Complex sentence: Initially, the tape was 60 meters (197 feet) or 90 meters (295 ft.) long, although advancements in materials technology have allowed the length to be increased significantly in successive versions.
Split into simpler sentences: Initially, the tape was 60 meters (197 feet) or 90 meters (295 ft.) long. Advancements in materials technology have allowed the length to be increased significantly in successive versions.