Abstract: An operational amplifier for generating an output analog signal at an output node representative of an analog signal fed to the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier. A controllable switch connects the output of the operational amplifier to the output node, and the signal at the output node is fed back to the inverting input of the operational amplifier. The controllable switch is responsive to a digital logic control signal for completing the circuit path between the operational amplifier and the output node in order to generate the output analog signal. A plurality of such operational amplifiers have their feedback path connected at a common output node.

Abstract: A tension regulator for magnetic recording tape, which comprises a plurality of side members forming an encased columnar space having an open top for receiving a flexible tape loop. One of the side members is adjustably positionable relative to the other side member for changing the cross-sectional area of the columnar space in order to vary the tension applied to the flexible tape being received by the tension regulator.

Abstract: A system for loading a predetermined length of magnetic tape paid out from a supply spool into a tape cassette in which the tension of the tape portion being paid out from the supply spool is at a different tension than the tension of the tape portion being taken up into the cassette. A pair of vacuum column tension members provide different tensions at the supply spool and at the take up spool, and a driving member interposes the two vacuum tension members for regulating tape movement between the same. During cassette loading, the take-up spool of the cassette is driven according to a driving signal which varies the movement of the tape at greatly varying speeds while the supply spool and interposing driving member are driven by signals formulated responsive to monitoring the length of the tape at the separate tension members.

Abstract: An electronic circuitry for regulating magnetic tape movement during loading of a predetermined length of tape paid out from a supply spool and wound into a tape cassette. The tension of the tape along its path of movement is controlled by a pair of vacuum column tension members providing a different tension at the supply spool than at the take up spool. A driving member interposes the two vacuum tension members for regulating tape movement between the same. Electronic circuitry drives the take-up spool of the cassette, the supply spool and the interposing driving member, formulating drive signals in response to the length of tape contained at the separate tension members and in anticipation of the need for tape in view of the instantaneous speed in which the tape is being pulled from a separate tension member.

Abstract: A tape extractor for a cassette tape loader being slidably mounted with respect to a tape loading position and a tape splicing position, for extracting a tape leader from a tape cassette positioned in the tape loading position, for carrying the tape leader to the splicing position where the tape leader is automatically cut and spliced to recording tape for winding into the tape cassette. The tape extractor includes a rectangularly shaped hollow finger for vacuum sucking the tape leader from the cassette and forming the leader in the shape of a loop. A pneumatically operated pin is disposed in relation to the hollow for movement into the leader loop for providing a mechanical bearing surface for keeping the tape leader under tension as the tape extractor is moved to the splicing position. At the splicing position a separator arm mechanically separates the two portions of the tape leader forming the sides of the tape loop for permitting unobstructed tape splicing to be performed.

Abstract: An improved cue signal detector is provided for detecting on a magnetic tape which moves at greatly varying speeds a cue signal having a fixed wavelength longer than the wavelengths of other recorded information signals. The cue signal detector comprises a pick-up magnetic head for sensing a recorded cue signal, an integrator connected so that the signal output of the pick-up head is integrated with respect to time, and an amplitude level sensor for monitoring the integrator output with respect to a reference amplitude and generating a cue output signal indicative of the detection of the cue signal on the tape when the amplitude of the integrator output exceeds a predetermined level. The output of the level sensor is processed by a filter circuit to determine whether the cue signal is valid or was generated by noise.