Observe the TSM documentation, which says:
"Avoid specifying DRIVE when a mixture of drives is used within the same 
library."
and
"For optimal performance, do not mix generations of 3592 media in a single 
library. Media problems can result when different drive generations are mixed."

> There is backward compatibility to E05 from E06. The new drives can read and 
> write the old tapes.

Yes, but you are seeking to achieve specific results, where only specific 
definitions will guarantee such results.  Loose definitions can make for 
undesirable results, and problems.  You are already having problems telling the 
tapes apart.

   Richard Sims

On Nov 5, 2010, at 10:16 AM, Matthias Feyerabend wrote:

> I am using format=drive in my devclass, no problem reading E05 tapes. A 
> filling E05 tape will be written in E05 format, a new one in E06 format.
> But how to see which tape is written in E05 ? ( the written capacity is some 
> hint, but on filling its difficult).
> 
> Am 11/5/10 2:51 PM, schrieb Richard Sims:
>> Would not your prior use of 3592-E05 have been with devclass Format 3592-2, 
>> and new use of 3592-E06 be with devclass Format 3592-3, in a recent TSM 
>> version/level supporting that specification?
>> 
>>     Richard Sims