Veritas backup - data being read is inconsistent

[Betsye]

Using Veritas 9.1 on a Win2K server (sp4). I keep getting the message (intermittently) that the data being read is inconsistent with the error number 0xa00084ca. The backups will work for 2 or 3 days, then stop working. Then we have to delete everything (backup jobs, erase tapes) and start fresh to get more backups.

This is a Dell Server with a PowerVault SCSI tape drive. The drive is clean - has been cleaned many times in the last few days. Have double-checked tape types and sizes, and even tried using tapes which worked previously.

Is there a way to tell if this is a SCSI drive or cable problem?

The backup starts okay, but before any data gets copied to the tape, hangs showing the message requesting overwritable data, for days sometimes. Following Veritas' suggestion and responding No to the Alert to insert overwritable media does not allow the backup to proceed.

I've searched the Veritas site but don't see anything like this error - I was just wondering if anyone else has seen an error regarding inconsistent media -

 

[mattjurado]

Have you tried a new tape?

Matt J.

Please always take the time to backup any and all data before performing any actions suggested for ANY problem, regardless of how minor a change it might seem. Also test the backup to make sure it is intact.

 

[Betsye]

Tried new tapes, double-checked brand and size, tried using tapes that backed up successfully before. Tried running Inventory jobs first, importing - still get the errors.

But thank you for your quick reply. My gut feeling is this is a bad drive or cable - just don't know how to prove it.

 

[mattjurado]

Is there a Dell diagnostic for the drive?

Matt J.

Please always take the time to backup any and all data before performing any actions suggested for ANY problem, regardless of how minor a change it might seem. Also test the backup to make sure it is intact.

 

[Betsye]

Thanks mattjurado - didn't think of that. I'll run it today.