Ok version 11.1.0.7, using alternate archive destination w/o data guard, works like a champ, goes to alternate destination in < 5 seconds upon issue when trying to write out archive log. If you want the specifics, let me know. New ordeal: throw in Data guard broker and of course you're NOT supposed to tweak settings via alter system but the "alternate destination" parameter in dgmgrl doesn't seem to cut it. Has anyone gotten this to work correctly? thanks, joe _______________________________________ Joe Testa, Oracle Certified Professional Senior Engineering & Administration Lead (Work) 614-677-1668 (Cell) 614-312-6715