Re: [Eug-lug] Disconnecting SCSI external tape drive on Unix machine

[Fred James]

French, Derek wrote:

I have a Unix AIX 5.1 machine with an external tape drive that no 
longer responds to SMIT commands, like verify tape backup or eject or 
anything. It gives me a "Tape Busy" error, or "Cannot open" or "No 
such device," although the tape drive is still listed as "defined," so 
I'm guessing it's a hardware defective issue? I have tried other 
tapes, to no avail. I really don't want to turn off the Unix machine 
if at all possible because of the data, but I DEFINITELY don't want to 
damage the Unix machine either. 1) Can I shut off just the tape drive, 
open the case, and insert a new tape drive which damaging my Unix box? 
2) Can I turn off the tape drive, disconnect the SCSI cable from the 
tape drive, and replace it with a new tape external drive without 
damaging the Unix box? Couple people have said it's ok, but manuals I 
read so NO. Any suggestions on determining the drive not responding? 
Or would just rebooting solve the problem? Thanks a bunch!

 

Derek

Derek French
(admitting that I have no direct experience with this problem on AIX box)
Generally speaking, go with what the manual says.  Do you not have a 
support contract?  Is calling IBM out of the question?  Do you have 
access to IBM support online?
Hope that helps
Regards
Fred James

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