EN 61119-2:1994

Overview

EN 61119-2:1994, titled Digital Audio Tape Cassette System (DAT) - Part 2: DAT Calibration Tape, is an international standard developed by the Commission of the European Communities (CLC). This standard specifies the requirements for calibration tapes used to assess and correct the technical performance of equipment designed for DAT cassette systems. It ensures consistency and accuracy in evaluating DAT devices by defining the program content, format, and key parameters of calibration tapes.

Calibration tapes play a critical role in maintaining optimal recording and playback quality in digital audio tape systems, widely used in professional and archival audio environments. EN 61119-2:1994 supports equipment manufacturers, service providers, and quality control laboratories by providing a reliable benchmark for technical adjustments and quality assurance.

Key Topics

• Scope and Purpose
  The standard applies specifically to calibration tapes intended to evaluate and correct DAT cassette equipment performance. It enables direct technical comparison among different devices.

• Tape Preparation and Characteristics

  • Calibration tapes are prepared from reference tapes or equivalent high-quality sources.
  • The tape speed for playback is standardized at 8.15 mm/s to ensure consistency.
  • Recording track width is precisely set at 23 µm ± 1.5 µm to match DAT recording specifications.
  • The control track (CTL) signal is recorded on an optional track 1, essential for system synchronization.

• Recorded Signal Specifications
  The standard carefully defines the recorded signals on calibration tapes to test device accuracy:

  • Frequencies corresponding to specific signal periods (e.g., 1/6 Tch, 1/12 Tch) recorded on plus or minus azimuth tracks.
  • Square wave signals of 90 seconds duration each are used to simulate and verify signal processing accuracy.
  • The reference level of recorded signals is based on practical recording levels using selected magnetic heads, ensuring compatibility with DAT technology.

• Normative References
  The document references other relevant standards such as IEC 94-2 (magnetic tape recording systems) and parts 1 and 3 of IEC 1119, promoting harmonization among related DAT standards.

• International Adoption
  The document notes international consensus and encourages adoption by national standardization bodies, promoting interoperability and industry-wide quality control.

Applications

EN 61119-2:1994 calibration tapes are critical tools in various professional audio technology domains:

• Equipment Manufacturing and Calibration
  Manufacturers use these tapes during production to verify that DAT recorders and players meet performance specifications before shipping.

• Quality Assurance and Maintenance
  Service centers and technical maintenance teams employ calibration tapes to diagnose equipment faults and perform accurate recalibrations.

• Broadcast and Archiving
  Broadcast stations and audio archives rely on consistent DAT performance to ensure high-fidelity digital recordings, using calibration tapes to standardize equipment output.

• Research and Development
  Laboratories developing new DAT technologies or accessories utilize these calibration tapes to validate prototypes and test emerging features.

Related Standards

• IEC 1119-1: Digital Audio Tape Cassette System - Part 1: Dimensions and Characteristics
  Defines the physical and mechanical properties of DAT cassettes, complementing the calibration tape specifications.

• IEC 1119-3: Digital Audio Tape Cassette System - Part 3: DAT Tape Properties
  Specifies the required quality and magnetic properties of DAT tapes themselves.

• IEC 94-2: Magnetic Tape Sound Recording and Reproducing Systems - Part 2: Calibration Tapes
  Provides foundational principles for analog calibration tapes, underpinning the digital DAT calibration approaches.

By adhering to EN 61119-2:1994, organizations ensure that digital audio tape equipment meets rigorous international benchmarks, enhancing audio quality, reliability, and interoperability across global markets. This standard remains essential for anyone involved in the production, maintenance, or testing of DAT audio systems.