Data storage library manager.

摘要

An operator to host communications interface for managing a manual data storage library is disclosed. A host processor controls Peripheral Data Storage Devices (PDSDs) in the library. Displayed operator interaction fields are presented by a graphical user interface on the screen of a display device connected to a library manager controller. Library manager program code loaded in program memory means in the library manager controller is provided with interface logic, for communicating with external devices, as well as the PDSDs through the host processor. The operator communications interface is an integral component of the library and thus may be used for: alerting an operator of the need to mount or demount a particular data medium; alerting an operator with coherent and succinct messages thus improving the quality of messages provided to operators; and alerting an operator with a minimum number of messages. Additionally, the operator may use the communications interface to access the status of PDSDs and to schedule maintenance activities, such as cleaning of the PDSDs. <IMAGE>