Datafile: a new tool for extensive file storage

Abstract

Synopsis: This paper discusses the design and application of an advanced magnetic-tape storage system with facilities for automatic access to files as large as 200 million characters with average access times in the 5 to 20 second range. The Datafile System, which employs standard magnetic-tape and recording techniques, also provides an economical solution to many medium-speed random-access problems and avoids awkward and time consuming tape-handling processes.