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Troubleshooting: Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide

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Troubleshooting: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide

Before Contacting Customer Support

Operator Control Panel Error Display

Checking For Errors

Autoloader Logs

TapeAlert Logs

Returning the Autoloader for Service

Before Contacting Customer Support

Errors that you may experience with your autoloader can range from simple connection problems to more complex hardware failure. Before you return your autoloader, you may be able to fix the problem yourself by following some basic troubleshooting procedures.

Other than drive cleaning, there is no recommended routine maintenance of the Dell PowerVault 124T autoloader.

The operator control panel located at the front of the autoloader provides some troubleshooting capabilities, but is limited. The Remote Management Unit provides more detailed information about the present state of the autoloader and past performance, and is more helpful for troubleshooting errors.

NOTICE: If you find that you must power cycle the autoloader, do not turn the power back on for at least 10 seconds after powering down. This allows time for the power supply to completely discharge and ensure a complete system reset. If time is not allowed for the discharge, the system may fail to boot properly and will display a blank LCD screen. Power cycle again, waiting at least 10 seconds, to clear the problem.

The following table describes the probable cause and suggested action for problems that you may encounter.

Table 1: Basic Troubleshooting

Problem	Probable Cause	Suggested Action
The front panel does not display information.	The connection to the LCD has failed.	Use the Remote Management Unit to troubleshoot error.
Error messages appear on the front panel LCD display.	An error has occurred.	Refer to Front Panel Error Display.
The autoloader is operating slowly.	The autoloader, system hardware, or host backup software is incorrectly configured.	Go to support.dell.com for configuration requirements.
The autoloader does not turn on.	The power cable is defective or the power source is malfunctioning. The power switch at the back of the autoloader is not turned on.	Check all outlets and power cables for proper connection. Check the power switch at the back of the autoloader. Contact support.dell.com.
The front panel does not display information, but light indicators above the front panel are turned on.	A momentary power interruption allowed the autoloader to power off, then back on prior to the power supply being fully discharged.	On the front panel, press and hold the power switch for 15 seconds, then turn the rear power switch off. Wait 60 seconds and turn the rear power switch back on. Contact support.dell.com.
The autoloader does not communicate with the host system through the SCSI bus.	A problem within the SCSI cabling path is preventing communication.	Verify that the SCSI cables are connected to the rear of the autoloader and that the correct LVD host controller card is installed. Verify that the SCSI cables are not damaged or crimped and the total SCSI cable length is not exceeding the maximum required length. Verify that a LVD SCSI terminator is attached to both the first and last SCSI device on the SCSI bus. Verify that the autoloader SCSI ID is set to a unique SCSI ID that is not used by any other SCSI device on the same SCSI bus. Verify that the host bus adapter is supported for use with the Dell PowerVault 124T on support.dell.com. Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit Diagnostic page or by turning off power from the front panel. Contact support.dell.com.
The tape drive responds on the SCSI bus to the host, but the autoloader does not respond.	A system configuration problem is preventing communication.	If the SCSI ID is unique, check SCSI cable and terminator connections. Verify that the host application and the device drivers are installed with the most current patches to support the autoloader. Verify that LUN scanning is enabled on the host bus adapter. Contact support.dell.com.
The autoloader does not communicate with the host system through the Ethernet.	A problem with either the Ethernet cabling or network configuration is preventing communication.	Verify that the Ethernet cable is connected to the correct hub. Verify the Ethernet configuration settings through the front panel LCD. If the DHCP server is available, Ethernet status should indicate DHCP, otherwise, you must set a unique static IP address and a sub-net mask. The static IP address of the autoloader must be on the same sub-net as the host. If connected directly to the host system, a cross-over cable must be used. Power off the autoloader by turning off the system from the front panel LCD, wait at least 10 seconds, and turn it back on. Contact support.dell.com.
The application software reports a failure locating a piece of media or fails to move a piece of media as requested.	The current host backup software or autoloader inventory has been lost.	Use the Remote Management Unit tool and verify that the media is in the expected location internal to the autoloader. Using the Remote Management Unit diagnostic tool, execute the Loader Inventory Test test. Using the Remote Management Unit diagnostic tool, execute the Random Moves test. Note: a minimum of two pieces of media are required for this test. Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit Diagnostic page Autoloader Reset or by turning the power off from the front panel. Retry inventory within the software application. Contact support.dell.com.
The application software reports an error while reading or writing a piece of media.	The current media is defective, or the internal tape drive needs to be cleaned.	Try a different piece of media. Use a cleaning cartridge to clean the internal tape drive. Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit Diagnostic page Autoloader Reset, or cycle the power from the front panel. Retry the job within the software application. Contact support.dell.com.
Other failures occur.		Refer to Front Panel Error Display for error-specific instruction. Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit Diagnostic page Autoloader Reset, or by turning the power off from the front panel LCD. Contact support.dell.com.

Operator Control Panel Error Display

The Operator Control Panel (OCP) is used for operator input, and to display status and error information output. Errors generated by the autoloader hardware result in error codes unique to the Dell PowerVault 124T. These errors codes are displayed on the OCP along with a brief description of the error. Further information and recommended actions for Dell PowerVault 124T error codes can found in Table 2.

Errors generated by the internal tape drive are presented in terms of industry standard TapeAlerts. TapeAlerts are also displayed on the OCP along with a brief description of the error. Further information and recommended actions for tape drive TapeAlerts can be found in Table 3.

Checking for Errors

Errors are problems that occur while operating the autoloader. They prevent the autoloader from completing a specific action. When an error occurs, two things can happen:

An error message appears on the Operator Control Panel (OCP) or in the Remote Management Unit (RMU) screen.
No error message appears, but the autoloader fails to complete the action.

When either of these things occur, the system generates a log of the error. You can use these error logs to determine the type of error, when it occurred, and what parts of the autoloader it affects. Different types of error logs are generated for the autoloader and for the internal tape drive.

The Autoloader Logs provide information for errors related to the autoloader, or data cartridge movement within the autoloader.
The TapeAlert Logs provide information for errors reported by the tape drive inside the autoloader.

Autoloader Logs

You can retrieve autoloader error log information through one of three methods:

Operator Control Panel (OCP)
Remote Management Unit (RMU) display to screen
Detailed logs saved to text file through the RMU for call center diagnosis

Further information and recommended actions for Dell PowerVault 124T error codes can found in Table 2.

Autoloader Logs through OCP

To view Hard Error log information from the front panel:

From the front panel LCD, scroll to Diagnostics, and then press Enter. The Diagnostics submenu appears.
From the Diagnostics submenu, scroll to Error Logs, and then press Enter. The Error Log submenu appears.
From the Error Logs submenu, scroll to Hard, and then press Enter. The log information is displayed.
You may scroll up and down through the hard log entries. The most recent entry will be associated with the highest event number shown.

Autoloader Logs through RMU

To view hard error log information, or save all logs from the Remote Management Unit:

From within the RMU, click the Diagnostics heading. The Diagnostics screen displays.
Click View Logs to display the hard error log. The most recent entry will be associated with the highest event number shown.
Detailed log information files are particularly useful when calling for support. If you want to save logs to a local text file, click Save Logs.

Table 2: Autoloader Error Detail

Error Type	Description	Recommended Action
Autoloader Operating System Failure Types
01	Resource Deleted	Errors 01-25 indicate that an unexpected event has occurred within the autoloader internal operating system. The autoloader internal operating system is called ThreadX, and some error messages may be preceded by a 'TX' notation. For any of these events: Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
02	Pool Error
03	Pointer Error
04	Wait Error
05	Size Error
06	Group Error
07	No Event Timeout
08	Option Error
09	Queue Error
0A	Queue Empty
0B	Queue Full
0C	Semaphore Error
0D	Semaphore Timeout
0E	Thread Error
0F	Priority Error
10	Start Error
11	Delete Error
12	Resume Error
13	Caller Error
14	Suspend Error
15	Timer Error
16	Tick Error
17	Activate Error
18	Threshold Error
19	Suspend Lifted
1A	Block Pool Error
1B	Queue Function Failed
1C	Semaphore Function Failed
1D	Timer Function Failed
1F	Thread Function Failed
20	Command Started
21	System Failure
22	System Busy
23	System Timeout
24	Software Error
25	Hardware Error
Message Error Types
26	Message Sender (Task ) ID Error	Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at support.dell.com. Check host adapter and SCSI cables and terminator. Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
27	Message Type Bad
28	Message Parameter Bad
Stack/Global Data Corruption Error Types
29	Invalid Element	Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at support.dell.com. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
2A	Invalid Element Status
2B	Element Table Bad
2C	Global Data Bad
2D	Stack Data Bad
2E	Task Stack Low
2F	Task Stack Overflow
System Shutdown/Disruption Error Types
30	POST Failure	Verify that the magazines/magazine blank are fully seated. Power cycle the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
31	Watchdog Timer	Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
32	Power Event
33	Power Down Failure
34	System Overload
35	System Performance
36	Asynchronous Stop
System Miscellaneous Error Types
37	System Cleaning Error	Cleaning slot in use. Verify that a valid cleaning cartridge is located in the dedicated cleaning slot indicated within the Remote Management Unit Configuration page settings. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
38	System Internal I2C HW Error	Contact support.dell.com.
39	ALD (Autoloader Diagnostic) Limits Error	This error may occur as a result of a failed diagnostic test. If the Magazine Test or Inventory Test failed, remove and inspect the magazines one at a time. Turn the white thumbwheels on each magazine and insure that the carriers move freely at least one full rotation in each direction. Re-insert each magazine after inspection. If the Picker Test failed, verify there is no obstruction within the picker assembly and repeat the test. If the Random Moves test failed, see steps above for necessary actions. Power cycle the autoloader and re-run the failed test. Contact support.dell.com if failure recurs.
Tape Drive Error Types
3A	Drive Reset Error	Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions.
3B	Drive HW Error
3C	Drive Cleaning Required	Perform cleaning by loading a valid cleaning cartridge into the drive. If a slot is available to be dedicated for a cleaning cartridge, this operation can be enabled to run automatically within the Remote Management Unit Configuration page. Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions. If the drive continues to request cleaning, contact support.dell.com.
3D	General Drive Error	Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions. If the drive is logging Read/Write errors, repeat the operation with new media. If the drive fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.
3E	Drive Load Error	Perform cleaning by loading a valid cleaning cartridge into the drive. If a slot is available to be dedicated for a cleaning cartridge, this operation can be enabled to run automatically within the Remote Management Unit Configuration page. Try to load a different piece of media. If the operation fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.
3F	Drive Unload Error
Drive/Media Error Types
40	Media Threading Error	Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions. Verify that a valid cartridge type is in use. Repeat operation with a new piece of media. If the operation fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.
41	Media Unthreading Error
42	Media (MAM) Info Error
43	Invalid Media Type
44	Expired Cleaning Media
45	Unknown Media Error
46	Drive/Media Error
Miscellaneous Error Types
47	EEROM Chksum Error	Contact support.dell.com.
48	Fan Sense Motion Error	Verify that the main fan is moving freely when the unit is on. If the previous step fails, contact support.dell.com
49	Offline	Diagnostics controlling system. No action required.
4A	Host Lock Prevents Eject	Host backup software has issued PREVENT/ALLOW MEDIUM REMOVAL command, often called a "lock" by the host backup software. Issue an Unlock command through the host backup software, or power cycle the autoloader using the Operator Control Panel power button to clear the lock setting.
4B	Open Front	All motor movement, including picker and magazine rotation, has been disabled for safety reasons. Verify the magazine or magazine blank is completely inserted on both the left and right sides of the autoloader. Replace magazine or magazine blank (try a second one if possible). If the Random Moves test failed, see steps above for necessary actions. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
4C	Over Temp	Verify the temperature of the autoloader inlet air is within specification. Clear debris from all openings of the autoloader, both in front and back. Verify that the fan is working. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
TCP/IP Stack and Task Error Types
50	IP Stack Panic	Verify that the autoloader is connected to the correct network. Verify that the network is properly configured (i.e. no loop-back condition exists). Verify that the autoloader operates correctly when properly configured and attached directly to a host system using a cross-over cable. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
51	IP Stack Memory Allocation Error
52	IP Stack Can't Free Memory
53	Stack DTrap Occurred
Loader Task Error Types
60	Drive Init Failed	Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions. Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
61	Drive Login Error
62	Drive Logout/Unexpected Error
63	Drive Command Failed
64	Drive Response Timeout
65	Command Flushed From Queue
66	Drive Manager Not In Correct State
67	Drive Reporting Not Ready
68	Autoclean Move Failed	Check the Remote Management Unit autoclean Configuration settings. Insure that a valid cleaning cartridge is located at the configured location. Verify that the cleaning cartridge does not have labels or other matter placed anywhere on the cartridge except where labels are expected to be placed. Try a different cleaning cartridge. If the operation fails with two different cleaning cartridges, contact support.dell.com.
69	Drive Unload Retry	Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions.. Verify that the cleaning cartridge does not have labels or other matter placed anywhere on the cartridge except where labels are expected to be placed. Try to load a different piece of media. Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
6D	Drive Communications Error	Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions. Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
6E	Drive Communications Error
6F	Loader Communication Error
Code Update Error Types
70	Failed to Send CUP Cmd to Drive / No Response From Drive	Verify the firmware images for both the autoloader and drive are the most recent images located at support.dell.com. Review the firmware update readme file provided with the firmware images. Note: The recommended method for drive firmware update is through the host SCSI interface using the DFU utility provided with the firmware images. The recommended method for loader firmware update is through the Remote Management Unit. Verify all SCSI cable and terminator connections between the host and autoloader. Verify no media in drive during update. Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
71	CUP Send Failed
72	Drive Update Failed, Media Present
73	Image Size in Header Too Big
74	Block Erase Failed
75	Flash Program Failed
76	Header Corrupt
77	Checksum Error
78	Timeout During CUP
79	Reset During Drive Update
7A	Unexpected Reset From Drive
7B	Unexpected Message From PSP
7C	Personality or Version Check Failed
7D	SCSI Error During Write Buffer Command
7E	Uncompressed EDC Failure
7F	Image Processing Ended Early
SCSI Server Task Error Types
80	Unexpected Response or Data Received	Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at support.dell.com. Check host adapter and SCSI cables and terminator. Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
81	Drive Send Failed
Servo Elevator Hardware Error Types
92	Elevator Flag Bad	Power cycle the autoloader Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
93	Elevator Sensor Bad
97	Elevator Calibration Lost
98	Elevator Calibration Jammed
99	Elevator Lost
9B	Elevator Position Error
Picker/Magazine Servo Error Types
A0	Servo Error	Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Also execute the Recommended Actions for "Open Front" (4B) error type. Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
A1	Reserved Error Code
A2	Servo Timeout Error
A3	Position Error
A4	Servo Not Calibrated
A5	Source Element Empty	Verify that the expected source really does not have a cartridge. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If the source is a slot within a magazine, check if the spring loaded cartridge present flag moves freely when the cartridge is manually inserted into the magazine. If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.
A6	Magazine Missing	Verify the magazine or magazine blank is fully inserted into the autoloader. Remove and re-insert the magazine. Try a second magazine if possible. Power cycle the autoloader. If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.
A7	Mail Slot Full	Remove any previously ejected media from the mail slot. Verify that there is no debris or foreign object in the mail slot opening. Verify the mail slot door is fully closed. If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.
A8	Destination Element Full	Verify that the expected destination element already has a cartridge. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If the destination is a slot within a magazine, check if the spring loaded cartridge present flag moves freely when the cartridge is manually inserted into the magazine If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.
A9	Picker Full	Look in the front of the autoloader and confirm the picker is full. Execute a Move command from the Operator Control Panel to move the cartridge from the picker to a location. Power cycle the autoloader through the front panel. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If the source is a slot within a magazine, check if the spring loaded cartridge present flag moves freely when the cartridge is manually inserted into the magazine. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
AA	Picker Cartridge Sensor Error
AB	Drive Path Sensor Error	Power cycle the autoloader through the front panel. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
AC	Mail Slot Door Sensor Error	Power cycle the autoloader. Insert a cartridge into the autoloader through the mail slot. Verify the cartridge is sensed and the door closes fully. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
AD	Mail Slot Solenoid Error
AE	Servo Initialization Error	Remove and inspect the magazines one at a time. Turn the white thumbwheels on each magazine and insure that the carriers move freely at least one full rotation in each direction. Re-insert each magazine after inspection. Check the barcode reader setting through either the Remote Management Unit or the Operator Control Panel. If the barcode reader is enabled, verify that all cartridges have valid barcode labels. If cartridges do not have valid barcode labels, disable the barcode reader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
AF	Error Log Information Event	Used to analyze start of servo/motor error sequence in the Soft Error Log. Error entries immediately following indicate nature of specific motor/position error. No action required.
Servo Picker Hardware Error Types
B0	Rotation Sensor Bad	Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
B1	Rotation Flag Not Found
B2	Rotation Flag Bad
B3	Translation Sensor Bad
B4	Translation Sensor 1 Bad
B5	Translation Sensor 2 Bad
B6	Translation Flag Bad
B7	Rotational Calibration Lost
B8	Translation Calibration Lost
B9	Rotation Lost
BA	Translation Lost
BB	Rotation Position Lost
BC	Translation Position Lost
BD	Picker Dropped Cartridge Error	Check for a jammed cartridge in the picker. Remove the cartridge if present. Remove and inspect the magazines one at a time. Turn the white thumbwheels on each magazine and insure that the carriers move freely at least one full rotation in each direction. Fully insert a cartridge into each magazine slot, then remove. Look for difficulty in extracting the cartridge from each slot. Re-insert the magazine after inspection. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
BE	Picker Missed Cartridge Error
BF	Picker Jammed Cartridge Error
Servo Motor Error Types
C0	Motor Error	Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
C1	Motor SW Error
C2	Motor HW Error
C3	Motor Seg Error
C4	Motor Position Error
C5	Motor Direction Error
C6	Motor Runaway Error
C7	Motor Corrupt
C8	Motor Acceleration Error
C9	Motor Sense Noise
CA	Motor Seek Error
CB	Motor Skipped Step
CC	Motor Stalled
CD	Motor Jammed
CE	Motor Translation Pin Jammed Error
CF	Motor Asynchronous Stop
Magazine Hardware Error Types
D0	Magazine Eject Failed	Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit. Remove and re-insert the magazine. Verify that the magazine slides freely in and out of the magazine bay. Verify that the magazine clicks and locks in place when fully inserted. Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
D1	Magazine Present Sensor Bad
D2	Magazine Cam Position Sensor Bad	Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit. Remove and re-insert the magazine. Verify that the magazine slides freely in and out of the magazine bay. Verify that the magazine clicks and locks in place when fully inserted. Power cycle the autoloader and run the Magazine Test from the Operator Control Panel. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
D3	Magazine Sensor 1 Bad
D4	Magazine Sensor 2 Bad
D5	Magazine Flag Missing	Magazine errors may occur if the magazine sensor cannot detect cartridge carrier flags during magazine rotation. This may be caused by an issue with a cartridge carrier flag, a sensor problem, a physically jammed magazine, or a sensor alignment issue caused by a mis-inserted magazine. Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit. Remove and inspect the magazines one at a time. Turn the white thumbwheels on each magazine and insure that the carriers move freely at least one full rotation in each direction. Verify that carrier flags are present on all slots and slot 1 has the unique (longer) carrier flag. Insure that the sensors protruding from the picker into the magazine bays are free of debris, and 'float' in and out freely when pushed by hand. Carefully re-insert the magazine straight into the magazine bay. Be careful to avoid twisting or biasing the magazine up or down. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Magazine Test from the operator control panel. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
D6	Magazine Flag Bad
D7	Slot Zero Not Found
D8	Multiple Slot Zero Detected
D9	Magazine Step Tolerance Error
DA	Magazine Calibration Lost
DB	Magazine Lost
DC	Magazine Position Error
DD	Magazine Slot Type Invalid
DE	Magazine Slot (Gross) Position Error
DF	Magazine Jammed Error
System Event Types
E8	Time Zone Update Event	User updated the time zone setting. No action required.
E9	Time Update Event	The system time was changed. No action required.
Front Panel Error Types
EA	LCD Busy Error	Possible LCD controller problem, software error, or communication error. Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
EB	LCD Goto Error
EC	Login/Password Error	Incorrect login from front panel. Use correct login/password.
ED	Socket Error During SNTP
Barcode Error Types
F0	Bar Code Init Error	Remove magazines and inspect cartridges. Verify that valid barcode labels are being used on all cartridges, and re-insert the magazines. If barcode labels are not being used, disable the barcode reader through the Operator Control Panel or Remote Management Unit. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
F1	Bar Code Hardware Error
F2	Bar Code Baud Rate Error
F3	Bar Code Handshake Error
F4	Bad/Noisy Response From Bar Code Reader
F5	Checksum Failed	Incomplete barcode label or barcode checksum failed. Repeat test with new cartridge or label. If problems recur with the original cartridge or label, replace. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
F6	Barcode No Read	Barcode label not present. Apply valid barcode label to cartridge, or disable the barcode reader through the Operator Control Panel or Remote Management Unit.
F7	Barcode Mismatch Error	Power cycle the autoloader. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
F8	Barcode Duplicate Label Error	Duplicate barcode.
Diagnostic Error Types
F9	Diagnostic Test Failure	Power cycle the autoloader. Re-run the failing diagnostic test. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
FA	Diagnostic Error, Drive Reporting Write Protect	Verify that valid, not data protected media is present for test. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
FB	Diagnostic Error, Cleaning Tape Inserted
FC	Diagnostic Load Tape Prompt	This is a prompt to manually load a cartridge as required for test.
FD	Diagnostic Unknown Tape Format	Verify that valid, not data protected media is present for test. Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader. If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.
FE	Diagnostic Invalid Configuration	This is an indication that a minimum of two pieces of media are required for test. Insure at least two cartridges are present in the autoloader and re-run the failed test.

TapeAlert Logs

You can retrieve TapeAlert log information through one of three methods:

Operator Control Panel (OCP)
Remote Management Unit (RMU) display to screen
Detailed logs saved to text file through the RMU for call center diagnosis

Further information and recommended actions for tape drive TapeAlerts can be found in Table 3.

TapeAlert Logs through OCP

To view TapeAlert log information from the front panel:

From the front panel LCD, scroll to Diagnostics, and then press Enter. The Diagnostics submenu appears.
From the Diagnostics submenu, scroll to TapeAlert Logs, and then press Enter. The TapeAlert log information is displayed.
You may scroll up and down through the TapeAlert log entries. The most recent entry will be associated with the highest event number shown.

Within each TapeAlert log entry, you may scroll up and down to display the date and time that an error occurred, the barcode label associated with the tape being used at the time of error (if barcode labels are being used and the barcode reader is enabled), and any TapeAlert flags set during that event.

TapeAlert Interpretation

In order to display any combination of TapeAlerts that may be set for any one event, a binary representation is used. The 16 character hexadecimal TapeAlert representation is broken down into a total of 64 bits (16 x 4 = 64), one for each possible TapeAlert that may be reported. The illustration below demonstrates TapeAlert bit assignment, as well as practical examples. In the first example, the tape drive requested cleaning. In the second example, cleaning was attempted with an invalid cleaning cartridge.

NOTE: The binary representation for every possible TapeAlert is presented in Table 3. Multiple TapeAlerts may be set as shown in the following example:

TapeAlert Logs through RMU

To view TapeAlert log information from the Remote Management Unit, or save all logs:

From within the RMU, click the Diagnostics heading. The Diagnostics screen displays.

Click TapeAlert Logs to display the TapeAlert log. The most recent entry will be associated with the highest event number shown.

NOTE: This option is particularly useful for locating suspect media. The screen output will display a history of unit TapeAlerts, current TapeAlerts reported by the drive, and a history of TapeAlerts recorded on each cartridge since being inserted in the autoloader.

Detailed log information files are particularly useful when calling for support. If you want to save logs to a local text file, click Save Logs.

Table 3: TapeAlert Detail

Tape Alert Message	Typical Application Client Message	Probable Cause Of Error Message	Recommended Action
Drive TAflag[01] Read Warning TapeAlert Log Entry: 8000000000000000	The tape drive is having problems reading data. No data has been lost, but there has been a reduction in the performance of the tape.	The drive is having severe trouble reading. This can be caused by bad media or the drive.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[02] Write Warning TapeAlert Log Entry: 4000000000000000	The tape drive is having problems writing data. No data has been lost, but there has been a reduction in the capacity of the tape.	The drive is having severe trouble writing. This can be caused by bad media or the drive.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[03] Hard Error TapeAlert Log Entry: 2000000000000000	The operation has stopped because an error has occurred while reading or writing data that the drive cannot correct.	The drive had a hard read or write error. This can be caused by bad media or the drive.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[04] Media TapeAlert Log Entry: 1000000000000000	Your data is at risk. Copy any data you require from this tape. Do not use this tape again.	Media can no longer be written/read, or performance is severely degraded.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[05] Read Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0800000000000000	The tape is damaged or the drive is faulty.	The drive can no longer read data from the tape.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[06] Write Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0400000000000000	The tape is from a faulty batch or the tape drive is faulty.	The drive can no longer write data to the tape.	Clean the drive Try another piece of media. If no errors are encountered with the alternate piece of media, retry the original media.
Drive TAflag[07] Media Life TapeAlert Log Entry: 0200000000000000	The tape cartridge has reached the end of its calculated useful life.	The media has exceeded its specified life.	Copy any data you need to another tape. Discard the old tape.
Drive TAflag[08] Not Data Grade TapeAlert Log Entry: 0100000000000000	The cartridge is not data-grade. Any data you write to the tape is at risk.	The drive has not been able to read the MRS stripes	Replace the cartridge with a data-grade tape.
Drive TAflag[09] Write Protect TapeAlert Log Entry: 0080000000000000	You are trying to write to a write protected cartridge.	Write command is attempted to a write protected tape.	Remove the write protection or use another tape.
Drive TAflag[10] No Removal TapeAlert Log Entry: 0040000000000000	You cannot eject the cartridge because the tape drive is in use. Wait until the operation is complete before ejecting the cartridge.	Manual or software unload attempted when prevent media removal is on.	Check in the RMU if the Software Lock is set. Perform an unlock using the Backup Application.
Drive TAflag[11] Cleaning Media TapeAlert Log Entry: 0020000000000000	The tape in the drive is a cleaning cartridge.	Cleaning tape loaded into drive.
Drive TAflag[12] Unsupported Format TapeAlert Log Entry: 0010000000000000	You have attempted to load a cartridge of a type that is not supported by this drive.	Attempted load of unsupported tape format. (e.g., Unformatted Type IV media in a VS160 drive.)	Use tape format correct for the drive type.
Drive TAflag[13] Recoverable Mechanical Cartridge Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0008000000000000	The operation has failed because the tape in the drive has experienced a mechanical failure.	Tape snapped/cut or other cartridge mechanical failure in the drive where medium can be de-mounted.	Discard the old tape. Restart the operation with a different tape.
Drive TAflag[14] Unrecoverable Mechanical Cartridge Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0004000000000000	The operation has failed because the tape in the drive has experienced a mechanical failure.	Tape snapped/cut or other cartridge mechanical failure in the drive where medium cannot be de-mounted.	Discard the old tape. Restart the operation with a different tape.
Drive TAflag[15] Memory Chip In Cartridge Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0002000000000000	The memory in the tape cartridge has failed, which reduces performance. Do not use the cartridge for further write operations.	Memory chip failed in cartridge.	Replace cartridge.
Drive TAflag[16] Forced Eject TapeAlert Log Entry: 0001000000000000	The operation has failed because the tape cartridge was manually de-mounted while the tape drive was actively writing or reading.	Manual forced eject while drive actively writing or reading.	Retry operation using the same media.
Drive TAflag[17] Read Only Format TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000800000000000	You have loaded a cartridge of a type that is read-only in this drive. The cartridge will appear as write protected.	Media loaded that is read-only format.	Check write protect tab on cartridge.
Drive TAflag[18] Tape Directory Corrupted On Load TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000400000000000	The tape directory on the tape cartridge has been corrupted. File search performance will be degraded. The tape directory can be rebuilt by reading all the data on the cartridge.	The tape drive powered down with tape loaded, or permanent error prevented the tape directory from being updated.	Retry operation with same tape. If error persists, discard tape.
Drive TAflag[19] Nearing Media Life TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000200000000000	The tape cartridge is nearing the end of its calculated Media may have life.	Media may have exceeded its specified number of passes.	Use another tape cartridge for your next backup. Store this tape cartridge in a safe place in case you need to restore data from it.
Drive TAflag[20] Clean Now TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000100000000000	The tape drive needs cleaning.	The drive has responded as if it has a head clog or needs cleaning.	If the operation has stopped, eject the tape and clean the drive. If the operation has not stopped, wait for it to finish and then clean the drive. Check the tape drive user's manual for device specific cleaning instructions.
Drive TAflag[21] Clean Periodic TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000080000000000	The tape drive is due for routine cleaning.	The drive is ready for a periodic cleaning.	Wait for the current operation to finish. Then use a cleaning cartridge. Check the tape drive user's manual for device specific cleaning instructions.
Drive TAflag[22] Expired Cleaning Media TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000040000000000	The last cleaning cartridge used in the tape drive has worn out.	The cleaning tape has expired.	Discard the worn out cleaning cartridge. Wait for the current operation to finish. Then use a new cleaning cartridge.
Drive TAflag[23] Invalid Cleaning Tape TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000020000000000	The last cleaning cartridge used in the tape drive was an invalid type.	Invalid cleaning tape type used.	Do not use this cleaning cartridge in this drive. Wait for the current operation to finish. Then use a valid cleaning cartridge.
Drive TAflag[24] Retension Requested TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000010000000000	The tape drive has requested a retension operation.	The drive is having severe trouble reading or writing that will be resolved by a retension cycle.	Perform a retension operation. Retry operation.
Drive TAflag[25] Dual port Interface Error TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000008000000000	A redundant interface port on the tape drive has failed.	Failure of one interface port in a dual-port configuration (i.e., Fibre Channel).
Drive TAflag[26] Cooling Fan Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000004000000000	A tape drive cooling fan has failed.	Fan failure inside tape drive mechanism or tape drive enclosure.
Drive TAflag[27] Power Supply Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000002000000000	A redundant power supply has failed inside the tape drive enclosure.	Redundant PSU failure inside the tape drive enclosure or rack subsystem.	Check the enclosure user's manual for instructions on replacing the failed power supply.
Drive TAflag[28] Power Consumption TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000001000000000	The tape drive power consumption is outside the specified range.	Power consumption of the tape drive is outside specified range.
Drive TAflag[29] Drive Maintenance TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000800000000	Preventive maintenance of the tape drive is required.	The drive requires preventative maintenance (not cleaning).	Check the tape drive user's manual for device specific preventive maintenance tasks.
Drive TAflag[30] Hardware A TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000400000000	The tape drive has a hardware fault.	The drive has a hardware fault that requires reset to recover.	Eject the tape. Reset the drive. Restart the operation.
Drive TAflag[31] Hardware B TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000200000000	The tape drive has a hardware fault.	The drive has a hardware fault that is not read/write related or requires a power cycle to recover.	Power cycle the tape drive. Restart the operation.
Drive TAflag[32] Interface TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000100000000	The tape drive has a problem with the application client interface.	The drive has identified an interface fault.	Check the SCSI interface cables, terminator, and all connections. Restart the operation.
Drive TAflag[33] Eject Media TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000080000000	The operation has failed.	Error recovery action	Eject the tape or magazine. Insert the tape or magazine again. Restart the operation.
Drive TAflag[34] Download Fail TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000040000000	The firmware download has failed because you have tried to use the incorrect firmware for this tape drive.	Firmware download failed.	Obtain the correct firmware and try again.
Drive TAflag[35] Drive Humidity TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000020000000	Environmental conditions inside the tape drive are outside the specified humidity range.	Drive humidity limits exceeded.
Drive TAflag[36] Drive Temperature TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000010000000	Environmental conditions inside the tape drive are outside the specified temperature range.	Cooling problem.
Drive TAflag[37] Drive Voltage TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000008000000	The voltage supply to the tape drive is outside the specified range.	Drive voltage limits exceeded.
Drive TAflag[38] Predictive Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000004000000	A hardware failure of the tape drive is predicted.	Predictive failure of drive hardware.
Drive TAflag[39] Diagnostics Required TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000002000000	The tape drive may have a hardware fault	The drive may have a hardware fault that may be identified by extended diagnostics (i.e., SEND DIAGNOSTIC command).	Run extended diagnostics to verify and diagnose the problem. Check the tape drive user's manual for device specific instructions on running extended diagnostic tests.
Drive TAflag[50] Lost Statistics TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000004000	Media statistics have been lost at some time in the past.	Drive or library powered on with tape loaded	Clean drive. Retry operation.
Drive TAflag[51] Tape Directory Invalid at Unload TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000002000	The tape directory on the tape cartridge just unloaded has been corrupted. File search performance will be degraded.	Error preventing the tape directory being updated on unload.	The tape directory can be rebuilt by reading all the data.
Drive TAflag[52] Tape System Area Write Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000001000	The tape just unloaded could not write its system area successfully.	Write errors while writing the system area on unload.	Copy data to another tape cartridge. Discard the old cartridge.
Drive TAflag[53] Tape System Area Read Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000800	The tape system area could not be read successfully at load time.	Read errors while reading the system area on load	Copy data to another tape cartridge.
Drive TAflag[54] No Start Of Data TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000400	The start of data could not be found on the tape.	Tape damaged, bulk erased, or incorrect format.	Check that you are using the correct format tape. Discard the tape or return the tape to your supplier.
Drive TAflag[55] Loading Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000200	The operation has failed because the media cannot be loaded and threaded.	The drive is unable to load the media and thread the tape.	Remove the cartridge, inspect it as specified in the product manual, and retry the operation.
Drive TAflag[56] Unrecoverable Unload Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000100	The operation has failed because the medium cannot be unloaded.	The drive is unable to unload the medium.	Remove the cartridge if possible, inspect it as specified in the product manual, and retry the operation.
Drive TAflag[57] Automation Interface Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000080	The tape drive has a problem with the automation interface.	The drive has identified an interface fault.	Check the power to the automation system. Check the cables and cable connections.
Drive TAflag[58] Firmware Failure TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000040	The tape drive has reset itself due to a detected firmware fault.	Firmware issue encountered.
Drive TAflag[59] WORM Medium - Integrity Check Failed TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000020	The tape drive has detected an inconsistency during the WORM medium integrity checks.	WORM cartridge may have been tampered with.	Replace WORM medium.
Drive TAflag[60] WORM Medium - Overwrite Attempted TapeAlert Log Entry: 0000000000000010	An attempt had been made to overwrite user data on WORM medium.	The application software does not recognize the medium as WORM.	If a WORM medium was used inadvertently, replace it with a normal data medium. If a WORM medium was used intentionally: - check that the software application is compatible with the WORM medium format you are using. - check that the medium is bar-coded correctly for WORM.

Returning the Autoloader for Service

If you need to return the autoloader or a component of the autoloader for service, contact support.dell.com. The following steps will help you to prepare the autoloader for shipment, remove the autoloader from a rack, and package the autoloader.

To prepare the autoloader for shipment

Remove all cartridges from the unit.
Power off the autoloader through the front panel.
Remove the power, Ethernet, and SCSI cables, and any terminators from the autoloader.

NOTE: Do not ship these items if you are returning the autoloader.

To Remove the Autoloader from a Rack

Loosen the two thumb screws that secure the loader to the front of the rack.
Using two people, or an appropriately rated mechanical lift, remove the autoloader from the rack by sliding the autoloader out and supporting it from the bottom.
Place the autoloader into the original packaging box, or the packaging from the replacement unit.

Packing the Autoloader

Gather the original packaging material to pack the autoloader: the shipping box, two foam end caps, accessory package insert (placed at the back of the unit), and the antistatic bag. You will also need packing tape.

Place the antistatic bag over the autoloader.
Place one of the foam end caps onto each end of the autoloader. Place the second foam insert onto the other side of the autoloader and make sure the pieces fit snugly onto the autoloader.

NOTE: The foam end caps are not identical. Refer to the diagram on the box flaps for proper orientation.

Place the autoloader into the shipping box and push the front of the autoloader towards the front end of the box.
Insert the accessory package insert at the back of the unit.

NOTE: The accessory package insert is to be placed at the back of the unit, not the front. Refer to the diagram on the box flaps for proper orientation.

Place any necessary paperwork on top of the autoloader inside the box.
Close and seal the box.
Place the shipping label on the box.

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