SLR (Scalable Linear Recording)
Format developed by Tandberg Data GmbH.
SLR (Scalable Linear Recording)
SLR (Scalable Linear Recording) is a data storage format developed by Tandberg Data GmbH. Tandberg Data GmbH is a company based in Dortmund, Germany, and stands out as the sole manufacturer still active in producing tapes in the QIC (Quarter-Inch Cartridge) formats.
The QIC formats have a long history and have been widely used for data backup and storage. These formats offer a practical and cost-effective solution for medium and long-term storage needs. As a pioneer in this field, Tandberg Data GmbH has played a key role in the development and manufacturing of these tapes.
SLR, an abbreviation for Scalable Linear Recording, is the name given by Tandberg Data GmbH to its range of tape drives based on the QIC format. This format offers scalable linear read and write technology, allowing for increased storage capacity and improved performance. It is compatible with existing QIC standards, making system migration and compatibility with existing tapes easier.
Thanks to its robust design and proven reliability, the SLR format is used in various domains, such as data centers, archives, and enterprise backup systems. SLR drives offer advantages such as high storage capacity, high transfer speeds, and extended tape lifespan, making them a preferred choice for organizations requiring reliable backup and long-term data protection.
In conclusion, SLR is a data storage format developed by Tandberg Data GmbH that leverages the advantages of QIC formats. This format provides a practical, scalable, and reliable solution to meet the backup and storage needs of businesses. With its reputation for reliability and performance, the SLR format continues to be used in many environments where data protection and accessibility are essential.
SLR versions
Quarter inch formats
Eight millimeter formats
Common failures of SLR tapes
The most common situations we handle in the laboratory.
Magnetic tape wear
The quarter-inch (QIC) tape deteriorates over time. Old SLR tapes suffer from progressive degradation of the magnetic oxide, making reading increasingly difficult.
SLR drive failure
Worn read heads, slackened drive belt or faulty guidance mechanism. SLR/QIC drives from Tandberg Data are no longer manufactured.
Tape jam or breakage
The quarter-inch tape is relatively fragile and can wrinkle or tear in the mechanism. Old SLR cartridges are particularly at risk.
Unrecognised QIC/SLR format
QIC and SLR write formats vary depending on the generation and software used. Without the correct drive and software, the data remains inaccessible.
Accidental overwrite or erasure
An SLR tape accidentally reused or unintentionally formatted. Partial recovery is possible if the tracks have not been completely overwritten.
Ageing and storage conditions
SLR/QIC tapes are often more than 20 years old. Humidity, heat and magnetic fields accelerate degradation. Quick intervention maximises recovery chances.
Frequently asked questions
Our specialists answer the most common questions.
Do you also recover Travan tapes?
Yes. Travan is a variation of the QIC/SLR format developed for the general public. Our fleet of readers covers Travan NS8, NS20 and all previous generations.
Is the diagnostic free?
Yes. The diagnostic analysis is free and delivered in less than 3 hours upon receipt of your tape.
What is the difference between SLR and QIC?
SLR (Scalable Linear Recording) is the evolution of the QIC (Quarter-Inch Cartridge) format. Both use a quarter-inch tape, but SLR offers higher capacities and transfer rates. We recover data from both formats.
Yes. Travan is a variation of the QIC/SLR format developed for the general public. Our fleet of readers covers Travan NS8, NS20 and all previous generations.
Yes. The diagnostic analysis is free and delivered in less than 3 hours upon receipt of your tape.
SLR (Scalable Linear Recording) is the evolution of the QIC (Quarter-Inch Cartridge) format. Both use a quarter-inch tape, but SLR offers higher capacities and transfer rates. We recover data from both formats.