Patent ID: 7372661
Filing Date: 2008-05-13
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
1. A magnetic tape data transfer apparatus for use with a first width magnetic tape having a first width and a second width magnetic tape having a second width that is less than said first width, said apparatus comprising: a rotary scanning drum having at least one scanning head; a tape cartridge positioning structure for positioning a magnetic tape cartridge containing said magnetic tape at a predetermined location with respect to a reference surface such that the said magnetic tape contained therein projects above said reference surface by a distance proportional to the said width thereof; and a tape guide system for guiding the magnetic tape, wherein, in use, said tape guide system is moved past said rotary scanning drum during a scanning process, said tape guide system comprising a first tape guide and a guide ramp for said first tape guide, said first tape guide having a free end and a guide surface that has a length corresponding substantially to said first width, said first tape guide having a non-deployed position in which said free end projects above said reference surface a first distance that is not substantially greater than said distance by which said second width tape projects above said reference surface and being movable from said non-deployed position along a predetermined path to a deployed position at which said guide surface engages the magnetic tape for guiding the tape during said scanning process, said predetermined path comprising said ramp which is arranged to impart a vertical component to said movement whereby at said deployed position said free end projects above said reference surface a second distance which is greater than said first distance such that when the magnetic tape cartridge at said predetermined location contains a said first width magnetic tape the full length of the guide surface engages the magnetic tape.