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Abstract

A servoing system is provided for use in an arcuate scanner having an arcuate scanner head assembly (ASHA) that has least one transducer on a rotatable drum. The servoing system includes a first detection circuit, a second detection circuit, logic, and a positioning apparatus. The first detection circuit is coupled to the transducer and detects alignment identifiers that are recorded on the tape and sensed by the transducer. The second detection circuit is also coupled to the transducer and detects an envelope of the scanned signal during the scan. The logic compares the alignment identifiers to determine if the ASHA is properly aligned with the tracks on the tape, and in response outputs a fine error signal. The logic also compares the envelope as detected during the scan with a threshold value and outputs a coarse error signal in response. Based on the arrangement of the logic, the fine error signal identifies that either a minor misalignment of the transducer to the tape exists or a proper alignment exists. The coarse error signal identifies that a significant misalignment of the transducer to the tape exists. The positioning apparatus, in response to either the fine error signal or coarse error signal, changes the position of the arcuate scanner head assembly with respect to the tape as a function of the received error signal.

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First Claim