Sony SDX-D420V Series User manual

2-108-661-01(2)
©2004 Sony Corporation
Operating Instructions
AIT Drive
SDX-D420V Series

2Safety Regulations
Safety Regulations
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial
number in the space provided below.
Refer to them whenever you call upon your dealer regarding this product.
Model No. Serial No.
Information
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the
unit to rain or moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
MODEL No. for Regulatory Compliance
Your AIT-1 is assigned the MODEL No. ATDEA2A (respectively) for
regulatory compliance certifications. The number is indicated on the model
number label on your drive along with the rated voltage and current.
For customers in the USA
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved
in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.
FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual must be used with
this equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant
to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Safety Regulations 3
English
CAUTION
The mains plug on this equipment must be used to disconnect mains power.
Please ensure that the socket outlet is installed near the equipment and shall
be easily accessible.
ACHTUNG
Zur Trennung vom Netz ist der Netzstecker aus der Steckdose zu ziehen,
welche sich in der Nähe des Gerätes befinden muß und leicht zugänglich
sein soll.
Hinweis: Der höchste Schalldruckpegel beträgt 70 dB (A) oder weniger
gemäß ISO 7779
NOTICE
Use the power cord set approved by the appropriate testing organization for
the specific countries where this unit is to be used.
HINWEIS
Die 3-adrige Geräteanschlußleitung muß Typ H05VV-F oder H05VVH2-F
sein und nach DIN VDE 0625 geprüft sein. Der Stecker und die
Gerätesteckdose müssen nach DIN VDE 0620 bzw DIN VDE 0625 geprüft
sein. Der Leitungsquerschnitt kann 0,5 mm2betragen wenn die
Anschlußleitung eine Länge von 2 m nicht überschreitet. Anderenfalls muß
der Leitungsquerschnitt mindestens 0,75 mm2betragen.
If you have any questions about this product, please refer to Sony contact in
the instruction manual.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Trade Name: SONY
Model: ATDEA2A
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr., San Diego, CA
92127 U.S.A.
Telephone number: 858-942-2230
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference.
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
Für Kunden in Deutschland
Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die Europäischen EMC-Bestimmungen für die
Verwendung in folgender/folgenden Umgebung(en):
–Wohngegenden
–Gewerbegebiete
–Leichtindustriegebiete
(Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die Bestimmungen der Norm EN 55022, Klasse B.)

4Safety Regulations

Safety Regulations 5
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
For your protection, please read these safety
instructions completely before operating the
appliance, and keep this manual for future reference.
Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and
instructions on the appliance, or the one described in
the operating instructions and adhere to them.
USE
Power Sources – This unit should be operated only
from the type of power source indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
electrical power, consult your dealer or local power
company.
For the unit with a three-wire grounding type ac
plug:
If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet,
contact your electrician to have a suitable plug
installed. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
grounding plug.
AC Power cord:
The AC power cord should have appropriate safety
approvals or marking for the country in which the
equipment will be used. Consult your dealer or
local power company.
Cleaning – Unplug the unit from the wall outlet
before cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
Use a cloth lightly dampened with water for
cleaning the exterior of the unit.
Object and Liquid Entry – Never push objects of any
kind into the unit through openings as they may
touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts
that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the unit.

6Safety Regulations
INSTALLATION
Water and Moisture – Do not use power-line
operated units near water - for example, near a
bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a
wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.
Power-Cord Protection – Route the power cord so
that it is not likely to be walked on or pinched by
items placed upon or against them, paying particular
attention to the plugs, receptacles, and the point
where the cord exits from the appliance.
Accessories – Do not place the unit on an unstable
cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The unit may
fall, causing serious injury to a child or an adult, and
serious damage to the unit. Use only a cart stand
tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the
manufacturer.
Ventilation – The slots and openings in the cabinet
are provided for necessary ventilation. To ensure
reliable operation of the unit, and to protect it from
overheating, these slots and openings must never be
blocked or covered.
•Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth or
other materials.
•Never block the slots and openings by placing the
unit on a bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface.
•Never place the unit in a confined space, such as a
bookcase, or built-in cabinet, unless proper
ventilation is provided.
SERVICE
Damage Requiring Service – Unplug the unit from
the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions:
•When the power cord or plug is damaged or
frayed.
•If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the unit.
•If the unit has been exposed to rain or water.
•If the unit has been subject to excessive shock by
being dropped, or the cabinet has been damaged.
•If the unit does not operate normally when
following the operating instructions. Adjust only
those controls that are specified in the operating
instructions. Improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often
require extensive work by a qualified technician
to restore the unit to normal operation.
• When the unit exhibits a distinct change in
performance - this indicates a need for service.
Servicing – Do not attempt to service the unit
yourself as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer to all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Table of Contents 7
• Sony cannot accept liability for data written to cartridges lost as a result of using this product.
• Sony bears no responsibility for any financial damages, lost profits, or claims made by third parties
arising from the use of this product.
Table of Contents
How to Use this Guide 8
Chapter 1
Introduction
About the AIT Drive........................................................................... 9
Features .................................................................................................... 9
System Requirements ............................................................................ 10
Useable Cartridges ................................................................................. 10
Part Names and Functions ............................................................. 11
Front Panel ............................................................................................. 11
Rear Panel .............................................................................................. 12
Chapter 2
Preparation
Supplied Items................................................................................. 13
Interconnections ............................................................................. 13
Option Switches (DIP Switch) ........................................................ 14
Chapter 3
Operation
How to use the AIT Drive ................................................................ 16
Cartridge Removal ................................................................................. 17
Attaching the Dust Cover ............................................................... 18
Chapter 4
Care and
Maintenance
Taking Care of the Drive ................................................................. 20
Safety Considerations ............................................................................ 20
Avoiding Damage .................................................................................. 20
Taking Care of Cartridges .............................................................. 22
Usage Precautions ................................................................................. 22
Storage Precautions ............................................................................... 22
Head Cleaning ................................................................................. 23
How to Clean ......................................................................................... 23
Appendix Specifications .................................................................................. 24
Sony Contacts ................................................................................. 25

8How to Use this Guide
How to Use this Guide
This guide describes how to use and care for the SDX-D420V. Please read it
carefully before using the drive and save it for future reference.
The guide consists of four chapters and an appendix. Refer to the chapters
that relate to your use of the drive.
Chapter 1 Introduction
Describes the features of the drive, system requirements, and the names and
functions of each part.
Chapter 2 Preparation
Describes the necessary connections between the drive and the host
computer. Read this chapter when you install the drive.
Chapter 3 Operation
Describes how to use the drive, including how to turn it on, and how to insert
and remove cartridges. Read this chapter when you are going to use the drive.
Chapter 4 Care and Maintenance
Describes how to take care of the drive and cartridges, and how to clean the
drive head. Read this chapter before using the drive.
Appendix
Contains the specifications of the drive.
Trademarks
• Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
• All other system names, products, and services are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners. The ™ or ® marks do
not appear in this manual.

Chapter 1 Introduction 9
Chapter 1 Introduction
About the AIT Drive
The SDX-D420V is an external AIT drive using data cartridges that conform
to the AIT-1 format.
Features
The SDX-D420V has the following features.
•Uses the Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT) format AIT-1 data cartridges.
AIT-1 data cartridges provide 35 GB of storage (no compression) on a
230-m tape. The Read After Write function and Third Level Error
Correction Code ensure high data reliability.
•The drive comes with a data compression function, providing a maximum
of 91 GB of storage on an AIT-1 data cartridge (230-m tape).*1
•Stored data is automatically checked for compression. The drive can also
read data recorded with other devices.
•The drive is equipped with a USB interface. You can therefore connect the
drive to either connector to your computer.
Note
You cannot use the USB interface simultaneously.
• The drive supports Hot Plug, which means that you can connect and
disconnect it while the drive and/or your computer is on.
*1 Assuming a 2.6:1 hardware compression ratio.
The actual degree of compression during recording depends on the system environment and
the type of data.

10 Chapter 1 Introduction
System Requirements
The following are the minimum system requirements to use the drive.
•PC/AT-compatible computer (300 MHz or faster)
•Running Windows Server 2003, Windows XP, Windows 2000
• CD-ROM drive (to install the software necessary to the drive)
•USB interface
Useable Cartridges
The SDX-D420V can be used with data cartridges marked with the AIT-1 logo.
AIT-1 Logo
AIT-1 Data Cartridges
Name Capacity (no compression)
SDX1-35C 35 GB
SDX1-25C 25 GB
AIT Cleaning Cartridges
Name Description
SDX1-CL AIT drive cleaning cartridge
Note
•Be sure to use only data cartridges designed specifically for AIT.
•Do not use anything but AIT cartridges with this system, as doing so can
damage the AIT drive. Although commercially available 8mm videotapes
resemble AIT cartridges in appearance, they have entirely different
specifications and cannot be used.

Chapter 1 Introduction 11
Part Names and Functions
Front Panel
Advanced
Intelligent
Ta p e
12
6354
1AIT Data Cartridge Receptacle
See page 16 to 17 for information on inserting and removing a AIT data
cartridge.
2POWER Indicator
Lights while the drive is on.
3Dust Cover
This cover protects the AIT data cartridge receptacle.
4LED Indication for Drive Status
The LED indicators are defined as follows.
LED
TAPE CLEANING REPLACE Sense
MOTION REQUEST TAPE
Independent Independent Tape Loaded
Independent Independent Tape Access in Progress
(write/read)
Independent Independent Tape Access in Progress (others)
Independent Independent Cleaning is requested
Independent Independent Cleaning is Not Completed
Independent Independent Media Error Occurred
H/W Error Occurred
on
Slow
1 pulse (0.9 sec on/0.3 sec off)
Fast
1 pulse (0.3 sec on/0.3 sec off)

12 Chapter 1 Introduction
5EJECT Button
Push to remove a data cartridge from the drive.
6POWER Switch
Press to turn the drive on or off.
Rear Panel
23
1
1AC IN Connector
Connect the supplied power cable here.
2USB Connector ( )
Connects to the USB connector of the host computer or a USB hub.
3Cooling Fan

Chapter 2 Preparation 13
Chapter 2 Preparation
After you confirm that all the necessary items are accounted for, connect the
drive to the host computer or to a USB hub.
Supplied Items
When you open the package, make sure that it contains the following. Contact
your supplier if any of these items are missing and/or damaged.
•AIT Drive Unit
•Quick start guide
•AIT data cartridge
•Operating instructions CD-ROM
•USB 2.0 cable
•Power cable
•Safety regulations
Interconnections
Connecting to the USB Interface
Connect the USB connector of the host computer or USB hub to the USB
connector of the drive with the USB cable.
AC power

14 Chapter 2 Preparation
Option Switches (DIP Switch)
Remove the two slotted screws by using a slotted screwdriver. Remove the
access cover to change the DIP switch settings. (Refer to the following
figure for details changing the DIP switch settings.)
After changing the DIP switch settings, replace access cover and tighten the
two slotted screws using a slotted screwdriver.
Caution
Before removing the access cover to change DIP switch settings on the drive,
turn off the computer and disconnect the power cord from the unit. Once the
DIP switch settings have been changed, replace the access cover using the
two original slotted screws provided.
DIP Switch Access
DIP Switch Positions
Default
ON
OFF
12345678
1Drive Mode (OFF)
2Drive Mode (OFF)
3Drive Mode (OFF)
4Drive Mode (OFF)
5Reserved (OFF)
6Periodic Cleaning Req (ON)
7DC Control (1) (ON)
8DC Control (2) (OFF)
Access Cover
DIP Switch
Slotted
Screws

Chapter 2 Preparation 15
Cleaning Request Mode
Automatic cleaning requests can be enabled by a DIP switch.
When switch 6 is ON, cleaning requests are enabled. When enabled, the
“CLEANING REQUEST” LED on the front panel lights after every 100
hours of operation.
When this LED lights, clean the drive with a head cleaning cartridge.
Note
To maintain the drive in optimum condition in environments affected by dust and other
contaminants, we recommend keeping cleaning requests enabled.
ON
OFF
12345678
Emulation Mode*
To enable Emulation Mode, set position 1 - 4 Drive Mode switches to ON.
ON
OFF
12345678
*Emulation Mode returns the following in the Product Identification field of
Inquiry of the SDX-D420V.
SDX-420C
Data Compression Control DIP switch
Data compression can be selected by DIP switches. Data compression is
enabled while position 7 [DC Control (1)] is ON. Control by host can be
disabled when position 8 [DC Control (2)] is ON.

16 Chapter 3 Operation
Chapter 3 Operation
This chapter describes how to use the AIT drive, and how to handle data
cartridges.
How to use the AIT Drive
1Press the POWER switch on the front panel.
The POWER indicator should light, and the TAPE MOTION,
CLEANING REQUEST, and REPLACE TAPE indicators should blink
as the self-test is performed.
2When the three indicators stop blinking, open the dust cover and insert a
data cartridge as shown below. The TAPE MOTION indicator lights.
3Computer software controls the reading and writing of tapes. While
reading or writing, the TAPE MOTION indicator blinks.
4Close the dust cover.
Caution
Do not touch the rear of the drive unit during operation, to prevent the
possibility of mulfunction.

Chapter 3 Operation 17
Cartridge Removal
1Press the EJECT button.
2The cartridge is ejected automatically.
Caution
Do not push the EJECT button while the TAPE MOTION indicator is
blinking. To do so may destroy data on the tape.
3Remove the cartridge from the receptacle, and then close the dust cover.

18 Chapter 3 Operation
Attaching the Dust Cover
If the dust cover comes loose, attach it as described below.
Note
We recommend that you use the drive with the dust cover.
1Align the dust cover’s hinge clips (one on each side) with the pins of the
drive bezel.
• The dust cover should be positioned so that the magnets*on the cover’s
back face the drive bezel.
*This magnet does not affect the tape of the cartridge.
•Holding the dust cover at an angle as shown in the figure below, set the
hinge clips on top of the bezel pins, positioning them so that they
bracket the pins.

Chapter 3 Operation 19
2Press down at an angle on each side in turn until you hear the hinge clips
click into place.
Caution
Do not press the dust cover in horizontally from the front. Doing so
could cause the dust cover to break.
3Close the dust cover.
This completes attachment of the dust cover.

20 Chapter 4 Care and Maintenance
Chapter 4 Care and Maintenance
Taking Care of the Drive
Safety Considerations
■Power
•100 to 240 V AC.
•Avoid plugging into the same outlet as high-current equipment like copiers
or shredders.
■Power Cable Precautions
•Do not crush the cable or place heavy items on it. If the cable insulation
appears worn or broken, do not use the cable.
• Always unplug the cable by holding the plug: never pull the cable itself, as
it will break.
• If the drive is not being used for a long time, unplug the cable from the
outlet.
Avoiding Damage
■Avoid shock and vibration
Intense shock, such as from dropping the drive, will damage it.
■Environmental considerations
Do not store or use the drive in locations subject to:
•high humidity • excessive dust
•high temperature • intense vibration
•direct sunlight • sudden changes in temperature
■Proper ventilation
To avoid overheating, install the drive where it has free air circulation around
the case and cooling fan. Also, do not cover the drive during operation. The
drive can malfunction if its internal temperature rises too high.
■Avoid sudden changes in temperature
If the drive is moved from a cool place to a warm place, or if the room
temperature suddenly rises, moisture may condense inside the case. After a
sudden change in temperature, wait at least one hour before turning the drive
on.