Tape Re-tensioning The NS20 tape drive requires a data cartridge to be periodically re-tensioned for maximum performance. The process removes loose spots on the tape by fast forwarding and then rewinding the whole tape. This winds the tape evenly, making it run smoothly across the tape drive heads. It is recommended that you re-tension each data cartridge once per week. The specifics of performing a manual tape re-tensioning are outlined in the backup application users manual. The Seagate Backup Exec software v7.2 can be programmed to automatically re-tension a tape cartridge. 1. Ensure that bencmd.exe is included in the C:\BKUPEXEC\NT or C:\BKUPEXEC\Novell directory. If missing the file can be downloaded from the IBM PC Company web site. 2. Create a batch file with the following information contained within: bemcmd -o112 -d"seagate 0" Save the batch file to the C:\BKUPEXEC\NT directory as RETEN.BAT. 3. Edit or create a scheduled backup job. 4. Select the Advanced tab from the scheduled job. 5. In the Commands section insert RETEN.BAT in the Execute Before Backup field.