I/O Device Error Reported by Veritas Backup Exec 9.0

Question

I have a Dell PowerEdge 2600 Server (64CFB31) factory configured with a BenchMark DLTtape SLT1/VS80 Drive. I'm running Windows 2000 Server w/SP4, and am at BIOS A9. The server was has been running backups using Veritas Backup Exec 9.0 for several months without any problems, but for the last week my jobs continue to fail with the following message:

Completed status: Failed
Final error code: 0000045d HEX
Final error description: The request could not be performed because of an I/O device error.

Does anyone have any recommendations? Also, it is worth noting that I have tried cleaning the drive several times.

Thank you in advance for your help.

PriortyP1 · Answer

I have the same setup and same problems. Anyone have any ideas what to do? I read a similar post about Veritas 8.6 but I'm ot sure if it is applicable with 9.0. Any info anyone can give on this matter would be appresiated.

Thanks

Sean

scotthpdx · Answer

I have a client that has been getting this error from Day one of installing his server. He has called Dell and Veritas and they just point him at the other vendor. Just cannot nail down the cause.

I have been called in as a consultant to resolve and will post anything I find with Dell. Dell isn't doing a very good job on this one.

Scott Huotari

Creative Computer Solutions, Call me if you find any clues

Cell: 503-793-0250

dell-richard g · Answer

What SCSI adapter are you using to interface with the tape unit?

killianp · Answer

It could actually be a problem with your tape drive. But before you call Dell, you will want to update the SCSI controller software - I've seen this happen before with some of the Adaptec controllers.

You could also try running a backup using NT backup, or whatever it is called in W2K - if that works, then it helps eliminate a Veritas problem.

HelpfulGuy · Answer

SOLUTION Hi everyone, I ran into the exact same problem you describe, also a 2600 with a DLT1, and I believe I solved it.  The DLT driver Veritas installs does not seem to work with DLT1 tape drives.  Replace it with the default Microsoft driver and you should be all set.  Go to Device Manager, find your tape drive, Properties, Update Driver and select Windows Update as a source to search.  Also in Backup Exec go to Devices, display the Properties of your drive, select Configuration, and uncheck 'Write SCSI Passthrough.'  Post a reply if it works for you. Dimitri

HelpfulGuy · Answer

Sorry if I caused any premature excitement -- four successful backups later, I am back at square 1 with the job failing every time. If anyone has figured this out, please let us know what it was. I will do the same.

Dimitri

scotthpdx · Answer

We had Dell come out and replace the tape drive and it has solved all of our issues. Now I have to go back and "undo" all of the things I did to cripple the tape backup while I was debugging

Thanks for all your comments and help!

Scott

PriortyP1 · Answer

I fought with DELL and they are send me a new TBU also.  I'm going to put it in soon.  I'll let everyone know if it solves my problem.

PowerVault

I/O Device Error Reported by Veritas Backup Exec 9.0

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