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MS-Windows Troubleshooting

NT Backup: Tape device reported an error on a request to rewind the tape

Symptom:

When running NT backup a dialog box is displayed containing the message:

Tape device reported an error on a request to rewind the tape.

Error reported:
Hardware Failure.

Possible Causes and Remedies:

  • Driver or firmware problem. Try shutting down (and powering off) the workstation. Then restart. I have observed this problem on systems that have been left running for long periods of time. Cycling the power often seems to cure the problem, which implies that it may be a driver, NT or firmware problem. If cycling the power does not cure the problem then consider replacing the tape drive.
  • Tape drive failure. Replace the tape drive (or get it fixed).

These notes have been tested with Windows NT4.