Re: DSPTAP takes too long

[David.X.Kahn@xxxxxxx]

Neil wrote:

> CHKTAP should be sufficient instead of DSPTAP.  Your tape volume id's ARE
> unique aren't they ?   ;-)

I've lost count of the number of times I've seen a back-up procedure where
the very first thing that happens is that the volume gets initialized with
a new volume ID and without checking for active files. (Trampled on, in
other words.) I've seen a tape library where virtually every volume was
labelled BACKUP and every file on every tape had a *PERM expiry date.

I like to see each tape physically labelled with a unique ID and
initialized with the same name on first use, and keeping this name
throughout its life. If it's necessary to check data files on the tape to
be able to detect whether a new volume has been mounted, then the volume
labelling scheme probably needs rethinking. When a company stores paper
documents in box files it generally marks the outside of the boxes so that
you don't have to look inside each box to find the right one. Tape volume
labelling is analogous.

In the same vein the data files on the tape should have the appropriate
expiry date and the backups should always check for active files. That way
the monthly tape cannot be accidentally trashed by the weekly backup.

Dave...
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The opinions expressed in this communication are my own and do not
necessarily reflect those of my employer.