Tape Is Either Write Protected or In Use When Running a mksysb

Environment

OS Level: AIX Version 4.2.1
Type/Model: J50

Problem

When attempting to run a mksysb, the tape is either write protected or in use. The following command fails when the dd command tries to copy the boot image to tape.

   mksysb /dev/rmt0

Solution

APAR IX69950 corrects this problem. Alternatively, the workaround is to remove the tape drive and read it using the cfgmgr command. Complete the following steps to correct the problem with the workaround.

Enter the following command:

   /dev/rmt0

Enter the following command:

   rmdev -dl rmt0

To bring back the tape drive, enter the following command:

   cfgmgr

Enter the following command:

   dd if=/etc/motd of=/dev/rmt0 conv=sync

Enter the following command:

   dd if=/dev/hd5 of=/dev/rmt0 conv=sync

To display the latest installed level of devices.scsi.tape.rte, enter the following command:

   lslpp -l devices.scsi.tape.rte

Run the mksysb. Enter the following command:

   mksysb /dev/rmt0

The mksysb should now work properly.

[ Doc Ref: 95635030610810 Publish Date: Apr. 28, 2000 4FAX Ref: none ]