IBM 3590 - Manual (Page 131)

Appendix D. Host Reporting
Statistical Analysis and Reporting System
The Statistical Analysis and Reporting System (SARS) assists in determining
whether read and write errors are caused by the media (tape) or the hardware
in the drive. The 3590 microcode contains a Volume SARS (VSARS) algorithm
and a Hardware SARS (HSARS) algorithm to analyze errors. SARS algorithms
report messages through SIMs and MIMs.
Algorithms are executed in the 3590 just before a tape is unloaded. To
distinguish error patterns and trends, the SARS volume algorithms require the
tape to be mounted on different drives while the SARS hardware algorithms
require different volumes to be mounted on one drive. As degraded hardware
passes through predefined error thresholds, cleaning and service repair
messages or error codes are presented. Similarly, if tape volumes continue to
perform poorly on different drives, re-write or discard-media messages are
presented.
The SARS reporting of Service Information Message (SIM) and Media
Information Message (MIM) functions can be disabled if host software does
not support SIMs and MIMs.
Service and Media Information Messages (SIMs and MIMs)
SIM and MIM functions are primary factors for improved product availability.
v A SIM alerts you when an abnormal operational condition in the 3590
requires service attention. Information in the SIM identifies the affected
drive, the failing component and severity of its fault condition, and the
expected operational impact of the pending service action. This information
helps the user to initiate and expedite appropriate recovery and service
procedures so normal operation is restored with maximum efficiency and
minimal disruption.
A SIM contains the machine type, machine serial number, and Field
Replaceable Unit (FRU) which allows the dispatch of the appropriate
service personnel and the replacement parts required to correct the machine
fault. This procedure helps improve service response time and helps reduce
the time required for machine repair.
v A MIM identifies problems with the media (tape) and the volume number
of the bad cartridge. This allows the customer to do maintenance within the
tape library and to prevent unnecessary service calls when the fault is
media.
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