Patent ID: 6768604
Filing Date: 2004-07-27
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A method of reducing off-track errors in a data storage linear tape writing operation by changing writing operation prior to an off-track error occurring, the method comprising:writing data longitudinally onto a tape with a writing head while the tape is moving longitudinally at a base tape speed; sensing position of the writing head relative to a longitudinal track center on the tape; providing off-center limits on each side of the longitudinal track center, each off-center limit being a transverse distance from the track center; providing off-track limits, at which writing is stopped, on each side of the track center, each off-track limit being a distance from the track center that is transversely farther from the track center than said off-center limits; and reducing tape speed below the base tape speed when the writing head reaches either of the off-center limits.