IBM LTO Ultrium 4 Data Cartridge 95P4436 |
| Height | 4.2 | 0.85 inches |
| Width | 4.15 | 4.15 inches |
| Depth | 1.0 | 4.02 inches |
| Weight | 0.34 | 0.44 lbs |
Reviews & Ratings
H
Hina Ashraf
5
Good maintenance accessory.
R
Rolf Anders
4
Worked as expected.
K
Kamran Ilyas
4
Simple to use.
D
Dennis Ford
5
Reliable cleaning media.
Questions & Answers
How often should I replace the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge?
Replace the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge after every 50 tape hours or when the drive’s cleaning indicator illuminates to maintain optimal read/write performance.
Is the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge compatible with all DLT tape drives?
Yes. The IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge is compatible with all DLT3, DLT4, DLT7000, DLT8000 and SDLT tape drive models for effective head maintenance.
How do I use the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge?
Insert the cleaning cartridge into the drive and start the cleaning cycle through your backup software or manually via drive controls. The drive will complete the process automatically.
Can I clean multiple drives with one cleaning cartridge?
Yes. One IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge can be used to clean multiple drives until it reaches 50 tape hours or the cartridge end-of-life indicator appears.
What happens if I ignore the cleaning indicator?
Ignoring the cleaning indicator may lead to read/write errors, reduced tape lifespan and potential drive failure. Regular cleaning ensures consistent performance.
Where should I store the cleaning cartridge when not in use?
Store the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and magnetic fields to preserve its cleaning media integrity.
Does the cleaning cartridge damage tape heads?
No. The IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge uses a safe, lint-free media that removes debris without abrading or damaging tape drive heads.
How do I know when the cleaning cartridge is spent?
The cleaning cartridge is spent after 50 tape hours or when the drive reports a failed cleaning cycle. Replace it immediately to avoid drive errors.
Can I reuse the cleaning cartridge after it fails?
No. Do not reuse a failed or spent IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge. Dispose of it according to local electronic waste regulations and install a new one.
What is the shelf life of the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge?
The shelf life is two years from the manufacture date if stored under recommended conditions (15–25°C, 20–50% humidity).
Are there any safety precautions for handling the cleaning cartridge?
Yes. Handle the cartridge by its casing, avoid touching the cleaning media, and keep it in its protective case until use to prevent contamination.
Does IBM offer a warranty on the VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge?
Yes. IBM provides a one-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal usage conditions.
Where can I purchase genuine IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridges?
Purchase genuine IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridges through authorized IBM resellers, the IBM Online Store or certified distribution partners.
How should I dispose of the spent cleaning cartridge?
Dispose of the spent cartridge as electronic waste according to local regulations. Do not incinerate or discard with regular trash.
Will cleaning improve tape read/write speeds?
Yes. Regular use of the IBM DLT VS1VS160 Cleaning Cartridge removes debris and ensures optimal head-to-tape contact, which helps maintain consistent data transfer rates.
Can environmental factors affect cleaning performance?
Yes. High humidity, dust and temperature extremes can reduce cleaning effectiveness. Maintain a controlled environment (15–25°C, 20–50% humidity) for best results.