Importance

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Abstract

A computer storage DAT drive which detects the form of a DAT tape and provides an audio signal output in response to an audio DAT tape. The drive rewinds the tape and then plays the tape at a speed that is about 5 to 15 times normal playback speed. During such playback, the tape length is determined and the subcode information is read to determine the format of the tape being played back. If the subcode tape format information reliably indicates the presence of an audio tape, the speed of playback is reduced to normal playback, and audio data interface circuitry is enabled for processing the audio data and providing an audio output signal to a front panel audio jack, for example. If the tape is not recognized as an audio tape within the playback of a predetermined length of tape, playback speed is reduced to normal playback speed and reading of the subcode information continues. If the subcode tape format information indicates that the tape is a computer data storage tape, the tape is read in accordance with the appropriate data storage format. Otherwise, the tape is determined to be blank or erased tape, and playback is stopped. A front panel eject pushbutton is utilized to provide basic controls for controlling the play of an audio tape, and front panel LEDs provide drive and cartridge status indications, including the presence of an audio format tape.

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First Claim