Explains format of data on magnetic tape and process of reading and writing data to tape, and discusses sources of tape errors (physically damaged tape, unclean tape, magnetic alteration of data on tape, unclean or defective tape drive); correcting and/or bypassing tape errors; and care, storage, and shipment of tapes. (EJS)

A disk sector utility program (called TRAX) was designed and developed since a computer aid capable of inspecting and modifying the byte data on a disk platter, independent of any other program or system, was not commercially available. This report: (1) provides an overview of the TRAX system; (2) briefly describes the major system options; and…

Reviews requirements for a data archive system and describes storage media alternatives that are currently available. Topics discussed include data storage; data distribution; hierarchical storage architecture, including inline storage, online storage, nearline storage, and offline storage; magnetic disks; optical disks; conventional magnetic…

Discusses the need to back up computer files, and describes the technological evolution of back-up methods. Reviews tape drive and external hard drive back-up products offered by computer companies and presents back-up strategies to use with all back-up methods. A sidebar lists information on the reviewed products. (JMV)

Administrative Terminal Systems (ATS) operations are detailed, the use of ATS for text processing is evaluated in comparison with the IBM Magnetic Tape Selectric Typewriter (MTST), and the importance of the interaction of ATS with computer peripherals is described. (8 references) (Author/NH)

Reports a survey conducted by the Bibliographical Center for Research to determine the extent of variations for entering local data on the part of BCR OCLC libraries. The results are presented along with a discussion of alternative practices and their impact on the processing of OCLC tapes. References are included. (Author/RAA)

This report outlines a generalized storage scheme for large files of highly structured data, or catalogs, and describes their realization on magnetic tape. Each datum, large or small, is assigned to one of a number of data classes of which a user may define any number. The over-all organization of a catalog is given by a map that imposes a tree…

Describes the advantages of optical data disk-based storage systems including cost, performance, and space required. Conversion from tape-based to optical disk-based data management via a flexible, hardware-based optical archiving system is discussed. (Author/LRW)

Part 1 presents the chemistry, physics, and engineering technology associated with magnetic and optical disks. This part explores the subjects of archiving, security, validation and certification, and protection. Questions and issues are raised in each of the areas that both users and vendors should be aware. (JN)

Examines trends in the mass storage of information using optical disks, focusing on applications and various types of systems. Includes a list of optical disk drive products with manufacturer, product, capacity, and access time. (JN)

Examines the vocabulary and chemistry of magnetic- and optical-disk storage technologies as well as their applications to the analytical laboratory. This information will allow chemists to select the proper disk systems for their laboratories and to evaluate vendors' claims. (JN)

Reviews terminology inherent in discussing microcomputer storage technologies and addresses aspects of magnetic storage and present and near-future technologies, including floppy disks, Winchester and removable hard disks, optical digital disks, optical video disks, (audio) compact disks, perpendicular magnetic recording, and erasable optical…

Reviews computer storage devices designed to provide additional memory for microcomputers--chips, floppy disks, hard disks, optical disks--and describes how secondary storage is used (file transfer, formatting, ingredients of incompatibility); disk/controller/software triplet; magnetic tape backup; storage volatility; disk emulator; and…

Provides an introduction to the technical aspects of digital audiotape and compares it to other computer storage devices such as optical data disks and magnetic tape cartridges in terms of capacity, transfer rate, and cost. The current development of digital audiotape standards is also discussed. (five references) (CLB)

Intended for use by data processing installation managers, operating personnel, and technical staff, this publication provides a comprehensive set of care and handling guidelines for the physical/chemical preservation of computer magnetic storage media--principally computer magnetic tapes--and their stored data. Emphasis is placed on media…