LTO Firmware

LTO Firmware

Here are the latest and prior revisions of the IBM-MagStor LTO drive firmware.  Please note:

  • For library drive firmware updates, please get in touch with our support team for assistance.
  • Select the proper firmware for your drive's form factor, generation, and connection type.  
  • For Thunderbolt-3 Drives, use 'SAS' interface firmware.



Full Height (FH) Tape Drives


LTO 9:

FC:   Q9E0 Released 12/2023

SAS: Q9E0 Released 12/2023


LTO 8:

FC:  Q3A0  Released 5/21/2024


Half Height (HH) Tape Drives


LTO 9:

FC: S2S1 Released 3/26/2025

SAS: S2S1 Released 3/26/2025



LTO 8:

FC: S2T1 Released 3/26/2025 

SAS: S2T1 Released 3/26/2025



LTO 7:

FC: S2T1 Released 3/26/2025

SAS: S2T1 Released 3/26/2025




Here are instructions on verifying your firmware version and updating tape drive firmware using the IBM Tape Diagnostic Tool (ITDT).


Verifying Tape Drive Firmware With ITDT

Updating Tape Drive Firmware Using ITDT (Windows)

Updating Tape Drive Firmware Using ITDT (MacOS)


Firmware upgrade (FUP) cartridges are also available for purchase by going to:

MagStor LTO Drive Firmware Update Cartridge


   


Updating your LTO tape drive firmware is important for several reasons. 

Firstly, firmware updates often include critical bug fixes, addressing potential vulnerabilities, and improving your tape drives overall stability and performance. Keeping your firmware updated ensures that any known issues or weaknesses are promptly resolved, minimizing the risk of data corruption or loss. 


Secondly, firmware updates can introduce compatibility enhancements, enabling your tape drive to work seamlessly with newer hardware, operating systems, and backup software. This ensures smooth interoperability and allows you to use the latest fixes. Lastly, firmware updates can also bring important feature enhancements, such as improved error recovery mechanisms or increased reliability during backups, further optimizing your tape drives functionality and providing a better user experience. 

By regularly updating your LTO tape drive firmware, you can safeguard your data and benefit from the fixes offered by the latest firmware.

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