Since the main instrument data archive is too volumous to store on-line, data files for periods of interest must be promoted by SDC personnel to magnetic disk from off-line data storage. Users request such promotions through a computer utility, called RESTORE, which are responded to during normal business hours by on-duty operators, usually within 30 minutes. The data files are kept on-line until the user no longer needs them.
On-line storage is a finite resource and is apportioned among the investigators. Promoted data files must fit within the requestor's reserved space. While sufficient space is provided to each user for data and program retention, management of it is a necessary responsibility of the user. Files which are no longer needed should be deleted by the user.