BA4100: Cannot write MTF header to tape

Error code	Product	Applies to
BA4100	BackupAssist	BackupAssist v5.3 and later.

Description

This error means that BackupAssist could not place the header data on the tape.

Resolution

This particular error is tape-specific and almost always gets traced back to a problem with either the tape device or the tapes themselves. To troubleshoot this issue, try the following:

1.Use the prepare media option to format the tape. This will erase the data on the tape, but if BackupAssist cannot even prepare the media it will not complete a backup either.

2.Run tape diagnostics. Most tape drive manufacturers have downloadable tape utility tools that will check for errors on both the tape drive and tape itself.

3.Backup to another destination. This will help isolate the issue further.

If the backup works to another destination, you know the problem is going to be with your tape or tape drive. To change the destination: open BackupAssist > Manage (Jobs for pre-v7 installs) > double-click job > Destination > Select a new destination.

If none of these troubleshooting measures get you any closer to a solution, you'll need to send in diagnostics so we can get a closer look.

To contact BackupAssist Technical Support and provide diagnostic information, please click on the applicable section below and follow the steps provided.

If you are using BackupAssist v9.5.1 or later

1. Open BackupAssist.
2. Select Help from the menu at the top of the BackupAssist console.
3. Select Contact Support ... from the drop-down menu. This will open the BackupAssist - Support dialog.
4. Enter the details in the fields provided.
5. Make sure the Submit system diagnostics to help with your query tick box is checked. This will zip your BackupAssist settings so technical support can review these specifically for your environment.
6. Select Send.

BackupAssist technical support will review your message and diagnostics, and contact you to help resolve the problem.

If you are using BackupAssist v9.5.0 or earlier

1. Open BackupAssist.
2. Select Help from the menu at the top of the BackupAssist console.
3. Select Feedback and Support … from the drop-down menu.
4. Select Contact support. This will open the BackupAssist - Support dialog.
5. Enter the details in the fields provided.
6. Make sure the Submit system diagnostics to help with your query tick box is checked. This will zip your BackupAssist settings so technical support can review these specifically for your environment.
7. Select Send.

BackupAssist technical support will review your message and diagnostics, and contact you to help resolve the problem.

Last updated	Created	Further assistance
28th Oct 2014	16th Jun 2009	BackupAssist Support page

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