On our 928RX, running with MPE/iX 5.0, we have an HPC1503B DDS drive
     on ldev 7 which has been configured for autoreply mode and a 7978 on
     ldev 9 which is not configured for autoreply.
 
     After loading either a DDS cartridge or 9-track tape, a console
     message reports the volume which has been mounted and SHOWDEV reports
     appropriate information.  If however the tape is manually ejected or
     removed from the drive without being accessed, SHOWDEV still reports
     the old VOLID and DEN which might be seen as indicating that the tape
     is still available.
 
     Any ideas on how to disable this 'feature' or suggestions on how to
     remotely determine the actual status of a tape drive will be greatly
     appreciated.