13Gig tape drive problem

["Denis Robitaille" <DRobitaille@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hello all,

I am faced with a situation where I am not sure if IBM is telling me everything 
and I'd like to ear your opinion:

the situation:

   Our AS/400 is the software distribution machine for our company (about 50 
AS/400). We distribute our software updates on tape. We have lot of different 
AS/400, so we are using low density tape (150 or 525 Meg) to ensure all across 
compatibility. Last year, we changed the AS/400. The new machine came with a 
13Gig tape drive (great fot backup). But we are having lots and lots of trouble 
with this tape drive. We are now on our sixth tape drive in less than 18 
month!. Working with IBM, we installed all PTF concivable, change our cleaning 
equipment ...

IBM final response:

   According to IBM, the tape drive are failing due to premature wear caused by 
the lower density tape cartrige. Lower than 13Gig cartrige are causing more 
wear on the head of the tape drive. Their solution: By an extra tape drive of 
lower density.

I dont like giving more money to a supplier because what i bougth from them 
does not do what it is supposed to. Any body had a similar experience? anyone 
uses regularly (2 time a day) lower density tape on a 13 Gig drive?

What do you think?

Denis Robitaille
Directeur service technique
Cascades Inc
819 363 5187
fax 819 363 5177


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