The procedure for fixing interface bus errors varies, depending on whether the error is consistent or intermittent, and on your configuration.
This section describes how to fix an error.
Fixing SAS bus errors
1. Check whether the tape drive power is ON.
2. Verify that the SAS cable is connected properly to the server and to the tape drive.
3. Replace SAS cable if it shows any signs of damage.
Resolving media-related problems
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Media-related problems can be diagnosed and solved in various ways.
About this task
To resolve problems that are related to media, the drive's firmware includes:
Test Cartridge & Media diagnostic test that verifies whether a suspect cartridge and its magnetic tape are acceptable for use.
Statistical Analysis and Reporting System (SARS) to help with isolating failures between media and hardware. To determine the cause of failure, SARS uses the
cartridge performance history that is saved in the cartridge memory (CM) and the drive performance history that is kept in the drive's VPD (Vital Product Data) area
in NVRAM. Any failures that SARS detects are reported as TapeAlert flags on the server. See IBM LTO Ultrium Tape Drive SCSI Reference.
Attention: If you insert the IBM® LTO Ultrium Data Cartridge into another manufacturer's drive, the SARS data in the cartridge memory might become lost or invalid.
If you encounter a media-related problem, refer to Function code E: Test cartridge & media.
Pre-call checklist
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If you have questions or problems, go through this checklist before IBM® technical support is contacted.
Ensure that the total SAS cable length does not exceed 4 m (13 ft). Complete these steps before you call IBM technical support. Where instructions refer you to the web,
go tohttp://www.ibm.com/support/fixcentral.
1. Complete a general checkup of the hardware and connections.
Verify that all cables are connected properly at both ends.
Before the SAS cables are attached, ensure that the connector does not contain bent or recessed pins.
Ensure that all retention screws for the SAS cable are securely tightened.
2. Verify that the drive's firmware is at the most recent level. To determine the current release of firmware, go to the web. See Updating firmware for instructions about
downloading the current firmware.
3. Verify that your device drivers are at the most recent level.
For IBM device drivers, go to the web.
For the device drivers of independent software vendors (ISVs), go to the appropriate third-party website.
4. Verify whether your hardware and software configuration is supported. To determine the current supported attachments, go to the web.
5. Review "Frequently Asked Questions" and "Hints and Tips" on the web.
6. Run one of the diagnostic methods:
Local diagnostic tests:
Run Function code 1: Run drive diagnostics to determine whether the drive can properly load and unload cartridges, and read and write data.
Optionally, you might run one of the following diagnostic procedures:
Function code E: Test cartridge & media to determine whether a suspect cartridge and its magnetic tape are acceptable.
Function code F: Write performance test to ensure that the drive can read from and write to tape.
Function code H: Test head to ensure that the tape drive's head and tape-carriage mechanics work correctly.
Function code J: Fast read/write test to ensure that the drive can read from and write to tape.
Function code L: Load/unload test to test the drive's ability to load and unload a tape cartridge.
Run Function code 6: Run host interface wrap test.
Remote diagnostic test:
With the ITDT utility, run the SCAN as described in Procedure 4: Verifying host interface communications.
Replacing the tape drive
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To replace your tape drive, complete these steps.
1. Remove the replacement unit from its packaging.
2. Locate the repair identification (RID) tag (included with the replacement unit). See 1 in Figure 1).
3. Write down the serial number of the failed unit on the RID tag.
4. Affix the repair tag to the rear panel of the replacement unit (below the serial number label).
5. Place the failed unit into the packaging of the replacement unit.
6. Follow the instructions (included with the replacement unit) for returning the failed unit.
Figure 1. RID tag on rear panel
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