Abstract: Fluid is introduced under pressure to the operative face of a magnetic head to lift the magnetic media out of contact with the transducers when the media is stationary or about to be stopped. The media is lifted only locally with respect to the multiple transducers of the magnetic head. The fluid pressure tents the tape with the pressure adjusted such that the media forms a seal with the head at the edges of the media to hold the fluid within the tent-like structure. Slots formed in the magnetic head at the leading and trailing edges allow the fluid to escape to keep the media from excessively lifting from the magnetic head. The fluid pressure is under control of a valve that introduces the pressure to the operative face of the head as well as opening the operative face to atmospheric pressure when the fluid pressure is halted to permit the media tension to quickly pull the media back into contact with the transducers by assisting the slots in dissipating the fluid pressure.

Abstract: A high performance self threading tape transport apparatus is packaged within a stand alone 19 inch wide frame. The tape transport apparatus includes a removable file reel and a machine reel. The removable file reel and the machine reel are arranged diagonally with a gravity assisted tape threading path. A single capstan is positioned adjacent the tape threading path with a pair of vacuum chambers situated one on each side of the capstan. The vacuum columns are offset relative to each other but incline to the tape threading path. A processing station including a magnetic transducer, is displaced relative to the tape threading path and operates to read magnetic data from the tape or to write magnetic data on the tape.