Dell NetWorker 19.9 Administration Guide

Barcode labeling tips

The NetWorker server uses volume labels and barcode labels to identify volumes. Both label types are recorded in the media database. The volume label is also recorded internally on the media (internal volume label). The NetWorker server uses barcode labels to inventory volumes, and uses volume labels to identify the volumes needed for backup and recovery. A requirement to match the volume label with the barcode label can be set in the library’s Properties window.

Follow these guidelines when using barcode labels with the NetWorker software:

• When NetWorker software relabels volumes automatically, it reuses the original volume label name. A label name can be changed only if the volume is relabeled manually. The NetWorker software scans the barcode label during the labeling process and updates the media database with the new volume name and its associated barcode label.
• Do not use identical barcode labels for any of the NetWorker volumes. The use of identical labels defeats the purpose of using barcode labels, which is to facilitate the inventory process and ensure label accuracy.
• Volume names must be unique on the NetWorker server. Give each volume a unique volume label. If a second volume is labeled with an existing barcode label and the Match Barcode Labels attribute in the library’s properties is enabled, the NetWorker server displays an error message and does not allow the second volume to be labeled. The error message identifies the library slots containing the two volumes with identical labels and the barcode label.

  To correct this problem, either apply a different label to one of the volumes and restart the labeling process, or disable the Match Barcode Labels attribute in the library’s properties while labeling the second volume.

• It is not necessary to label existing volumes with barcode labels if they are stored in a vault or offsite for long periods. These volumes are rarely, if ever, inventoried.
• Before using barcode labels on existing volumes, affix the barcode labels to them. Then, load and mount each volume individually, so that the NetWorker server can match the barcode label with the existing volume label.
• Record the volume label on the tape.
• A variety of barcode labels can be purchased from third-party vendors. Choose from among numeric labels, alphanumeric labels, or a special combination of numbers and characters. Furthermore, barcode labels can be ordered to match a current volume labeling scheme.
• Use a consistent labeling scheme. If volumes are labeled with the server name and an extension such as “001,” order a range of labels starting with “server_name.001” and ending with “server_name.100”, or as wide a range as necessary. Instructions for barcode labels should be provided with the library hardware documentation. Contact the hardware manufacturer with questions about barcode labels. A consistent labeling scheme helps better organize and track volumes. It also facilitates the inventory process if all of the volumes, use barcode labels.