Patent ID: 6043953
Filing Date: 2000-03-28
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A tape drive, comprising:a housing including a slot in one surface for receiving a tape cartridge therein;transducing means for transferring data to and from a data tape within said tape cartridge; anda capstan motor assembly for driving a tape advance mechanism within said tape cartridge, said capstan motor assembly including:a plate translationally mounted to said housing,a motor mounted on said plate for supplying power,a first gear sharing a common axis of rotation with, and driven by, said motor,a second gear rotationally mounted on said plate,a belt having an inner surface and an outer surface, said inner surface including a plurality of teeth, said belt being looped around said first and second gears with said teeth of said inner surface meshing with said first and second gears, said first gear being capable of rotating said belt, said outer surface of said belt capable of physically engaging and driving the tape advance mechanism to move the tape, andbiasing means affixed to said plate for biasing said belt into engagement with said tape advance mechanism.