check of tape usability (Ultrium Tape Library, Legato Networker 6.1)

[sysadv]

Hello,

does anybody know a common procedure to check the state of tapes automatically (installed at an Ultrium Tape Library, controlled by Networker 6.1 [Solaris 8])?

Bye Sysadv

 

[jjrinconbayon]

what kind of check? ...

 

[sysadv]

I only want to check the availability of the tape - a kind of "write/read"-check. I only want to know, if the state of tape allows to go on backing up or not. Perhaps there is a scenario, which allows the admin to run a check after the backup. Perhaps the system might be set to do it automatically. In case of malfunction the admin is informed immediately via email. Does it help?

Bye sysadv

 

[605]

I do not see the benefit:
- Every backup software must read the tape when it is
mounted. It would not make sense to only rely on a
status that has been tested before the last unmount.
- Every backup software has to handle write errors when
it encounters a write error. So it must be capable to
do this when writing every single block.

NW will flag the media automatically to full and will not
write any more, if it cannot recover from such error.

Honestly, i do not see the benefit of such procedure.

 

[sysadv]

Thanks for your response! According your description it does not seem to be neccessary to run a check, I've got in mind. Does Networker usually inform the admin about such a problem (is it a part of Networkers event model)?

Bye sysadv

 

[605]

Media errors will be logged and of course a new one is requested.

 

[sysadv]

Much thanks! One sorrow less ...

Bye sysadv