Abstract: A tape running device for storing and running an endless magnetic tape for mass-producing copies of the endless magnetic tape. The tape running device comprises a tape storage mechanism for storing a long, endless magnetic tape along a zigzag path formed by a plurality of movable guide rollers, a tension control mechanism for maintaining tension in the endless magnetic tape stored in the tape storage mechanism at a predetermined tension level, and tape driving apparatus for driving the endless magnetic tape stored in the tape storage mechanism. The total length of the zigzag path along which the endless magnetic tape is extended in the tape storage mechanism can be varied by properly shifting the plurality of guide rollers so that the tension in the endless magnetic tape is maintained on a predetermined tension level while the endless magnetic tape is being driven.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tape winding method comprising the steps of inspecting an elongated tape for one or a plurality of positions for defects contained in the tape in a state where the tape is wound onto a tape supply reel prior to being wound into a cartridge; and winding the inspected tape into a cartridge wherein when a part of the tape corresponding to the next reel has any defect, its part is cut out and removed or discarded, and on the other hand when a part of the tape corresponding to the next reel does not have any defect its part is wound into the cartridge, all of such processing being performed by means of a machine or apparatus of the present invention.

Abstract: A tape winding apparatus for winding tape supplied from a tape reel mounted upon a supply reel base onto at least one empty takeup reel contained in a cartridge case having an opening at a part thereof, comprises a cartridge holder for holding and positioning the cartridge case, a winding shaft for revolving the takeup reel of the cartridge case, a tape retainer capable of retaining a beginning portion of the tape, the tape retainer bringing the beginning portion of the tape from within the vicinity of the opening provided on the cartridge case to the interior of the cartridge case close to the takeup reel, while holding the beginning portion of the tape, and a coating arrangement for applying an adhesive to the beginning portion of the tape retained on the tape retainer, whereby securing of the tape to the takeup reel can be achieved.