Format Media Disabled

[roguebear]

I want to format some tapes -but the option is disabled (grayed out)
How do I re-enable the format option?

[Keith_Langmead]

I think it's a case of you being able to enable the option, it's a case of the option not being supported by the media itself.

Some tape formats don't allow you to format them, LTO for instance doesn't allow it for some reason, so if you're using LTO tapes the option won't be available within Backup Exec, as it knows that is the case.

Which format of tape are you using?

[Varsha]

Format is grayed out because most tape drive do not support the format command.

It will be necessary to run the erase job. Long Erase is not supported by some tape devices as well but the Quick Erase should always be able to be selected.

Another method to cross-verify is using native utilities.
You may refer to vendor's website for
further help on this.

[Ameet_Thakkar]

ormat media option is used to format the media currently in the drive. Most devices do not support formatting. If formatting is not supported, the option is not available. We suggest referring to the manufacturer's document to verify if drive supports the formatting.

Occasionally the option is grayed out due to an outdated or incorrect driver or firmware revision.

Verify that the drive is running with the latest firmware.
You can perform the quick or long Erase operation on the media.
Following technote will be helpful to you.
Technote is also valid for Backup Exec v9.x

1) Title : What is a quick erase/ long erase and when should it be carried out?
http://seer.support.veritas.com/docs/238752.htm


2) Title:- The "Format" operation is not available in VERITAS Backup Exec (tm) for Windows Servers.
http://seer.support.veritas.com/docs/191330.htm

We hope this helps.

[SANDEEP_PILLAY]

Kindly update us on the issue.