High-data-rate, high-density magnetic tape recorder using matrix writing head and Kerr reading head

Abstract

The following new components have been developed for magnetic tape recording: the matrix writing head, which allows fine track pitch and high integration (1,024 tracks) at reasonable cost, and the Kerr reading head, which takes advantage of optics for high sensitivity, parallelism, and easy tracking. The feasibility of reaching a data rate in the range of 40 megabytes per second and a density of up to 2500 tracks per inch (TPI), 50 kilo flux changes per inch (KFCI) on half-inch tape has been demonstrated.<>