Patent ID: 6094319
Filing Date: 2000-07-25
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A method of tracking in a magnetic tape recorder with helical track recording, wherein tracking signals are recorded in addition to data payload signals, the frequency of the tracking signals alternates between a first and second frequency for successive helical tracks, and the tracking signals are recorded in a data payload area of the helical tracks with a first signal amplitude, and in a dedicated tracking signal region with a second amplitude greater than the first signal amplitude, said method comprising the steps of:a) searching the helical tracks;b) selecting the tracking signals selected in the one of the helical tracks being presently searched;c) comparing an amplitude of the selected track signal to a predetermined value to determine when the dedicated tracking signal region of the selected helical track is being searched; andd) providing an output signal upon determining that the dedicated tracking signal region of the selected helical track is being searched.