Abstract: In one embodiment, a cartridge identification system includes a cartridge type detection station in which a cartridge can be inserted, and apparatus that determines the extent to which the cartridge protrudes from the detection station, the extent of protrusion being indicative of the cartridge type.

Abstract: Media selection systems and methods. A media selection system may comprise a coupler mounted on a plunge assembly of a cartridge retrieving device. The coupler slidably engages a storage medium as the cartridge retrieving device moves relative to the storage medium. A method may comprise slidably engaging a storage medium with a cartridge retrieving device as the cartridge retrieving device moves relative to the storage medium.

Abstract: System and method for cleaning an electrical delivery system. An embodiment of the self-cleaning electrical delivery system comprises a track having an abrasive surface and a brush operatively associated with the track, the brush moving over the abrasive surface of the track to remove debris from the brush. A tool for producing the abrasive surface is also disclosed.

Abstract: Cartridge-handling apparatus for a media storage system. One embodiment comprises a carriage and a translate frame pivotally mounted to the carriage. A rotational drive system is operatively associated with the carriage, the rotational drive system rotating the translate frame about a y-axis in the media storage system. At least one cartridge-engaging assembly is mounted in the translate frame.

Abstract: System and method for illuminating a target area with a desired illumination pattern. According to preferred embodiments of the invention, a cartridge-engaging assembly may be positioned adjacent a data cartridge, light may be emitted from at least one light source on the cartridge-engaging assembly, and a portion of the emitted light may be attenuated so that the unblocked light illuminates the target area with the desired illumination pattern.

Abstract: Media selection systems and methods. A media selection system may comprise a coupler mounted on a plunge assembly of a cartridge retrieving device. The coupler slidably engages a storage medium as the cartridge retrieving device moves relative to the storage medium. A method may comprise slidably engaging a storage medium with a cartridge retrieving device as the cartridge retrieving device moves relative to the storage medium.

Abstract: System and method for cleaning an electrical delivery system. An embodiment of the self-cleaning electrical delivery system comprises a track having an abrasive surface and a brush operatively associated with the track, the brush moving over the abrasive surface of the track to remove debris from the brush. A tool for producing the abrasive surface is also disclosed.

Abstract: Cartridge-handling apparatus for a media storage system. One embodiment comprises a carriage and a translate frame pivotally mounted to the carriage. A rotational drive system is operatively associated with the carriage, the rotational drive system rotating the translate frame about a y-axis in the media storage system. At least one cartridge-engaging assembly is mounted in the translate frame.

Abstract: System and method for illuminating a target area with a desired illumination pattern. According to preferred embodiments of the invention, a cartridge-engaging assembly may be positioned adjacent a data cartridge, light may be emitted from at least one light source on the cartridge-engaging assembly, and a portion of the emitted light may be attenuated so that the unblocked light illuminates the target area with the desired illumination pattern.

Abstract: An electrical system for measuring humidity which is capable of measurements accurate to +/−6 percent from board to board. The accuracy provided by this electrical system makes it possible to correlate errors in data on backup magnetic tapes to variations in humidity. The electrical system consists of an oscillator whose frequency is dependent on the capacitance of a capacitor used in the circuit. The capacitance value of the capacitor is dependent on the relative humidity. The frequency of the oscillator is translated to a humidity value by an electronic counter and a microprocessor.

Abstract: An electrical system for measuring humidity which is capable of measurements accurate to +/−6 percent from board to board. The accuracy provided by this electrical system makes it possible to correlate errors in data on backup magnetic tapes to variations in humidity. The electrical system consists of an oscillator whose frequency is dependent on the capacitance of a capacitor used in the circuit. The capacitance value of the capacitor is dependent on the relative humidity. The frequency of the oscillator is translated to a humidity value by an electronic counter and a microprocessor.

Abstract: A method of deciphering bar codes is disclosed herein. The method determines if the bar code complies with predetermined specifications. The method then sorts the bar code information into character groups. Each character group is reviewed individually to assure compliance with the predetermined specification. The individual character groups are then decoded individually. The method allows for bar code specification to have varying tolerances between the individual character groups, which increases the likelihood of a bar code reader being able to decipher the bar code.