Possible issues with external tape drive?

[Ethos]

Hi

We use a Storage Works Ultrium 448 with backup exec software.

It currently takes about 15 hours to backup 290GB and verify the data which I thought was a bit slow?

I ran the assessment tool just on the off chance I got these errors:

Warning: Drive is showing a large variation between channels.
|__ Write margin (wrap 0): Warning (1.5 GB written)
|__ Write margin (bottom wrap): Great margin (2.8 GB written)
|__ Write margin (top wrap): Warning (2.2 GB written)
|__ Write margin (wrap 1): Great margin (3.1 GB written)
|__ Average Margin: Warning (9.7 GB written)

The LTO Drive Assessment Test has checked the history and/or operation of the selected drive, and problems have been reported.
The drive is no longer recommended for use.

It's currently running the s63D firmware and version 4.4 of the libary and tape tools.

Has the drive had it?

[Storage expo]

The drive is probably recoverable.

Try these guys. Thay have helped me out with many dodgey tape drives and loaders.

http://www.tape-drive-repair.com/repair.html

Good luck

George

[Ethos]

Is there any additional tests I can perform to see what the actual issue is?

It's backing up and restoring ok....

[TapeDrive Killer]

If drive failed assesment test that means this drive is not fit for purpose call hp tech support and they will replace this drive.

Pablo Alvarado Siles

[Wickedsunny]

Change the drive as it will corrupt your backups. It's a dead duck..

Regards,
Sunny

[Storage expo]

As I said at the top, Those guys know there stuff with regards backup devices. They can re callobrate the head gains or replace the read write head if required.

[Curtis Ballard]

Clean the drive a few times, run a read/write test, then run the assessment test again.

I also like to try a few different tapes before taking any drastic measures. If you have tapes that don't have data you need to save you can use the write a bunch of data then pull a support ticket after each and look to see if there are any warnings.