Patent ID: 6137659
Filing Date: 2000-10-24
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A magnetic tape drive comprising:a) a magnetic head having at least one segment for reading a magnetic tape passing thereover;b) a source of magnetic tape positioned to a side of the magnetic head;c) a collector of magnetic tape positioned to a side of the magnetic head;d) at least one tape actuator positioned between the magnetic head and one of the source and collector, the tape actuator having a base with a surface portion defining a tape path over which the magnetic tape passes, the tape actuator further having at least one movable portion adjacent a first edge of the tape path and a corresponding counter-balancing portion adjacent the opposite second edge of the tape path, the movable portion coupled to a drive for imparting movement to the movable portion in a direction transverse to the tape path, the movable portion further having a hardened engagement portion for engaging the first edge of a tape in the tape path, the counter-balancing portion being resiliently movable in a direction transverse to the tape path, the counter-balancing portion further having a hardened engagement portion for engaging the second edge of a tape in the tape path.