Introduction

This chapter is intended to give an overview of the process required to install, modify, and test the interface used by MIDAS to access local tape drives. This interface, used by the MIDAS INTAPE/OUTTAPE commands, will allow MIDAS to access data from your own local tape devices.

This chapter also complements the document Access to Devices issued together with these installation notes. It provides more detailed information and code about tape interfaces in MIDAS and related files. It is mandatory to read this chapter if you have to write or modify these interfaces.

Most UNIX workstations do not have their own tape unit but share a common network tape station. A remote tapeserver is now available for UNIX systems using TCP/IP protocols. When installed, it enables the MIDAS INTAPE/OUTTAPE commands to access a remote drive as if it were a local device. More information about how to install a MIDAS tapeserver can be found in the next chapter.