Backup Exec 2012 writing to the wrong media set

[CrUncontrol]

So BE 2012, all updates installed, on Windows 2008 R2.

I got a tape library and basically 2 media sets for tapes, monthly and weekly used for duplication to tape jobs.

I have tapes from both media sets in the tape library at any given time.

Randomly, sometimes weekly backup duplications jobs goes to the monthly tapes and reassigns them to the weekly media set and vice versa.

What can I do to stop this?

Yes, if for example a monthly job runs and there is no monthly media set tape availble, I would like the job to fail/prompt me to insert a montly tape. Under absolutely no circumstances ever, do I want a backup to go to the wrong media set.

[pkh · Accepted solution]

Your situation is due to the fact that you have not set your OPP and/or your AP correctly.  Read this document on what happens next.

How Backup Exec searches for overwritable media

For a better understanding of OPP and AP, read

OPP and AP explanation

Basically, you got to ensure that there is an overwritable in your targeted media set BEFORE the job starts and remember that the OPP starts from the END of the last job that writes to the tape.

Regarding your requirement to fail the job when it cannot find a suitbale tape, do read the first few paragraphs of my article below

https://www-secure.symantec.com/connect/articles/must-mondays-backup-be-monday-tape

[CrUncontrol]

I understand OOP and AP just fine, thanks.

Next time to save time you could just tell me to "Configure Paritions" and give me this link:
http://www.symantec.com/business/support/index?page=content&id=HOWTO73443#v53896801

Rather than assuming I dont know what I am doing and trying to educate me on topics I didnt ask to be educated on. I respect your personal opinion on how to handle tapes, however I dont share your opinion.

But, you certainly did give me the answer at the end of the day and you did so very promptly, for that I sincerely thank you.