Until the early 2000s, the Digital Linear Tape (DLT) format was one of the most common enterprise data storage technologies. DLT and SDLT (Super DLT) were inexpensive and reliable, with relatively dense capacities: DLT-V4 drives supported capacities of up to 160 gigabytes. 

Of course, technologies have advanced. In 2007, Quantum Corporation discontinued DLT, focusing instead on Linear Tape Open (LTO). The recently released LTO-9 format supports capacities of up to 18 terabytes (TB) native (45TB compressed). 

But while DLT is a legacy storage medium, many businesses still have stacks of DLT tapes. Those archives may need to be retained for various reasons — and if data needs to be restored, organizations may face serious challenges. 

Total Data Migration provides data recovery, conversion, and media sanitization services for 3,000 native tape systems, backup formats, and voice loggers. If you’re considering data recovery for DLT tapes, here are some key considerations to help you keep your project moving forward.

1. DLT Lifespans and Media Damage

Like all magnetic formats, DLT tapes have a limited operational lifespan. DLTs are expected to last for upwards of 30 years, but storage conditions play a crucial role. 

And while DLT has a fairly simple mechanical design, mechanical components may break down before magnetization becomes an issue. Common DLT tape problems include:

• Broken clutch mechanisms, which can cause the tape to destroy the leader that allows loading.
• Damage to tape media caused by the reel motors of a defective DLT drive. The DLT format does not have a capstan (a component within the cartridge that moves the tape during read/write processes). 
• Damage to the optical servo, which can influence alignment with the read/write heads.
• Damage caused by extreme humidity or flooding. 
• Damage to various components caused by dropping or otherwise mishandling the tape cartridges. 

For DLT data recovery projects, each cartridge will need to be individually evaluated by an engineer who has experience with the format. Damage to the cartridge must be repaired in a controlled environment, preferably with certified cleanrooms. 

2. Sourcing DLT Hardware

Arguably, the biggest challenge for DLT data recovery is sourcing working hardware. As we’ve discussed, DLT is legacy — and even if you’re able to source one or more DLT drives, those drives must be evaluated to ensure that they’re in perfect operating condition. 

Otherwise, the DLT drive could damage the cartridge leader, or in severe cases, cause permanent data loss via the read/write heads impacting the tape. Put simply, if you’re not regularly working with DLT, you should not trust unserviced hardware to read the tapes — even if the DLT drive worked well the last time it was used.

3. Secure Options for DLT Data Recovery

As with any storage medium designed for archival use, DLTs frequently store confidential data or personally identifiable information (PII). Maintaining compliance is crucial. This is particularly true if DLT data recovery is required as part of a discovery process. 

At Total Data Migration, we’ve built our reputation through our security-first approach. With closed recovery networks and chain of custody (COC) reports available on request, we offer reliable solutions for data management and recovery. 

Features of our DLT recovery services include:

• Support for all DLT media, including earlier formats like CompacTape I/II , SDLT, and the last-gen DLT VS.
• An expansive onsite hardware library with regularly serviced DLT drives.
• Support for all backup software and conversion options for legacy backups.
• Secure onsite media sanitization services.
• A full Statement of Work (SoW) with estimated turnaround time.
• Our comprehensive satisfaction guarantee.
• More than 50 years of combined experience with data recovery, restoration, migration, and media disposal.

Whether you need to recover data from a single damaged DLT-4 or an entire set of older CompacTapes, we’re ready to help. Get started with a free consultation or call (800) 460-7599.