EN 61120-4:1992

Overview

EN 61120-4:1992 (adopted as SIST EN 61120-4:1999) defines terminology and methods of measurement for magnetic tape properties used in professional digital audio reel‑to‑reel systems that use 6,3 mm magnetic tape. This part of the EN/IEC 61120 series focuses on giving consistent, reproducible definitions and measurement methods so manufacturers, test laboratories and professional users can assess tape quality and performance for digital audio recording and reproduction.

Key topics

The standard covers practical, test‑oriented aspects of magnetic tape used in 6.3 mm professional reel‑to‑reel recorders, including:

• Definitions of tape property terms to ensure consistent interpretation across suppliers and test labs.
• Physical properties such as dimensional stability, thickness and coating characteristics.
• Mechanical properties including tensile strength, elongation and friction/wear behaviour during transport.
• Magnetic and electrical characteristics relevant to digital recording performance (e.g., magnetization-related properties and effects on signal integrity).
• Surface and coating measurements (coating uniformity, surface roughness) that affect head contact and reliability.
• Methods of measurement: standardised procedures and conditions for conducting tests so results are comparable between laboratories.

Note: the standard defines measurement concepts and standardizes test methods rather than specifying performance limits for a particular product.

Applications

EN 61120-4 is relevant wherever professional, archival or production‑grade digital reel‑to‑reel tape systems are involved:

• Manufacturers of magnetic tape (quality control, product specification and R&D).
• Recorder manufacturers and designers validating tape–transport interactions and head interfaces.
• Independent test laboratories performing acceptance testing and conformity assessments.
• Broadcast and studio engineers specifying tapes for critical digital audio workflows.
• Archives and restoration specialists assessing tape condition and selecting suitable media for long‑term preservation.
• Procurement and compliance teams referencing standardized measurement methods for tendering and supplier evaluation.

Benefits

• Ensures consistent, reproducible tape testing and terminology across the industry.
• Improves interoperability between tapes and professional recorder systems by clarifying relevant tape properties.
• Supports quality assurance, product development and archival decision‑making with standardized measurement data.

Related standards

• IEC 61120-4:1992 - original IEC document mirrored by this EN.
• Other parts of the EN/IEC 61120 series covering system requirements and recorder specifications (consult standards catalogs for specific part numbers).

Keywords: digital audio tape, reel‑to‑reel, 6.3 mm magnetic tape, magnetic tape properties, measurement methods, IEC 61120, EN 61120-4, professional audio, tape testing, tape quality.