Abstract: A leader block is provided for connection to a free end of storage tape media. The leader block includes a main body and a clamp member. The main body and clamp member define a space for receiving the free end of the storage tape media. A punch member is joined to the clamp member. The main body, the clamp member and the punch member are parts of a single, integral device that is preferably made by molding. After the storage tape media is inserted into the receiving space between the main body and the clamp member, the clamp member is caused to move relative to the main body by applying sufficient, predetermined shear forces. The punch member is also caused to move relative to the clamp member. The storage tape media is sandwiched between the main body and the clamp member using forces provided by the punch member and clamping forces caused by the main body and the clamp member.

Abstract: The improved magnetic tape cartridge includes a leader block retainer mechanism that provides a positive locking function to automatically secure the leader block in place in the opening of the magnetic tape cartridge housing. The leader block retainer mechanism comprises detent members springably attached to both the top and bottom sides of the housing, juxtaposed to the opening, to engage corresponding features on the leader block to resist withdrawal of the leader block from the housing.

Abstract: The take-up reel is used in conjunction with a leader block that securely fastens the magnetic tape in the leader block such that the magnetic tape exits an aperture at one end of the leader block. The take-up reel accepts this leader block and completely seats it in an aperture contained in the take-up reel hub to ensure that no segment of the leader block protrudes from the take-up reel hub. The top and bottom plates of the take-up reel include guide slots to automatically position and align the leader block that is transported by the tape threading arm from the magnetic tape cartridge.

Abstract: A take-up reel assembly for use with a single-reel tape cartridge in a cartridge-based tape transport includes a take-up reel and a leader block. The take-up reel includes an annular hub having an axis of rotation and a radial surface adapted to have the tape wound thereon. A radial slot in the hub extends from the radial surface towards the axis of rotation. The leader block is configured for attachment to a free end of a length of tape in the tape cartridge. The leader block has a shape substantially the same as the shape of the radial slot in the hub of the take-up reel.

Abstract: A reel brake of a magnetic tape single-reel cartridge is released by a contact member positioned in non-rotational contact with the reel brake release button to prevent wear, vibration and noise in the mechanism. One embodiment places a spindle in a centering cone of a hub which operatively engages the tape reel. The centering cone rotates relative to the spindle which is in stationary contact with the release button. A second embodiment involves use of a non-rotating center shaft of a motor which has a rotor that rotates about the shaft. The stationary shaft contacts the release button. A third embodiment extends a stationary post through a hollow rotating motor shaft to contact the release button.

Abstract: A leader block is provided for connection to a free end of storage tape media. The leader block includes a main body and a clamp member. The main body and clamp member define a space for receiving the free end of the storage tape media. A punch member is joined to the clamp member. The main body, the clamp member and the punch member are parts of a single, integral device that is preferably made by molding. After the storage tape media is inserted into the receiving space between the main body and the clamp member, the clamp member is caused to move relative to the main body by applying sufficient, predetermined shear forces. The punch member is also caused to move relative to the clamp member. The storage tape media is sandwiched between the main body and the clamp member using forces provided by the punch member and clamping forces caused by the main body and the clamp member.

Abstract: An optical disk drive of the type adapted to use an optical disk cartridge formed by an optical disk mounted about a hub within an enclosure. When inserted into the optical disk drive, the cartridge is received and supported by a pan. A control handle for controlling the disk drive can be rotated between a load position, a run position, a spin-down position, and an eject position. The handle is coupled to the pan by a linkage. When the handle is rotated to either its run or spin-down positions, the linkage positions the pan at a run/spin-down position at which the hub of the disk is engaged with a drive spindle. When rotated to either its load or eject positions, the linkage causes the pan to be in a load/eject position at which the cartridge can be inserted into or removed from the pan. The position of the handle is detected by optical sensors which provide signals representative thereof to control circuitry.

Abstract: An optical disk cartridge has two opposed cartridge sections held together by four locking assemblies. Each locking assembly includes a first locking jamb attached to one section, a second locking jamb attached to the other section, a locking detent and a spring. The jambs can be locking fingers parallel to and adjacent to one another when the cartridge sections are joined, in which case the detent surrounds the fingers as a sleeve, preventing the fingers from moving apart. The spring biases the detent into locking engagement with the fingers, keeping the cartridge closed. Alternatively, the jambs can be aligned slots in the cartridge top and bottom sections, with each detent having a protrusion that enters its associated slots. The spring and most of the detent are contained inside the cartridge. However, each detent includes a leg extended outside the cartridge through an aperture in the cartridge side wall. Also disclosed is a drive apparatus for use with the cartridge.

Abstract: An equipment module for holding printed circuit boards. The equipment module contains pin and slot combinations which permit it to be lifted from a casing and tilted for efficient access to the printed circuit boards for maintenance. The pin and slot combinations comprise a plurality of slots molded into the sides of the equipment module for cooperation with pins mounted on the casing.

Abstract: A drive belt release mechanism for magnetic disk drives for disengaging a drive belt from and engaging a drive belt onto a spindle drive pulley. To disengage the belt, the mechanism lifts the belt from the drive pulley and simultaneously permits the drive motor to pivot to relieve the tension in the drive belt. To engage the belt, the mechanism seats the belt on the pulley and forces the motor to a drive position which yields the desired drive tension in the belt. The mechanism is completely mechanical and manually operable.