ntbackup via SCSI

I have an NT4sp6 server (migrated from Netware by some named “Prior”) with an internal Segate tape drive. Through control panel/tape devices, the N.O.S. always says that the device is working properly but when I go to NT backup I always get the following error message:
a tape device has been detected and the tape driver startd. however, the tape device is not responding. check that the tape device power is on and cables are properly connected.
…except, if I disconnect the cable and rebootand reconnect the cable and reboot it will recognize the tape drive and perform a full backup as requested. Try to backup again, however, and I received the same darn error message.
ANY SUGGESTIONS OR COMMENTS would be greatly appreciated 🙂