"Problem with the host interface" at start of backup.

[dmckergan]

Hi folks,

I've been trying to get BE to back up our networked snap server - it is fine with restores, even from multiple tapes but when I try a backup it seems to write a few hundred Kb or as much as 1.5 megs then gives me the error:

"
Warning
Device: COMPAQ 1 (NTSERVER2)
The tape drive has a problem with the host
interface:
1. Check the cables and cable connections.
2. Restart the operation.
"

I have tried it with local files, but the same thing happens.

I am mystified by this and would really appreciate some help!
Many thanks in advance,
Dave.

 

[dmckergan]

Forgot to mention:

System is a 1GHz P3, NT4 Server, Backup Exec 8.6 Evaluation Demo, Tape drive is a Compaq TL891.

Thanks,
Dave.

 

[chakram8]

I am experiencing this exact problem...any one have any insight?
thanks.

 

[dmckergan]

Hi,

Our problem turned out to be a faulty host controller - so it was hardware not software. Might be worth checking!

Dave.

 

[chakram8]

Thanks for letting me know what you figured out.

I just switched out a Compaq DLT 35/70 drive. The previous unit had a tape jammed in it, so I just switched it out for the exact same drive, but after I installed it and tried to run the backup (Exec for Windows 9.1) I get the error message.

How did you figure out it was the host controller? Do I just need to replace the cable? I am using the same one as I was with the previous machine...sorry for my ignorance.
debbie.

 

[dmckergan]

Hi Debbie,

As it was quite a while back, I can't quite remember all the details but I think a Compaq 'engineer' came and replaced the entire drive unit, after which 'it worked'.

I know that's not much help but I remember having to check the (LCD on front panel) setup after installation of the new unit to make sure everything was ok too.

What I AM clear about is feeling very happy that it was hardware, not software Took me ages to get to the point where I had no software options left though (I think there are quite a few FAQ questions regarding Host Interface problems).

Sorry I'm not much help!

Regards,
Dave.
BKS Surveys Ltd., Northern Ireland.

 

[justin2000]

Just an observation.. if this was running for a while, and nothing has been changed, or updated on the server, then suddenly you get this error..

The tape drive has a problem with the host
interface:
1. Check the cables and cable connections.
2. Restart the operation.

Wouldn't you automatically think it is a hardware error?

 

[dmckergan]

Normally yes, but this error message also points to a load of software problems. (regardless of the wording...)

 

[chakram8]

Just for clarification, it was the tape drive unit causing the problem? I've checked with Veritas and they gave me a long list of things to try, which I will do, but if the drive is faulty that would explain a lot. I'm using Backup Exec 9.1 and I've had loads of software problems.
thanks,
debbie.

 

[dmckergan]

Hi Debbie,

Yip, it was the drive causing our problem. The engineer swapped it for a new one and that resolved the issue.

Good luck!

 

[chakram8]

Thanks for all of your help!