Robie,
I am sure that I'm using ftape-4.x_1999_09_11. I downloaded it
from Claus's unstable directory when I first started using 2.2.x.
I check regularly for updates - they don't seem to come :-(
I had no problem whatsoever with Red Hat 6.0 and 6.1 with kernels
up to 2.2.12 but problems started after kernel 2.2.14-6.0.1 with
Red Hat 6.2. Their latest kernel update of 2.2.14-12 is no better.
It's a possibility that the sensors could be at fault. I'll take
the drive casing off and have a look inside. I recently cleaned the
heads in this manner (getting cleaning tapes and media in the UK
is proving difficult).
If Linux can break something then it's almost certain that Windows
will <G>. Thanks for the pointer to the tape repair info on Tecmar's
site. I've already respooled the tape but it would be nice to see
if it's done correctly.
Regards,
Neil Darlow.
Robie Basak wrote:
> That's worrying. Are you sure that it is this version of ftape? To
> compile ftape on the 2.2.x kernels, you need this version
> (4.x_1999_09_11), but IIRC an earlier version works with the old
> 2.0.x kernels; have you had problems with these?
> I would have thought that the hardware would prevent overrunning the
> tape when it detects the end-marking holes; is it possible that the
> sensors are dirty on your drive?
> This problem occurs in Windows as well, I assume, as Tecmar (who took
> over Ditto) have an FAQ about this on their page, along with
> instructions on how to repair the tape; you may find this useful.
