Backing Up System

After I failed with the CompacTape cartridges I ordered some new DDS-90 tapes for use in the TLZ06.

These arrived and are brand new.

After unwrapping a new one and putting it in the tape drive it spooled it up then started flashing error lights.

Not sure what the problem is but will strip down the drive and have a look, probably give the heads a good clean while I'm at it.

Similar drives to this have had melted capstan wheels where the rubber that grips the tape has turned to a gooey liquid I'm hoping that this isn't the case although replacements aren't too hard to obtain.