Tape Engine Problems

[ankle]

I am running Build 3200 which as far as I can tell is 11.1, SP2. I am encountering Tape engine errors. The backup will run OK once and then The next time it runs I get SCSI errors and Event log errors such as this:

Faulting application TAPEENG.EXE, version 11.1.3200.0, faulting module TAPEENG.DLL, version 11.1.3200.0, fault address 0x0007cb68.

Also, if the software will sometimes see the tape as offline after the errors start. If I reconfigure the tape device, then I will usually get one good backup, but then it will fail when it starts the next one.

Let me state that I am using a Dell PV120T autoloader. It was a recent replacement for another PV120T that was working OK until it mechanically failed. It would not load tapes, so Dell sent me a replacement.

This replacement has a newer firmware than the one that is listed on CA's website. The previous device had the exact firmware that is listed as compatible.

Could that be the problem?

Also, I read in another post to disable the tape drive in the OS Device Manager. I have not done that. Does this need to be done. I am running Windows 2003 Server.

Thanks,

 

[kmd29]

I have experienced the same problem and have tried everything you have. I do not believe the version of the software will make a difference.

If you have resolved the problem please post what the resolution was.

Thanks!

 

[ankle]

You are quite right. I have not gotten anywhere with this. I have come to the conclusion that perhaps the combination of the Dell PV120T and the Adaptec SCSI card is the problem. Although I have installed the driver that Dell states is needed, it does not help. I have tried another SCSI card, but it was a 29160 and it basically uses the same driver as the 39160. I am still working with the device by shutting things down. However, I am working up an order for a new device, an HP DAT 72x6 autoloader. If it works Ok, I will let you know.

 

[vschumpy]

I have come across a number of quite frankly wierd problems with powervault libraries and ARCserve where the dell string is in use - whether it is to do with the OEM firmware or whether it is to do with the tape engine support for the device I am unsure.

I have got around it in the past by messing about (this is the scientific term) with the tape drive and medium changer drivers, but there is by no means any magic solution to this problem. Maybe it is connected to being used with an Adaptec card, the problems I recall certainly were using the U160 based cards.

 

[ankle]

Well, my problems have finally been resolved using my new HP 72x6 autoloader. It holds less tapes than the Dell Powervault, but more storage per tape. it is so nice to have backup running reliably for a change. Now, I can look at other problems. I am using the same Adaptec SCSI card. I really think there was a problem with the Adaptec card working with the Dell device, some strange compatibility. Thanks for comments. This is finished now.