Abstract: A tape head control arrangement for a telephone answering machine. The outgoing message is recorded on the first track of a recirculating multi-track tape. The record-playback tape head is movable over the plurality of available tracks on the tape. Movement of the tape head is controlled by a cam connected to a rachet which is rotated by a solenoid in discrete steps, each step corresponding to movement of the tape head to the next available track. When no incoming calls have been received the tape head is positioned at track two of the tape in a standby mode of operation. When the first incoming call is received the solenoid is automatically actuated and a control arrangement moves the tape head to the first track to play the outgoing message. At the conclusion of the outgoing message corresponding to a complete circuit of the tape the solenoid is deactivated and the cam allows movement of the tape head back to the second track for the record mode of operation.

Abstract: An improved tape drive system for an apparatus (a telephone answering device in the exemplary, preferred embodiment of this invention) which employs one or more dual reel tape cassettes or cartridges. The tape drive system of the present invention requires only a single motor and a single solenoid for providing all operating functions of the apparatus. One lever (a broadcast lever) is pivotably mounted on a base or chassis and carries a broadcast pinch roller mechanism and a broadcast record/playback head. A second lever (an incoming call recording or "ICR" lever) is pivotably mounted on the first lever and carries an ICR pinch roller and an ICR record/playback head. The broadcast, ICR and rewind operating modes of the apparatus are provided by a single motor and a single solenoid.