File Protection

The tape operator can file-protect a tape cartridge by manually setting a switch on the cartridge. If it is not in a tape library, a console message might direct the tape operator to set the switch.

The Tape Library Dataserver gripper is unable to manipulate the file protect switch on the cartridge. Automation makes it impossible for a tape operator to change the switch setting of the cartridge. Thus, the read/write capability of the tape cartridge is determined by the switch setting of the tape cartridge at the time it is placed in the library.

When needed, private cartridges can be used within a Tape Library Dataserver and permanently file-protected. This means that they are read-only and any attempt to write will result in a permanent error.

Cartridges can be used within a Tape Library Dataserver and not file-protected by the cartridge switch, but when accessed for input, the logical file protect feature is used. When the OPEN function enables it with a Perform Subsystem Function (PSF) order, this feature causes rejection of all attempts to write to the associated tape drive, for as long as the current volume is mounted.

The following messages will not be issued for tape devices. Instead, the following actions will be taken:

Number	Condition	Action
IEC068A	A tape volume is opened for INPUT, is not file protected and the user is not authorized to write on the volume.	An attempt will be made to logically protect the volume. If that fails, the job will be terminated.
IEC400A	A tape is to be mounted.	This message will be written to the job messages instead of being routed to the consoles.
IEC401A	A tape volume is file protected and opened for OUTPUT or OUTIN.	An attempt will be made to logically unprotect the volume. If that attempt fails or the tape is physically protected, the job will be terminated.
IEC402D	A tape volume is file protected and opened for INOUT.	An attempt will be made to logically unprotect the volume. If that attempt fails, or the tape is physically protected, the job will be terminated.