Abstract: A multitrack recorder is disclosed in which each of a plurality of parallel data signals is mixed with an additional signal corresponding to a digital code indicative of the real time at which the data is received. Each of the mixed signals is then conventionally recorded on a separate track of a suitable record medium. The recorder includes a circuit which shifts the phase of the recorded data signals with respect to each other, while keeping the phase of all recorded time signals in phase with each other. Upon playback, the signals from all tracks are added together. The out-of-phase data signals from each track tend to negate each other and the in-phase time related signals reinforce each other, thus becoming readily detectable. Preferably, the digital time related signals are encoded as two frequencies, both of which are below the band width of the data signals, such that frequency filters may also be employed to enhance the recovery of the time code.

Abstract: A device for recording portions of the signals on the tape in one or more master cassettes in a desired sequence on the tape in a copy cassette. The device includes two cassette stations each including an electronically operated drive mechanism for driving the tape in a cassette at the station in either a forward or reverse direction past a record and playback head. Each station includes means for cycling the drive mechanism between forward and reverse to repetitively play a short segment of the tape in a cassette at the station, and a manually operated control for incrementally changing the segment of the tape played in each repeat cycle. By these controls an operator selects a segment of the tape in a cassette on which signals are to be copied, which segment has an end point at which signals to be added to the tape should start, and selects a segment of a tape in a master cassette from which signals are to be copied which segment has the same beginning point as the signals to be copied.

Abstract: An apparatus for encoding a magnetic recording medium in the form of discrete labels such as may be removably adhered to a carrier web includes a mechanism for transporting the medium past a magnetic record and playback head. As the tape passes the playback head, the data previously recorded thereon by the record head is played back and verified. If the playback signal is not verified, the label associated therewith is marked, such as by punching a section from the label, and is thereafter differently processed. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a means for removing encoded labels from the carrier web and automatically positioned the removed labels at a dispensing slot. Alternatively, the encoded labels, either verified or not-verified (or both) may be rewound onto the carrier web.