Patent ID: 6034926
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A method for data access using a pluggable stackloader coupled to a controller and a digital data storage drive, the stackloader including a housing configured to receive and mount a magazine with multiple receptacles linearly aligned and sized to receive multiple cartridges of at least one predetermined size, each cartridge having opposing sides that define retaining notches, the stackloader also configured to selectively retrieve cartridges from the magazine and individually mount the cartridges for access by the storage drive, the stackloader housing including a rail moveable into an engaged position by pivoting into linearly aligned notches of cartridges residing in the receptacles of a mounted magazine, said stackloader also including a locking mechanism having an activated position for maintaining the rail in its engaged position and a withdrawn position for permitting the rail to pivot freely out of its engaged position, said method comprising the steps of:at a first time, preventing pivoting of the rail by transmitting a predetermined signal from the controller to the locking mechanism to move the locking mechanism into its activated position; andat a second time, permitting pivoting of the rail by transmitting a second predetermined signal from the controller to the locking mechanism to move the locking mechanism into its withdrawn position.