Patent ID: 6115206
Filing Date: 2000-09-05
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A tape handling configuration for effecting a data transfer with a plurality of data tape cartridges, comprising:a plurality of data tape cartridges each having a data tape therein;a plurality of tape transport assemblies each independently movable to contact a selected one of said data tape cartridges to effect transport of the data tape therein in one direction or the other to a selected position; andat least two head assemblies movable independently of the said tape transport assemblies and each randomly movable to anyone of said data tape cartridges to effect a data transferring engagement with a data tape in a selected one of said data tape cartridges;said plurality of data tape cartridges greater in number than said plurality of tape transport assemblies and greater in number than said plurality of said head assemblies;said tape transport assemblies moving to contact a selected one of said data tape cartridges to effect transport of the data tape therein to a selected position prior to a head assembly moving to said selected one of said data tape cartridges to effect a data transferring engagement with the data tape in said selected position within said selected one of said data tape cartridges.