> Subject: Tape Backup Failure
     > Author:  Bruce Storer <[log in to unmask]> at Internet2
     > Date:    2/11/98 6:05 PM


     > We have been experiencing tape backup (DDS) failures during the
     > night.  We do not have an operator so by the time I arrive in the
     > morning any Console message relating to the backup problem has
     > scrolled off the screen.  How can I capture the console messages to
     > STDLIST or a file?

     Bruce,

     We have an old HP ThinkJet printer attached to the printer interface
     on the back of the HP700/9X console terminal.  Set up the terminal to
     "log bottom" to the printer port and you'll get a hard copy printout
     of everything that ever appears on the console screen.  It has proven
     to be a real lifesaver for us several times when the system
     experienced trouble over time.  However, on my system with over 450
     on-line users, it does kill a few trees and use up a significant
     number of InkJet cartridges since we leave this console printer on 24
     X 7 X 365.

     We also use the CSL program "ALFRED" to look at logfiles, but there is
     nothing like having the hardcopy sitting there for you to look at, if
     and when, the HP3K has one of its very rare failures.

     - John Hornberger
       Sr. Systems Programmer
       General Signal Services
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