OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT

Exhibit 10.50

July 29, 2005

Tom Ward
2300 75^th Street
Boulder, Colorado 80301

Dear Tom:

     Exabyte Corporation (the “Company”) is pleased to offer you continuance in the position of President and Chief Executive Officer, on the terms and conditions set forth below, which terms and conditions are subject to and contingent upon final approval by the Company’s Board of Directors.

1. Duties and Responsibilities

     As President and Chief Executive Officer, you will report directly to the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board of Directors”) and perform the duties and have the responsibilities customarily associated with these positions (including autonomy to run the day-to-day operations of the Company), and such other duties as may be assigned to you by the Board of Directors. In this capacity, we expect you to devote your full business time and best efforts to the performance of your duties and to abide by the Company’s policies and procedures in effect from time to time; provided that you will be permitted to serve on the board of directors of other profit or non-profit entities so long as such service does not adversely affect the performance of your duties under this Agreement.

     You shall be nominated by the Board of Directors as a candidate for Director for so long as you hold the position of President and Chief Executive Officer.

     Employment with the Company under this Letter Agreement is for no specific duration. As a result, either you or the Company are free to terminate your employment at any time for any reason,