Backup Exec 10d can't eject media from Autoloader

[Crazycritter1]

Hi All -

We have recently installed a HP Storageworks 1/8 Tape Autoloader, and are using Backup Exec 10d. I have opted to have Backup Exec eject media when the job completes, but it fails to do so.

We only use 1 tape per backup, so multiple tapes are not a concern at this point in time.

Is there something on the Autoloader side that is overriding this, or is it completely unable to carry out this function?

Any and all assistance is greatly appreciated!

 

[steveot]

Eject feature in Backup Exec doesnt work on autoloaders that is by design. Its only designed for single tape drive.

You can setup a policy to have you job run and then have it export the tape after the job completes.

 

[Crazycritter1]

I appreciate the info. I've been searching online, and have been speaking with our vendor, but up until now, have not had any answers.

I've never set up an export policy before. Would you mind walking me through the basic idea?

 

[steveot]

If you dont know how to work with policies then you can schedule the export job:

http://support.veritas.com/docs/255442

http://support.veritas.com/docs/271482

As far as policies you got the job setup tab and create you selection list..which should already exist if you running backups.

In job setup in policy section create a new policy. Then create a new backu template. The template basically is everything in a normal job execept the selections. So you be setting up options, schedule, device, etc. Once you save the backup template you should see a option for export template and you create that. Then save the policy then it will ask you to pick a selection list. Use your existing seleciton list. Backup Exec will create the policy drive jobs. Place you existing job on hold.

 

[Crazycritter1]

I created an export policy, and it says to remove the tape from the drive, however, the Autoloader does not present the tape, and does not sound like it receives the command at all.

 

[steveot]

Thats what it supposed to do it required manual intervention. Does you library have a mail slot? You have to respond to the alert to remove the media from the drive and then get the media out if it doesnt have a mail slot

 

[Crazycritter1]

In other words, I still have to navigate the Autoloader's menu to have it eject the media... irregardless of how Backup Exec treats it?

 

[steveot]

Depending on your autoloader yes. Larget autoloader have a mail slot and the tape get dumped into s slot where it can be grabbed by a user. Some libraries just have magazine where this is not possible. Part if the reason for a library is to prevent someone walking by and just taking off with you companies tapes and data

 

[Crazycritter1]

Our autoloader has a door to the cartridge slot, that it opens when we eject the media directly from the autoloader console/menu. Otherwise, it looks like we're out of options, other than manually doing the import/export on the unit. Would you advise having the policy set up for Backup exec to do the notification still, or am I safe to just remove the cartridges without?

Thanks again for your assistance.