Datasheet

this blocksize:

lsattr -El rmt0

z Set the tape drives blocksize to 0 (if not already at 0):

chdev -a block_size=0 -l rmt0

z Determine the blocksize the tape was written at:

dd if=/dev/rmt0 bs=128k count=1 | wc -c

z Use the chdev command to set the blocksize for the tape.

z Process the tape.

z Set the tape drives blocksize back to the previous setting you wrote down previously.

Verify mksysb table of contents

There may be times when you want to verify the table of contents of a AIX "mksysb" tape without actually restoring the

data. The following AIX command will display the table of contents of the mksysb tape:

restore -s4 -Tvqf /dev/rmt0.1

Note:

z You must use the no rewind setting(.1) for this command to work.

z The blocksize set for the tape drive must match the blocksize the tape was written at. If you cannot determine the

blocksize the data on the tape was written at, using a blocksize of "0" will enable the tape drive to read the tape but

will take a very long time.

Reset the tape drive

There may be times when you want to reset a tape drive to clear an error condition(including stuck tape) without powering

off the tape drive. It is possible on most IBM 1/4", 4mm, 8mm, DLT, LTO and VXA tape drives to reset the tape drive by

pressing and holding the eject button depressed for 15-30 seconds(drive power must be ON).

Another way to reset the tape drive is to sign on the system with root authorization and issue the AIX command:

diag -c -d

SCSI Address

Determine that there is no conflict of SCSI addresses between the tape drive and any other SCSI device.

lsdev -Cs scsi

Check Connections

For externally attached tape drives check all external SCSI connections. Check all connectors to be sure there are no bent or

damaged pins in the connector. Insure all connections are secure, screws or clips are tightly attached.

Check SCSI Termination

For externally attached tape drives check to insure the proper IBM terminator is in use. Check the P/N. Insure the

terminators are securely attached.

AIX Diagnostics

To test the tape drive run the tape drive diagnostics using the IBM test tape or diagnostic tape. To run the AIX diagnostics it

is necessary to have root access. From the command line enter the AIX command:

diag

AIX Diagnostic Media

1/4" Tape Drives

Capacity Model Description Test Tape Part Number

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