Troubleshoot tape files

Handling tape processing errors and damaged tapes

Use this topic to determine what might be damaging your tapes or causing your tape processing errors.

When the system does not write tape marks or labels at the end of the data file, damage to the data files can occur. This can happen due to an error condition or a system failure. If this happens when writing a file to a 1/2-inch tape device, the following situation occurs when you try to read the data file:

• The new data and existing data might appear concatenated when processed for input. When the tape has labels, the system sends an error message to the system operator when the program reads the trailer labels. The system does not detect an error for unlabeled tape.
• If the new data and the existing data do not appear concatenated, then the system sends an error message to the system operator.
• If the tape you use as input meets one of the following conditions, then the tape advances off the end of the reel:
  • The tape does not contain existing data or tape marks beyond the location of the last data block.
  • The tape is new.
  • The tape is completely erased.

When an error occurs when you save data by using a SAVxxx command, the system prompts the operator to load another tape or cancel the job. If the operator loads another tape volume:

• The system repositions the tape a number of blocks before the error occurred.
• The system writes end-of-volume labels.

The job then continues to write data starting with the first block of data that was overwritten with end-of-volume labels.

If damage occurs while using a cartridge tape device and you encounter a blank tape, the program sends an error message to the system operator.