3555-E3A IBM TS4300 Tape Library Expansion Module

The IBM 3555-E3A is the expansion module for the TS4300 Tape Library, machine type 3555. The 3U base module is the 3555-L3A; it holds up to 40 cartridges and three half-height LTO drives, or one full-height and one half-height drive. Each 3555-E3A adds another 40 cartridges and more drive positions, and expansion modules are installed both above and below the base module.

Stack height depends on library generation. Earlier libraries accept 6 expansion modules for a stack of 7 modules (21U); later libraries accept up to 15 expansion modules for 16 modules (48U), with the base module sitting roughly in the middle. A 21U library cannot be converted to a 48U library, and the two use different chassis parts: base chassis H6FNK for 21U and 79KJK for 48U.

Each module contains two magazines. Slots are numbered per module starting at the bottom front of the left magazine, and modules carry a physical number counted from the base: the base is number 4 in a 21U library and number 9 in a 48U library.

Power rules matter for an expansion module. The library ships with a single power supply, a secondary redundant supply can be added to the base module, and an expansion module needs its own power supply whenever drives are installed in it. The power supply FRU is 00VJ940, and IBM also identifies an expansion controller (00GH772) and an expansion cable (00GH763) as TS4300 replacement parts.

IBM made the 3555-E3A generally available on September 8, 2017. LTO-7, LTO-8 and LTO-9 drive assemblies are available for it, for example 00GH812 for LTO-8 half-height Fibre Channel and 02XX413 for LTO-9 half-height Fibre Channel. The base module is the 3555-L3A TS4300 base module, and the 00VJ940 power supply fits both module types.