Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for engaging a magnetic tape with a transducer at a read/write zone for achieving consistent head-to-tape coupling throughout the intended recording location, especially at the edges of the tape. The transducer, located on the end face of the rotating transducer carrier, reads and writes arcuate information tracks generally laterally across the tape. The transducer traces a substantially circular transducing path through the read/write zone with the axis of rotation corresponding substantially to the center of the transducing path. A tape support system generally adjacent to the read/write zone positions the tape so that the transducer penetrates into a tape surface along a read/write location.

Abstract: An arcuate scan tape drive for transferring data to and from a data tape, including a base with four side walls and a cover, which base and cover together have a 31/2 inch form factor. In one embodiment, the head carrier assembly is provided at an oblique angle with respect to the data tape and the front surface is conically shaped. Thus, during rotation of the head carrier assembly, the recording heads are proximate to the data tape during read or write operations, but are spaced away from the data tape at other times. The head carrier assembly includes an inside-out spin motor for rotating the head carrier assembly and a pivot motor structure at the rear of the head carrier assembly for pivoting the head carrier assembly in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of advancement of the tape.

Abstract: An arcuate scan tape drive for transferring data to and from a data tape, including a base with four side walls and a cover, which base and cover together have a 31/2 inch form factor. Situated within the base and cover is a head carrier assembly for recording data onto and playing back data from the data tape which advances in a longitudinal direction past the head carrier assembly. In one embodiment, the head carrier assembly is provided at an oblique angle with respect to the data tape and the front surface is conically shaped. Thus, during rotation of the head carrier assembly, the recording heads are proximate to the data tape during read or write operations, but are spaced away from the data tape at other times. Also provided within the base is a capstan motor assembly for advancing the data tape, and a cassette positioning mechanism for receiving and securing a data tape cartridge to properly position the tape as it is advanced past the head carrier assembly.

Abstract: A method for improving the manufacture of an arcuate scan drive. Such drives include a plurality of read/write heads, each head having a gap and being mounted to a rotating drum. The method for manufacture includes: rotating the drum to determine the rotational center point of the drum; specifying a gap width for each gap; specifying a distance from the rotational center point to the head gap; and laser machining each of the head gaps to said gap width such that each head gap is positioned at said distance from the rotational center point of the head.