System having tape drive emulator and data cartridge carrying a non-tape storage medium

摘要

A system is described including a data cartridge carrying a non-tape storage medium. The data cartridge includes read/write circuitry to access the non-tape storage medium and an external electrical connector coupled to the controller. The system further includes a tape drive emulator having an electrical socket to receive the electrical connector of the data cartridge. The socket may comprise a zero insertion force (ZIF) socket having a set of connectors that engage the electrical connections of the data cartridge. The tape drive emulator may mechanically actuate the ZIF socket upon sensing the insertion of the electrical interface of the data cartridge. Alternatively, the socket may include a mechanical actuation mechanism operable by a data cartridge library automation system to electrically couple the data cartridge to the emulation tape drive.