Dell Network Hardware 124T Lto 3 Users Manual PowerVault Autoloader User's Guide

124T LTO-3 to the manual 125fce73-cd97-4f2d-82af-f34032b441c8

2015-02-09

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Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 
Introduction
Installing the Autoloader
Operating the Autoloader
Remote Management Unit
Front Panel Administration
Diagnostics
Troubleshooting
Technical Specifications
Getting Help

Notes, Notices, and Cautions
NOTE: A NOTE indicates important information that helps you make better use of your system.
NOTICE: A NOTICE indicates either potential damage to hardware or loss of data and tells you how to avoid the problem.
CAUTION: A CAUTION indicates a potential for property damage, personal injury, or death.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
© 2005-2007 Dell Inc. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any manner whatsoever without the written permission of Dell Inc. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text: Dell, the DELL logo, PowerVault, Dimension, Inspiron, OptiPlex, Latitude, Dell Precision, PowerApp, PowerEdge, PowerConnect, and
DellNet are trademarks of Dell Inc.; Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, and Windows Server are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. DLTtape is a
registered trademark of Quantum Corporation. Adobe is either a registered trademark or trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States
and/or other countries. RedHat is a registered trademark of Red Hat, Inc. Mozilla and Firefox are trademarks of Mozilla.
Other trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Dell Inc.
disclaims any proprietary interest in trademarks and trade names other than its own.

Initial release: 15 Jun 2005
Revised: September 2007

Back to Contents Page

Front Panel Administration: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Configuring the Autoloader

 SCSI Barcode Length

 Setting the SCSI ID

 Setting Security

 Setting Ethernet

 Setting Magazines

 Setting the Time

 Setting Passwords

 Barcode Reader

 

When you first power on the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader, it automatically runs a Power-On Self-Test (POST). During the POST, the left (green) LED
flashes. After the POST, the left (green) and right (amber) LED flash alternately back and forth. Do one of the following:
l

If the autoloader powers on successfully, continue configuring the autoloader (see "Configuring the Autoloader").
NOTE: The front panel requires a six-digit password to change the configuration (see "Setting Passwords"). The LCD front panel default
password for the Administrator is 000000. The default password for the Operator is 111111.

l

If the autoloader does not power on successfully, check the following:
¡

Power switch is on.

¡

Power cable is inserted correctly.

¡

SCSI bus is terminated.

¡

SCSI cable is connected to the autoloader and host computer.

¡

No error code appears on the autoloader LCD.

If you cannot resolve the problem yourself, contact your service representative or go to support.dell.com.
When you first power on the autoloader, the setting for the Internet Protocol (IP) address is static with the address 192.168.20.128. If you want to use
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to change the IP address, see "Setting the IP Address." To determine the IP address when using DHCP, view the
Ethernet status information (see "Viewing Ethernet Information").

 

Configuring the Autoloader
To configure the autoloader, start with the main menu on the front panel. If the main menu is not already visible on the LCD, press Enter.
When you first power on the autoloader, the default is set with no password protection. However, after you set the security option, all the configuration
functionality is password-protected. You need an administrator-level password to configure the autoloader.
 
The front panel menu has the following options:

To configure the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader, you must verify the setup of the following:
l

SCSI ID(s). For the autoloader, there is a single SCSI ID.

l

Magazine(s).

l

Ethernet IP address (if you are not using DHCP).

l

SNMP server IP address—only if SNMP is being used.

l

Time server IP address (or the time zone, date, and time, if configuring manually)—only if a time server is being used.

l

Control mode.

l

Security option.

 

Setting the SCSI ID
Each SCSI device attached to a server or workstation must have a unique SCSI ID. For the PowerVault 124T autoloader, you need one SCSI ID.
To set the SCSI ID:
1.

If the main menu is not already visible, press Enter.

2.

On the main menu, scroll to Configuration and press Enter.

3.

On the Configuration submenu, scroll to SCSI ID and press Enter.

4.

Scroll to the number you want to set as the autoloader's SCSI ID, then press Enter. Cycle Power new SCSI ID appears on the LCD.

5.

 
Press and hold the power button on the front panel until System Shutdown wait 60 sec appears on the LCD. Power Off appears on the LCD, then the
autoloader shuts off.

6.

Press the power button again to power on the autoloader. The new SCSI ID is now in effect.

 

Setting Ethernet
Ethernet is the method used by the autoloader to access a network. With an Ethernet connection, you can remotely access the autoloader over the network.
To use the Ethernet connection, you must define the following:
l

A dynamic or static IP address for the autoloader (required)

l

A subnet mask (required for static IP)

l

An IP gateway (optional)

l

A Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) server (optional)

l

A time server, or set the time and time zone manually (optional)

 

Setting the IP Address
An IP address is the address of any device attached to a network. Each device must have a unique IP address. IP addresses are written as four sets of
numbers separated by periods ranging from 0.0.0.0 up to and including 255.255.255.255.
IP addresses are either permanent or dynamically assigned. A permanent, or static, address remains the same each time the device connects to the network.
A dynamic address may change each time the device connects to the network server using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP).
To set a dynamic IP address:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set IP, and then press Enter.

4.

Scroll to DHCP, and then press Enter.

To set a static IP address:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set IP, and then press Enter.

4.

Scroll to Static IP, and then press Enter. The cursor automatically appears at the first digit.

5.

At each position of the IP address, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the next digit.
When you have advanced through all of the digits of the IP address, the autoloader displays Enter to save.
NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.

6.

Press Enter. The Configuration submenu appears and the static IP is now in effect. You do not need to reboot the autoloader.

7.

Press Escape or Enter to return to the Ethernet submenu.

 

Setting the Subnet Mask
Creating a subnet mask is a method of splitting IP networks into a series of subgroups, or subnets, to improve performance or security.
To set a subnet mask:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set Subnet Mask, and then press Enter.

4.

At each position of the Subnet Mask address, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the
next digit.
When you have advanced through all of the digits of the subnet mask address, the autoloader displays Enter to save.
NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.

5.

Press Enter. New Subnet Mask xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx appears on the LCD. You do not need to reboot the autoloader.

6.

Press Escape or Enter to return to the Ethernet submenu.

Setting an IP Gateway
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set Gateway, and then press Enter. The cursor automatically appears at the first digit.

4.

At each position of the gateway address, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the next
digit.
When you have advanced through all of the digits of the gateway address, the autoloader displays Enter to save.

NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.
5.

Press Enter. New Gateway is xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx appears on the LCD. You do not need to reboot the autoloader.

6.

Press Escape or Enter to return to the Ethernet submenu.

 

Setting the SNMP Server
An SNMP server monitors a network by processing reporting activity in each network device (hub, router, bridge, and so on). The server uses this information
to define what is obtainable from each device and what can be controlled (turned off, on, and so on).
NOTE: The PV124T SNMP agent supports only the MIB-II variable group. The MIB provides power-on notification commonly referred to as
the "cold start trap" which is sent to the SNMP host (if configured). Embedded webserver user interface is supported for configuring the
SNMP server. However, extended SNMP functions such as availability of tape information through SNMP, SNMP traps for tape events,
availability of global tape status information through SNMP, availability of information through SNMP to classify the loader as a tape
device, etc. are not supported.
To set an SNMP server:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set SNMP Server, and then press Enter. The cursor automatically appears at the first digit.

4.

At each position of the SNMP server address, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the
next digit.
When you have advanced through all of the digits of the SNMP server address, the autoloader displays Enter to save.
NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.

5.

Press Enter. New SNMP Server xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx appears on the LCD. You do not need to reboot the autoloader.

6.

Press Escape or Enter to return to the Ethernet submenu.

 

Setting the Time
The system time is displayed by the Remote Management Unit and it is used internally when logging events and errors. The system time is either regular time
or power-on time. Regular time is Month/Date/Year Time, such as Nov/21/2004 19:28. Power-on time is Power On Cycles (POC)/Power On Hours (POH). For
example, POC: 00121, POH: 00002:07:45 where POC is the number of times the system has booted since it was manufactured, and POH is the number of
hours, minutes, and seconds since the last system boot. If regular time is known, it will be used, otherwise power-on time is used.
The PowerVault 124T autoloader must be reset after each power up. The time can be reset automatically if a time server is configured (see "Setting the Time
Server").
 

Setting the Time Server
If you locate a time server that is compatible with Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP), you can connect the autoloader to a server that will supply the correct
date and time. The autoloader uses this information to time stamp information in its memory.
To set a time server:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Ethernet submenu, scroll to Set Time Server, and then press Enter. The cursor automatically appears at the first digit.

4.

At each position of the time server address, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the
next digit.
When you have advanced through all of the digits of the time server address, the autoloader displays Enter to save.
NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.

5.

Press Enter. New Time Server xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx appears on the LCD. You do not need to reboot the autoloader.

6.

Press Escape or Enter to return to the Ethernet submenu.

To set the time zone:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Time, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Time submenu, scroll to Set Timezone, and then press Enter. The Time Zone screen appears, allowing you to set the hours. The cursor
automatically appears at the first digit.

4.

Scroll to set the number of hours difference between your local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

5.

Scroll to set the number of minutes difference between your local time and GMT, then press Enter. The new time zone is set.

6.

Press Escape or Enter as necessary to return to the main menu.

To set the date and time:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Time, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Time submenu, scroll to Set Date/Time, and then press Enter. The Date/Time screen appears, allowing you to set the date and time. The
cursor automatically appears at the first digit.

4.

The first four digits represent the current year. At each position of the year, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter
to advance the cursor to the next digit.

5.

The next two digits represent the current month. At each position of the month, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press
Enter to advance the cursor to the next digit.

6.

The next two digits represent the current day. At each position of the day, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press Enter
to advance the cursor to the next digit.

7.

The next two digits represent the current hour. At each position of the hour, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press
Enter.
The last two digits represent the current minute. At each position of the minute, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each digit. Press
Enter to advance the cursor to the next digit.

8.

9.
10.

Press Enter to save.
Press Escape as necessary to return to the main menu.

 

Barcode Reader
You can enable or disable the Barcode Reader from the Operator Control Panel (OCP). Disabling the barcode reader prevents the barcode reader from
attempting to read label information. If barcode labels are not being used, disabling the barcode reader will reduce initialization time.
Either a power cycle (through the front panel button) or an Autoloader Reset (through the Autoloader Reset command found on the Error Logs and Diagnostics
page of the Web interface) is required for the change to take effect.
To change the Barcode Reader setting:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Barcode Reader and press Enter.  

3.

A checkmark will be present before either Barcode Enabled or Barcode Disabled to indicate the current setting.  Scroll to the desired setting and press 
Enter.

4.

Press Esc as necessary to return to the main menu.

5.

Power cycle the autoloader as requested.

 

SCSI Barcode Length
SCSI Barcode Length sets the maximum number of barcode characters that will be returned in the SCSI Read Element Data. The display of barcode information
on the Web interface and Operator Control Panel (OCP) are unaffected by this setting.
Setting the SCSI Barcode Length to 0 disables truncation of the barcode and the full barcode will be returned in the SCSI Read Element Data.
This setting is particularly useful if you have a pool of media previously catalogued by another device that has a limitation on the number of barcode characters
that can be read (typically 6 or 9).  Adjusting the PV124T setting to match the previous hardware prevents the user from having to re-catalog all barcode
labeled media previously used in the other device.
To change the SCSI Barcode setting:

  

 

1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to SCSI Barcode and press Enter.

3.

Scroll to the desired setting (from 0 to 15) and press Enter.

4.

Press Esc as necessary to return to the main menu.  The autoloader does not need to be reset when making this change. 

 

Setting Magazines
In some cases, autoloader owners were being charged Independent Software Vendor (ISV) licensing fees for two-magazine autoloaders although only one
magazine was configured. This occurred because the ISV software was registering the autoloader as a two-magazine device, regardless of the number of
magazines configured. You have the ability to set the number of magazines in the autoloader. The default setting is Left.
To set the number of magazines:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Magazines, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Magazines menu, select either Right, Left, or Both to indicate the magazines installed in the autoloader.
NOTE: The default setting must be reconfigured if the optional right magazine is installed. Host backup software may also require a
configuration change to support the additional media locations.

 

Setting Security
You can add security to the front panel by password-protecting the autoloader's functionality. The security setting only protects the front panel functionality.
The default setting is Off, meaning that no password is required. However, you can enable the security option so that users must enter a password to access
functionality.

Security Option
When you first power on the autoloader, the security option is set to Off. Use the following procedure to enable the security option. You must have an
administrator-level password to set passwords.
To set the security option:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Security. If a check mark appears before the word, the security option is On. If no check mark appears, the
security option is Off.

3.

Press Enter. If you are not logged in as Administrator, press Enter again to log in.

4.

To change the option, press Enter. For example, if the security option was set to On, it is now set to Off, and no check mark appears.

 

Setting Passwords
Many operations on the autoloader are password-protected to ensure data integrity. You can set passwords to administrator level and to operator level.
Operator-level users have access to the Commands and Status menus. Administrator-level users have access to all functionality.
To set a password:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Configuration, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Configuration menu, scroll to Set Password, and then press Enter.

3.

To set a password to the operator level, scroll to Operator. To set a password to the administrator level, scroll to Administrator.

4.

Press Enter. If you are not logged in as Administrator, press Enter again to log in.

5.

In the text box, scroll to the first character of the password. The cursor automatically appears at the first number of the password.

6.

At each position of the password, use the up and down arrows to change the value of each number. Press Enter to advance the cursor to the next
number.
NOTE: If you make a mistake, press Escape to backspace to the digit you want to change.

7.

When you have entered six numbers, the autoloader displays Submit Password.

8.

Press Enter to submit the password. Password Successfully changed appears on the LCD.

9.

Press Enter. The Operator and Administrator options reappear. You can either enter another password, or press Escape or Enter as necessary to return
to the main menu.

Getting Lost Passwords
If you forget the administrator-level password, you cannot access the autoloader's functionality to enter a new password. In this case, you must call
support.dell.com. When you call, have the autoloader connected to the Ethernet and open the Remote Management Unit.
NOTE: You can reset front panel passwords to the factory defaults from the Remote Management Unit. However, if the Remote
Management Unit passwords are lost, you must contact support.dell.com. If you must contact support.dell.com, be at the host computer
with the Remote Management Unit on line. From the main screen, click Configuration. The Enter Network Password or User name
screen displays. The customer support representatives will need the number surrounded by asterisks to locate and reset your password.
This is your "realm number."

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

Diagnostics: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Diagnostic Tests from the Front Panel
 Remote Management Unit Diagnostic Tests

 

Diagnostic Tests from the Front Panel
Diagnostic tests allow you to calibrate parts of the autoloader, check the condition of parts, or test the autoloader's functionality. From the front panel, you
can perform all of the diagnostic tests. Because certain tests require you to manually insert a minimum of two cartridges, you can perform only some of the
diagnostic tests using the Remote Management Unit (see "Remote Management Unit Diagnostic Tests").
NOTE: The Remote Management Unit allows you to request all diagnostic tests, but any tests that require a cartridge to be inserted will
time-out unless someone manually inserts the cartridge at the appropriate time.

Setting the Security
When you enable the security function, the diagnostic tests are password protected to ensure data integrity. To access any of the diagnostic tests, you must
first enter an Administrator password. If you do not enter the password, you will be prompted to enter the password when you attempt to perform a
diagnostic test.
You can also enter passwords from the Commands menu as follows::
1.

From any menu, click the Commands heading. The Commands screen displays.

2.

On the Commands submenu, scroll to Enter Password, and then press Enter.

3.

On the Enter Password submenu, scroll to Administrator, and then press Enter.

4.

In the text box, scroll to the first number of the password, and then press Enter.

5.

Repeat step 4 to enter the remaining numbers of your password.
NOTE: Press Escape to backspace to a previous text box, if necessary.
When you have finished entering your password, Submit Password appears on the LCD below the asterisks.

6.

Press Enter to submit your password. The display returns to the Enter Password submenu.

 

Stopping a Diagnostic Test
At times, you may need to stop a diagnostic test while it is in progress. To stop a diagnostic test while it is running, use the End Curr. Test function. When you
select End Curr. Test, any picker or magazine functions complete, and then the diagnostic test stops.
To end a test from the front panel:
1.

While the diagnostic test you wish to stop is running, press Escape. The Diagnostics submenu displays.

2.

On the submenu, scroll to End Curr. Test, and then press Enter. User Abort displays.

3.

Press Enter to return to the Diagnostics submenu. Refer to the Remote Management Unit for any test results.

To stop a test from the Remote Management Unit:
1.

Select the Stop Test button in the Diagnostics test section of the Error Logs and Diagnostics page.

2.

Select View Status to see the results of the command. Test Stopped displays along with any test results.

Front Panel Diagnostic Tests
You can perform the following diagnostic tests using the front panel:
l

Picker Test

l

Magazine Test

l

Inventory Test

l

Random Moves

To perform any of the front panel diagnostic tests:
1.

From any menu, click the Diagnostics heading. The Diagnostics screen displays.

2.

Scroll to the test you want to run and press Enter.
If you are already logged in as Administrator, the test begins executing immediately. The message Running Test appears while the test is running.
NOTE: Each test takes from 30 seconds to several minutes to complete. To stop the test prematurely, see "Stopping a Diagnostic Test."

3.

If you are not logged in, you will be asked to enter the Administrator password. Do the following:
¡

From the front panel, enter the administrator password by using the Up and Down scroll arrows to select each digit, and then press Enter to
move to the next digit. To move to the previous digit, press Escape. When you have entered the entire six digit password, you will be asked to
press Enter one more time to submit the password. If the password is incorrect, you will be asked to re-enter it using the same procedure.
Otherwise, you will be returned to the Diagnostics menu. Press Enter to run the desired test.
Running Test appears while the test is in progress. To stop the test prematurely, see "Stopping a Diagnostic Test."

4.

If the test is successful, press Enter to return to the Diagnostic test menu. For detailed results of a test, use the Remote Management Unit to retrieve
the diagnostic test status (see "Running Diagnostic Tests").

 

Remote Management Unit Diagnostic Tests
Because some of the diagnostic tests require you to insert a cartridge into the autoloader, you cannot perform these tests from a remote location. You can
perform the following diagnostic tests from the Remote Management Unit:
l

Loader - Picker Test

l

Loader - Magazine Test

l

Loader - Inventory Test

l

Random Moves
NOTE: The Remote Management Unit allows you to request all diagnostic tests, but any tests that require a cartridge to be inserted will
time-out unless someone manually inserts the cartridge at the appropriate time.

Diagnostics Using the Remote Management Unit
Many tests can be run using the Remote Management Unit. To perform the Remote Management Unit diagnostic tests:
1.

Open a Web browser and connect to the autoloader. The Remote Management Unit main menu appears.

2.

Click the Error Logs and Diagnostics heading. A login window appears.

3.

Type an Administrator user name and a password, and then click Enter. The Diagnostics submenu appears.

4.

Select the test you wish to perform from the Diagnostics drop-down menu, and then click submit.
The selected diagnostic test runs. While the test is running, you can view the status of the test. To view the status, from the View Diagnostic Test
Progress section, click View Status.

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

 Getting Help: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Technical Assistance
 
 Dell Enterprise Training and Certification
 
 Problems With Your Order
 
 Product Information
 
 Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
 
 Before You Call

 

Technical Assistance
 
If you need assistance with a technical problem, perform the following steps:
1.

 Complete the procedures in "Before Contacting Customer Support".

2.

 Run the system diagnostics and record any information provided.

3.

 Use Dell's extensive suite of online services available at Dell Support at support.dell.com for help with installation and troubleshooting procedures.

 
For more information, see "Online Services."
4.

 If the preceding steps have not resolved the problem, call Dell for technical assistance.

NOTE: Call technical support from a phone near or at the system so that technical support can assist you with any necessary procedures.
NOTE: Dell's Express Service Code system may not be available in all countries.

 
When prompted by Dell's automated telephone system, enter your Express Service Code to route the call directly to the proper support personnel. If
you do not have an Express Service Code, open the Dell Accessories folder, double-click the "Express Service Code" icon, and follow the directions.
 
For instructions on using the technical support service, see "Technical Support Service" and "Before You Call."

NOTE: Some of the following services are not always available in all locations outside the continental U.S. Call your local Dell
representative for information on availability.

 
 

Online Services
 
You can access Dell Support at support.dell.com. Select your region on the WELCOME TO DELL SUPPORT page, and fill in the requested details to access
help tools and information.
 
You can contact Dell electronically using the following addresses:
l

 World Wide Web

 
www.dell.com/
 
www.dell.com/ap (Asian/Pacific countries only)

 
www.dell.com/jp (Japan only)
 
www.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
 
www.dell.com/la (Latin American countries)
 
www.dell.ca (Canada only)
l

 Anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP)

 
ftp.dell.com/
 
Log in as user:anonymous, and use your e-mail address as your password.
l

 Electronic Support Service

 
support@us.dell.com
 
apsupport@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
 
support.jp.dell.com (Japan only)
 
support.euro.dell.com (Europe only)
l

 Electronic Quote Service

 
sales@dell.com
 
apmarketing@dell.com (Asian/Pacific countries only)
 
sales_canada@dell.com (Canada only)
l

 Electronic Information Service

 
info@dell.com
 

AutoTech Service
 
Dell's automated technical support service — AutoTech — provides recorded answers to the questions most frequently asked by Dell customers about their
portable and desktop computer systems.
 
When you call AutoTech, use your touch-tone telephone to select the subjects that correspond to your questions.
 
The AutoTech service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also access this service through the technical support service. See the contact
information for your region.
 

Automated Order-Status Service
 
To check on the status of any Dell™ products that you have ordered, you can go to support.dell.com, or you can call the automated order-status service. A
recording prompts you for the information needed to locate and report on your order. See the contact information for your region.
 

Technical Support Service
 
Dell's technical support service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to answer your questions about Dell hardware. Our technical support staff use 
computer-based diagnostics to provide fast, accurate answers.
 
To contact Dell's technical support service, see "Before You Call" and then see the contact information for your region.

 

Dell Enterprise Training and Certification
 
Dell Enterprise Training and Certification is available; see www.dell.com/training for more information. This service may not be offered in all locations.

 

Problems With Your Order
 
If you have a problem with your order, such as missing parts, wrong parts, or incorrect billing, contact Dell for customer assistance. Have your invoice or
packing slip available when you call. See the contact information for your region.

 

Product Information
 
If you need information about additional products available from Dell, or if you would like to place an order, visit the Dell website at www.dell.com. For the
telephone number to call to speak to a sales specialist, see the contact information for your region.

 

Returning Items for Warranty Repair or Credit
 
Prepare all items being returned, whether for repair or credit, as follows:
1.

 Call Dell to obtain a Return Material Authorization Number, and write it clearly and prominently on the outside of the box.

 
For the telephone number to call, see the contact information for your region.
2.

 Include a copy of the invoice and a letter describing the reason for the return.

3.

 Include a copy of any diagnostic information indicating the tests you have run and any error messages reported by the system diagnostics.

4.

 Include any accessories that belong with the item(s) being returned (such as power cables, media such as CDs and diskettes, and guides) if the return
is for credit.

5.

 Pack the equipment to be returned in the original (or equivalent) packing materials.

 
You are responsible for paying shipping expenses. You are also responsible for insuring any product returned, and you assume the risk of loss during
shipment to Dell. Collect-on-delivery (C.O.D.) packages are not accepted.
 
Returns that are missing any of the preceding requirements will be refused at our receiving dock and returned to you.

 

Before You Call
NOTE: Have your Express Service Code ready when you call. The code helps Dell's automated-support telephone system direct your call
more efficiently.
 
If possible, turn on your system before you call Dell for technical assistance and call from a telephone at or near the computer. You may be asked to type some
commands at the keyboard, relay detailed information during operations, or try other troubleshooting steps possible only at the computer system itself.
Ensure that the system documentation is available.
 
CAUTION: Before servicing any components inside your computer, see your Product Information Guide for important safety information.

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

Installing the Autoloader: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Installation Overview

 Unpacking the Autoloader

 Installation Preparation

 Identifying Product Components

 SCSI Bus Requirements

 Connecting the SCSI and Power Cables

 Accessories

 Preparing the Host and Verifying the Connection

 Choosing a Location

 Installing the Device Drivers

 UL Requirements

 Enabling LUN Support in Linux

 Bar Code Reader
 Product Overview

 Enabling LUN Support in Netware
 

 

Installation Overview
Installing the autoloader consists of the following steps, which are explained in more detail later in this section:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Prepare to install your new Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader (see "Installation Preparation").
Identify the proper SCSI bus types (see "SCSI Bus Requirements").
Identify the accessories that come with the autoloader (see "Accessories").
Install the autoloader in a computer rack near the host server. If installing a rack mount unit, refer to your rack Installation Guide.
Shut down or turn off the server and all devices attached to the server (see "Connecting the SCSI and Power Cables").
Attach the SCSI cable to the autoloader and server's SCSI host adapter (see "Connecting the SCSI and Power Cables").
Attach the power cable to the autoloader and plug in the power cable to the nearest power outlet (see "Connecting the SCSI and Power Cables").
Power the autoloader on to ensure it passes the Power-on Self-Test (POST).
Set the SCSI ID for the autoloader (see "Setting the SCSI ID").
Set up the host and verify the connection (see "Preparing the Host and Verifying the Connection").

8.
9.

 

Installation Preparation
Before you install your new Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader, unpack it carefully and inspect it for any damage that might have occurred during shipping.
The Getting Started Guide included in the packaging describes all the necessary information to unpack and inspect your autoloader correctly. Locate the Getting
Started Guide and follow the directions.
Ensure that the work area is free from conditions that could cause electrostatic discharge (ESD). Discharge static electricity from your body by touching a
known grounded surface, such as your computer's metal chassis.

 

SCSI Bus Requirements
You must connect the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader to one of the following SCSI bus types:
l
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l

Ultra 160 SCSI, Low-voltage Differential (LVD)
Ultra 320 SCSI, Low-voltage Differential (LVD)
Single-ended (SE) SCSI bus

NOTE: The Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader is not compatible with a High-voltage Differential (HVD) SCSI bus.
Your SCSI host adapter card must also support the SCSI bus type used to connect the autoloader. If you use a LVD SCSI bus, use a host adapter card with a
connection for a high-density (HD) 68-pin cable.
NOTE: If you use an SE SCSI bus, the tape drive's performance is limited to the maximum data transfer speed of the bus.
NOTE: The maximum number of autoloaders supported per SCSI bus is two.
NOTE: The autoloader may not work with multiple SCSI LUNS when attached to a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) controller.
The autoloader is not recommended for use with a RAID controller. If this problem occurs, it is recommended that the autoloader be
attached to a separate SCSI bus controller on the server.
 

Accessories
The following accessories are shipped with the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader:
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Getting Started Guide
SCSI host cable
SCSI terminator
Hardware to rack mount the autoloader (autoloader rails are included, rack rails are optional)
One magazine blank
Power cable
Documentation CD containing all of the documentation in Adobe® Portable Document Format (PDF) and supplied device drivers

l
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Bar code labels
TORX L-key drivers (T8 and T10)
Emergency Magazine Removal Tool

 

Choosing a Location
Choose a location that meets the following criteria (see "Technical Specifications"):
NOTICE: Do not place the autoloader on its side or upside down. Do not stack anything on top of the autoloader.
Rack
Requirements

Standard 19-inch rack with 2U (3.5 in.) of clearance.

Room
Temperature

10-35°C (50-95°F)

Power Source

AC power voltage: 100-127 VAC; 200-240 VAC
Line frequency: 50-60 Hz
NOTE: Locate the AC outlet near the autoloader. The AC power cable is the product's main AC disconnect device and must be easily
accessible at all times.

Weight

14.1 kg (31 lb) unloaded
17.2 kg (38 lb) loaded (2 magazines, 16 cartridges)

Air Quality

Minimize sources of particulate contamination. Avoid areas near frequently used doors and walkways, cooling or exhaust vents, stacks of
supplies that collect dust, printers, and smoke-filled rooms. Avoid placing on or near the floor, or in carpeted rooms.
NOTICE: Excessive dust and debris can damage tapes and tape drives.

Humidity

20-80% RH (noncondensing)

Clearance

Back: Minimum of 43.2 cm (17 in)
Front: Minimum of 68.6 cm (27 in)
Sides: Minimum of 5.08 cm (2 in)

 

UL Requirements

 

Elevated Operating
Ambient Temperature

When installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack environment may be
greater than the room ambient. You must install the equipment in an environment compatible with the manufacturer's
maximum recommended ambient temperature.

Reduced Air Flow

Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the amount of air flow required for safe operation of the
equipment is not compromised.

Mechanical Loading

Mounting of the equipment in a rack should be such that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical
loading.

Overloading the Circuit

Consideration should be given to the connection of the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that overloading of
circuits might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Appropriate consideration of equipment nameplate ratings
should be used when addressing the concern.

Reliable Grounding

Reliable grounding of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. Particular attention should be given to supply
connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit, such as use of power strips.

 

Bar Code Reader
Your autoloader is equipped with a bar code reader. The bar code reader is enclosed within the body of the autoloader and automatically scans each cartridge
in the magazine upon power up, after a reset, after an import or export, or when a re-inventory command is issued (see "Running an Inventory"). The
information from each label is stored in memory and available through SCSI and the Remote Management Unit to the computer's operating system or backup
application upon request. The bar code reader can be disabled through the operator control panel or the web user interface. This feature allows faster
initialization of the unit if non-bar code labels or no labels are used on the cartridges.
If utilizing the bar code reader, you must apply the bar code labels into the slot on the front of each cartridge. The labels must conform to ANSI/AIM BC1 -1995
Uniform Symbology Specification Code 39. A set of bar code labels is initially included with the autoloader. Refer to www.dell.com for information on obtaining
additional bar code labels.

 

Product Overview
 

Front Panel Controls

 

1

Power switch

 

2

Media door (mailslot)

 

3

Front panel LEDs

 

4

Front panel LCD screen

 

5

Function keys

 

6

Left magazine

 

7

Right magazine (or blank)

Back Panel Overview

 

  

1

68-pin HD SCSI connectors

2

Fan vent

3

Power connector

4

Ethernet connector

5

Power switch

NOTE: If the cover must be taken off, there are 26 screws and 6 rail bolts that need to be removed. The cover should be removed only
by a qualified Dell Service Provider.
 

Unpacking the Autoloader
Before you begin, clear a desk or table so that you can unpack the autoloader. You also need to select an open 2U computer rack location near the server that
will host the autoloader.
NOTICE: If the room in which you are working differs from the temperature in which the autoloader was shipped or stored by 15°C (30°
F) or more, let the autoloader acclimate to the surrounding environment for at least 12 hours before opening the shipping carton.
Unpack and inspect the autoloader for shipping damage by doing the following:
1.

Clear a table or desk so that you have room to unpack the autoloader.

2.

Inspect the shipping box for damage. If you notice any damage, report it to the shipping company immediately.

3.

Open the shipping box and remove the accessories package. Set the accessories package aside for now.

4.

Lift the autoloader and padding out of the box and place it on the work surface, top facing up. Do not set the autoloader on either end or sides.

5.

Carefully remove the shipping padding from the front and back of the autoloader. Then remove the bag from the autoloader. Save the packing materials
in case you need to move or ship the autoloader in the future. Illustrations on the box flaps indicate proper placement of the packaging materials.

 

Identifying Product Components
Accessories

1

SCSI cable

2
3
4

SCSI terminator
Power cable
Getting Started Guide

  5
6
7
8
9

CD (drivers and documentation)
Magazine blank
Bar code labels
TORX L-key drivers (T8 and T10)
Emergency Magazine Removal Tool

 

Connecting the SCSI and Power Cables
To connect the SCSI and power cables to the autoloader, follow these steps:
1.

Shut down and turn off the selected server. Turn off all attached accessory devices, such as printers and other SCSI devices.

2.

Attach one end of the SCSI cable (included in the accessory kit) to one of the connectors on the back panel of the autoloader.

3.

Attach the other end of the SCSI cable to the connector on the SCSI host adapter or to the connector on the previous device on the SCSI bus.
If the supplied SCSI cable does not fit the connector on your SCSI host adapter, you either have an incompatible SCSI host adapter or you need to
purchase a cable adapter. Contact your service representative or your SCSI host adapter manufacturer for information.

1
  2
3

Ethernet cable
SCSI cable
SCSI terminator

4.

Attach the terminator to the remaining SCSI connector on the back panel of the autoloader (if the autoloader is the last or only device on the SCSI bus).
Otherwise, attach the cable to the next device on the SCSI bus. Make sure that the last device on the SCSI bus is properly terminated.

5.

Attach the female connector of the power cable to the power connector on the back panel of the autoloader.

6.

Plug in the power cable to the nearest properly grounded power outlet.

7.

Plug in the host server or workstation and all attached devices.

8.

Turn on the autoloader by setting the power switch on the back panel to the ON position. Turn on any other devices you turned off earlier. Check the
LCD screen to make sure the autoloader is receiving power. If it is not, check the power connections and your power source.
During the Power-On Self-Test (POST), both LEDs are illuminated briefly, followed by only the Ready/Activity LED flashing. When the initialization
sequence is complete, the LCD screen displays the Home screen.

9.

 

Turn on the server.

Preparing the Host and Verifying the Connection
If necessary, install a SCSI host adapter, software, and compatible drivers. Refer to the manuals for the host computer and SCSI host adapter for detailed
instructions. In addition, follow these general guidelines:
l

When the host server is powered on, install software, and/or drivers that are compatible with the autoloader (see "Installing the Device Drivers").
Software compatibility information is available at support.dell.com. Most backup software packages require an additional module to communicate with
the autoloader robotics.

l

If the host server is connected to a network, check with the system administrator before turning off power.

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Use proper procedures to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD). Use wrist-grounding straps and anti-static mats when handling internal components.

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Make sure that the host server has an open expansion slot.

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Make sure that your backup application supports the SCSI host adapter.

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Depending on the server configuration, you may need to change the SCSI ID of the autoloader (see "Setting the SCSI ID").

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Ensure the autoloader is properly terminated. If the autoloader is the only SCSI device—other than the SCSI host adapter—on the selected SCSI bus, it
must be terminated. Likewise, if the autoloader is physically the last SCSI device on the SCSI bus, it must be terminated. Only the devices physically at
the beginning and end of the SCSI bus should be terminated. If the host is located at the beginning of the SCSI bus, the host should already have a
terminator installed.

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Verify the connection between the autoloader and host by going to Settings>Control Panel>System>Hardware>Device Manager>Tape Drive and/or
Media Changer in Microsoft® Windows® 2000, Microsoft Windows XP and Windows Server® 2003. For more information on verifying the connection of
SCSI devices, consult the operating system documentation.

 

Installing the Device Drivers
There are two device drivers associated with the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader. One for the autoloader itself, and a second for the LTO-3 tape drive
within the autoloader.
NOTE: The device drivers supplied on the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD are required if you intend to
use the Microsoft Windows native backup application. Commercial backup applications provide all necessary device driver support. Refer
to support.dell.com for a list of compatible backup applications.

Tape Drive Device Driver
Microsoft Windows 2000:
1.

Make sure that you are logged on to the host server with administrator privileges.

2.

Insert the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD into the CD drive on the host computer.

3.

Open the device manager (refer to your specific OS documentation for instructions). For example, right-click the My Computer icon on the Windows
desktop, click Manage, and then click Device Manager.
The LTO-3 drive should be listed under the ? Other Devices item as IBM ULTRIUM-TD3 SCSI Sequential Device.

4.

Right-click the IBM ULTRIUM 3 SCSI Sequential Device listing and click Properties.

5.

Select the Driver tab.

6.

Click Update Driver.

7.

When the Upgrade Device Driver Wizard appears, click Next.

8.

Click Display a list... and then click Next.

9.

Scroll down and click Tape Drive, and then click Next.

10.

Click Have Disk, type D:\Drivers\Drive\, replacing d: with the drive letter for the CD drive into which you inserted the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader
User's Manual and Drivers CD, and then click OK.

11.

Click the IBM ULTRIUM III TAPE DRIVE entry, and then click Next.

12.

Click Next to install the driver.

13.

Click Finish.

14.

Click the Device Properties dialog box.
The drive now appears in Device Manager under Tape Drives as a IBM ULTRIUM III TAPE DRIVE and is ready to use.

Microsoft Windows Server 2003:
1.

Make sure that you are logged on to the host server with administrator privileges.

2.

Insert the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD into the CD drive on the host computer.

3.

Open the device manager (refer to your specific OS documentation for instructions). For example, right-click the My Computer icon on the Windows
desktop, click Properties, and then click Device Manager or by going to the Control Panel and opening System. Select Hardware, then click Device

Manager.
The LTO-3 drive should be listed under the ? Other Devices item as IBM ULTRIUM-TD3 SCSI Sequential Device.
4.

Right-click the IBM ULTRIUM-TD3 SCSI Sequential Device listing and click Properties.

5.

Select the Driver tab.

6.

Click Update Driver.

7.

When the Upgrade Device Driver Wizard appears, click Next.

8.

Click Display a list... and then click Next.

9.

Scroll down and click Tape Drive, and then click Next.

10.

Click Have Disk, type D:\Drivers\Drive\ replacing d: with the drive letter for the CD drive into which you inserted the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader
User's Manual and Drivers CD, and then click OK.

11.

Click the IBM ULTRIUM III TAPE DRIVE entry, and then click Next.

12.

Click Next to install the driver.

13.

Click Finish.

14.

Click the Device Properties dialog box.
The drive now appears in Device Manager under Tape Drives as a IBM ULTRIUM III TAPE DRIVE and is ready to use.

Autoloader Device Driver
Microsoft Windows 2000:
1.

Make sure that you are logged on to the host server with administrator privileges.

2.

Insert the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD into the CD drive on the host server.

3.

Right-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop, click Manage, and then click Device Manager.
The autoloader should be listed under Medium Changers as Unknown Medium Changer Device.

4.

Right-click the Unknown Medium Changer Device listing and click Properties.

5.

Select the Driver tab.

6.

When the Upgrade Device Driver Wizard appears, click Next.

7.

Click Display a list... and then click Next.

8.

Click Have Disk, type d:\Drivers\Autoloader, replacing d: with the drive letter for the CD drive into which you inserted the Dell PowerVault 124T
Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD, and then click OK.

9.

Click the Dell (tm) PowerVault (tm) 124T Autoloader entry and click Next.

10.

Click Next again to install the driver.

11.

Click Finish.

12.

Close the Device Properties dialog box.
The autoloader now appears in Device Manager under Medium Changers as a Dell (tm) PowerVault (tm) 124T Autoloader, and is ready to use.

Microsoft Windows Server 2003:
1.

Make sure that you are logged on to the host server with administrator privileges.

2.

Insert the Dell PowerVault 124T Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD into the CD drive on the host server.

3.

Right-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop, click Manage, and then click Device Manager.
The autoloader should be listed under Medium Changers as Unknown Medium Changer Device.

4.

Right-click the Unknown Medium Changer Device listing and click Properties.

5.

Select the Driver tab.

6.

When the Upgrade Device Driver Wizard appears, click Next.

7.

Click Display a list... and then click Next.

8.

Click Have Disk, type d:\Drivers\Autoloader, replacing d: with the drive letter for the CD drive into which you inserted the Dell PowerVault 124T
Autoloader User's Manual and Drivers CD, and then click OK.

9.

Click the Dell (tm) PowerVault (tm) 124T Autoloader entry and click Next.

10.

Click Next again to install the driver.

11.

Click Finish.

12.

Close the Device Properties dialog box.
The autoloader now appears in Device Manager under Medium Changers as a Dell (tm) PowerVault (tm) 124T Autoloader, and is ready to use.

 Enabling LUN Support in Linux
To verify the detection of a tape drive, administrators should check for its entry in /proc/scsi/scsi. Current versions of Linux may not scan the logical storage
unit (LUN) ID of every device. This can result in some PowerVault devices not being identified or listed in the /proc/scsi/scsi output. Administrators can follow
these steps to enable support for such devices.
1.

Type cat/proc/scsi/scsi. The output will look similar to the following:
Attached devices:
Host: scsi3 Channel: 00 Id: 00 Lun: 00
   Vendor:   IBM Model: ULTRIUM-TD3   Rev: 5BG2
   Type:     Sequential-Access           ANSI SCSI revision: 03

2.

3.

 
Identify the host adapter, channel number, target ID number, and LUN number for the first LUN of the device to be configured. In this example, the
Certance Ultrium 2 (a drive in the PowerVault 124T) is shown at the address, or nexus, 3 0 0 0 — which means host adapter 3, channel number 0, ID 0,
and LUN 0. The PowerVault 124T always has the tape drive at LUN 0 and the robot at LUN 1.
For each LUN that needs to be discovered by Linux, issue the following command:
echo "scsi-add-single-device H C I L">/proc/scsi/scsi
H C I L refers to the nexus described in step 2. So, with the PowerVault 124T robot configured at LUN 1, type:
echo "scsi-add-single-device 3 0 0 1">/proc/scsi/scsi
The echo command will force a scan of each device at the given nexus.

4.

Type cat /proc/scsi/scsi again to verify that all devices are now listed. The output will look similar to the following:
Attached devices:
Host: scsi3 Channel: 00 Id: 00 Lun: 00
   Vendor:   IBM Model: ULTRIUM-TD3   Rev: 5BG2
   Type:     Sequential-Access           ANSI SCSI revision: 03
Attached devices:
Host: scsi3 Channel: 00 Id: 00 Lun: 01
   Vendor:   DELL Model: PV-124T   Rev: V31
   Type:     Sequential-Access           ANSI SCSI revision: 03
Administrators should add the echo command to the Linux boot scripts because the device information is not persistent and must be created each time
the system boots up. One example file that can be used for storing the commands is /etc/rc.local. Note that configuring additional devices on a server or
a storage area network (SAN) can cause the devices to be reordered, which requires administrators to modify the commands. If the Fibre Channel
adapter supports Persistent Bindings or an equivalent function, it can be enabled to reduce the chance of devices being reordered upon discovery.
NOTE: This procedure must be run each time the server is booted. Also, if backup application services are running (for example, they
automatically start when the OS loads), they must be disabled and re-enabled after the above procedure.

The other way to enable LUN support is to recompile the kernel and enable LUN scanning in the Adaptec driver, but it requires advanced knowledge of Linux
and will not be covered here. However, it will allow the server to always boot and see the device without any manual procedures.

 Enabling LUN Support in Netware
1.

From the System Console, verify the LUN device is not being detected by using the list storage adapters command.
Typical output where only the tape drive is being recognized:
0x08 [V321-A3] Adaptec SCSI Card 39160/3960D - Ultra160 SCSI [slot 201]
  0x15 [V321-A3-D5:0] IBM ULTRIUM-TD3 5BG2
0x09 [V321-A4] Adaptec SCSI Card 39160/3960D - Ultra160 SCSI [slot 202]

2.

From the System Console, type nwconfig.

3.

Select NCF files Options from the Configuration Options screen.

4.

Select Edit STARTUP.NCF from the Available NCF Files Options screen.

5.

Add the /LUNS switch to the load line of the appropriate SCSI driver. If a dual channel card is installed and the user is unsure which channel the LUN
device is attached to, simply edit both lines.

LOAD ADPT160M.HAM SLOT=201 /LUNS
LOAD ADPT160M.HAM SLOT=202 /LUNS
6.

After the STARTUP.NCF file has been edited, save the file and reboot the server to activate the new STARTUP.NCF.

7.

Upon reboot navigate to the System Console and type scan all. This will start a scan of all the LUNS on each adapter.

8.

When the scan is complete, verify the LUN device has been detected using the list storage adapters command.
Typical output with both the tape drive and loader being recognized:
0x08 [V321-A3] Adaptec SCSI Card 39160/3960D - Ultra160 SCSI [slot 201]
  0x16 [V321-A3-D5:1] DELL   PV-124T   0031
  0x15 [V321-A3-D5:0] IBM ULTRIUM-TD3 5BG2
0x09 [V321-A4] Adaptec SCSI Card 39160/3960D - Ultra160 SCSI [slot 202]
Netware may display unbound device, meaning a driver is not bound to the loader unless a driver from a backup software is loaded. This does not
prevent the backup application from detecting the LUN and binding the appropriate driver.
NOTE: The user must type the command scan all upon OS boot every time. If backup software services automatically start on OS boot,
the user must disable them, run the scan all command, and re-enable the services.
NOTE: Netware may display unbound device meaning a driver is not bound to the loader unless a driver from a backup software is
loaded. This does not prevent the backup application from detecting the LUN and binding the appropriate driver.

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

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

Overview
Data backup is essential to protect irreplaceable information. Backing up data to magnetic tape is an easy, cost-efficient method used by many small and
medium businesses. However, most enterprises have so much data that a single backup tape is not enough; the information has to be spread across
numerous tapes. To avoid constantly changing tapes manually, many tape backup solutions include a PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader.
Each autoloader is a device that includes a robot, a tape drive and one or two magazines for tape cartridges. The user's application can automatically load and
unload tape cartridges as required for data backup or data retrieval. Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloaders provide a compact, high capacity, but low cost
method for easy, unattended data backup.
The PowerVault 124T LTO-3 contains an IBM LTO-3 tape drive, and one or two magazines that can hold up to eight cartridges each. The user can insert a
single cartridge directly through a media door (mailslot) that can be password protected. From the media door (mailslot), the user can insert the cartridge into
the tape drive provided there is no cartridge already in the drive, or into a magazine slot provided there is no cartridge already in the slot.
The front panel on the autoloader includes a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen and four function keys. A scrolling menu on the LCD screen allows the user to
obtain information from the autoloader and enter commands. The front panel also includes two light emitting diodes (LEDs) indicating the autoloader's ready
status and error status.
The PowerVault 124T LTO-3 connects to the user's host server through a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) connection allowing the host to send data
and commands automatically. The unit also can connect to an Ethernet which allows the user to perform administrative functions and download system
updates.
The autoloader is SCSI-3 compatible and operates as a single SCSI ID/two LUN data storage device and provides a compressed capacity of 1.24 Terabytes
and a sustained data transfer rate of 245 GB per hour (native) or as high as 490 GB per hour compressed (assuming 2:1 compression)
The autoloader is compatible with the most popular operating systems and environments supporting an Ultra 160 SCSI or an Ultra 320 SCSI LVD interface but
requires direct support from the operating system or a compatible backup application to take full advantage of its many features.

 Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

Operating the Autoloader: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Operator's Panel Functionality
 Using Cartridges
 Using Magazines and Magazine Blanks
 Viewing Status Information
 Running an Inventory
 Data Compression

 

Operator's Panel Functionality
NOTE: If security is enabled and you try to execute a command without entering a password, the autoloader displays the Enter
Password screen until you enter a password. Once you enter a password, the autoloader takes you back to the command screen that
you were at prior to entering the password.
The Operator's Panel consists of two LEDs, five buttons, and a 2-line by 16-character LCD screen. The Operator's Panel provides everything you need to
monitor autoloader status and to control all of its functions.

 

1

Power switch

 

2

Front panel LCD screen

 

3

Front panel LEDs

 

4

Scroll up button

 

5

Scroll down button

 

6

Escape

 

7

Enter

All the functionality accessed from the scrolling menu can be password-protected. Two levels of security are built into the menu. The lower-level security is the
operator level and the higher-level security is the administrator level. There is one password for each level.
The administrator password allows access to all the functionality available. The operator password allows access to all the functionality in the Command and
Status submenus.

Enter Passwords
Many functions on the autoloader may be password-protected to ensure data integrity. To access the menu items necessary to execute these functions, you
must first enter your password (see "Setting Passwords"). All passwords are six numeric digits long. These passwords are specific to the front panel and are
different from Remove Management Unit (RMU) passwords.
When you enter a password, all password-protected functionality is available until you log out (see "Logout"). If you do not use the front panel for a period of
time, the main screen reappears on the LCD. When the main screen reappears, the autoloader has automatically logged you out. You will have to re-enter
your password again to access the menu functionality.
 

Logout
To logout of the autoloader, use the following procedure.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Log Out, and then press Enter. Session Complete appears on the LCD.
NOTE: You can also press Escape to log out. Continue pressing Escape as required until the main screen appears.

 

Using Cartridges
Typically, when you first install the autoloader, you load your cartridges into the magazines and then load the magazines into the autoloader. However, you
can insert and eject cartridges individually using the media door (mailslot), or you can eject a magazine, manually load and unload cartridges, then load the
magazine back into the autoloader. The autoloader automatically detects the presence of a cartridge in the magazine slot.
NOTE: On the front panel menu, whenever you see Enter or Eject, it means the tape enters and leaves the autoloader through the
media door (mailslot). Whenever you see Load or Unload, it means the tape is loaded into or unloaded from the tape drive.
If you try to perform an illegal operation, the autoloader refuses to perform the operation. For example, if you try to load a cartridge through the media door
(mailslot) to the drive but the drive already contains a cartridge, the media door (mailslot) does not unlock and will display an error message. If you try to
unload a cartridge from the drive while the autoloader is writing to the tape, the command will not be initiated until the write command is completed.
 

Insert a Single Cartridge
When you want to load a single cartridge into the autoloader, you can use the media door (mailslot). However, if the Security option is turned on, you have to
enter a valid password to unlock the media door (mailslot) before you can load a cartridge. When you insert a cartridge through the media door (mailslot), you
can load it into the tape drive or store it in a magazine.
To insert a cartridge in the tape drive:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Enter-Mailslot, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Enter-Mailslot submenu, scroll to To Drive, and then press Enter.
NOTE: After Insert Tape, Push Until Prompted appears on the LCD, you have 40 seconds to load a cartridge through the media door
(mailslot) before it relocks and "User Aborted" appears on the operator control panel.
NOTE: For the PowerVault 124T, push in the cartridge until you meet resistance. The cartridge will be about 2 inches (5.0 cm) inside the
media door (mailslot), and only the end of the cartridge will be visible through the media door (mailslot).

4.

Once you have inserted the cartridge, the prompt Enter to Continue appears. You have 5 seconds to press Enter in response or the autoloader will
automatically load the cartridge.
NOTE: If the insert cartridge function fails, the cartridge ejects and you will have to perform steps 3 and 4 again. A "Missed Tape" error
message will be displayed on the operator control panel.

To insert a cartridge in a magazine slot:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Enter-Mailslot, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Enter-Mailslot submenu, scroll to To Location, and then press Enter.
Scroll through the magazine slots and view their status until you find the appropriate slot. Slots that are occupied by a data cartridge are indicated by
an asterisk (*). A slot assigned for and occupied by a cleaning cartridge will be indicated by an at sign (@). An empty slot assigned to a cleaning
cartridge will be indicated by an exclamation point (!).

4.

Scroll to the slot where you want to store the cartridge, and then press Enter.
After Load cartridge appears on the LCD, you have 40 seconds to load a cartridge through the media door (mailslot) before it relocks. The autoloader
automatically loads the cartridge into the selected slot.
NOTE: If the load cartridge function fails, the cartridge ejects and you will have to perform steps 3 and 4 again.

5.

Once you have inserted the cartridge, the prompt Enter to Continue appears. You have 20 seconds to press Enter in response or the autoloader will
automatically load the cartridge.

Moving a Single Cartridge
You can easily move a single cartridge from one location to another inside the autoloader.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Move, and then press Enter.
The Move screen appears under From:. Scroll to the current location of the cartridge you want to move. Slots that are occupied by a data cartridge are
indicated by an asterisk (*).

3.

From To:, scroll to the location to which you want to move the cartridge. Slots that are occupied by a data cartridge are indicated by an asterisk (*).
Press Enter.

4.

Press Enter.
¡

If you select an empty location, No Source Tape appears on the LCD. Choose a different location.

¡

If you select a location that is already occupied, Destination Full appears on the LCD. Choose a different location.

Ejecting a Single Cartridge
When you want to remove a single cartridge from the autoloader, you can specify the cartridge you want by bar code or location, or choose the cartridge
currently in the tape drive.
To eject a cartridge by bar code:
NOTE: This function is only allowed if the bar code reader is enabled.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Eject, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Eject submenu, scroll to Tape → Mailslot, and then press Enter.

4.

Scroll to By Barcode.
A bar code label appears.

5.

Scroll to the label that corresponds to the cartridge you want to eject. Press Enter.

To eject a cartridge by location:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Eject, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Eject submenu, scroll to Tape → Mailslot, and then press Enter.

4.

Scroll to By Location.
Slots that are occupied by a data cartridge are indicated by an asterisk (*). A slot assigned for and occupied by a cleaning cartridge will be indicated by
an at sign (@). An empty slot assigned to a cleaning cartridge will be indicated by an exclamation point (!). Scroll to the slot containing the cartridge you
want to eject.

5.

Press Enter.
The cartridge you want is ejected from the media door (mailslot).

To eject a cartridge from the tape drive:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Eject, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Eject submenu, scroll to Tape → Mailslot, and then press Enter.

4.

Scroll to From Drive, and then press Enter.
The cartridge you want is ejected from the media door (mailslot).

 

Using Magazines and Magazine Blanks
Inward Side of a Magazine

Outward Side of a Magazine

The autoloader will not run unless both magazine bays are properly occupied with either a magazine or a magazine blank. One way that you can close the
openings is to use two magazines. If you use only one magazine, then you must fill the other magazine opening with a magazine blank for the unit to become
operational.
NOTE: Magazines are not interchangeable between drive types. Order the appropriate part numbers when replacing these items.

Ejecting a Magazine
When you want to remove several cartridges at once, eject the magazine(s) first.
To eject a magazine:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Eject, and then press Enter.

3.

On the Eject submenu, scroll to Right Magazine or Left Magazine, and then press Enter.
You will hear a distinctive popping sound as the appropriate magazine is ejected from the autoloader. Left magazine has been ejected or Right
magazine has been ejected appears on the LCD.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the autoloader or the magazine, use both hands when removing the magazine from the autoloader,
supporting the entire length of the magazine.

4.

Grasp the magazine by the handle with one hand and slide it out, supporting it underneath with the other hand.
NOTE: Once you eject a magazine, you must fully remove it or fully reinstall it before powering off the autoloader. Before returning a
magazine to the autoloader, manually turn one of the white thumb wheels located on each end of the magazine. If they move freely, the
cartridges are properly seated. If the wheels do not turn freely, check the cartridges and remove and replace as needed.

When issuing a Load/Unload command from software, the system automatically ejects the right magazine. To remove the left magazine using the
Load/Unload command, you must:
1.

Remove the right magazine.

2.

Replace the right magazine with a magazine blank.

3.

Issue the Load/Unload command again. The system will then eject the left magazine.

4.

If you want to have a magazine in the right bay, replace the magazine blank in the right bay with a cartridge magazine.

Installing a Magazine
To install a magazine into the autoloader, use the following procedure.
1.

Grasp the magazine by the handle with one hand and support it underneath with the other hand.

2.

Slide the magazine into the magazine bay until it clicks.
Make sure that you position the magazine correctly. It should slide into the magazine bay smoothly. If you meet resistance, verify the orientation of the
magazine.
The magazine is correctly installed when you feel it click into place and the front of the magazine is flush with the front panel. Left Mag Inserted or
Right Mag Inserted appears on the LCD. The autoloader automatically proceeds to run an inventory.
NOTICE: Be careful not to turn the knob on the side of the magazine while the magazine is partially inserted into the autoloader. Doing
so may cause damage to the magazine or the autoloader.

Manually Operating the Magazine

There are two white thumbwheels, located on each end of the magazine. You can move the slots within the magazine by turning these two white
thumbwheels and aligning a slot with one of the two openings. Do not rotate the magazine by inserting your hand and pushing the cartridge carriers. You can
use the openings in the magazine to load and unload cartridges from the eight slots within each magazine.
NOTICE: It is recommended that you fully remove the magazine to load and unload cartridges. If the magazine is not fully removed, do
not rotate the magazine.
To load cartridges into a fully ejected magazine:
1.

To load cartridges into the magazine, center a slot within one of the openings located on the side of the magazine.

2.

Properly orient the cartridge; tape upright and bar code label facing outward.
NOTE: There is a keying feature in each slot that only allows you to fully insert the cartridge one way. Make sure there are no labels
adhering to the cartridge at any point other than the designated label area.

3.

Fully insert the cartridge into the slot.
When pushing the cartridge into the slot, you will feel a small resistance (detent) until the cartridge is properly latched into the slot. All forward progress
stops when the cartridge is fully inserted.

You can remove a cartridge in the same manner as you insert it. Use the white thumbwheels to center the desired slot(s) in the openings on the side of the
magazine. Do not rotate the magazine by inserting your hand and pushing the cartridge carriers. Using your thumb and index finger, pull out the cartridge. You
will feel a small resistance, but continue to pull the cartridge until it comes free.
To identify a slot:
Each slot has an identification number that is exposed when the slots are in the upper section of the magazine. With the magazine removed from the
autoloader, you can see the identification mark on the top side of the magazine through one of two windows on the upper surface of the magazine. Each
magazine carrier is labeled 1/9, 2/10, 3/11, and so fourth. Lower numbers 1 - 8 reference slots in the left magazine. Higher numbers 9 - 16 reference slots on
the right magazine if the optional right magazine is installed.

 

Running an Inventory
The autoloader automatically runs an inventory whenever you power it back on or insert a magazine. An inventory checks each magazine slot, the drive, the
picker, and the media door (mailslot) to determine if a cartridge is present. If so, it also reads the bar code label, if available. If you need to run an inventory in
addition to this, you can do so manually.
NOTE: No bar code labels can be read if there is a tape in the picker.
To perform an inventory manually:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Commands, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Commands submenu, scroll to Inventory, and then press Enter. The autoloader scans the bar codes of all the cartridges present.

 

Viewing Status Information
From the scrolling menu on the LCD, you can view the autoloader status, firmware version, element status, tape drive status, tape drive version, and Ethernet
information.

Viewing PowerVault 124T Autoloader Status
The autoloader status provides information about: whether a magazine is installed or not, SCSI connection status, Ethernet connection status, and whether
the bar code reader is enabled or not.
To view the autoloader status:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Autoloader, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Autoloader submenu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter. A list of messages similar to the following appears:
SCSI ID
A digit 0 through 7 (default 6). The assigned SCSI ID for the autoloader.
Magazines
L=*

Asterisk indicates the left magazine is present.

R=*

Asterisk indicates the right magazine is present.

BC Reader

 

Yes

Bar code reader enabled

No

Bar code reader disabled

Viewing Firmware Version
To view the current firmware version, use the following procedure:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Autoloader, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Autoloader submenu, scroll to Version, and then press Enter.
A list of messages appears on the LCD. The firmware version is listed as Firmware: VX.XX where X.XX is the current installed version of the firmware.
Firmware The number indicates the firmware version.
EDC

The number indicates the Error Correction Code that was generated when the firmware was installed. The autoloader uses this number to
verify that the firmware and the memory holding the firmware are good.

HW Rev

The number indicates the hardware version.

ME Rev

The number indicates the mechanical version.

Viewing Element Status
The element status reports the status of the magazine slots. The status indicates whether a slot contains a cartridge or not, and which slot is allocated as the
cleaning cartridge's slot. To view an element's status:
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Autoloader, and then press Enter.

3.
4.

From the Autoloader submenu, scroll to Element Status, and then press Enter.
Scroll to view Drive, Mailslot, and Picker status. Scroll and press Enter when prompted to view Magazine status.
You can scroll through each of the slots. Slots that are occupied by a data cartridge are indicated by an asterisk (*). If a slot assigned to a cleaning
cartridge is occupied, it is indicated by an at sign (@). If a slot assigned to a cleaning cartridge is empty, it is indicated with an exclamation point (!).

5.

Scroll to the slot containing the cartridge for which you want to see the label, or the cartridge you want to move, and then press Enter.
The Element Status screen appears, displaying the bar code label for that cartridge.

Viewing Tape Drive Status
To view the tape drive status, use the following procedure.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Drive, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Drive submenu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.
A list of messages appears. These messages may include:
SCSI ID

Indicates the drive's SCSI ID number.

 Compression Indicates whether the tape drive compression is enabled or disabled.

Drive Tape

Indicates whether a tape is present in the drive or not.

NOTE:The LTO-3 tape drive can compress data which may allow it to write more data to the same amount of tape. Compression also
increases the performance of the data transfers from or to the SCSI bus. The data compression is drive dependent and cannot be set
from the front panel or the Remote Management Unit. Your backup application package may also have information on compression.
The front panel display will indicate whether data compression is Enabled or Disabled. Not all data is compressible and performance is
heavily dependent on the type of data being backed up.

Viewing Tape Drive Version
To view the tape drive version, use the following procedure.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Drive, and then press Enter.

3.

From the Drive submenu, scroll to Version, and then press Enter.
A list of messages appears. These messages may include:
Product Type     Indicates the type of drive installed.
Version

Indicates the firmware version of the drive.

 

Viewing Ethernet Information
To view the Ethernet information, use the following procedure.
1.

From the main menu, scroll to Status, and then press Enter.

2.

From the Status submenu, scroll to Ethernet, and then press Enter.
A list of messages appears. These messages may include:
MAC address     Indicates the unique network identifier associated with the autoloader.
IP address

Indicates the static IP address or currently assigned dynamic IP address. The text DHCP displays in this case.

Network

Indicates whether the autoloader is connected to the network or not and at what speed.

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

Remote Management Unit: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Remote Management Unit Overview
 Configuration Page
 Firmware Page
 Error Log and Diagnostics Page
 Library Operations Page

 

Remote Management Unit Overview
Your Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader includes an Ethernet interface that allows remote administration. The interface, called the Remote Management
Unit (RMU), includes a Web server that provides a Hypertext Markup Language (HTML)-based graphic user interface (GUI) for ease of use.
The RMU performs many of the same functions as the front panel interface. These functions include moving tapes, system operations options, networking
options, security options, running diagnostic tests, and performing system updates.
NOTE: Only use the Diagnostics commands when the autoloader is known to be idle and unavailable to host backup/restore
applications. If a Diagnostic command is issued during a drive or autoloader operation, the unit will respond that it is busy. However, if a
Diagnostic command is issued and then a backup or restore job runs, that job may fail.
NOTE: To log out of the system, you must close your browser.

Default Username and Password
The default username for the Remote Management Unit is admin. The default password is password.
The username and password are case sensitive and should be entered in all lower case letters. The default username and password are valid if no usernames
have been configured.

Opening the Remote Management Unit
The Remote Management Unit has an HTML interface, which means you use a browser to open it. The following Web browsers are supported:
l
l
l
l

For Microsoft® Windows® — Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 or later
For Microsoft Windows Server® 2003 — Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later (with latest security patches)
For Redhat® 2.1 — Mozilla™ 1.4.2
Firefox™ 1.0

If security is enabled, you need an operator password to access the Library Operations page, and you need an administrator password to access the
Configuration, Error Logs and Diagnostics, and Firmware pages.
When using the RMU with Microsoft Internet Explorer, be sure to enable the Allow META REFRESH option. On version 6.0 of Internet Explorer, this feature is
controlled through the Tools>Internet Options menu selection, under the Security tab.
Use of all Remote Management Unit web pages features requires Java Script to be enabled in the user's web browser.
To open the Remote Management Unit:
1.

From your computer, open your Web browser.

2.

In the browser's address field, enter the IP address for your autoloader (see "Viewing Ethernet Information").
The Home page appears in your browser window.

 Viewing Status Information

Remote Management Unit (RMU) Web Interface Status Pane
1.

System Status - provides model and serial number (S/N) of both the autoloader and the drive. This section also contains the Dell Service Tag number.
You will need this number if you call for technical support.

2.

Autoloader - provides status specific to the automation device. Refer to Front Panel Administration for information regarding magazine configuration.
Refer to Installation Overview for information regarding enabling or disabling the Barcode Scanner.

3.

Drive - provides status information specific to the drive. Refer to Installation Overview for information on how to change the SCSI ID. Refer to TapeAlert
Logs for information regarding drive Tape Alert flags.

4.

Administration Lock - provides status regarding RMU security settings. Refer to Client Overlap Control for information on how to configure the
Administration Lock.

5.

Host Backup Software Lock - provides status regarding Independent Software Vendor (ISV) autoloader and drive lock settings. These settings must
typically be changed from within the host backup software application. Refer to your Backup Software Help or User Guide for steps on how to change
autoloader and drive lock settings.

6.

Operator Control Panel - provides an "OCP mirror," showing text currently displayed on the operator control panel.

Status information appears on the right-hand side of the Home page and every page of the Remote Management Unit except for the Firmware page. The
status information is updated automatically every 10 seconds. Changes to the status appear in the status window update, but may take approximately 10
seconds to refresh. You can also click Refresh Status to get an immediate update of the system.
The menu headings also appear at the top of every page. To access the functionality under the menu heading, click the specific menu heading. The first time
that you connect, the Remote Management Unit prompts you for your username and password, then displays the opening page for that menu.
Depending on your screen resolution settings, you may have to scroll to see all status info.

Time Display
The time displayed is either regular time or power-on time. Regular time is Month/Date/Year time, such as Nov/21/2004 19:28. Power-on time is Power On
Cycles (POC)/Power On Hours (POH), such as POC:00121, POH:00002:07:45.
l

POC (5-digit number) is the number of times the system has booted since it was manufactured.

l

POH is the number of hours, minutes, and seconds that the system has been on since the current boot occurred.

Feedback on Pages
If there is feedback from the system when you submit a request, the feedback appears beneath the submit button. In some cases, you may have to scroll to
see the feedback information.

 

Configuration Page
The Configuration page includes a submenu on the left-hand side of the page. You can set the System Operations, Networking, and Security options from
this page.

System Operations Options
The options listed under System Operations include SCSI ID, Compression, Barcode Reader, Cleaning Tape, Magazines, and System Time.

SCSI ID
You can change the drive's SCSI ID from the Remote Management Unit. To change the SCSI ID:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

Under System Operations, select SCSI ID.

3.

Click the drop-down box to select a number to assign for the new SCSI ID.

4.

Click submit.
NOTE: You must perform an Autoloader reset or use the front panel to power cycle your machine before the new SCSI ID takes effect.

Compression
For the Dell PowerVault 124T LTO-3 autoloader, data compression is drive-dependent. The front panel and the Remote Management Unit will display whether
or not compression is enabled.
Compressing the data means that the drive can write more data to the same amount of tape. Compression also increases the performance of the data
transfers from or to the SCSI bus.
NOTE: Compression cannot be changed from the front panel or the Remote Management Unit of the autoloader.
To view the compression setting:
From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays. Under the Compression heading, the current compression setting is
displayed as Compression Enabled or Compression Disabled.

Bar Code Reader
The bar code reader can be enabled or disabled. Disabling the bar code reader prevents the reader from attempting to read label information. If non-bar code
labels or no labels are being used, disabling the bar code reader will reduce initialization time at startup or system reset.
Either a power cycle (through the front panel button) or an autoloader reset (through the Autoloader Reset command found on the Error Logs and Diagnostics
page) is required for the setting change to take effect.
SCSI Barcode Length sets the maximum number of barcode characters that will be returned in the SCSI Read Element Data. The display of barcode information
on the Web interface and Operator Control Panel (OCP) are unaffected by this setting.
Setting the SCSI Barcode Length to 0 disables truncation of the barcode and the full barcode will be returned in the SCSI Read Element Data.
This setting is particularly useful if you have a pool of media previously catalogued by another device that has a limitation on the number of barcode characters
that can be read (typically 6 or 9). Adjusting the PV124T setting to match the previous hardware prevents the user from having to re-catalog all barcode
labeled media previously used in the other device.
The autoloader does not need to be reset when changing the Barcode Length.
To change the Barcode Reader settings:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration Screen displays.

2.

Under the Barcode Reader section, select the desired Enable/Disable option and Barcode Length setting and click Submit.

3.

If the Enable/Disable option is changed, the message This will require a power cycle and host backup software configuration change will be displayed.

4.

Select OK. The front panel and Web interface will display Please Power Cycle. 

5.

Either a power cycle (through the front panel button) or an autoloader reset (through the Autoloader Reset command found on the Error Logs and
Diagnostics page of the Web interface) is required for the change to take effect.

Cleaning Tape
To enable or disable the Auto Clean function, you must also designate a full slot for the cleaning tape cartridge. If a slot has not been designated, the box
displays None. To designate the cleaning tape slot:
1.

Load a cleaning tape into an empty slot using the Library Operations page.

2.

Enable or disable Auto Clean by selecting the check box. If autoclean is enabled, the cleaning cartridge will automatically be moved from the assigned
cleaning slot to the drive if the drive indicates cleaning is required.
NOTE: If Auto Clean is disabled, the cleaning tape will automatically be ejected through the media door (mailslot). Cleaning is handled by
the backup package you have installed instead.

To set Auto Clean:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

Scroll to Cleaning Tape.
If a check mark appears in the box next to Auto Clean, the option is enabled. To disable Auto Clean, click the box to remove the check mark. If no check
mark appears in the box next to Auto Clean, the option is disabled. To enable Auto Clean, click the box to enter a check mark.

3.

In the Cleaning Tape Location field, select the appropriate slot location where you installed the cleaning tape. If Auto Clean is disabled, cleaning is

handled by the backup package you have installed instead.
4.

Click submit.

Setting the Magazines
This setting is used to report the number of storage elements and the element address to the SCSI host. This setting must match the physical configuration in
order for correct information to be reported. This setting only affects the information reported to the SCSI host. This setting does not affect the access to
magazine slots from the front panel or the Remote Management Unit. Those interfaces are based on the physical configuration.
NOTE: The default setting of Left must be reconfigured if the optional right magazine is installed. Host backup software may also require
reconfiguration if the loader was originally installed with only the default left magazine
When configured for Both magazines, the autoloader always reports 16 storage elements to the SCSI host. This allows the removal and reinstallation of
magazines without affecting what is reported to the host. When configured for Left or Right, the autoloader will always report 8 storage elements to the SCSI
host.
The element addresses vary depending on which magazine is configured. If Left or Right is selected, and both magazines are physically installed, the front
panel and the Remote Management Unit allow the user access to the other magazine, but the SCSI host will not have access.
To set the Magazines option:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

Scroll to Magazines. The Magazines options display.
A radio button appears after the currently enabled mode.

3.

Do one of the following:
¡

To leave the Magazines mode unchanged, press Esc.

¡

To change the Magazines configuration, scroll to the setting you want for the autoloader, selecting the appropriate check box, and then click
submit. These settings include Both, Right, and Left.
The message This will require a power cycle and host backup software configuration change. Enter To Continue is displayed.

¡

To continue with the change, press submit. The message Please power cycle the tape autoloader and reconfigure the host backup software
app. displays.

Setting the System Time
The system time is displayed by the Remote Management Unit and it is used internally for logging events and errors (see "Setting the Time").
The autoloader must be reset after each power up. The time can be reset automatically if a time server is configured (see "Setting Network Options").
Otherwise, the time must be set manually from the front panel or through the Remote Management Unit. The time zone setting is not lost when powered off.
NOTE: Whether the autoloader is connected to a time server or not, if you want to include time changes for daylight savings time, you
must change the time zone manually.
To set the system time:
1.

Using the first drop-down list next to Time Zone, select the number of hours difference between your local time and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
NOTE: For example, if you live in Colorado, the time difference is –6 hours in the summer and –7 hours in the winter.

2.

Below the Time Zone field, select the current Month from the drop-down list.

3.

In the Day field, type the current day of the month.

4.

In the Year field, type the current year.

5.

In the Hour text box, type the current hour in 24-hour format.

6.

In the Minute text box, type the current minute.

7.

Click submit to save the information.

 

Setting Network Options
When you originally installed the autoloader, you set the Ethernet configurations through the front LCD panel. However, you can modify them through the
Remote Management Unit. The options include Current Network Parameters, Set IP, and Set Network Configuration. To change the Ethernet
configurations:
To view the Current Network Parameters:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

From the Configuration menu, click Networking.
The Current Network Parameters area displays the current IP address, MAC address, and the speed setting for the Ethernet connection.

In the Set IP section, if a check mark appears in the box next to DHCP, the dynamic IP address option is enabled. This means that with every reset of the

system, the IP address may change depending on the network administrator's settings.
To Set IP address:
1.

Clear the check box to remove the check mark from the DHCP field, if applicable.

2.

In the IP address fields, type the static IP address using the  key to move from box to box.

3.

If no check mark appears in the box next to DHCP, the static IP address option is enabled. To change a static IP address, type in the new address in
the IP address fields using the  key to move from box to box.

4.

To change the IP address from a static address to a dynamic address, click the box next to DHCP.

To Set Network Configuration:
1.

To change the values of the subnet mask, gateway, Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) server, or the time server, type in the new address,
using the  key to move from box to box.

2.

Click submit.

 

Setting Front Panel Security Options
When you enable the security option, users must enter a password to access the autoloader's front panel functionality. A password allows either
administrator-level access or operator-level access (see "Setting Security"). Up to two Admin and two Operator passwords may be set. To set security:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security. The System Security section of the screen displays.

3.

To enable front panel security, select the check box next to Front Panel Security Enabled.
If the check box is blank, the security option for the front LCD panel is not enabled.

4.

Click submit.

To reset the front panel password:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security.

3.

Select the check box next to Reset Front Panel Password. A check mark appears.

4.

Click submit.

To set User Administration:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security.

3.

From the drop-down list next to Select User Type, select Operator 1, Operator 2, Administrator 1 or Administrator 2.

4.

In the Username field, enter a user name.

5.

In the Password field, enter the new password.

6.

In the Verify Password field, re-enter the same new password.

7.

Click submit.
NOTE: To view the list of currently defined users, click submit with Select User Type chosen.

To set the Client Authorization Control:
1.

From any page, click the Configuration heading. The Configuration screen displays.

2.

On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security.
Scroll to Client Authorization Control. In this section is a list of the IP addresses that are authorized to perform with the Remote Management Unit for
this specific unit. There are two sets of IP address boxes. You can individually enable/disable and configure each set.
¡

If enabled, each set can be used to specify either a range of IP addresses or a pair of specific IP addresses that are allowed to administer this
unit. A set can also be used to specify a single IP address if the desired IP address is entered into both the "a" and "b" portions of the set. When
a set is used to specify a range of IP addresses, the "b" portion of each address set must be greater than or equal to the "a" portion of that
address set.

¡

If neither set is enabled, any IP client can administer the unit. If a single set is enabled, only clients that pass the test specified by that set are
allowed administrator access. If both sets are enabled, any client that passes either of the two filter tests can administer the unit.

The Web server always allows any client to view the status information of the unit, regardless of the authorized client list or the overlap control policy.
3.

Use the drop-down box to select Enable or Disabled.

4.

Type the IP addresses in the appropriate boxes.

5.

Click submit to save.
NOTE: By entering an improper range of IP addresses, a user can possibly lock out all IP clients from administering the autoloader. If this
occurs, the user can restore the default values by running Restore Default from the front panel Configuration menu.

 Client Overlap Control is a management policy on controlling how the Web server handles overlapping control requests from multiple clients on the
authorized client list. The options include No Locking, Full Locking, and Time-Based Locking.
l

No Locking allows multiple clients to have unrestricted access to control the system as long as they are on the authorized client list.

l

Full Locking permits only one authorized client to issue control requests at a time. This client must release the lock by clicking the Home/Logout option
in the upper frame of the page to permit other authorized clients to have control access.

l

Time-Based Locking is similar to Full Locking in that only one authorized client can have control access at once, but the lock is automatically released
after the specified number of seconds of inactivity have elapsed.

After selecting the appropriate policy by clicking the check box, click submit to save the changes.
1.

From any page, click the Configurations heading. The Configurations screen displays.

2.

On the left-hand side of the screen, click Security.

3.

Select a security option from the Client Overlap Control options:
¡

No locking allows multiple users to access the system and issue requests.

¡

Full Locking allows only one user to access the system and issue requests.

¡

Time-based Locking allows only one user to access the system and issue requests with the lock expiring after a designated amount of inactivity
(in seconds).

¡

Home/Logout is used to release a full or time-based lock and permit another user to access the system.
NOTE: Locking is only available to users on the authorized client list.

4.

Click submit.

 

Firmware Page
NOTE: The preferred method of autoloader update is through the RMU (Remote Management Unit web interface). The preferred method
for drive update is across the host SCSI interface using the Dell Firmware Update utility (DFU) supplied with the firmware update
package. Refer to the README file provided with the firmware update package.

You can browse to find system updates and then upload the updates. To get system updates:
1.

From any page, click the Firmware heading. The Firmware Update screen displays.

2.

Click Browse to navigate to the host system for the update file. The file should end in an .img extension.

3.

NOTE: It is recommended that all firmware updated be performed with image files located on the local system hard drive as opposed to a
removable media device or network share.
Click Upload.

4.

Click OK in response to the confirmation box. The autoloader automatically uploads the new code and processes it to the system.
NOTE: A Microsoft issue may keep a user from updating drive or loader firmware over the RMU interface. This can occur under Windows
Server® 2003 with Service Pack 1 (SP1), or if a user has installed Microsoft Security Update MS05-019. This problem displays as a 6F
Communication Error message on the front panel with the warning light set. The RMU will continue to report the autoloader status as
Initialization.
For information and a workaround to this problem, go to Microsoft Technical Support Article 898060. If this problem occurs, the autoloader
should be restarted to avoid further communication errors.

5.

Power cycle the loader, then the server firmware update is complete.
NOTE: After firmware update is complete, the unit will report new revision levels to the host on startup. You may have to reconfigure you
host backup software to recognize the updated unit.

 

Error Logs and Diagnostics Page
From the Error Log and Diagnostics page, you can run various tests on the autoloader. You can also view error and history logs, test progress, identify the
physical unit in a rack, or reset the system.

Viewing Error or History Logs:

1.

From any page, click the Diagnostics heading. The Diagnostics screen will be displayed.

2.

Under View Error and History Logs, click View Logs. You can also save the logs to a file by clicking Save Logs. If you save the logs to a file, you must
select a destination folder within 60 seconds.
NOTE: Saved logs taken at point of failure are valuable for assessing problems. Service personnel may request these logs.

 

Running Diagnostics Tests
A minimum of two cartridges are required to run the diagnostic tests. The diagnostic tests available on the autoloader include:
l

Loader - Picker Test

l

Loader - Magazine Test

l

Loader - Inventory Test

l

Random Moves

1.

From any page, click the Error Log and Diagnostics heading. The Error Log and Diagnostics screen will be displayed.

2.

In the Diagnostics section, select the diagnostic test that you want to run from the Test drop-down menu.

3.

Specify a loop count, if desired. Valid numbers are 1 to 99.

4.

Click submit.

5.

While the test is running, you can view the status of the test. From View Diagnostic Test Progress, click View Status.
A separate screen indicates which test is running and the current status of the diagnostic test.

6.

To view diagnostic progress click View Status again.

Identification
You can use the Identification feature of the autoloader by requesting the LCD backlight to flash for a specified number of seconds.This can be helpful in
identifying the location of the autoloader in an equipment room.
1.

From any page, click the Error Log and Diagnostics heading. The Error Log and Diagnostics screen displays.

2.

Under Identification, enter the number of seconds in the Time (secs) field.

3.

Click Identify. The LCD backlight flashes on the autoloader for the specified number of seconds.

 

Performing an Autoloader Reset
You will use autoloader reset when making SCSI ID changes and magazine changes. An autoloader reset will take at least three minutes if there is a tape in
the drive, or approximately 30 seconds otherwise. To perform an autoloader reset:
1.

From any page, click the Error Log and Diagnostics heading. The Error Log and Diagnostics screen displays.

2.

Under the Autoloader Reset section, click Autoloader Reset.

 

Library Operations Page
You can move tapes, run a system inventory, reset the picker to its home position, or perform sequential operations from the Library Operations page. When
you click Library Operations, the page displays.

Moving Tapes
From a remote location, you can request that a tape be moved from one position to another. To move a tape:
1.

From any page, click the Library Operations heading. The Library Operations screen displays.

2.

From the Moving Tapes section of the page, click the drop-down menu under From: and select the current location of the tape that you want to move.
NOTE: You can also click the slot on the graphic of the autoloader magazine to select and move a cartridge.

3.

From the drop-down menu under To:, select the location to which you want to move the tape, and then click submit.

Inventory
The autoloader automatically runs an inventory whenever you power it on or insert a magazine. If you need to run an inventory in addition to this, you can
use the Remote Management Unit to do it remotely. To run an inventory:

1.

From any page, click the Library Operations heading. The Library Operations screen displays.

2.

From the Library Operations page, click Inventory. The autoloader starts an inventory immediately.

Set to Home
If the autoloader is not able to successfully execute a Moving Tapes or an Inventory command, try executing a Set to Home command, and then retry the
move or inventory command again.
The Set to Home command resets the autoloader as a means to help the autoloader recover from an unexpected internal condition. To Set to Home:
1.

From any page, click the Library Operations heading. The Library Operations screen displays.

2.

From the Library Operations page, click Set to Home. This executes a reset command to the autoloader.

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

 Technical Specifications: Dell™ PowerVault™ 124T LTO-3 Autoloader User's Guide
 Physical Specifications
 Autoloader Performance Specifications
 Autoloader Environmental Specifications
 Autoloader Power Specifications
 Autoloader Vibration Specifications
 Autoloader Shock Specifications
 Tape Drive Specifications

 

Physical Specifications
Characteristic     

Product Alone     

 Height

8.9 cm (3.5 in)

Width
Length

45 cm (17.7 in)
75.46 cm (29.71 in)

Package Weight (without media) 22.7 kg (50 lb)
Footprint

0.32 square meters (3.4 square feet)   

 

Autoloader Performance Specifications

Drive type
Number of slots

Specification
Native: 245 GB/hr
Compressed: 490 GB/hr (assuming 2:1 compression ratio)
1 IBM LTO-3 drive
16 (8 per magazine)

MCBF
Interface

100,000 cartridge load/unload cycles
Ultra 160 SCSI LVD

Characteristic     
Maximum data transfer rate

Initialize element status
Typical cycle time

90 seconds (typical)
< 40 seconds. One cycle consists of moving a cartridge from the tape drive to a magazine slot, selecting another magazine
slot, and then moving the cartridge back to the tape drive. It does not include the time that the tape drive takes to unload or
load/calibrate.
Average load time (after placing LTO Ultrium 3 = 15 seconds (to BOT for previously written tape)
cartridge in drive)
LTO Ultrium 3 = 15 seconds (to BOT with initialized tape)
Average unload time (from BOT) LTO Ultrium 3 = 15 seconds (from BOT)

 

Autoloader Environmental Specifications
Characteristic
Temperature Range (Dry Bulb)
Operating

Specification

Nonoperating
Temperature Variation

–40° to +65°C

Operating
Nonoperating
Humidity

10°C per hour
20°C per hour

Operating
Nonoperating

20% to 80% noncondensing
10% to 90% noncondensing

Gradient
Wet Bulb
Operating

10% per hour without condensation

Nonoperating
Altitude

29°C maximum

Operating
Nonoperating
Vibration (5- 500 Hz)

–153 to 3048 m
–153 to 12192 m

+10° to +35°C

26°C maximum

Maximum acceleration to operating      0.25g RMS (random)
Frequency range
500 Hz

 

Autoloader Power Specifications
Characteristic           Specification
Line voltage
60 Hz system: 90 – 265 VAC
50 Hz system: 90 – 265 VAC
Line frequency
47 – 63 Hz
AC Input current
60 Hz system: 4.0 A (RMS) for 115 VAC
50 Hz system: 2.0 A (RMS) for 230 VAC
Power consumption 60 Hz = 75 W; 50 Hz = 80 W

 

Autoloader Vibration Specifications
Characteristic     
Operating
Swept Sine Vibration     
Random Vibration
Nonoperating
Swept Sine Vibration
Random Vibration

Specification
5 – 500 Hz, 0.25 G, 0.254 mm (0.01 inch) to smooth crossover, 1 8ve/min, (X, Y, Z) axes
0.25 Grms, 5 – 500 Hz (X, Y, Z) axes
5 – 500 Hz, 0.75 G, 0.51 mm (0.02 inch) to smooth crossover, 1 8ve/min, (X, Y, Z) axes
1.06 Grms, 5 – 500 Hz (X, Y, Z) axes

 

Autoloader Shock Specifications
Characteristic      Specification
Operating
3 G, 5 ms half-sine, 3 pulses (+/–) per axis, X, Y, Z
Nonoperating
20 G, 8 ms half-sine, 3 shocks (+/–) per axis, X, Y, Z

 

Tape Drive Specifications
 

LTO-3 Drive Specifications
Description
  IBM LTO-3
Read/write transfer rate: maximum sustained Noncompressed mode: 245 GB/hr
(LTO Ultrium 3 media)
Compressed (2:1 typical): 490 GB/hr
Burst transfer rate
160 MB/s
Average access time
54 seconds (from BOT)
 
Loading time to BOT
15 seconds (maximum)
(for previously written tape)
Unloading time from BOT
15 seconds (maximum)
MCBF
> 100,000 cartridge load/unload cycles
Interface type
Ultra 160 SCSI LVD

Media Capacity
Media type          
      Capacity
LTO Ultrium 3 storage capacity       12800 GB (compressed) with 16 cartridges

Media Specifications
Characteristic          
LTO Ultrium 3 formatted capacity
Basic description
Tape length
Cartridge dimensions
Read compatibility
Write compatibility
Shelf life

      LTO Ultrium 3
     

400 GB (noncompressed)
800 GB (2:1 typical compression)

      Dual coat metal particle
      680 m (2230.9 ft)
10.2 x 10.54 x 2.15 cm
     
(4 x 4.15 x .85 in)
      LTO Ultrium 1, LTO Ultrium 2, LTO Ultrium 3
      LTO Ultrium 2 and LTO Ultrium 3
> 30 years with < 10% loss in demagnetization @ 20°C
     
40% RH (noncondensing)

Cartridge life
      1,000,000 passes (any point on the tape passing the recording head in either direction)
LTO Universal Cleaning cartridge life       50 uses

Back to Contents Page

Back to Contents Page

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

The front panel does not display
information.

The connection to the LCD has failed.

l

Use the Remote Management Unit to troubleshoot error.

Error messages appear on the
front panel LCD display.

An error has occurred.

l

Refer to Front Panel Error Display.

The autoloader is operating
slowly.

The autoloader, system hardware, or
host backup software is incorrectly
configured.

l

Go to support.dell.com for configuration requirements.

l

Check all outlets and power cables for proper connection.

l

Check the power switch at the back of the autoloader.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

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.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that the SCSI cables are connected to the rear of the autoloader
and that the correct LVD host controller card is installed.

l

Verify that the SCSI cables are not damaged or crimped and the total SCSI
cable length is not exceeding the maximum required length.

l

Verify that a LVD SCSI terminator is attached to both the first and last
SCSI device on the SCSI bus.

l

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.

l

Verify that the host bus adapter is supported for use with the Dell
PowerVault 124T on support.dell.com.

l

Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit
Diagnostic page or by turning off power from the front panel.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

If the SCSI ID is unique, check SCSI cable and terminator connections.

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.

The front panel does not display
information, but light indicators
above the front panel are turned
on.

The autoloader does not
communicate with the host
system through the SCSI bus.

The tape drive responds on the

A momentary power interruption
allowed the autoloader to power off,
then back on prior to the power supply
being fully discharged.

A problem within the SCSI cabling path
is preventing communication.

A system configuration problem is

Suggested Action

SCSI bus to the host, but the
autoloader does not respond.

The autoloader does not
communicate with the host
system through the Ethernet.

preventing communication.

A problem with either the Ethernet
cabling or network configuration is
preventing communication.

The application software reports The current host backup software or
a failure locating a piece of media autoloader inventory has been lost.
or fails to move a piece of media
as requested.

The application software reports
an error while reading or writing
a piece of media.

Other failures occur.

The current media is defective, or the
internal tape drive needs to be
cleaned.

  

l

Verify that the host application and the device drivers are installed with
the most current patches to support the autoloader.

l

Verify that LUN scanning is enabled on the host bus adapter.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that the Ethernet cable is connected to the correct hub.

l

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.

l

If connected directly to the host system, a cross-over cable must be used.

l

Power off the autoloader by turning off the system from the front panel
LCD, wait at least 10 seconds, and turn it back on.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

Use the Remote Management Unit tool and verify that the media is in the
expected location internal to the autoloader.

l

Using the Remote Management Unit diagnostic tool, execute the Loader
Inventory Test test.

l

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.

l

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.

l

Retry inventory within the software application.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

Try a different piece of media.

l

Use a cleaning cartridge to clean the internal tape drive.

l

Issue an Autoloader Reset either by using the Remote Management Unit
Diagnostic page Autoloader Reset, or cycle the power from the front
panel.

l

Retry the job within the software application.

l

Contact support.dell.com.

l

Refer to Front Panel Error Display for error-specific instruction.

l

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.

l

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:
l

An error message appears on the Operator Control Panel (OCP) or in the Remote Management Unit (RMU) screen.

l

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.
l

The Autoloader Logs provide information for errors related to the autoloader, or data cartridge movement within the autoloader.

l

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:
l

Operator Control Panel (OCP)

l

Remote Management Unit (RMU) display to screen

l

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:
1.

From the front panel LCD, scroll to Diagnostics, and then press Enter. The Diagnostics submenu appears.

2.

From the Diagnostics submenu, scroll to Error Logs, and then press Enter. The Error Log submenu appears.

3.

From the Error Logs submenu, scroll to Hard, and then press Enter. The log information is displayed.

4.

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:
1.

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

2.

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

3.

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

02

Pool Error

03

Pointer Error

04

Wait Error

05

Size Error

06

Group Error

07

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:
l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

No Event Timeout

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

08

Option Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.

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

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

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

27

Message Type Bad

28

Message Parameter Bad

l

Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at
support.dell.com.

l

Check host adapter and SCSI cables and terminator.

l

Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at
support.dell.com.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Stack/Global Data Corruption Error Types
29

Invalid Element

2A

Invalid Element Status   

2B

Element Table Bad

2C

Global Data Bad

2D

Stack Data Bad

2E

Task Stack Low

2F

Task Stack Overflow

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that the magazines/magazine blank are fully seated.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

System Shutdown/Disruption Error Types
30

POST Failure

31

Watchdog Timer

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

32

Power Event

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

33

Power Down Failure

34

System Overload

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.

35

System Performance

36

Asynchronous Stop

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

System Miscellaneous Error Types
37

System Cleaning Error

Cleaning slot in use.
l

Verify that a valid cleaning cartridge is located in the dedicated cleaning slot indicated within the
Remote Management Unit Configuration page settings.

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

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.
l

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.

l

If the Picker Test failed, verify there is no obstruction within the picker assembly and repeat the test.

l

If the Random Moves test failed, see steps above for necessary actions.

l

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

3B

Drive HW Error

3C

Drive Cleaning Required

3D

General Drive Error

3E

Drive Load Error

3F

Drive Unload Error

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended actions.

l

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.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions.

l

If the drive continues to request cleaning, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions.

l

If the drive is logging Read/Write errors, repeat the operation with new media.

l

If the drive fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.

l

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.

l

Try to load a different piece of media.

l

If the operation fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions.

l

Verify that a valid cartridge type is in use.

l

Repeat operation with a new piece of media.

l

If the operation fails with two different pieces of media, contact support.dell.com.

Drive/Media Error Types
40

Media Threading Error

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

48

Fan Sense Motion Error

Contact support.dell.com.
l

Verify that the main fan is moving freely when the unit is on.

l

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.
l

4B

4C

Open Front

Over Temp

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.

All motor movement, including picker and magazine rotation, has been disabled for safety reasons.
l

Verify the magazine or magazine blank is completely inserted on both the left and right sides of the
autoloader.

l

Replace magazine or magazine blank (try a second one if possible).

l

If the Random Moves test failed, see steps above for necessary actions.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify the temperature of the autoloader inlet air is within specification.

l

Clear debris from all openings of the autoloader, both in front and back.

l

Verify that the fan is working.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that the autoloader is connected to the correct network.

TCP/IP Stack and Task Error Types
50

IP Stack Panic

51

IP Stack Memory Allocation
Error

52

IP Stack Can't Free Memory

53

Stack DTrap Occurred

l

Verify that the network is properly configured (i.e. no loop-back condition exists).

l

Verify that the autoloader operates correctly when properly configured and attached directly to a host
system using a cross-over cable.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions.

l

Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check the Remote Management Unit autoclean Configuration settings. Insure that a valid cleaning
cartridge is located at the configured location.

l

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.

l

Try a different cleaning cartridge.

l

If the operation fails with two different cleaning cartridges, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions..

l

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.

l

Try to load a different piece of media.

l

Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

Check the TapeAlert log for more specific drive error information. Refer to Table 3 for recommended
actions.

l

Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify the firmware images for both the autoloader and drive are the most recent images located at
support.dell.com.

l

Review the firmware update readme file provided with the firmware images.

Loader Task Error Types
60

Drive Init Failed

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

69

6D

Drive Unload Retry

Drive Communications Error

6E

Drive Communications Error

6F

Loader Communication Error

Code Update Error Types
70

Failed to Send CUP Cmd to
Drive / No Response From Drive

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

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.
l

Verify all SCSI cable and terminator connections between the host and autoloader.

l

Verify no media in drive during update.

l

Power cycle the autoloader using the front panel power button and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify the host backup application and device driver are at the latest supported revision at
support.dell.com.

SCSI Server Task Error Types
80

Unexpected Response or Data
Received

81

Drive Send Failed

l

Check host adapter and SCSI cables and terminator.

l

Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

 

Servo Elevator Hardware Error Types
92

Elevator Flag Bad

l

Power cycle the autoloader

93

Elevator Sensor Bad

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

97

Elevator Calibration Lost

98

Elevator Calibration Jammed

99

Elevator Lost

9B

Elevator Position Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

l

Also execute the Recommended Actions for "Open Front" (4B) error type.

Picker/Magazine Servo Error Types
A0

Servo Error

A1

Reserved Error Code

A2

Servo Timeout Error

A3

Position Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

A4

Servo Not Calibrated

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

A5

Source Element Empty

l

Verify that the expected source really does not have a cartridge.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

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.

A6

A7

A8

Magazine Missing

Mail Slot Full

Destination Element Full

l

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.

l

If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify the magazine or magazine blank is fully inserted into the autoloader.

l

Remove and re-insert the magazine.

l

Try a second magazine if possible.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.

l

Remove any previously ejected media from the mail slot.

l

Verify that there is no debris or foreign object in the mail slot opening.

l

Verify the mail slot door is fully closed.

l

If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that the expected destination element already has a cartridge.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

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.

A9

Picker Full

l

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

l

If the error continues, contact support.dell.com.

l

Look in the front of the autoloader and confirm the picker is full.

l

Execute a Move command from the Operator Control Panel to move the cartridge from the picker to a

location.

AA

l

Power cycle the autoloader through the front panel.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Picker Cartridge Sensor Error
Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.

AB

Drive Path Sensor Error

l

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.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Power cycle the autoloader through the front panel.

l

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.

AC

AD

AE

Mail Slot Door Sensor Error

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Insert a cartridge into the autoloader through the mail slot. Verify the cartridge is sensed and the
door closes fully.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

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.

l

Check the barcode reader setting through either the Remote Management Unit or the Operator
Control Panel.

l

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.

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Mail Slot Solenoid Error

Servo Initialization Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
l

AF

Error Log Information Event

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

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.
l

No action required.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Servo Picker Hardware Error Types
B0

Rotation Sensor Bad

B1

Rotation Flag Not Found

B2

Rotation Flag Bad

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

B3

Translation Sensor Bad

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.

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

BE

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Check for a jammed cartridge in the picker. Remove the cartridge if present.

l

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.

l

Fully insert a cartridge into each magazine slot, then remove. Look for difficulty in extracting the
cartridge from each slot.

l

Re-insert the magazine after inspection.

Picker Missed Cartridge Error

BF

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Picker Jammed Cartridge Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Servo Motor Error Types
C0

Motor Error

C1

Motor SW Error

C2

Motor HW Error

C3

Motor Seg Error

C4

Motor Position Error

C5

Motor Direction Error

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.
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

l

Check support.dell.com for PowerVault 124T firmware updates.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit.

l

Remove and re-insert the magazine. Verify that the magazine slides freely in and out of the magazine
bay.

l

Verify that the magazine clicks and locks in place when fully inserted.

l

Power cycle the autoloader and retry the operation.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit.

l

Remove and re-insert the magazine. Verify that the magazine slides freely in and out of the magazine
bay.

l

Verify that the magazine clicks and locks in place when fully inserted.

l

Power cycle the autoloader and run the Magazine Test from the Operator Control Panel.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Magazine Hardware Error Types
D0

D1

D2

Magazine Eject Failed

Magazine Present Sensor Bad

Magazine Cam Position Sensor
Bad

D3

Magazine Sensor 1 Bad

D4

Magazine Sensor 2 Bad

D5

Magazine Flag Missing

D6

Magazine Flag Bad

D7

Slot Zero Not Found

l

Insure that the autoloader is resting on a solid flat surface, or mounted level in a rack unit.

D8

Multiple Slot Zero Detected

l

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.

D9

Magazine Step Tolerance Error

l

Verify that carrier flags are present on all slots and slot 1 has the unique (longer) carrier flag.

DA

Magazine Calibration Lost

l

DB

Magazine Lost

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.

DC

Magazine Position Error

l

Carefully re-insert the magazine straight into the magazine bay. Be careful to avoid twisting or
biasing the magazine up or down.

DD

Magazine Slot Type Invalid

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

DE

Magazine Slot (Gross) Position
Error

l

Run the Magazine Test from the operator control panel.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

DF

Magazine Jammed Error

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.

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

EB

LCD Busy Error

LCD Goto Error

EC

Login/Password Error

ED

Socket Error During SNTP

Possible LCD controller problem, software error, or communication error.
l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Run the Random Moves test.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Incorrect login from front panel.
l

Use correct login/password.

l

Remove magazines and inspect cartridges. Verify that valid barcode labels are being used on all
cartridges, and re-insert the magazines.

l

If barcode labels are not being used, disable the barcode reader through the Operator Control Panel
or Remote Management Unit.

l

Run the Random Moves test from either the Remote Management Unit (RMU) or the Operator Control
Panel (OCP).

Barcode Error Types
F0

Bar Code Init Error

F1

Bar Code Hardware Error

F2

Bar Code Baud Rate Error

F3

Bar Code Handshake Error

F4

Bad/Noisy Response From Bar
Code Reader

Note: The Random Moves test requires a minimum of two cartridges present within the autoloader.

F5

F6

F7

Checksum Failed

Barcode No Read

Barcode Mismatch Error

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Incomplete barcode label or barcode checksum failed.
l

Repeat test with new cartridge or label.

l

If problems recur with the original cartridge or label, replace.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Barcode label not present.
l

Apply valid barcode label to cartridge, or disable the barcode reader through the Operator Control
Panel or Remote Management Unit.

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

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.

l

F8

Barcode Duplicate Label Error

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Duplicate barcode.

Diagnostic Error Types
F9

FA

FB

Diagnostic Test Failure

Diagnostic Error, Drive
Reporting Write Protect

l

Power cycle the autoloader.

l

Re-run the failing diagnostic test.

l

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

l

Verify that valid, not data protected media is present for test.

l

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.

Diagnostic Error, Cleaning Tape
Inserted
l

FC

Diagnostic Load Tape Prompt

FD

Diagnostic Unknown Tape
Format

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

This is a prompt to manually load a cartridge as required for test.
l

Verify that valid, not data protected media is present for test.

l

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.

l

FE

If all previous steps fail, contact support.dell.com.

Diagnostic Invalid Configuration This is an indication that a minimum of two pieces of media are required for test.
l

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:
l

Operator Control Panel (OCP)

l

Remote Management Unit (RMU) display to screen

l

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:
1.

From the front panel LCD, scroll to Diagnostics, and then press Enter. The Diagnostics submenu appears.

2.

From the Diagnostics submenu, scroll to TapeAlert Logs, and then press Enter. The TapeAlert log information is displayed.

3.

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:
1.

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

2.

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.

3.

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
Drive TAflag[01] Read
Warning
TapeAlert Log Entry:
8000000000000000

Drive TAflag[02] Write
Warning 

Typical Application Client Message
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.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
2000000000000000

Drive TAflag[04] Media 
TapeAlert Log Entry:
1000000000000000

Drive TAflag[05] Read
Failure

Recommended Action

The drive is having severe
trouble reading.
This can be caused by bad media
or the drive.

The tape drive is having problems writing
The drive is having severe
data. No data has been lost, but there has
trouble writing.
been a reduction in the capacity of the tape.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
4000000000000000

Drive TAflag[03] Hard Error

Probable Cause Of Error
Message

This can be caused by bad media
or the drive.

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.

Your data is at risk. Copy any data you
require from this tape. Do not use this tape
again.

The tape is damaged or the drive is faulty.

Media can no longer be
written/read, or performance is
severely degraded.

The drive can no longer read
data from the tape.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0800000000000000 

Drive TAflag[06] Write
Failure 

The tape is from a faulty batch or the tape
drive is faulty.

The drive can no longer write
data to the tape.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0400000000000000

Drive TAflag[07] Media Life

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

l

Clean the drive

l

Try another piece of media.

l

If no errors are encountered with the
alternate piece of media, retry the
original media.

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.

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.

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.

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.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0200000000000000
Drive TAflag[08] Not Data
Grade 
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0100000000000000
Drive TAflag[09] Write
Protect
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0080000000000000
Drive TAflag[10] No
Removal  
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0040000000000000
Drive TAflag[11] Cleaning
Media

l

Check in the RMU if the Software Lock
is set.

l

Perform an unlock using the Backup
Application.

The tape in the drive is a cleaning cartridge.

Cleaning tape loaded into drive.

 

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.

Tape snapped/cut or other
cartridge mechanical failure in
the drive where medium can be
d e-mounted.

Discard the old tape. Restart the operation
with a different tape.

Tape snapped/cut or other

Discard the old tape. Restart the operation

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0020000000000000
Drive TAflag[12]
Unsupported Format 
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0010000000000000
Drive TAflag[13] Recoverable The operation has failed because the tape
Mechanical Cartridge Failure in the drive has experienced a mechanical
failure.
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0008000000000000
Drive TAflag[14]

The operation has failed because the tape

Unrecoverable Mechanical
Cartridge Failure

in the drive has experienced a mechanical
failure.

cartridge mechanical failure in
the drive where medium cannot
be de-mounted.

with a different tape.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0004000000000000
Drive TAflag[15] Memory
Chip In Cartridge Failure

The memory in the tape cartridge has failed, Memory chip failed in cartridge.
which reduces performance. Do not use the
cartridge for further write operations.

Replace cartridge.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0002000000000000 
Drive TAflag[16] Forced Eject The operation has failed because the tape
cartridge was manually de-mounted while
the tape drive was actively writing or
TapeAlert Log Entry:
reading.
0001000000000000
Drive TAflag[17] Read Only
Format

Manual forced eject while drive
actively writing or reading.

You have loaded a cartridge of a type that is Media loaded that is read-only
read-only in this drive. The cartridge will
format.
appear as write protected.

Retry operation using the same media.

Check write protect tab on cartridge.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000800000000000
Drive TAflag[18] Tape
The tape directory on the tape cartridge has The tape drive powered down
Directory Corrupted On Load been corrupted. File search performance will with tape loaded, or permanent
be degraded. The tape directory can be
error prevented the tape
rebuilt by reading all the data on the
directory from being updated.
TapeAlert Log Entry:
cartridge.
0000400000000000

l

Retry operation with same tape.

l

If error persists, discard tape.

Drive TAflag[19] Nearing
Media Life

l

Use another tape cartridge for your
next backup.

l

Store this tape cartridge in a safe place
in case you need to restore data from
it.

l

If the operation has stopped, eject the
tape and clean the drive.

l

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.

The tape cartridge is nearing the end of its
calculated Media may have life.

Media may have exceeded its
specified number of passes.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000200000000000

Drive TAflag[20] Clean Now

The tape drive needs cleaning.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000100000000000 

The drive has responded as if it
has a head clog or needs
cleaning.

 

Drive TAflag[21] Clean
Periodic 

The tape drive is due for routine cleaning.

The drive is ready for a periodic
cleaning.

l

Wait for the current operation to finish.

l

Then use a cleaning cartridge. Check
the tape drive user's manual for device
specific cleaning instructions.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000080000000000 

 

Drive TAflag[22] Expired
Cleaning Media 

The last cleaning cartridge used in the tape
drive has worn out.

The cleaning tape has expired.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000040000000000

Drive TAflag[23] Invalid
Cleaning Tape

The last cleaning cartridge used in the tape
drive was an invalid type.

Invalid cleaning tape type used.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000020000000000

Drive TAflag[24] Retension
Requested

The tape drive has requested a retension
operation.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000010000000000  
Drive TAflag[25] Dual port
Interface Error

The drive is having severe
trouble reading or writing that
will be resolved by a retension
cycle.

l

Discard the worn out cleaning
cartridge.

l

Wait for the current operation to finish.

l

Then use a new cleaning cartridge.

l

Do not use this cleaning cartridge in
this drive.

l

Wait for the current operation to finish.

l

Then use a valid cleaning cartridge.

l

Perform a retension operation.

l

Retry operation.

A redundant interface port on the tape drive Failure of one interface port in a
has failed.
dual-port configuration (i.e.,
Fibre Channel).

 

A tape drive cooling fan has failed.

Fan failure inside tape drive
mechanism or tape drive
enclosure.

 

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.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000008000000000  
Drive TAflag[26] Cooling Fan
Failure
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000004000000000 
Drive TAflag[27] Power
Supply Failure
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000002000000000  

Drive TAflag[28] Power
Consumption

The tape drive power consumption is
outside the specified range.

Power consumption of the tape
drive is outside specified range.

 

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.

The tape drive has a hardware fault.

The drive has a hardware fault
that requires reset to recover.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000001000000000 
Drive TAflag[29] Drive
Maintenance
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000800000000
Drive TAflag[30] Hardware
A 

l

Eject the tape.

l

Reset the drive.

l

Restart the operation.

The drive has a hardware fault
that is not read/write related or
requires a power cycle to
recover.

l

Power cycle the tape drive.

l

Restart the operation.

The drive has identified an
interface fault.

l

Check the SCSI interface cables,
terminator, and all connections.

l

Restart the operation.

l

Eject the tape or magazine.

l

Insert the tape or magazine again.

l

Restart the operation.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000400000000 

Drive TAflag[31] Hardware B

The tape drive has a hardware fault.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000200000000 
Drive TAflag[32] Interface

The tape drive has a problem with the
application client interface.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000100000000  

Drive TAflag[33] Eject Media

The operation has failed.

Error recovery action

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000080000000

Drive TAflag[34] Download
Fail

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.

Environmental conditions inside the tape
drive are outside the specified humidity
range.

Drive humidity limits exceeded.

 

Environmental conditions inside the tape
drive are outside the specified temperature
range.

Cooling problem.

 

The voltage supply to the tape drive is
outside the specified range.

Drive voltage limits exceeded.

 

A hardware failure of the tape drive is
predicted.

Predictive failure of drive
hardware.

 

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).

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000040000000 
Drive TAflag[35] Drive
Humidity
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000020000000
Drive TAflag[36] Drive
Temperature
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000010000000 
Drive TAflag[37] Drive
Voltage
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000008000000
Drive TAflag[38] Predictive
Failure
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000004000000  
Drive TAflag[39] Diagnostics
Required
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000002000000 

l

Run extended diagnostics to verify and
diagnose the problem.

l

Check the tape drive user's manual for
device specific instructions on running
extended diagnostic tests.
 

Drive TAflag[50] Lost
Statistics

Media statistics have been lost at some time Drive or library powered on with
in the past.
tape loaded

l

Clean drive.

l

Retry operation.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000004000
Drive TAflag[51] Tape
Directory Invalid at Unload

The tape directory on the tape cartridge just Error preventing the tape
unloaded has been corrupted. File search
directory being updated on
performance will be degraded.
unload.

The tape directory can be rebuilt by reading
all the data.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000002000
Drive TAflag[52] Tape
System Area Write Failure

The tape just unloaded could not write its
system area successfully.

Write errors while writing the
system area on unload.

l

Copy data to another tape cartridge.

l

Discard the old cartridge.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000001000
Drive TAflag[53] Tape
System Area Read Failure

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.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000800
Drive TAflag[54] No Start Of
Data

The start of data could not be found on the
tape.

Tape damaged, bulk erased, or
incorrect format.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000400 

Drive TAflag[55] Loading
Failure

l

Check that you are using the correct
format tape.

l

Discard the tape or return the tape to
your supplier.

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.

The operation has failed because the
medium cannot be unloaded.

The drive is unable to unload the Remove the cartridge if possible, inspect it as
medium.
specified in the product manual, and retry the
operation.

The tape drive has a problem with the
automation interface.

The drive has identified an
interface fault.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000200 
Drive TAflag[56]
Unrecoverable Unload
Failure
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000100  
Drive TAflag[57] Automation
Interface Failure
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000080 

l

Check the power to the automation
system.

l

Check the cables and cable
connections.
 

Drive TAflag[58] Firmware
Failure

The tape drive has reset itself due to a
detected firmware fault.

Firmware issue encountered.

 

The tape drive has detected an
inconsistency during the WORM medium
integrity checks.

WORM cartridge may have been
tampered with.

Replace WORM medium.

An attempt had been made to overwrite
user data on WORM medium.

The application software does
not recognize the medium as
WORM.

TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000040
Drive TAflag[59] WORM
Medium - Integrity Check
Failed
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000020
Drive TAflag[60] WORM
Medium - Overwrite
Attempted
TapeAlert Log Entry:
0000000000000010

l

If a WORM medium was used
inadvertently, replace it with a normal
data medium.

l

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
1.

Remove all cartridges from the unit.

2.

Power off the autoloader through the front panel.

3.

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

 

1.

Loosen the two thumb screws that secure the loader to the front of the rack.

2.

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.

3.

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.
1.

Place the antistatic bag over the autoloader.

2.

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.

3.

Place the autoloader into the shipping box and push the front of the autoloader towards the front end of the box.

4.

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.

5.

Place any necessary paperwork on top of the autoloader inside the box.

6.

Close and seal the box.

7.

Place the shipping label on the box.

Back to Contents Page



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