Abstract: Tape path stabilization apparatus for establishing vertical tape alignment from a base with respect to a transducer featuring an axially floating, radially symmetric crown pulley and a tape reel with a downwardly extending annular outrigger rib or boss maintaining contact with the base. The crown pulley will chase tape which loses alignment, tending to center the tape at the peak of the crown. The reel with the annular outrigger will feed or receive tape in a desired vertical height, tending to limit the extent of motion of the floating crown pulley, tending to center the pulley in its range of motion.

Abstract: A cartridge cover having slotted bosses which are positioned so that both the bosses and their slots are aligned with the vectorial resultant lines representing the direction of change that takes place during thermal expansion of the cartridge. Each boss has a fitting which engages pins fixed into the base of the cartridge, thereby securing the cover to the base. The cover and the base have different coefficients of thermal expansion. The slots are of sufficient length to allow all motion of the pins, taking place as a result of thermal expansion, to occur within the slots.