TL891 SAN Storage & Backup

[Ayman Altounji]

We have a customer with a StorageWorks MA8000 SAN which uses a TL891 & Expansion Unit as a backup device. The storage works well but we are experiencing a few problems with the Tape Backup Library.

The setup is as follows :-

Compaq PL5500R Running NW5 Sp6a, Backup Exec v8.5 with Shared Storage Option.

Server connected to a FC Switch and connects to the TL891 via a Compaq Tape Controller II.

Firmware revisions:
TL891 = v5.14
TCII = Latest version

SCSI ID's : Library =1
DLT0 =2
DLT1 =3

Expansion unit = Master, TL891 = Slave

Netware v5.0, with SP6a.

Backup Exec v8.5, Latest Release.

NSSD : Latest Release

The problems are as follows :-

On Ejecting tape cartridges we get an error no. 6013, Invalid Comm Blk. This is a known issue and Compaq will be issuing a Firmware release for this shortly.

The other issues are that the Tape Drives go Idle during a backup, also the Tape Controller II indicates a fault. Backup Exec indicates that it is waiting for the tape drive.

Has anyone had a similar problem to this, if so have you any suggestions to resolve this.

Regards

John

[Ayman Altounji]

The issue is that version of firmware. Your solution is to back rev to 4.09. You will have to call compaq to get the firmware. OR email me at darcy.arnold@compaq.com

[Ayman Altounji]

I have already discussed this issue with compaq and the response is that a new version of the TL891 firm ware will shortly be available to resolve these issues. The problem with Back raving the Firm ware throws up other issues with the Backup Exes software not being tested by Veritas since they recommend v5.14 as a minimum. Incidentally this solution was put to the customer and they rejected the idea due to the further problems that this may cause. Are there any other suggestion or do we have to wait for the new firm ware release?.

Regards

John