ISO/IEC 15718:1998

INTERNATIONAL ISO/IEC
STANDARD 15718
First edition
1998-08-01
Information technology — Data interchange
on 8 mm wide magnetic tape cartridge —
Helical scan recording — HH-1 format
Technologies de l'information — Échange de données sur cartouche de
bande magnétique de 8 mm de large — Enregistrement par balayage en
spirale — Format HH-1
Reference number
B C
Contents
Section 1 - General 1
1 Scope 1
2 Conformance 1
2.1 Magnetic tape cartridge 1
2.2 Generating drive 1
2.3 Receiving drive 1
3 Normative References 2
4 Definitions 2
4.1 Absolute Frame Address 2
4.2 a.c. erase 2
4.3 algorithm 2
4.4 Area ID 2
4.5 Average Signal Amplitude 2
4.6 azimuth 2
4.7 back surface 2
4.8 bit cell 2
4.9 byte 2
4.10 cartridge 2
4.11 Channel bit 2
4.12 compressed data 2
4.13 Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) character 2
4.14 Data Format ID 2
4.15 End of Data (EOD) 2
4.16 Error Correcting Code 2
4.17 flux transition position 2
4.18 flux transition spacing 2
4.19 Frame 2
4.20 Logical Beginning of Tape (LBOT) 2
4.21 record 2
4.22 magnetic tape 2
4.23 Master Standard Reference Tape 3
4.24 Partition Boundary 3
© ISO/IEC 1998
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic
or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from the publisher.
ISO/IEC Copyright Office • Case Postale 56 • CH-1211 Genève 20 • Switzerland
Printed in Switzerland
ii
ISO/IEC   ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
4.25 Physical Beginning of Tape (PBOT) 3
4.26 Physical End of Tape (PEOT) 3
4.27 physical recording density 3
4.28 Reference Field 3
4.29 Secondary Standard Reference Tape 3
4.30 Standard Reference Amplitude (SRA) 3
4.31 Standard Reference Recording Current 3
4.32 Tape Reference Edge 3
4.33 Test Recording Current 3
4.34 track 3
4.35 Typical Field 3
4.36 uncompressed data 3
5 Conventions and notations 3
5.1 Representation of numbers 3
5.2 Names 4
6 Acronyms 4
7 Environment and safety 4
7.1 Testing environment 4
7.2 Operating environment 4
7.3 Storage environment 4
7.4 Transportation 4
7.5 Safety 5
7.6 Flammability 5
Section 2 - Requirements for the case 6
8 Dimensional and mechanical characteristics of the case 6
8.1 General 6
8.2 Overall dimension 6
8.3 Holding areas 7
8.4 Cartridge insertion 7
8.5 Window 8
8.6 Loading grips 8
8.7 Label areas 8
8.8 Datum areas and datum holes 8
8.9 Support Areas 9
8.10 Recognition holes 10
8.11 Write-inhibit hole 10
8.12 Pre-positioning surfaces 11
8.13 Cartridge lid 11
8.14 Cartridge reel lock 12
8.15 Reel access holes 13
8.16 Interface between the reels and the drive spindles 13
8.17 Light path 15
8.18 Position of the tape in the case 15
8.19 Tape path zone 16
8.20 Tape access cavity 16
8.21 Tape access cavity clearance requirements 16
Section 3 - Requirements for the Unrecorded Tape 33
9 Mechanical, physical and dimensional characteristics of the tape 33
9.1 Materials 33
iii
9.2 Tape length 33
9.2.1 Magnetic tape 33
9.2.2 Leader and trailer tapes 33
9.2.3 Splicing tape 33
9.3.1 Width of magnetic tape 33
9.3.2 Width of leader and trailer tapes 33
9.3.3 Width and position of splicing tape 33
9.4 Discontinuities 33
9.5 Thickness 33
9.5.1 Thickness of the magnetic tape 33
9.5.2 Thickness of leader and trailer tape 34
9.5.3 Thickness of the splicing tape 34
9.6 Longitudinal curvature 34
9.7 Cupping 34
9.8 Coating adhesion 34
9.9 Layer-to-layer adhesion 35
9.10 Tensile strength 35
9.10.1 Breaking strength 35
9.10.2 Yield strength 35
9.11 Residual elongation 35
9.12 Electrical resistance of coated surfaces 35
9.13 Tape winding 36
9.14 Light transmittance of tape 36
9.15 Media Recognition System (MRS) 36
10 Magnetic recording characteristics 37
10.1 Typical Field 37
10.2 Signal amplitude 38
10.3 Resolution 38
10.4 Overwrite 38
10.5 Ease of erasure 38
10.6 Tape quality 38
10.6.1 Missing pulses 38
10.6.2 Missing pulse zone 38
10.7 Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) 39
Section 4 - Requirements for an interchanged tape 40
11 Format 40
11.1 General 40
11.2 Information Matrix 41
11.2.1 Loading the Information Matrix 41
11.3 Sync Block 53
11.3.1 Sync Block Data 53
11.3.2 Sync Block Header 53
11.3.3 Sync Block Header in Preamble Zone 54
11.4 Data Zone 54
11.4.1 Identification and arrangement of Information Blocks in the Data Zone of a Frame 54
11.4.2 Identification and arrangement of Sync Blocks in Data Zone of a Track 55
iv
ISO/IEC   ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
12 Method of recording 55
12.1 Physical recording density 55
12.2 Long-term average bit cell length 55
12.3 Short-term average bit cell length 55
12.4 Rate of change 56
12.5 Bit shift 56
12.6 Read signal amplitude 56
12.7 Recording current 56
13 Track geometry 56
13.1 Track configuration 56
13.2 Average track pitch 57
13.3 Variations of the track pitch 57
13.4 Track width 57
13.5 Track angle 57
13.6 Track edge linearity 57
13.7 Track length 57
13.8 Data Zone reference 57
13.9 Azimuth angles 57
14 Recording pattern 57
14.1 Recorded Sync Block 57
14.2 Preamble Zone 57
14.3 Postamble Zone 57
15 Format of a track 58
15.1 Track capacity 58
15.2 Positioning accuracy 58
15.3 Tracking scheme 58
16 Layout of a Single Data Space tape 58
16.1 Frame type 58
16.1.1 Data Frame 58
16.1.2 Gap Frame 58
16.1.3 Long File Mark Frame 58
16.1.4 Short File Mark Frame 58
16.1.5 Set Mark Frame 58
16.1.6 End of Data Frame 58
16.1.7 Format Frame 59
16.1.8 Data Frame in System Area 59
16.2 Device Area 59
16.3 Reference Area 59
16.4 System Area 59
16.4.1 Guard Band No.1 59
16.4.2 System Log Preamble 59
16.4.3 System Log 59
16.4.4 System Log Postamble 59
16.4.5 Guard Band No.2 59
16.4.6 Data Area Preamble 59
16.5 Data Area 59
16.5.1 Long File Mark 59
16.5.2 Short File Mark 59
16.5.3 Set Mark 60
v
16.5.4 Write operation 60
16.5.5 Append and overwrite operations 60
16.5.6 Rewritten Frames 60
16.6 EOD Area 60
16.7 Post-EOD Area 60
17 Layout of a partitioned tape 61
17.1 Overall magnetic tape layout 61
17.1.1 Device Area 61
17.1.2 Partition 1 61
17.1.3 Partition 0 62
17.2 Partition Identification 62
Annexes
A - Measurement of light transmittance of tape and leaders 63
B - Measurement of Signal-to-Noise Ratio 66
C - Representation of 8-bit bytes by 10-bit patterns 67
D - Measurement of bit shift 75
E - Measurement of track edge linearity tolerance 78
F - Recommendations for transportation 79
G - Example of the content of a Data Block in the System Area 80
vi
ISO/IEC   ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (the International Electrotechnical Commission) form the
specialized system for worldwide standardization. National bodies that are members of ISO or IEC participate in the
development of International Standards through technical committees established by the respective organization to deal with
particular fields of technical activity. ISO and IEC technical committees collaborate in fields of mutual interest. Other
international organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO and IEC, also take part in the work.
In the field of information technology, ISO and IEC have established a joint technical committee, ISO/IEC JTC 1. Draft
International Standards adopted by the joint technical committee are circulated to national bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the national bodies casting a vote.
International Standard ISO/IEC 15718 was prepared by JISC (as Standard JIS X.6143-1997) with document support and
contribution from ECMA (ECMA-247) and was adopted, under a special “fast-track procedure”, by Joint Technical Committee
ISO/IEC JTC 1, Information technology, in parallel with its approval by national bodies of ISO and IEC.
Annexes A to E form an integral part of this International Standard. Annexes F and G are for information only.
.
vii
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD   ISO/IEC   ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Information technology — Data interchange on 8 mm wide magnetic tape
cartridge — Helical scan recording — HH-1 format
Section 1 - General
1Scope
This International Standard specifies the physical and magnetic characteristics of an 8 mm wide magnetic tape cartridge so as to
provide physical interchange of such cartridges between drives. It also specifies the quality of the recorded signals, the
recording method and the recorded format - called HH-1 format - thereby allowing for full data interchange between drives by
means of such magnetic tape cartridges.
Information interchange between systems also requires, as a minimum, agreement between the interchange parties upon the
interchange code(s) and the specifications of the structure and labelling of the information on the interchanged cartridge.
2 Conformance
2.1 Magnetic tape cartridge
A tape cartridge shall be in conformance with this International Standard if it meets all the mandatory requirements specified
herein. The tape requirements shall be satisfied throughout the extent of the tape.
2.2 Generating drive
A drive generating a magnetic tape cartridge for interchange shall be in conformance with this International Standard if all
recordings on the tape meet the mandatory requirements of this International Standard.
A claim of conformance shall state which of the following optional features are implemented and which are not
− the performing of a Read-After-Write check and the recording of any necessary rewritten frames;
− the generation of ECC3 Blocks.
In addition a claim of conformance shall state
− whether or not, registered data compression algorithm(s) are implemented within the system and are able to compress data
received from the host, and
− the registered identification number(s) of the implemented algorithm(s).
2.3 Receiving drive
A drive receiving a magnetic tape cartridge for interchange shall be in conformance with this International Standard if it is able
to handle any recording made on the tape according to this International Standard. In particular it shall
−
be able to recognize rewritten frames and to make available to the host, data and File Marks from only one of these frames;
− be able to recognize a ECC3 Block, and ignore it if the system is not capable of using ECC3 check bytes in a process of
error correction;
− be able to recognize compressed data, identify the algorithm used, and make the algorithm registration number available to
the host;
−
be able to make compressed data available to the host.
In addition a claim of conformance shall state
− whether or not the system is capable of using ECC3 check bytes in a process of error correction;
− whether or not one or more decompression algorithm(s) are implemented within the system, and are able to be applied to
compressed data prior to making such data available to the host;
−
the registered identification number(s) of the data compression algorithm(s) for which a complementary data decompression
algorithm is implemented.
− whether or not the system is capable of updating the System Log(s) if the Write-inhibit Hole state so permits.
3 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this International
Standard. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards are subject to revision, and parties to
agreements based on this International Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent
editions of the standards indicated below. Members of IEC and ISO maintain registers of currently valid International
Standards.
ISO 527-1:1993, Plastics — Determination of tensile properties — Part 1: General principles.
ISO 1302:1992, Technical drawings — Method of indicating surface texture.
ISO/IEC 11576:1995, Information technology — Procedure for the registration of algorithms for the lossless compression
of data.
IEC 950:1991, Safety of information technology equipment.
4 Definitions
For the purposes of this International Standard, the following definitions apply.
4.1 Absolute Frame Address: A sequence number, encoded in the Frame.
4.2 a.c. erase: A process of erasure utilising alternating magnetic fields of decaying intensity.
4.3 algorithm: A set of rules for transforming the logical representation of data.
4.4 Area ID:
Identifier of an area of the tape.
4.5 Average Signal Amplitude: The average peak-to-peak value of the output signal from the read head at the
specified physical recording density over a minimum of 20,7 mm of track, exclusive of missing pulses.
4.6 azimuth: The angular deviation, in degrees of arc, made by the mean flux transition line with a line normal to the
centreline of the recorded track.
4.7 back surface: The surface of the tape opposite to the magnetic coating which is used to record data.
4.8 bit cell: A distance along the track allocated for the recording of a Channel bit.
4.9 byte:
An ordered set of bits acted upon as a unit.
4.10 cartridge:
A case containing magnetic tape stored on twin hubs.
4.11 Channel bit: A bit after 8-10 transformation.
4.12 compressed data: Data which has been subjected to a compression algorithm.
4.13 Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) character: A 16-bit character obtained from a mathematical
calculation and used for error detection.
4.14 Data Format ID: An identifier specifying which data format is being used on the tape.
4.15 End of Data (EOD): The point on the tape at the end of the Frame which contains the last user data.
4.16 Error Correcting Code: A mathematical computation yielding check bytes used for the detection and cor-
rection of errors.
4.17 flux transition position: That point on a magnetic tape which exhibits the maximum free-space flux density
normal to the magnetic tape surface.
4.18 flux transition spacing: The distance along a track between successive flux transitions.
4.19 Frame: A pair of adjacent tracks with azimuths of opposite polarity, in which the track with the positive azimuth
precedes that with the negative azimuth.
4.20 Logical Beginning of Tape (LBOT):
The point along the length of the tape where a recording of data for
interchange commences.
4.21 Logical Record: Related data, from the host, treated as a unit of information.
4.22 magnetic tape: A tape which will accept and retain the magnetic signals intended for input, output and storage
purposes on computers and associated equipment.
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
4.23 Master Standard Reference Tape: A tape selected as the standard for a Reference Field, Signal Ampli-
tude, Resolution, Overwrite and Signal-to-Noise Ratio.
Note - The Master Standard Reference Tape has been established by the Reliability Center for Electronic Components of Japan (RCJ).
4.24 Partition Boundary: The point along the length of a magnetic tape at which partition 1 ends and partition 0
commences.
4.25 Physical Beginning of Tape (PBOT): The point where the leader tape is joined to the magnetic tape.
4.26 Physical End of Tape (PEOT): The point where the trailer tape is joined to the magnetic tape.
4.27 physical recording density: The number of recorded flux transitions per unit length of track, expressed in
flux transitions per millimetre (ftpmm).
4.28 Reference Field: The Typical Field of the Master Standard Reference Tape.
4.29 Secondary Standard Reference Tape (SSRT): A tape the performance of which is known and stated in
relation to that of the Master Standard Reference Tape.
Note - Secondary Standard Reference Tapes can be ordered from RCJ, 1-1-12 Hachiman-cho, Higashikurume, Tokyo 203, Japan, under Part Number JRM
6143 until the year 2006. In principle such tapes will be available for a period of 10 years from the first version of this Standard. However, by agreement
between ECMA and RCJ, this period may be shortened or extended to take account of demand for such SSRTs.
It is intended that these be used for calibrating tertiary reference tapes for use in routine calibration.
4.30 Standard Reference Amplitude (SRA): The Average Signal Amplitude derived from the Master
Standard Reference Tape when using the Test Recording Current and the recording density of 3 658,1 ftpmm.
Traceability to the SRA is provided by the calibration factors supplied with each Secondary Standard Reference Tape.
4.31 Standard Reference Current: The current that produces the Reference Field.
4.32 Tape Reference Edge: The lower edge of the tape when viewing the recording surface of the tape, with the
BOT splice to the observer's left.
4.33 Test Recording Current: The current that is used to record an SRA. It is 1,3 times the Standard Reference
Current.
4.34 track: A diagonally positioned area on the tape along which a series of magnetic signals may be recorded.
4.35 Typical Field: In the plot of Average Signal Amplitude against the recording field at the physical recording
density of 3 658,1 ftpmm, the minimum field that causes the Average Signal Amplitude equal to 90% of the maximum Average
Signal Amplitude.
4.36 uncompressed data: Data which has not been subjected to a compression algorithm.
5 Conventions and notations
5.1 Representation of numbers
− A measured value is rounded off to the least significant digit of the corresponding specified value. It implies that a specified
value of 1,26 with a positive tolerance of 0,01, and a negative tolerance of 0,02 allows a range of measured values from
1,235 to 1,275.
− Letters and digits in parentheses represent numbers in hexadecimal notation.
− The setting of a bit is denoted by ZERO or ONE.
− Numbers in binary notation and bit combinations are represented by strings of 0 and 1. Within such strings, X may be used
to indicate that the setting of a bit is not specified within the string.
− Numbers in binary notation and bit combinations are shown with the most significant byte to the left and with the most
significant bit in each byte to the left.
− Negative values of numbers in binary notation are given in TWO’ s complement.
− In each field the data is processed so that the most significant byte (byte 0) is processed first. Within each byte the most
significant bit (numbered 7 in an 8-bit byte) is processed first. This order of processing applies also to the data input to the
Error Detection and Correction circuits and to their outputs, unless otherwise stated.
5.2 Names
The names of basic elements, e.g. specific fields, are given with a capital initial letter.
6 Acronyms
BOT Beginning of Tape
CRC Cyclic Redundancy Check
ECC Error Correcting Code
EOD End of Data
LBOP Logical Beginning of Partition
LBOT Logical Beginning of Tape
LEOP Logical End of Partition
LEOT Logical End of Tape
PBOP Physical Beginning of Partition
PEOP Physical End of Partition
PBOT Physical Beginning of Tape
PEOT Physical End of Tape
SNR Signal-to-Noise-Ratio
SSRT Secondary Standard Reference Tape
7 Environment and safety
The conditions specified below refer to ambient conditions immediately surrounding the cartridge. Cartridges exposed to
environments outside these limits may still be able to function usefully; however, such exposure may cause permanent damage.
7.1 Testing environment
Unless otherwise specified, tests and measurements made on the cartridge to check the requirements of this International
Standard shall be carried out under the following conditions:
o o
temperature: 23 C ± 2 C
relative humidity: 40 % to 60 %
conditioning period before testing: 24 h
7.2 Operating environment
Cartridges used for data interchange shall be capable of operating under the following conditions:
o o
temperature: 5 C to 45 C
relative humidity: 20 % to 80 %
o
wet bulb temperature: 26 C max.
There shall be no deposit of moisture on or in the cartridge.
Conditioning before operating:
If a cartridge has been exposed during storage and/or transportation to a condition outside the above values, before use the
cartridge shall be conditioned in the operating environment for a time at least equal to the period during which it has been out
of the operating environment, up to a maximum of 24 h.
Note - Rapid variations of temperature should be avoided.
7.3 Storage environment
The following conditions shall be observed during storage of cartridges :
o o
temperature: 5 C to 32 C
relative humidity: 20 % to 60 %
The stray magnetic field at any point on the tape shall not exceed 4000 A/m. There shall be no deposit of moisture on or in the
cartridge.
7.4 Transportation
Recommended limits for the environment to which a cartridge may be subjected during transportation, and the precautions to
be taken to minimize the possibility of damage, are provided in annex F.
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
7.5 Safety
The cartridge and its components shall satisfy the requirements of IEC 950 when used in the intended manner or in any
foreseeable use in an information processing system.
7.6 Flammability
The cartridge and its components shall be made from materials which, if ignited from a match flame, do not continue to burn in
a still carbon dioxide atmosphere.
Section 2 - Requirements for the case
8 Dimensional and mechanical characteristics of the case
8.1 General
The cartridge shall consist of the following elements:
− a case
− recognition holes
− a write inhibit mechanism
− twin reels containing magnetic tape
− a locking mechanism for the reels
Dimensional characteristics are specified for those parameters deemed to be mandatory for interchange and compatible use of
the cartridge. Where there is freedom, of design, only the functional characteristics of the elements described are indicated. In
the figures a typical implementation is represented in third angle projections.
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the cartridge seen from the top.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the cartridge seen from the bottom.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of Reference Planes X, Y and Z.
Figure 4 shows the front side with the lid closed.
Figure 5 shows the left side with the lid closed.
Figure 6 shows the top side with the lid closed.
Figure 7 shows the right side with the lid closed.
Figure 8 shows the rear side with the lid closed.
Figure 9 shows the bottom side, datum and support areas.
Figure 10 shows the bottom side with the lid removed.
Figure 11 is the enlarged view of the datum and recognition holes.
Figure 12 are the cross-sections through the light path holes, the recognition holes and the write-inhibit hole.
Figure 13 shows details of the lid when closed, rotating and open.
Figure 14 shows the details of the lid release insertion channel.
Figure 15 shows the lid lock release requirements.
Figure 16 shows the reel lock release requirements.
Figure 17 shows the reel unlock force direction.
Figure 18 shows the lid release force direction.
Figure 19 shows the lid opening force direction.
Figure 20 shows the light path and light window.
Figure 21 shows the internal tape path and light path.
Figure 22 shows the cartridge reel and a cross-section view of the cartridge reel.
Figure 23 is a cross-section view of the cartridge reel interface with the drive spindle.
Figure 24 shows the tape access cavity clearance requirements.
The dimension are referred to three orthogonal Reference Planes X, Y and Z (see figure 3).
Plane X is perpendicular to Plane Z and passes through the centres of the Datum Holes A and B.
Plane Y is perpendicular to Plane X and Plane Z and passes through the centre of Datum Hole A.
Datum area A, B and C shall lie in Plane Z.
8.2 Overall dimension (figures 5 and 6)
The length of the case shall be
l = 62,5 mm ± 0,3 mm
The width of the case shall be
l = 95,0 mm ± 0,2 mm
The distance from the top of the case to Plane Z shall be
l
= 15,0 mm ± 0,2 mm
The distance from the rear side to Plane X shall be
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
l = 47,35 mm ± 0,15 mm
The distance from the right side to Plane Y shall be
l = 13,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
8.3 Holding areas
The holding areas shown hatched in figure 6 shall be the areas along which the cartridge shall be held down when inserted into
the drive. The distance of the holding areas from Plane X shall be
l = 12,0 mm max.
The width when measured from the edge of the case shall be
l = 3,0 mm min.
8.4 Cartridge insertion
The cartridge shall have asymmetrical features to prevent insertion into the drive in other than the correct orientation. These
consist of an insertion channel, a recess and an incline.
The insertion channel (figures 4 and 14) shall provide for an unobstructed path, when the lid is closed and locked, to unlock the
lid. The distance of the insertion channel from Plane Y shall be
l = 79,7 mm ± 0,2 mm
There shall be a chamfer at the beginning of the insertion channel defined by
l = 1,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 1,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
An additional chamfer further into the insertion channel shall be defined by
l = 0,7 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 1,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 3,8 mm ± 0,1 mm
The innermost width of the channel shall be
l = 1,0 mm min.
The thickness of the lid shall be
l = 1,2 mm ± 0,1 mm
There shall be a chamfer on the lid defined by
l = 0,8 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 1,2 mm ± 0,1 mm
The lid shall extend from the case a distance of
l = 0,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
The distance from the left side of the case to the lid lock shall be
l = 0,2 mm ± 0,2 mm
The height of the insertion area shall be
l = 2,3 mm min.
+ 0,2 mm
l = 2,5 mm
- 0,0 mm
The recess is located on the right side of the cartridge. The position and dimensions (figures 5, 7 and 10) shall be defined by
l = 7,5 mm max.
l = 11,0 mm ± 0,2 mm
l = 1,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
The depth of the recess shall be
l = 1,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
The incline (figure 13a) is part of the lid structure. The distance of the incline from Plane X shall be defined by
+ 0,0 mm
l = 7,7 mm
- 2,5 mm
The angle of the incline shall be
o o
a
= 20 ± 1
The incline shall end when it intersects the radius r (see clause 8.13).
8.5 Window (figure 1)
A window may be provided on the top side so that parts of the reels are visible. The window, if provided, shall not extend
beyond the height of the cartridge.
8.6 Loading grips (figures 5 and 7)
The cartridge shall have recessed loading grips on each side to aid an automatic loading mechanism.
The distance from Plane X to the centreline of the loading grip shall be
l = 39,35 mm ± 0,20 mm;
The distance from Plane Z on the bottom side and from the top side shall be
l = 1,5 mm ± 0,1 mm;
The width of the indent shall be
l
= 5,0 mm ± 0,3 mm;
The depth of the indent shall be
l = 2,0 mm ± 0,2 mm;
and the angle of the indent
o o
a = 90 ± 5 .
8.7 Label areas (figures 6 and 8)
A portion of the rear side of the cartridge and a portion of the top side of the cartridge may be used for labels. The position and
the size of the labels shall not interfere with the operation or clearance requirements of the cartridge component parts.
The area used for labels on the top side shall not extend beyond the inner edge of the holding areas defined by l and l .
6 7
The position and dimensions of the label area on the rear side shall be defined by
l = 0,5 mm min.
l = 1,5 mm min.
l = 80,0 mm max.
The depth of the label area s shall be 0,3 mm max.
8.8 Datum areas and datum holes
The annular datum areas A, B and C shall lie in Plane Z (see figures 9, 10 and 11). They determine the vertical position of the
cartridge in the drive. Each shall have a diameter d equal to 6,0 mm ± 0,1 mm and be concentric with the respective datum
hole.
The centres of datum holes A and B lie in Plane X.
The centre of the circular datum hole A shall be at the intersection of planes X and Y (see figure 10).
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
The distance from the centre of datum hole B to Plane Y (see figure 9) shall be
l = 68,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
The distance from the centre of the circular datum hole C to Plane Y (see figure 11) shall be
l = 10,20 mm ± 0,05 mm
The distance from the centre of datum hole D to Plane Y (see figure 11) shall be
l = 79,2 mm ± 0,2 mm
The distance from the centres of datum holes C and D to Plane X (see figure 10) shall be
l = 36,35 mm ± 0,08 mm
The thickness of the case in the datum areas shall be
l = 1,2 mm ± 0,1 mm
The diameter at the bottom of datum hole A and datum hole C shall be
l = 2,6 mm min.
The depth of the holes shall be
l = 4,0 mm min.
The upper diameter of datum holes A and C shall be
+ 0,05 mm
l = 3,00 mm
- 0,00 mm
This diameter shall be to a depth of
l = 1,5 mm min.
There shall be a chamfer around the outside of datum hole A and datum hole C defined by
l = 0,3 mm max.
o o
a
= 45 ± 1
The width at the bottom of datum holes B and D shall be l .
The depth of the holes shall be l .
The dimensions at the top of the holes shall be
l = 3,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
+ 0,05 mm
l = 3,00 mm
- 0,00 mm
r = 1,75 mm ± 0,05 mm
This width shall be to a depth l .
There shall be a chamfer around the outside of datum holes B and D defined by l and a .
43 3
8.9 Support areas (figure 9)
The cartridge Support areas are shown shaded in figure 9. Support areas A’, B’ and C’ shall be coplanar with Datum areas A, B
and C, respectively, within 0,1 mm. Support area D’ shall be coplanar with Plane Z within 0,15 mm.
The areas within l of the edge of the cartridge shall be recessed from the Support Areas.
l = 0,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
Support areas A’ and B’ shall extend from Plane X towards the front of the case a distance
l = 10,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
Support areas A’ and B’ shall extend from the centre of the Datum holes toward the outside of the case a distance l .
Support areas A’ and B’ shall extend from the centre of the Datum holes toward the inside of the case a distance of
l = 11,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
Support areas A’ and B’ shall extend from Plane X toward the rear of the case a distance of
l = 7,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
The distance of Support areas C’ and D’ from Plane X shall be
l = 30,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
The dimensions of Support areas C’ and D’ shall be defined by l and
l = 5,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 64,5 mm ± 0,2 mm
8.10 Recognition holes (figures 10, 11 and 12)
There shall be 5 recognition holes numbered 1 to 5 as shown in figure 11.
The centre of recognition hole 1 shall be defined by
l = 43,35 mm ± 0,15 mm
l = 6,4 mm ± 0,1 mm
The centre of recognition hole 2 shall be defined by l and l .
54 57
The centre of recognition hole 3 shall be defined by l and
l = 79,0 mm ± 0,2 mm
The centre of recognition hole 4 shall be defined by
l = 3,7 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 2,3 mm ± 0,1 mm
The centre of recognition hole 5 shall be defined by l and l .
55 56
All recognition holes shall have the cross-section E-E and F-F shown in figure 12 and shall have a diameter of 3,0 mm ± 0,1
mm.
The depth of a closed recognition hole below Plane Z shall be
+0,3 mm
l = 1,2 mm
- 0,1 mm
The depth of an open recognition hole below Plane Z shall be
l = 5,0 mm min.
One of the cross-sections shows a recognition hole closed by a plug. The other shows one hole with the plug punched out and
the other hole closed by a plug. These plugs shall withstand an applied force of 0,5 N max. without being punched out.
This International Standard prescribes the following states of these holes.
− Recognition hole 1 shall be closed.
− Recognition hole 2 shall be open
− Recognition hole 3 shall be open
− Recognition hole 4 shall be closed.
− Recognition hole 5 shall be open.
8.11 Write-inhibit hole (figures 11 and 12)
The centre of the Write-inhibit hole shall be defined by l and
l = 10,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
The diameter of the hole shall be 3,0 mm ± 0,1 mm.
The depth of a closed Write-inhibit hole below Plane Z shall be l .
The depth of an open Write-inhibit hole below Plane Z shall l
When the Write-inhibit hole is open, recording on the tape is inhibited. When it is closed, recording is enabled.
The case may have a movable element allowing the write-inhibit hole to be opened or closed. If present, this element shall be
such that the state of the write-inhibit hole shall be visible (see figure 8 as an example). The write-inhibit hole closure shall be
constructed to withstand a force of 0,5 N. The force required to open or close the write-inhibit hole shall be between 1 N and
15 N.
8.12 Pre-positioning surfaces (figures 4 and 10)
These surfaces determine the position of the cartridge when it is inserted into the drive loading slot.
The distance from Plane Z to the surface on which the tape reference edge rests (figure 4) shall be
+ 0,0 mm
l = 2,4 mm
- 0,1 mm
Positioning of the cartridge relative to Plane Y shall be controlled by the surfaces defined by
l = 1,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 69,0 mm ± 0,2 mm
Positioning of the cartridge relative to Plane X shall be controlled by the surfaces defined by
l = 14,65 mm ± 0,10 mm
The position and angle of the chamfer at the edge of this surface shall be defined by
l = 13,15 mm ± 0,10 mm
o o
a = 45 ± 1
8.13 Cartridge lid (figures 6 and 13)
The cartridge shall have a lid for protection of the tape during handling, storage and transportation. The lid consists of two
parts, the main part and an auxiliary part.
The main part rotates around axis A (see figure 13) the position of which is fixed relative to the case.
The location of axis A shall be defined by
+ 0,05 mm
l = 0,55 mm
- 0,10 mm
l = 7,5 mm ± 0,1 mm
The auxiliary part rotates around axis B the position of which is fixed relative to the main part of the lid and moves with it.
When the lid is in the closed position, the location of axis B shall be defined by
l = 7,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 10,1 mm ± 0,1 mm
The rotation of the auxiliary part is controlled by a cam at each end to give the path indicated in figure 13.
The auxiliary part, when fully opened, shall allow a clearance of
l = 14,8 mm min.
+ 0,2 mm
l = 11,5 mm
- 0,0 mm
l = 1,2 mm ± 0,1 mm
When the lid is completely open, neither part shall extend above a plane located l above and parallel to Plane Z.
l = 22,3 mm max.
The angle to the bottom of the lid from Plane Z when the lid is completely open shall be
o
+ 1
o
a = 85
o
- 2
When the lid is in a partially open position, neither part shall extend above a plane located l above and parallel to Plane Z.
l = 22,5 mm max.
The path of the top of the lid as it opens shall be defined by
r = 14,9 mm max.
The start point of the incline on the case that meets the lid (cross-section B-B in figure 6) shall be defined by
l = 8,4 mm max.
The height of the lid from Plane Z (figure 13) shall be
+ 0,0 mm
l = 15,2 mm
- 0,5 mm
The front of the lid measured from Plane X shall be
+ 0,0 mm
l = 15,3 mm
- 0,3 mm
The inside of the lid shall provide clearance for the tape defined by
l = 13,15 mm ± 0,10 mm
The top front of the lid shall have a radius r . The centre of the radius shall be axis A.
+ 0,0 mm
r = 14,7 mm
- 0,3 mm
The design of the locking mechanism is not specified by this International Standard except that is shall be operated by a release
pin in the drive. The lid release mechanism shall be actuated when the drive release pin is in the shaded area (see figure 15)
defined by
l = 2,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 8,2 mm ± 0,2 mm
l = 0,7 mm ± 0,2 mm
o o
a = 30 ± 1
The force required to unlock the lid lock shall not exceed 0,25 N in the direction shown in figure 18.
The force required to open the lid shall not exceed 1,0 N in the direction shown in figure 19.
8.14 Cartridge reel lock (figure 16)
The reels shall be locked when the cartridge is removed from the tape drive. The design of the locking mechanism is not
specified by this International Standard except that it shall be operated by a release pin in the drive.
The locking mechanism shall be accessed through a rectangular hole in the case (see figure 10) defined by the centreline from
Plane Y
l = 34,5 mm ± 0,1 mm;
the top from Plane X
l = 35,85 mm ± 0,15 mm;
and
l = 4,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
l = 6,5 mm min.
The dimension of the locking mechanism shall be defined by
+ 0,3 mm
l = 3,2 mm
- 0,2 mm
l = 4,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
o o
a = 60,0 ± 1,0
The reels shall be locked when the operating face of the release pin is located l from Plane X.
+ 2,0 mm
l = 39,0 mm
- 0,0 mm
The reels shall be unlocked when the operating face of the release pin is located l from Plane X.
+ 0,50 mm
l = 41,75 mm
- 0,00 mm
In this position there shall be a clearance of l between the locking mechanism and the inside of the rear wall of the cartridge.
l = 0,5 mm min.
The pin used to move the locking mechanism shall penetrate the cartridge a distance of
l = 7,8 mm max.
The cavity of the locking mechanism shall be defined by
l = 4,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
r = 0,3 mm max.
The force required to unlock the reel lock in the direction shown in figure 17 shall not exceed 1,0 N.
8.15 Reel access holes (figure 10)
The case shall have two circular reel access holes which shall allow penetration of the drive spindles.
The positions of the access holes shall be defined by
l = 23,00 mm ± 0,05 mm
l = 11,40 mm ± 0,05 mm
l = 46,2 mm ± 0,1 mm
The diameter of the holes shall be
d = 18,80 mm ± 0,05 mm
8.16 Interface between the reels and the drive spindles
The drive spindles (see figures 22 and 23) shall engage the reels in the area defined by
l = 11,75 mm ± 0,15 mm
l = 8,30 mm ± 0,05 mm
l = 0,6 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 0,3 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 1,10 mm ± 0,05 mm
l = 0,6 mm max.
l = 5,4 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 4,4 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 0,6 mm max.
+ 0,08 mm
d = 10,00 mm
- 0,00 mm
d = 16,0 mm max.
+ 0,0 mm
d = 18,0 mm
- 0,1 mm
+ 0,0 mm
d = 16,0 mm
- 0,1 mm
+ 0,0 mm
d = 45,1 mm
- 0,5 mm
+ 0,0 mm
d = 45,1 mm
- 0,2 mm
There shall be a chamfer of the reel driving hole defined by
l = 2,4 mm ± 0,1 mm
o o
a = 15 ± 1
There shall be a chamfer at the bottom of the reel on the outside edge defined by
l = 0,2 mm max.
o o
a = 45 ± 1
The position and width of the slots to receive the reel drive spindle shall be defined by
+ 0,2 mm
l = 2,4 mm
- 0,0 mm
o o
a = 60 ± 1
The teeth in the reel driving hole shall have a radius
r = 0,2 mm max.
The depth l of the reel driving hole shall be effective to the diameter d .
108 3
l = 9,4 mm min.
+ 0,08 mm
d = 6,50 mm
- 0,00 mm
When the tape is loaded in the drive, the position of the tape centre relative to Plane Z shall be
l = 7,05 mm ± 0,10 mm
When the tape is loaded in the drive, the position of the reel relative to Plane Z shall be
l = 0,6 mm ± 0,2 mm
The penetration of the reel drive spindle into the reel shall be defined by
l = 7,5 mm max.
l = 8,0 mm max.
l = 1,20 mm ± 0,05 mm
l = 1,40 mm ± 0,05 mm
0 o
a = 60 ± 1
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
When the cartridge is mounted in the drive and the Support areas are at a distance l from Plane Z, the reel spring force F
shall be 0,6 N ± 0,2 N in the direction shown in figure 23.
8.17 Light path (figures 10, 12, 20 and 21)
A light path shall be provided for sensing the leader and trailer tapes. When the lid is open, an unobstructed light path shall
exist from the d diameter light path hole to the outside of the cartridge via square windows in the light path hole (see cross-
section D-D in figure 12) and the light window in the cartridge lid.
The centre of the light path hole shall be defined by l and
l = 8,35 mm ± 0,10 mm
The diameter of the light path hole shall be
+ 0,3 mm
d = 6,5 mm
- 0,0 mm
The light path hole shall have a chamfer defined by
l = 0,5 mm max.
o o
a = 45 ± 1
The position and size of the square window on each side of the light path hole shall be
l = 6,05 mm ± 0,10 mm
+ 0,4 mm
l = 2,5 mm
- 0,0 mm
The hole shall be deep enough to allow penetration of a light emitter a distance of
l = 12,5 mm min.
The angle of the light path shall be
o o
a = 5,50 ± 0,25
The position and size of the cartridge lid window shall be
l = 3,8 mm ± 0,1 mm
+ 0,4 mm
l = 2,5 mm
- 0,0 mm
l = 6,05 mm ± 0,10 mm
8.18 Position of the tape in the case (figure 21)
The tape shall run between two guide surfaces in a plane parallel to Plane X and l from it.
l = 10,15 mm ± 0,10 mm
The guide surfaces shall have a radius of r and shall be tangential, as shown in figure 21, to lines tangential to the reel hubs
that extend to points outside the case.
r = 3,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
These points shall be defined by
l = 76,28 mm ± 0,30 mm
l = 27,15 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 31,15 mm ± 0,20 mm
l = 9,67 mm ± 0,10 mm
8.19 Tape path zone
When the cartridge is inserted into the drive, the tape is pulled outside the case by tape guides and is no longer in contact with
the guide surfaces. The tape path zone (see figure 21) of the case is the zone in which the tape shall be able to move freely. This
zone shall be maintained for both sides of the case and shall be defined by l to l and
124 127
l = 23,0 mm ± 0,1 mm
l = 0,3 mm min.
l = 46,2 mm ± 0,2 mm
l = 11,4 mm ± 0,1 mm
The clearance between the tape and the guides shall be defined by
l = 0,3 mm min.
8.20 Tape access cavity (figure 10)
When the cartridge is inserted into the drive, tape guides in the drive pull the tape into the drive tape path. The two radii r are
centred on Datum holes A and B. The shape and dimensions of the access cavity for these tape guides shall be defined by l
and l , and the following
r = 2,3 mm ± 0,1 mm
The two radii r are centred on the centres of the reel access holes.
r = 24,15 mm ± 0,10 mm
l = 3,85 mm ± 0,10 mm
8.21 Tape access cavity clearance requirements (figure 24)
The case design shall provide clearance for drive tape threading mechanisms and shall be defined by
l = 1,2 mm max.
+ 0,20 mm
l = 1,15 mm
- 0,00 mm
+ 0,0 mm
l = 14,0 mm
- 0,2 mm
l = 66,8 mm min.
l = 10,0 mm min.
l = 14,8 mm ± 0,1 mm
o
a = 49 max.
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Figure 1 - Tape cartridge assembly top view, lid opened
Figure 2 - Tape cartridge assembly bottom view, lid closed
Figure 3 - Reference Planes X, Y, and Z
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Figure 9 - Bottom side, Datum and Support areas
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Figure 10 - Bottom side, lid removed
Figure 11 - Details of datum and recognition holes
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Figure 12 - Cross-sections of light path holes, recognition holes and write-inhibit hole
Figure 13 - Lid
ISO/IEC  ISO/IEC 15718:1998 (E)
Figure 14 - Lid release insertion channel
Figure 15 - Lid release requirement
Figure 16 -
...