Linear Tape File System (LTFS)

Linear Tape File System (LTFS) is a self-describing magnetic tape format that defines the organization of data on the tape. Supporting LTO-5 and later Ultrium generations, data tapes written in the LTFS allows for direct access to file content data and file metadata. LTFS formatted tapes are similar to accessing files stored on other storage media like disk or removable flash drives. This format presents a standard file system view of the data stored on the tape media, allowing for users to access the data directly from tape.

LTFS Partitions on a Tape

After a cartridge is loaded, the drive quickly reads the index and metadata partition on the tape without having to scan the entire tape. This allows for faster and more efficient access to the data stored on the tape.

Key Highlights of LTFS:

• Easy and fast access to large files: 2.5 TB native capacity for a single LTO-6 tape
• Drag and drop functionality
• Appears as storage device to operating system
• Enables standard applications to write and read to LTFS formatted tapes
• Non-proprietary format provides investment protection for archive/long term storage

Video LTFS Today and in the Future

W. Curtis Preston interviews Molly Rector, EVP of Product Management for Spectra Logic, at SNW 2012 in Santa Clara, CA and they discuss some different LTFS-based hardware and software offerings.

Spectra and LTFS

Spectra libraries are compatible with LTFS software and hardware solutions from a range of providers. See our list of partners.