Patent ID: 7835108
Filing Date: 2010-11-16
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
1. An erase head module for erasing data storage tape that includes a plurality of data bands separated by servo bands, the erase head module comprising: a set of erase gaps, wherein the set of erase gaps is configured to coincide with the plurality of data bands of the data storage tape separated by the servo bands to allow erasure of only the data bands of the data storage tape while not erasing the servo bands of the data storage tape that separate the data bands; one or more servo read elements to detect at least one of the servo bands of the data storage tape that separate the data bands when the set of erase gaps are proximate to the data bands of the data storage tape to allow the erase head module to accurately track the data bands with the set of erase gaps; and a controller that determines signal quality associated with at least one of the servo bands while the set of erase gaps erase the data bands.