DLT stands for digital linear tape. DLT tapes are magnetic tapes used in the computer industry for storing data. The DLT tape format was invented in 1984 by Digital Equipment Corporation. In 1994 Quantum Corporation bought the technology and today they still manufacture DLT drives and license the technology.

DLT uses linear recording with multiple tracks on 12.6 millimeter wide tape on a single reel and a leader tape pulls the tape out of the cartridge. This leader tape is attached to the cartridge during the initial loading of the tape. Tape material is metal particle tape (MP/AMP.) Today there is also a higher capacity format called Super DLT or SDLT.

An excellent alternative to DLT tape backup technology is VXA tapes. VXA offers many benefits over DLT tapes including increased reliability, more capacity, faster backup speeds, and affordability.

VXA's packet technology stores data in packets rather than the linear fashion used by formats like DLT. Each packet is checked for accuracy against the data source so errors can be fixed on the fly. This enables data to be recovered more easily and with fewer problems during the data restore process.

Watch the VXA Technology virtual tour.