Abstract

A media stackloader processes removable data storage media such as optical disks, magnetic diskettes, or tape media. The stackloader removably couples to a storage drive, such as by plugging into a slot of the host computer. The stackloader has a plug portion integral with a housing portion, the plug portion plugging into the host computer and the housing portion housing a magazine containing the removable media. The stackloader includes a device for moving the magazine vertically within the housing to align selected cartridges with an opening in one of the drives of the personal computer. After the cartridge is aligned, a device is employed for moving the cartridge horizontally into the drive for processing and, after processing, for withdrawing the cartridge from the drive back into the magazine. A locking mechanism selectively locks and unlocks the cartridges to prevent improper removal of cartridges from the magazine. Another aspect of the invention includes a method for operating a media stackloader, supporting operations needed to add new cartridges to a magazine, remove existing cartridges, read data from a cartridge, write data to a cartridge, audit the status of cartridges in a magazine, and aid the operator in exchanging mounted magazines and cartridges with different, un-mounted magazines or cartridges.