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Consolidated TSM FAQ


Why should I use the TSM service?

The TSM service is a good choice for several reasons:

Convenience

  • Backup what you want.
  • Backup when you want.
  • Automate your backups with a schedule.
  • You don't need to manage your own tape library.

Security

  • Multiple copies of your files are kept in both of our libraries.
  • Our libraries are kept in two different buildings.
  • Password is encrypted before sending it to the TSM server.
  • Some clients support encryption of all data to the TSM server.

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How much do TSM backups cost?

The current rate associated with storing your files using TSM is listed via the ITS Accounts Services Office cost schedule. Note that you are encouraged to backup only the files you need to save. Additional information can be found in the "Includes/Excludes" section of the TSM documentation and via the TSM Web page, which can be accessed via the ITS Accounts Services Office Web site.

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What version of the TSM server does Penn State run?

Penn State currently runs and supports TSM server version 5.3.

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What version of the client should I run?

Everyone is encouraged to run version 5.3 of the Backup/Archive client providing that your operating system will support it. To see if you have a supported operating system please see the Client Requirements Web page.


Download the 5.3 client now.

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What is the TSM server address?

The TSM server address is backup.aset.psu.edu. The port number to use it 1500.

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Where do I find additional TSM documentation?

List of resources:

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How long will TSM keep my backed up files?

To find out how long TSM keeps your files, choose Display Policy Information from the TSM client's utilities menu. The values here record how long a file is stored by TSM. To understand what the numbers mean, please refer to the documentation for your client , specifically Chapter 8 " Understanding Storage Management Policies."

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Can I automate my TSM backups through a schedule?

If you wish to automate your backups with a TSM schedule, you should contact the Penn State TSM team by sending e-mail to backup@psu.edu. Please include in your e-mail message your TSM node name and the time you would like your machine to be backed up.

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How do I know if my backups are complete?

The best way to verify that your backups are working is to check your error log file. Your error log file is called dsmerror.log. It should be located where you installed your client software. You can find a semi-detailed explanation of the messages that you might see in your error log via the TSM Messages manual in PDF.

If your computer is on a schedule, there should also be a list of files that is created when you back up. This file is called dsmsched.log. It is usually located in the same directory as the TSM client. This file shows a list of your backed up files.

You can also restore backed up files. Check the documentation for your client if you are unfamiliar with how to restore files.

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Can I reset my TSM password to something I know?

If you are an account supervisor for an ITS Charge Account or an assigned technical contact, you may change the password for your machine by using the TSM Backup Services channel available via the Penn State Portal. To do so:

  • Visit the Penn State Portal and click "Login". Authenticate with your Penn State Access Account userid and password.
  • The "Change Layout" screen appears. Here, you may move the channel to another Portal column and/or to the top or bottom of a column on your Home Tab, as you wish.
  • Click <Save>. The TSM Backup Services channel is now added to your Home Tab.
  • Using the keyword search, enter "TSM" (without quotes) in the "Channel Search:" field. A separate window appears, which lists the link for the "TSM Backup Services" channel. Click the link; the "Preview Channel" screen appears. Click <Save> to add the channel, then close the "Preview Channel" window.
  • Return to the "Add Channels" window. The "TSM Services Channel" will be listed in the "My Channels" window. Click <Save>.
  • The "Change Layout" screen appears. Here, you may move the channel to another Portal column and/or to the top or bottom of a column on your Home Tab, as you wish.
  • Click <Save>. The TSM Backup Services channel is now added to your Home Tab.
    For assistance with and/or additional information about TSM, please visit the contact page.

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    How often will my TSM password expire?

    Your TSM password will expire every ninety days from the day on which it is set. Consider using the PASSWORDACCESS GENERATE option. When this option is set, TSM will generate a new password for you before it expires. Review the documentation to learn how to set this option. You also may change your password from within the TSM GUI client. Click on Utilites->Change Password.

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    How can I delete either my node name or my backups from TSM?

    You will need to fill out the TSM Deletion Form and fax it to 814-865-9289.

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    Who should I contact for assistance with and information about TSM?

    Please contact the Penn State TSM team by sending e-mail to backup@psu.edu.

    For problem reports, please include your TSM node name, your operating system and platform, the version of the TSM client, and any error messages you receive.

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    Is there a TSM e-mail list at Penn State to which I may subscribe?

    If you are interested in receiving TSM updates, please send e-mail toL-TSM-NEWS-subscribe-request@lists.psu.edu. Updates will be e-mailed to you.

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