how to restore file from tape with cpio

[benseghir_1]

I'm using cpio to make multiples backup on a single tape using cpio (cpio -ocv) with the no-rewind tape.
how can restore only one file from the second part of the tape.
or how can use mt to position the tape

[A. Clay Stephenson · Accepted solution]

You can use dd outputting to /dev/null to skip past the files on tape. That's the way it was done in the old days but now it's easier to use mt.

mt -f /dev/rmt/1mnb fsf 1
cpio -icvdum filename < /dev/rmt/1mnb

I suggest that you you the Berkeley-style no-rewind devices when creating your tape. The tape position rules for Berkeley are more sane that the AT&T counterpart.