How to Set Up a Cleaning Job in Backup Exec
By Mercedes T. Green
The cleaning light is blinking on your tape backup device and last night's backup failed to finish successfully. The log file for the backup job in Symantec Backup Exec states that the software was unable to write to the backup media. What's going wrong?
One of the most common causes for this error message is dirty read/write heads on the tape drive device. Regular cleaning of the tape drive device is a normal maintenance process, which should be conducted regularly.
Set up a Cleaning Slot
Step 1
Put a cleaning tape in the tape device. Open Symantec Backup Exec. Click on "Devices" in the navigation bar.
Step 2
Select "Robotic Libraries." Click the robotic library or drive you want to clean. Select "Slots." Select the slot that contains the cleaning tape.
Step 3
Click on "Properties" in the "General Tasks" pane on the left side of the window. Check the box beside "Cleaning Slot." Click the "OK" button.
Set up the Cleaning Job
Step 1
Click on "Devices" in the navigation bar.
Step 2
Select "Robotic Libraries." Click the robotic library or drive you want to clean.
Step 3
Click on "Clean" beneath "Drive Tasks" in the left task pane. Click "Run Now."
Tips
- Run your cleaning jobs at least once per week to help prevent failed backups.
- Check and abide by the manufacturer's recommendations for a tape replacement schedule.
Writer Bio
Mercedes T. Green's primary interests are information, investigation and technology. She began her writing career creating technical documentation. Green has written for various websites and is certified in computer forensics and network administration. She has a bachelor's degree in business and a master's degree in information technology.