Abstract
This paper describes a method which uses a tape-guide technology simulated with FEM for stabilizing the running of ultra thin tape needed for high density recordings. The running errors of the ultra thin tape are caused by the rotating resistance of the drum. In order to solve this problem a new tape-guide technology has been developed which forces the tape to go along the lead of the drum by establishing an acute angle between the lead of the drum and the direction that the tape is going as it goes along the drum. The results from the simulation show that if the value of the angle is more than 0.03° it is possible to restrain the errors to less than 0. 5μm. An experiment, using real materials and conducted to test the result of the simulation-analysis, shows a number of less than 5μm of trackstraightness errors and the tape-running is very stable. This method enables the usage of thinner tape. The thinness of the tape contributes to the VTR's long-recording capability and compactness.
