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Variable-Speed Scanning of Recorded Magnetic Tapes

A device for critical examination of recorded data on moving or stationary magnetic tapes by means of variable-speed rotating magnetic reproduce-head assemblies is described. Several types of interchangeable assemblies, both single- and dual-track, are discussed, together with certain operative phenomena peculiar to each. Problems arising from the use of variable-speed scanning as a means of analyzing recorded analog data are illustrated. The effect of rotating-head design on wow and flutter is described in detail, as well as the ability of current magnetic tapes to withstand physically high-speed scanning for prolonged periods of time. Although the system was designed primarily as a tool to aid in the development of data-recording devices relative to the field of sonar, its application to other fields of scientific research is discussed.

Author: Latham, William S.
Affiliation: U. S. Navy Underwater Sound Laboratory, Fort Trumbull, New London, CT
AES Convention:9 (October 1957) Paper Number:9 Import into BibTeX

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