10 Dec
2003
10 Dec
'03
6:49 a.m.
in the absence of manuals I had to dismantle it to
find out how I *should have* dismantled it
www.bitsavers.org/pdf/hp/tape/07970-90887_7970svc_Dec77.pdf
This was for the B series, but the mechanics are the same as the A.
Is the oxide coating stable
Depends on the formulation. Early 80's formulas (esp. Memorex) will (has..) become
unusable.
I've personally had much less problems with 3M formulations.
The long term prospects of tape transports with any rubber parts is not good, either.
Almost all of the 1/4" cartridge tape drives I own are inoperable because the drive
pinch rollers have turned to goo.