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gianitoo

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how to format tape to erase all data

i would like to erase all data from an existing tape.    how can i do that from win 2k  server
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sirbounty
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1) Eject the tape
2) Run a good strong magnet across the tape (DAT or DLT?)

We've used this many times. ;)

Otherwise - what Backup software are you using?
If ntbackup - run it with the /nopoll parameter
Ref: http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=177657
More info:

>>When NT Backup starts and you insert a tape, NT Backup scans the device. If the program finds an error, you’ll see one of the following messages.

Tape Drive Error Detected.
Tape Drive Not Responding.
Bad Tape.
You won’t be able to perform any actions on the tape, including erasing it. You can use the /nopoll parameter to force NT Backup to not check a tape when you insert it. Enter

ntbackup /nopoll
You can then use NT Backup to erase a tape.

If you have multiple tape drives, you might want to use the /tape:n parameter to instruct NT Backup to ignore a tape drive.

After you erase the tape, you need to exit NT Backup. Then, restart NT Backup, without using the /nopoll parameter, to use the tape.<<ref: http://www.winnetmag.com/Article/ArticleID/13435/13435.html
Put it in the microwave.. Or do you want to use it again?
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gianitoo

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So i run that from DOS
...or Start->Run->ntbackup /nopoll
mattisflones - you're off the hook today, eh?  Big plans for the weekend? :D
hahahahhah   @ mattisflones


i am trying to use the windows 2k backup software and it wont back up because it says that media is not new.

i would like to erase all existing data that i used to have when i used veritas which i do not longer use.  

i have stopped all the services for veritas so Nt Back up can work.

:-) I thought it was a good idea... YesBigPlans...
Actually, if you have a friend with one of those big subwoofers in the car, jut pop the tape in there and play some Snoop D "songs"... Guaranteed to corrupt the data..!
Sorry, but i had a weekend breakdown a hour ago... and a server had a hickup.. soo..!
If you run Veritas there should be a option in there to erase the tape...
veritas wont work anymore  (long story)

i am just trying to back up and it says  that there is not unsed media available.  

how can i get around this?
Ntbackup is by Veritas, no?
Is it Veritas Backup Exec, Veritas NetBackup or NTBackup?
Are the writeprotection on the tape off? :-)
nope  
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mattisflones
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You must be kidding me????
I don't mind missing out on the bounty here, but I gotta know - I just gotta!

Was it as simple as a write-protect on the tape?
yes my friend
Oooh boy!
Kings to you mattis! :D
:-) Sometimes there is just the litle things...