Err Msg: Unknown Firmware Error with Archive 5580 Tape Drive

 Last reviewed: August 13, 1997
Article ID: Q123110

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0

SYMPTOMS

When you use the Windows NT Backup program (NTBACKUP.EXE) in Windows NT with an Archive 5580 tape unit, the following message may appear when you attempt to initialize and format a tape and the attempt may fail: 

   Unknown firmware error.

CAUSE

This problem occurs if the Archive 5580 tape unit you are using has a serial number that starts with the letters AAA or BBB. These two tape unit models are not compatible with Windows NT, even though the Archive 5580 tape unit is listed in the Windows NT Hardware Compatibility List (HCL). Only the model with a serial number that starts with the letters CCC works with the Windows NT Backup program.

RESOLUTION

Obtain the latest firmware from your tape unit vendor that starts with the letters CCC (for example, serial number CCC60612). For more information, call Archive Corporation at (714) 641-0279.

The Archive 5580 tape units are manufactured by Archive Corporation, a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding these products' performance or reliability.

Additional reference words: prodnt 3.50 1540CF
KBCategory: kb3rdparty
KBSubcategory: nthw

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Last reviewed: August 13, 1997
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