IBM 3590

The first drive, having the IBM product number 3590, was introduced in 1995 under the nickname Magstar.

Like the 3480 and 3592 formats, this tape format has half inch tape spooled onto 4-by-5-by-1 inch data cartridges containing a single reel.

A takeup reel is embedded inside the tape drive.

Because of their speed, reliability, durability and low media cost, the 3590 tape drives are still in high demand.

It is important to be aware that the tape is written at the drive's defined density and can only be read in a drive of the same model type or a higher version model.