Function code H: Test head

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About this task

Approximate Run Time = 12 minutes per loop

Total Number of Loops = 10

Function code H completes tests to ensure that the tape drive's head and tape-carriage mechanics work correctly.

When you begin this test, the diagnostic test begins the loop sequence. Time the first loop by pressing Unload once to stop the diagnostic test after the completion of the first loop, then record the time that it takes for the test to complete. Compare the recorded time with the "Approximate Run Time". If the test runs successfully but the execution time is longer than the "Approximate Run Time", run Function code F: Write performance test. If the Write Performance Test fails, replace the media and exit Maintenance mode.

Press Unload to stop the diagnostic test and exit Maintenance mode. Pressing Unload once stops the test at the end of the current test loop. Pressing Unload twice stops the test immediately. Wait for the drive to rewind the tape and unload the cartridge.

Attention: For this test, insert a scratch (blank) data cartridge or a cartridge that can be overwritten. During the test, the drive overwrites the data on the cartridge.
Note: If you inserted an invalid tape cartridge, error code J or 7 appears in the SCD. If you inserted a write-protected cartridge, or the media has read-only compatibility, error code P appears in the SCD. In either case, the tape drive unloads the cartridge and exits Maintenance mode after the cartridge is removed.

Procedure

  1. Place the drive in Maintenance mode. For instructions, see Entering Maintenance mode.
  2. Press Unload once per second until H displays in the SCD. (If you cycle past the wanted code, press Unload once per second until the code reappears.)
  3. Press and hold Unload for 3 or more seconds, then release it to select the function. The SCD changes to a flashing C, requesting a cartridge.
  4. Insert a scratch (blank) data cartridge. The SCD changes to a flashing H. The tape drive runs the tests.
    • If no error is detected, the diagnostic test loops and begin again. To stop the loop, press Unload for 1 second and release. When the loop ends, 0 temporarily displays in the SCD, and the tape drive exits Maintenance mode.
    • If an error is detected, the Fault light flashes and the drive posts an error code to the SCD. To determine the error, locate the code in Table 1. To clear the error either turn the power off and then on again, or reboot the drive by pressing and holding Unload for 10 seconds.