High reliability comes from data redundancy. The LTO Ultrium format uses Error Correcting Code (ECC), generated at two levels (C1 and C2), which is added to the data. The data is then recorded on the tapes. This logical format provides quadruple redundancy of data, making it possible to recover data when reading problems occur.
To ensure accurate data tracking, technology taken from high-density hard disk drives is used. This system compensates both for tape expansion/contraction and operational vibration. It does this by reading servo information written parallel to the tracks.
Ultrium also provides servo information redundancy by writing the servo information in parallel on both sides of each data track.
Such high-density storage requires high precision engineering. To avoid misreads from even slight deviations in head position resulting from tape drive vibration, the Ultrium drive heads are designed to optimally track the data using smooth moving ceramic bearings.