Abstract: The invention relates to a scanning device for recording and/or play-back of wide-band signals from a magnetic tape by the diagonal track method. Such devices include a stationary hollow guide drum having two parts spaced apart to define a slot with the drum being adapted to receive a magnetic tape engaging less than 360.degree. of the periphery thereof and a head-wheel carrying at least two magnetic heads and disposed in the drum for the rotation of the magnetic heads transversally to the slot for scanning the magnetic tape which is moved diagonally across the slot.

Abstract: A magnetic tape guiding device for use in a magnetic tape instrument having a magnetic tape, a supply reel for supplying the magnetic tape, a drum arrangement including a rotary magnetic head arrangement disposed in a drum having a transverse division for the recording and playback of the magnetic tape, and a take-up reel for receiving the magnetic tape; the magnetic tape having a path extending from the supply reel to the drum where it follows a helical path along the circumference of said drum for about 180.degree., and then to the take-up reel; the device featuring first and second cylindrical vertical level equalizing elements disposed in the path of the magnetic tape on opposite sides of the drum, the elements being axially askewed with respect to the drum, oppositely offset with respect to the division in the drum and each being disposed tangent to a plane tangent to said drum, the path of the magnetic tape having a portion extending along the circumference of each element for about 180.degree.

Abstract: A portable battery operated color television camera is provided with a switch system for use to preserve power while testing the camera and associated equipment or while engaged in standby operation. The switch system removes the power from two of the three pickup tubes in the camera, thereby reducing power consumption while allowing testing or standby operation in a black-and-white mode.