IBM Tape Storage TS2900 Tape Autoloader
The IBM TS2900 Tape Autoloader is an entry-level 1U automated tape solution supporting up to nine tape cartridges and one half-height LTO tape drive. Designed for small to mid-sized business server backup and long-term compliance storage, it features a standard barcode reader, web remote management, and 6Gb or 12Gb SAS host connectivity.
Specifications
| Brand | IBM |
|---|---|
| Family | Tape Storage |
| Form factor | 1U rackmount |
| Released | Jun 2009 |
| Form factor | 1U rackmount |
| Cartridge capacity | 9 cartridges in 1 removable magazine |
| Drive support | 1x half-height LTO drive (LTO-4 to LTO-9) |
| Host interfaces | 12Gb/6Gb SAS |
| Max capacity | Up to 405TB compressed (LTO-9) |
Works together
How the IBM Tape Storage TS2900 Tape Autoloader connects to servers, storage and the network: 1 way, with the parts and products on each path.
Direct-attached SAS
12Gb SAS uses Mini-SAS HD (SFF-8644) connectors; older 6Gb gear uses Mini-SAS (SFF-8088). Adapter cables exist, but the link runs at the slower speed.
Servers
IBM Power System S922 2U rack
IBM Power System S924 4U rack
IBM Power System S1022 2U rack
IBM Power System S1024 4U rack
HPE ProLiant DL360 Gen12 1U rack
HPE ProLiant DL380 Gen12 2U rack
Adapters for the server
05-50076-01 Broadcom HBA 9500-16e PCIe 4.0 Tri-Mode 16-Port External Host Bus Adapter
405-AANT Dell 12Gbps SAS HBA Dual Port External PCIe Controller
405-AASU Dell HBA355e External SAS 12Gb/s Host Bus Adapter
HBA465E Dell HBA465e External Host Bus Adapter
Plan and size it
- Draw this setup in the topology planner mrplanb.com
- Add up rack power and space rack-density.com
- LTO tape prices and archive advisor tapebackup.org
- Enterprise backup Ledger: backup software scored mrplanb.com
- LTO tape for backup mrplanb.com
Check compatibility with IBM
Before you buy, confirm the exact configuration against the vendor's own lists: firmware levels, operating systems, adapters and optics that IBM has tested with the IBM Tape Storage TS2900 Tape Autoloader.
- Compatibility IBM System Storage Interoperation Center (SSIC)
- Specifications IBM Documentation
- Support IBM Support
Equivalent models from other brands
- HPE Storeever 1/8 G2 Tape Autoloader
- Dell Powervault 124T
- Lenovo ThinkSystem D1212 Drive Enclosure · compare
FAQ
How many tape cartridges are held in the 1U TS2900?
The autoloader holds nine tape cartridges in a single front-accessible removable magazine with a dedicated mail slot.
What host interface is standard on modern TS2900 units?
Modern units feature a 12Gbps SAS (SFF-8644) external host interface.
Buying or selling TS2900 Tape Autoloader?
New, refurbished or used. Tell us the quantity and condition and we connect you with a vetted reseller in your region, usually within one working day.
Sources
- IBM TS2900 Tape Autoloader Datasheet, checked 2026-10-28