Questions:
- What is AIT (Advanced Intellligent Tape)?
- What is MIC (Memory In Cassette)?
- What is AME?
- Can the AIT drives read or write other 8mm media?
- Can other 8mm drives read AIT media?
- Can other 8mm drives write AIT media?
- Which operating systems support AIT products?
- What backup programs support AIT products?
- How do I set compression for my AIT tape drive?
- I cannot reach full capacity on my AIT tapes, why?
- Why wont my AIT tape drive eject tapes?
- Why wont my AIT tape drive accept or recognize tapes?
- Why wont my AIT drive read back-ups made on another system?
- My tape wont eject. If I hold up the dust flap open while ejecting, the tape will eject OK.
- Why can I do a successful backup on some days, the backup fails on other days?
- Why do I get bad block or bad media errors? What can I do?
- What does it mean when I get a "data mismatch" error"?
- Why do I get CRC errors on my AIT tape drive?
- What causes SCSI timeout?
- How do I set SCSI ID for the AIT tape drive?
- How do I terminate my AIT tape drive?
- How do I speed up my transfer rate and get better drive performance on my AIT drive?
- What do I do if my AIT tape drive is not detected?
- Can a LVD tape drive be used in an HVD environment and vice versa?
- Do I need to have all tapes in the magazine in order to use the AIT Autoloader?
- What do I do if my LCD shows an Illegal Magazine Configuration on an AIT Autoloader?
- How do I remove a tape magazine that will not eject from an AIT autoloader drive?
- Are there library systems available that support the AIT drives?
- Does the drive include any software or media?
- How often does an AIT drive need cleaning?
- How do I determine the firmware revision of my AIT tape drive?
Answers:
What is AIT (Advanced Intellligent Tape)?
AIT (Advanced Intelligent Tape) is a new intelligent tape technology developed by Sony. It incorporates a new recording format, ALDC compression, MIC (Memory In Cassette) capabilities, and the exclusive use of AME (Advanced Metal Evaporated) media.
There are four key features that distinguish AIT tape drives from ordinary tape drives:
AIT media, with Memory In Cassette (MIC) flash memory chips embedded in the cartridge;
Advanced Metal Evaporative (AME) media formulation, which delivers superior performance, media life and head life;
A self-cleaning mechanism that eliminates the need for routine cleaning; and
A variable self-cooling fan that automatically dissipates heat.
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What is MIC (Memory In Cassette)? The optional Memory In Cassette chip (MIC) that is embedded in AIT media is a key feature of the AIT drive⤙s superior performance characteristics. By storing the tape drive⤙s system log (the" table of contents") in the MIC flash memory instead of on the tape itself, the media load time and average file access time is approximately 50% faster than other tape drives.
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What is AME? AME (Advanced Metal Evaporated) is the tape formulation used by AIT. Key characteristics include a 100% pure cobalt magnetic layer, a dual magnetic layer design, the absence of binder material which prevents tape head contamination, and a DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) protective coating for extreme durability.
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Can the AIT drives read or write other 8mm media? No. Since regular 8mm tapes do not conform to the AIT standard, the AIT drives will automatically eject an 8mm tape from the drive after insertion.
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Can other 8mm drives read AIT media? Yes, under certain circumstances. If data is recorded on AIT media in native (uncompressed) mode, other 8mm drives (such as the Exabyte Mammoth) may be able to read the data. When data is recorded on AIT media in compressed mode, the AIT drive uses an advanced compression algorithm (ALDC) that is different from the older, less efficient algorithms used in other 8mm drives. Therefore, other 8mm drives cannot read an AIT tape recorded in compressed mode.
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Can other 8mm drives write AIT media? No. When an AIT tape is inserted in an 8mm drive, the AIT media automatically switches to write-protect mode. This prevents any data from being written to the AIT media.
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Which operating systems support AIT products? AIT drives and autoloaders are compatible with most operating systems, including Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Novell NetWare, UNIX and others. For further information, please refer to the drives manufacturer⤙s web site.
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What backup programs support AIT products? AIT drives and autoloaders are compatible with most popular application software packages including Veritas Backup Exec, ARCserve, Legato Networker and many others. For a complete current compatibility list, please refer to drives manufacturer and/or backup software manufacturer⤙s web sites.
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How do I set compression for my AIT tape drive? The compression can ONLY be set in the software OR the hardware, not both. If the compression is to be set on the hardware, you will need to set the jumper or dip switch accordingly. Please refer to your tape drive manual for specific instructions.
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I cannot reach full capacity on my AIT tapes, why? Your tape drive is a streaming device. If the data buffer in the drive becomes empty during the backup process the tape will continue moving thus leaving areas on the tape with no data and reducing the tapes capacity - This can be caused by poor system performance or by backing up over a slow or busy network. Incorrect SCSI configuration can also cause data bottlenecks, for best performance it is recommended to configure the tape drive with a dedicated SCSI controller. Poor media condition can cause write errors, the data will then have to be written again, this also reduces tape capacity - Be sure your media is in good condition. Due to the built in head cleaning mechanism on all AIT drives, only under extreme environmental conditions should it be necessary to clean the heads on an AIT drive. If you are using data compression, remember that some files do not compress very well, ie: MPEG, JPEG, PDF etc. If your drive has built in hardware compression enabled be sure that you do not have the backup applications software compression enabled also.
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Why won⤙t my AIT tape drive eject tapes? First, make sure the correct type of tape is being used. Try issuing a SCSI bus reset or power the drive OFF and back ON to override this condition. Disconnect the data cable from the drive to determine if the cable or connection may be the problem. If this does not work and if it is absolutely mandatory that the tape cassette be removed prior to returning the drive for repair, an emergency cassette removal procedure can be performed. See tape drive manual or contact technical support for further assistance.
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Why won⤙t my AIT tape drive accept or recognize tapes? Check that the mounting brackets are not interfering with the loading mechanism. The AIT drives' loading mechanism has some pins and guides that slide along the upper sides of the chassis. If the drive is not mounted correctly or you are using non-standard 5.25" mounting brackets these can interfere with tape loading, resulting in the tape been rejected by the mechanism. Make sure to use correct media and/or try different media. Ensure that you have the latest firmware version for your unit. Check that the jumper settings are all set correctly.
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Why won⤙t my AIT drive read back-ups made on another system? Ensure that the compression method used to make the tape is the same as the one being used to read it. Make sure the back-up program on the reading computer is the same type or newer than the one which created the tape(s).
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My tape won⤙t eject. If I hold up the dust flap open while ejecting, the tape will eject OK.
Make sure the face plate is installed correctly. When fitting the face plate the "dust flap" must be held open and the small "dust flap actuator arm" on the side of the drive must be resting forward. If this is not done correctly then the dust flap will not open and allow the tape to eject.
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Why can I do a successful backup on some days, the backup fails on other days? Replace the tapes that fail with known good tapes or new tapes if possible. The particular tapes that are not successfully backing up are most likely defective.
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Why do I get bad block or bad media errors? What can I do?
First of all, make sure to use drive manufacturer recommended media. Try retensioning the tape. This is an important procedure whenever encountering any type of problem with your tapes.
Tape Retensioning the tape cartridge is always recommended for optimal performance, particularly if using a new tape, after exposure to temperature changes or shock. Retensioning restores the proper tape tension to the media and removes unwanted tight spots that develop naturally on tape.
If a tape cartridge has not been used for over a month, you should retension the cartridge before using it.
If you ever have a problem reading a tape, retensioning may solve the problem. See your software manual, or refer to your software's online help for instructions on tape retensioning.
If the tape is dropped, retension before using it. Note: In some cases, it may be necessary to retension a tape several times. Try another tape after exiting, then re-starting the software. Try initializing the tape through backup software to see if that solves the problem. If not, do a Long Erase (if your backup software permits) of the tape before the next backup is attempted. This will take over 1 hour and will completely wipe the tape. It will leave the format intact. Replace the tapes with new ones, clean drive several times in a row, cold boot the system to reset the drive and check SCSI settings to make sure they are set at the suggested settings for the drive. CAUTION! A Long Erase or Initializing the media is not an option if you are attempting to restore from the tape in question. Either procedure will remove the tape header and the data will no longer be retrievable from that tape.
CAUTION! Do not attempt to bulk erase an AIT tape as this will render the tape unusable.
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What does it mean when I get a "data mismatch" error"? This is caused due to the file was open and/or changed between the time of the backup and verify.
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Why do I get CRC errors on my AIT tape drive?
CRC errors generally indicates one of a few things:
Dirty tape head.
Bad tape. The tape may have bad sectors or is getting old and the coating material is coming off or has stretched due to high heat and/or use.
Bad tape drive. A bad tape drive can be manifested any number of ways including CRC errors, I/O errors and filling up tape rapidly.
Termination or other cabling problems.
Problem with SCSI controller and/or transfer rate is set up too fast for the tape drive.
Bad or outdated drivers.
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What causes SCSI timeout?
SCSI time outs occur when the signal sent from the backup source (through the SCSI card to the tape drive) is lost or greatly diminished in strength. The tape drive does not understand what it is being asked to do and a SCSI time out occurs. To stop SCSI time outs, do the following:
Check your cabling. Make sure both ends of the SCSI cable are firmly fastened in the connector. If the tape drive is the terminating device make sure there are no empty connectors between the tape drive and any other device that may be on the cable.
Make sure you have the latest drivers for your SCSI controller. Drivers are provided by your SCSI card manufacturer.
Check your SCSI settings to make sure they are set to the drive manufacturer suggested settings.
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How do I set SCSI ID for the AIT tape drive? SCSI ID can be set by jumpers located at the back of the tape drive. Refer to your tape drive manual for more details. For external model, SCSI ID switch is located at the back of the unit.
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How do I terminate my AIT tape drive? Usually through a jumper or a DIP switch. For external model, an external terminator is required. Please refer to your drive manual for instructions specific to your model.
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How do I speed up my transfer rate and get better drive performance on my AIT drive?
If performance is an issue while backing up across a network, the problem may be network related. Try isolating the backup to the local hard drive for testing purposes. For best performance across a network, backups should be scheduled when network traffic is at a minimum. This drive performs best on an Ultra Wide or faster SCSI card. If you are using the drive on a SCSI card that only has a narrow connection, the performance is going to be diminished. For best performance, use an Ultra Wide or faster SCSI card and do the following:
Set the BIOS to synchronous negotiation on.
Set the transfer rate as high as it will go.
Enable SCSI disconnect to yes for all devices.
Set Ultra SCSI speed on.
Set wide negotiation on.
Send start unit command no.
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What do I do if my AIT tape drive is not detected? Verify the drive is running in a supported environment and connected to a supported host adapter. Check your software and hardware documentation for a compatibility listing. If your drive is an external model, confirm that all the cables are plugged in correctly and the power switch is on. Verify that the drive, host adapter and user settings are set correctly according to the respective installation manuals. Make sure that the cables are properly connected and that they are securely attached. Confirm that the drive and host adapter settings do not conflict with other devices installed in your system. Ensure that drive termination is properly set. If your drive is connected to a supported host adapter, be sure you have the appropriate ASPI drivers loaded. Cycle power to the tape drive without a tape cartridge inserted in the drive. Insert a tape into the drive, verify that the "tape inserted" drive light comes on and then eject the tape to ensure it is working properly.
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Can a LVD tape drive be used in an HVD environment and vice versa? No. Install an HVD drive only in an HVD environment and an LVD drive only in an LVD environment. Do not mix HVD and LVD devices. Incorrect mixing of device types may result in damage to the device or system. The signals on the interface are incompatible. Look at the label above the drive's SCSI connector to determine if the drive is an HVD or LVD model.
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Do I need to have all tapes in the magazine in order to use the AIT Autoloader? Yes, all tapes must be in the magazine in order for the Autoloader to operate properly.
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What do I do if my LCD shows an Illegal Magazine Configuration on an AIT Autoloader? This error usually occurs when a tape is caught in the magazine, the magazine is not full, a tape is inserted upside down in the magazine or a label or a portion of the label is covering the recognition tabs on the bottom of the cartridge's front side panel.
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How do I remove a tape magazine that will not eject from an AIT autoloader drive?
If the SCSI command Prevent/Allow Media Removal has been sent to the drive setting the Prevent bit to a value of one, the magazine cannot be ejected using the unload command. The eject button is also disabled.
To enable the ability to eject the magazine, do any of the following:
Send the SCSI Prevent/Allow Media Removal command to set the Prevent bit to a value of zero.
Issue a SCSI bus reset.
Power the drive off and back on while holding the eject button.
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Are there library systems available that support the AIT drives? Yes. A variety of tape library manufacturers currently offer libraries that feature AIT drives such as Qualstar, etc....
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Does the drive include any software or media? For details on available software and media, please contact either your local dealer or drive manufacturer.
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How often does an AIT drive need cleaning? AIT drives are designed to be self-cleaning, and under normal operating conditions the drive will probably never need to be cleaned. This is due to a combination of an advanced media formulation as well as the automatic cleaning mechanism that is built into every AIT drive. The drive itself constantly monitors head output to check for possible contamination and will then invoke the built-in Active Head Cleaner. If you are operating an AIT drive in dusty or dirty environments, the optional AIT Cleaning Cartridge should be used whenever the Status LED light blinks in a "long on, short off" pattern or as indicated by the application.
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How do I determine the firmware revision of my AIT tape drive?
Use your SCSI controller card, the controller card may have a diagnostic utility or switch which will allow you to determine the firmware level of peripherals (including the tape drive) attached to the card. See your controller card documentation for information. Another way is to use tape drive manufacturer⤙s diagnostic utility which can be downloaded from the manufacturer⤙s web site. If none of the above is available, try the following methods:
*Windows 9x
From Windows 9x opening screen:
Click START - SETTINGS - CONTROL PANEL
Double click the Systems Icon; choose the Device Manager tab.
Double click onTape Drives, then highlight the appropriate tape drive name.
Click on Properties, then select the SETTINGS tape. You will see the Firmware Version.
Or
From Windows 9x opening screen:
Click START - RUN- type REGEDIT. Click OK.
Drill down: Hkey_Local_Machine- Enum - SCSI - Name of Specific Tape Drive
Note: The Tape category under Enum will not give much information.
Under the Tape Drive there will be a controller designation.
Click the controller entry; look in the right frame for Revision Level. This is the firmware information.
*Windows NT 4.0 / 2000
If the drive is attached to a Windows NT 4.x / 2000 server or workstation:
Click on START - SETTINGS - CONTROL PANEL and select Tape Devices.
From Tape Devices, select PROPERTIES and then the SETTINGS tab.
The firmware revision will be displayed.
OR
Access the Registry Editor.
Click on START | RUN, then type REGEDT32.EXE and click OK.
Select: Hkey_Local_Machine on local machine.
Drill down: Hardware - DeviceMap - SCSI - SCSI Port 0 - SCSI Bus 0 - Target ID x
- Logical Unit ID x (usually 0)
Target ID is the SCSI ID of the tape drive.
If there are multiple controller cards in the system, you may need to select an alternate SCSI Port.
Look at the right frame under Identifier to see the firmware.
*Novell Netware
The program BEDIAG.NLM will return firmware information. This may be obtained from the self-
extracting BEDGNLM.EXE file. Load and run this NLM with the switch "/s/w" to get just SCSI bus
information. Running the NLM will create an output file called BEDIAG.FAX. Find the line that lists the
tape drive. The firmware version will be listed at the end of this line.
*Dos or Windows 3.X
The file ASPIINFO.EXE will scan ASPI compliant third party controller cards for firmware and other
information for devices on the SCSI bus. The appropriate ASPI manager must be loaded at bootup in the
config.sys file. Or through the backup software configuration settings.
*Unix
Check your controller card or operating system information for a possible SCSI interrogation utility. If
possible, boot to DOS or any of the previously mentioned operating systems, and use the procedure for that
operating system.
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