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This is just a simple how-to for creating label for Tape Backup LTO (Linear Tape Open) and DLT (Digital Linear Tape) without label maker or alike, only using OpenOffice, here I use OpenOffice 3.0

I create this label manually because the labels will have different words in each label, while one produced by label maker application will have the same words, as it replicates the master copy the one that we design before.

Back to our label, now, let’s get started.

First launch the OpenOffice 3.0

For this example we will create label for DLT Tape Backup, although sample of Labels for DLT and LTO Tape Backup available to download at the end of this article.

From OpenOffice Welcome screen, click Text Document to create a new document

OO Welcome Screen

Insert Frame into document, to create base of the label an empty bordered box.

Insert Frame

Modify the Frame property, see screenshot below, don’t forget to set Anchor to “As character”.
DLT label is in inch, note also in a ruler, 1 inch is divided into 16 strips, so half an inch is 8/16 converted to decimal notation as 0.5″.

Size of DLT label is 36 x 16 strips, converted to decimal:

• Width : 36/16 = 2.25″
• Height: 13/16 = 0.81″

We enter those values into Size Height and Width fields of Frame property.
Try to compare label on screen with the actual one, if you set OpenOffice screen zoom to 100% you will find that Frame size we just created will be about the same size with the actual label. It is truly WYSIWYG, well, almost

Frame property

You can also set Borders and Background as you want, but for this example I will set “Spacing to contents” to 0.04″, and Background set to default white color.

Frame property, border

After the Frame is set, we can start to fill the blank frame/ label with a logo for example, you can Copy from graphics editor, like MS Paint, then Paste inside the Frame

Paste a graphics

then add text box as many as you need,

Add text

That is it.
Now you need to replicate the label to fill the whole paper, all you need is just the old Copy / Paste. You can edit each text in each label as you see it fit.

Replicate label

Using this simple technique you will be able to create any label, or CD/DVD Cover, or jewel case, or kids name’s label, etc…

I actually use both label for Tape Backup DLT and LTO, and print them using Color Deskjet on A4 Self-adhesive paper.

Download

File available for download was checked and clean from viruses, malscripts. File is FREEWARE, use it as it is fit, give credit where due, but remember that we can not be held responsibles for any damages that may occur because of this file, in other words, all risks are yours.

Sample Labels for DLT and LTO Tape Backup for download

•   Sample Label for DLT Tape (14.9 KiB, 131 hits)

•   Sample label for LTO Tape (13.6 KiB, 200 hits)