Extendable virtual autoloader systems and methods
US7417819B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 14, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 8, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11B15/6835
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A virtual cartridge autoloader system is provided. A first autoloader device has multiple cartridge holders. Each cartridge holder is configured for electrical communication with removable data cartridges having electronic interfaces. The first autoloader device performs virtual loading functions on the removable data cartridges using an electronic switch. A second autoloader device distinct from the first autoloader device is electrically interfaced with the first autoloader device. The second autoloader device also has multiple cartridge holders, each of which also is configured for electrical communication with removable data cartridges having electronic interfaces. The second autoloader device also performs virtual loading functions on the removable data cartridges using an electronic switch. A controller is configured to receive media changer commands from a host computer for the first autoloader device and for the second autoloader device. The autoloaders may thereby be operated as a single device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.