Here are the latest and prior revisions of the IBM-MagStor LTO drive firmware.  Please note:

  • For library drive firmware updates, please get in touch with our support team for assistance.
  • Select the proper firmware for your drive's form factor, generation, and connection type.  
  • For Thunderbolt-3 Drives, use 'SAS' interface firmware.


NOTE: IBM America has requested that we cease the use and distribution of the newer "R3Gx" code for LTO-9 tape drives. If you have applied R3G0 to a full-height or R3G1 to a half-height tape drive, please flash back to Q9E0/Q9E1, respectively. IBM states there should be an update in Q4 of 2024.


Full Height (FH) Tape Drives


LTO 9:

FC:   Q9E0 Released 12/2023

SAS: Q9E0 Released 12/2023


LTO 8:

FC:  Q3A0  Released 5/21/2024


FC:  Q384  Released 4/27/2023



Half Height (HH) Tape Drives


LTO 9:

FC:   Q9E1 Released 12/2023

SAS: Q9E1 Released 12/2023



LTO 8:

FC:   Q3A1  Released 5/21/2024

SAS: Q3A1  Released 5/21/2024


FC:   Q385 Released 4/27/2023 

SAS: Q385 Released 4/27/2023 


LTO 7:

FC:   Q3A1  Released 5/21/2024

SAS: Q3A1  Released 5/21/2024


FC:   Q385 Released 4/27/2023 

SAS: Q385 Released 4/27/2023



Here are instructions on verifying your firmware version and updating tape drive firmware using the IBM Tape Diagnostic Tool (ITDT).


Verifying Tape Drive Firmware With ITDT

Updating Tape Drive Firmware Using ITDT (Windows)

Updating Tape Drive Firmware Using ITDT (MacOS)


Firmware upgrade (FUP) cartridges are also available for purchase by going to:

MagStor LTO Drive Firmware Update Cartridge


   


Updating your LTO tape drive firmware is important for several reasons. 

Firstly, firmware updates often include critical bug fixes, addressing potential vulnerabilities, and improving your tape drive's overall stability and performance. Keeping your firmware updated ensures that any known issues or weaknesses are promptly resolved, minimizing the risk of data corruption or loss. 


Secondly, firmware updates can introduce compatibility enhancements, enabling your tape drive to work seamlessly with newer hardware, operating systems, and backup software. This ensures smooth interoperability and allows you to use the latest fixes. Lastly, firmware updates can also bring important feature enhancements, such as improved error recovery mechanisms or increased reliability during backups, further optimizing your tape drive's functionality and providing a better user experience. 

 By regularly updating your LTO tape drive firmware, you can safeguard your data and benefit from the fixes offered by the latest firmware.