Abstract: To read data from a storage medium, a magnetization map of the data stored on at least one portion of the storage medium is obtained. The magnetization map is analyzed to obtain intermediate data corresponding to the data stored on the at least one portion of storage medium. Further, the intermediate data is converted into the user data based on format emulation of a data storage format of the storage medium. The conversion of the intermediate data includes decrypting the intermediate data to obtain the user data.

Abstract: To read data from a storage medium, a magnetization map of the data stored on at least one portion of the storage medium is obtained. The magnetization map is analyzed to obtain intermediate data corresponding to the data stored on the at least one portion of storage medium. Further, the intermediate data is converted into the user data based on format emulation of a data storage format of the storage medium. The conversion of the intermediate data includes decrypting the intermediate data to obtain the user data.

Abstract: Techniques for protecting tape heads from wear are provided. In an example, a method includes forming a coating over elements on the magnetic tape head, wherein the elements can comprise read elements, write elements, or both and wherein the coating does not extend over adjacent tape bearing surfaces.

Abstract: Various apparatus and related methods are disclosed that are capable of detecting surface defects on an optical storage media. One example of an apparatus is configured to direct at least one light signal, which may be from one or more lasers, on an outer surface of an optical storage medium, such as a CD, DVD or the like, which includes encoded data. The light encounters both the optical storage media surface as well as any smudges, scratches, dents, or other defects thereon. Some or all of the light reflected from the defects and the surface are detected by one or more detectors, which may be a photodiode. The detector(s) produce an output signal commensurate with the detected reflected light, which output is processed to determine whether the encoded data may be accurately read from the optical storage media.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention involve an optical storage media inventory system and methods that leverages the capabilities of an optical storage media characterization device to direct repair of the optical storage media if it is damaged, to assess pecuniary penalties to a rental customer responsible for the damage or take other action. In one example, an optical storage media, such as a DVD with movie data recorded thereon, is processed in a optical storage media characterization device to render a damage level. Based on the damage level, repair may be undertaken, the customer may be charge, or any combination of various actions may be taken.