TRI-DATA CartriFile 40 User manual

Instruction Manual
TR I DA
TA 800 Maude Avenue/Mountain View/CA 94040
-
,I, Phone [phone]/TWX 910-379-6978

CartriFile 40
Section
II
III
CONTENTS
INTERFACE ..... .
DESCRIPTION . . . . .
INTRODUCTION
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION
Tape Drive Assembly
Electronics Assembly
Power Supply .
Front Panel. .
Tape Cartridges
SPECIFICATIONS
Physical Characteristics.
Dimensions and Weight.
Environment . . . .
Title
Input Power Requirements
Input/Output and Power Connectors
Operational Characteristics
Input/Output Signal Levels
Tape Motion . . .
Recording Technique
Record Format
Data
Transfer. . .
Inter-Record Gaps .
Beginning-of-Tape and End-of-Tape
Data Transfer Rate . . . .
Data Transfer Time Per Record
Load-Point Search Time
Data Storage Capacity .
1000 Series Tape Cartridges
INSTALLATION. .
GENERAL
...
INSTALLATION.
Table-Top Placement
Rack Mounting
Power Connection
Grounding. . .
Remote Load-Point Search Control.
Interface Connections
OPERATION .....
INTRODUCTION
CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
Application of Power
Cartridge Insertion and Removal.
Remote Load-Point Search Control.
AUTOMATIC OPERATIONS.
Write Sequence and Timing
Read Sequence and Timing
Read Timing Variations. .
Load-Point Search and Status
Bits-Per-Word Format Selection.
1
Page
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-2
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-5
1-5
1-5
1-5
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-2
2-2
2-2
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-3
3-4
3-4
3-4
iii

TRI-DATA
Section
IV
v
iv
CONTENTS (Continued)
THEORY OF OPERATION .
GENERAL ..... .
RECORDING TECHNIQUE
TAPE TRANSPORT. .
CIRCUIT OPERATION
Power Supplies . .
Title
Power Supply 10947-1 .
Regulator Board 10790-0 .
Motion Control . . . . .
Load-Point Sensing. . .
Pinchroller Actuator Driver
Load-Point Search Operation.
Write/Read Start Operations .
Write/Read Stop Operations .
Write Electronics. . . . . .
Timing & Data Board 10748-0
Write Drivers . .
Read
Electronics. . . . . .
Read Preamplifiers . . . .
Read Amplifier Board 10746-1
Timing & Data Board 10786-0
Interface Electronics.
INTRODUCTION
DAILY MAINTENANCE
YEARLY MAINTENANCE
Capstan Motor Lubrication
Drive Belt Replacement.
Lamp Replacement. . .
Actuator Adjustment . .
Electronics Checkout and Adjustment.
Regulator Board 10790-0. .
Read Amplifier Board 10746-1
Photosense Board 10972-0
3- YEAR MAINTENANCE
Capstan Motor Replacement. .
Capstan Assembly Replacement .
Cooling Fan Replacement. . .
MAGNETIC HEAD MAINTENANCE
Head Alignment . .
Head
Wear ....
Head Replacement .
TROUBLESHOOTING.
"
CartriFile 40
Page.
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-3
4-3
4~3
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-6
4-6
4-8
4 ... 8
4-8
4-8
4-11
4-11
5-1
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-4
5-4
5-5
5-5
5-5
5-5
5-6
5-6
5-8
5-9
5-9

CartriFile 40
Table
1-1
1-2
3-1
3-2
4-1
4-2
5-1
5-2
Figure
1-1
3-1
3-2
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-10
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-13
5-14
5-15
5-16
TABLES
Input Power . . .
Data Transfer Rates .
Write Clock Timing .
Read Clock Timing .
CartriFile 40 Mnemonics
Time Delay Adjustments
Maintenance Schedule
Problem Analysis. . .
Title
ILLUSTRATIONS
Title
Mounting Dimensions and Clearances
Write Timing Relationships
Read Timing Relationships
Write/Read Waveforms of 16-Bit Data Word 1010100110010101.
Tape Transport Mechanism
Photosense Assembly . . .
Write Operation Block Diagram
Write Timing Diagram . . .
Read Operation Block Diagram
Read Timing Diagram . .
Actuator Adjustment Points .
Read Amplifier TP6. . . .
Location of Electronics Assemblies, Connectors, and Terminals
Power Supply Terminals . . . . .
Head Alignment Checkout Waveforms.
Azimuth Alignment. .
Vertical Alignment . . . .
Head Adjustment Screws . .
Read Amplifier Board 10746-1
Timing & Data Board 10786-0
Motion Control 1 Board Assembly 10788-0
Regulator Board 10790-0. . . .
Motion Control 2 Board
10968-0 .
Photosense & Lamp Board 10972-0
Actuator Driver Board 10974-0 .
Transport Board
10976-0. . . .
TRI-DATA
Page
1-2
1-5
3-2
3-4
4-3
4-5
5-1
5-9
Page
1-3
3-2
3-3
4-1
4-2
4-4
4-6
4-7
4-9
4-10
5-2
5-3
5-3
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-8
5-8
5-11
5-12
5-13
5-14
5-15
5-16
5-17
5-18
v

TRJ-OATA
SECTION I
DESCRIPTION
INTRODUCTION The CartriFile® 40 cartridge-loaded digital magnetic tape unit is used with small digital
computers, data terminals, and off-line data entry and readout stations. The unit contains
a four-cartridge tape transport, all necessary read/write electronics, and a power supply. Tri-Data 1000 series single-tape
cartridges are used as the recording medium. Each cartridge contains an endless-loop magnetic tape, with the photoreflective
load-point marker serving
to indicate both the beginning and the end of the tape loop. The CartriFile 40 tape unit can
be loaded with one, two, three,
or four cartridges in any slot or combination of slots.
CartriFile
40 tape units are available with interface electronics for all widely used minicomputers or with standard
interfacing for those who wish to build their own special interfaces. Details
of the interface equipment supplied with
this CartriFile 40 tape unit are presented in the separate INTERFACE section in the front of this manual.
EQUIPM
ENT The CartriFile 40 magnetic tape unit is supplied in a cabinet suitable for desk or table-top
DESCRIPTION mounting. Four single-cartridges, an a-c power cable, and one copy of the CartriFile
Instruction Manual are supplied with each unit. In addition, either the standard interface equipment or interfacing for a
specific type of computer
is furnished, as requested. Brackets for mounting the cabinet into a 19-inch equipment rack
are also supplied.
The major assemblies of the CartriFile 40 tape unit are the tape transport, the electronics, the power supply, the front
panel, and the cartridges. Descriptions
of these assemblies are given below. Details of operation are given in Section III.
Tape Drive Assembly
The tape drive assembly contains the electromechanical
components for driving the tape, the read/write heads, the
load point sensors and buffers, the write driver amplifiers,
the read amplifiers, and the sensors for detecting proper
cartridge insertion and the write enabled status
of the
individual tapes. The tape drive assembly
is mounted
within the cabinet on a hinge so that it can be swung
outward for servicing.
Tape drive occurs in a "forward only" direction and is
accomplished by a constantly rotating capstan and a
pinchroller actuator. The actuator engages a pinchroller
. (located within the cartridge), clamping the tape against
the capstan. The tape is started, driven, and stopped by
energizing and de-energizing the actuator for
that particular
tape. The four tapes are actuated independently.
The capstan drive motor operates from either
GO-Hz or
50-Hz power; however, the pulley on the drive shaft is
equipped with two drive belt grooves to accommodate
differences in operating speeds. Units sold domestically
are furnished with the drive belt positioned in the "GO-Hz"
groove; for 50-Hz operation, the pulley must be reversed
and the belt engaged with the "50-Hz" groove.
®CartriFile is a registered trademark of Tri-Data Corporation.
The front of the transport serves as a mount for five
lamps and a power switch. The upper and lower lamps
light when the associated tape is in motion. The center
lamp lights when power
is supplied to the tape unit.The
lamps illuminate plastic buttons in the front panel. The
power switch is located below the cartridge slots; it is
provided as a servicing aid and is normally left in the
"on" position.
Electronics Assembly
The electronics assembly card rack contains six printed
circuit boards and an extender board. The printed circuit
boards contain the read and write timing and signal
amplification circuits, data registers, and power regulation
circuits. The boards can be removed from the front of
the cabinet, and the extender board
is provided to bring
any
of the boards forward for servicing while the unit
is operating.
Input/output signals for the tape unit are run through a
single cable from the card cage
to connector J3, which
is normally mounted on the rear panel. An alternate
location for J3, toward the front of the cabinet, permits
.the installation of an interface circuit board within
the cabinet.
1-1

TRf-OATA
Power Supply
The power supply provides the power requirements of
the tape unit from an a-c line source and also includes
a small fan for cooling the unit. The power supply
is an
integral part of the rear panel assembly, which is hinged
to the cabinet frame and swings outward for access to
power supply components.
The power supply operates at a line frequency
of either 60
Hz or 50 Hz. The input voltage can be either 105-125 v ac
or 210-250 v ac, depending upon the setting of a
two-position slide switch mounted on the rear panel.
The primary power input connector, fuseholder, and fuse
are also located on the rear panel.
Connector
J2 on the rear panel is provided for optional
remote load-point search control.
By grounding the
appropriate line through J2, a tape can be brought to
load
point without a programmed instruction or other
command through the controller.
Front Panel
The front panel is attached to the CartriFile tape unit
by a stud and catch on each end. To remove the panel,
grasp the panel near the cartridge slot area and pull
outward. The front panel contains no operating controls.
Five plastic buttons to the right
of the cartridge slots
are illuminated by transport-mounted lamps
to indicate
"tape in motion" and "power-on".
Tape Cartridges
Each
1000 series cartridge contains a single endless-loop
tape. A photoreflective Load Point marker on the tape
determines the "beginning" and
"end" of the tape. Write
lockout
is provided on the cartridge by a Protect/Enable
switch.
An integral slide cover encloses the tape completely
when the cartridge
is not in use. The front of each
cartridge has a surface suitable for writing file identification
information.
SPECI FICA TlONS The specifications which follow include physical dimensions, environmental considerations,
and various operating and timing characteristics
of the CartriFile 40 tape unit. Specifications
for the Tri-Data tape cartridges are also given. For specifications for the interface equipment supplied with this tape
unit, refer
to the separate INTERFACE section at the front of this manual.
Physical Characteristics
Specifications for CartriFile
40 dimensions, environmental
conditions, power requirements, and connectors are given
below.
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
External dimensions, mounting dimensions, and clearances
for the CartriFile
40 tape unit are shown in Figure 1-1.
The tape unit weighs approximately 34 pounds.
ENVIRONMENT
The CartriFile 40 tape unit will operate in an ambient
temperature range
of +40°F to +110°F and at any relative
humidity between
20% and 90% without condensation.
The
unit will also operate at any altitude between sea
level and 10,000 feet.
INPUT POWER REQUIREMENTS
Maximum input power of 180 watts is required in any of
four voltage frequency combinations. The CartriFile 40
tape unit will meet all specifications when the input
power
is within the ranges given in Table 1-1.
1-2
Table 1-1. Input Power
VOLTAGE FREQUENCY
NOMINAL RANGE RANGE
115 vac, 60
Hz 105 vac to 125 vac 57 Hz to 63 Hz
115 vac, 50 Hz 105 vac to 125 vac 47 Hz to 53 Hz
230 vac, 60 Hz
210 vac to 250 vac 57 Hz to 63 Hz
230 vac, 50 Hz 210 vac to 250 vac
47 Hz to 53 Hz
INPUT/OUTPUT AND POWER CONNECTORS
Connector J3, for data and control inputs and outputs,
is located at the left rear of the CartriFile 40 tape unit.
Detailed information on this connector and
the signals
carried on the connector pins
is presented in the separate
INTERF
ACE section.
The power connector, J1,
is recessed into the rear panel.
A power cord which mates with J1
is supplied; its
opposite end
is fitted with a standard male U-ground plug.

I-'
I
~
~
~
~
I-'
I
I-'
~
o
s::
:::l
0;
::s
!IO.
t:1
s"
(!)
::s
en
g"
en
§
c..
9
(!)
i
(!)
en
,------1 --,
1
1 I
I 1 1-3/4 1I
'I r I
l-------~-------~
------- -- --...,
1 1
1
1
\
\
\
\\\ \
9_ 112
TAPE TRANSPORT
SWING-OUT CLEARANCE
\ \
"-
"-
"-
"
"-
"-
'-
'-
~-____t-I-- - - - - - --,
1 1
1 1
I 1000 SERIES :
I CARTRIDGE
I 1
I 1
I
I
1
L_--,
L-_--+-L ______ ..J
1
1
1
1
----.
I
1
1
1
1
I
1
:----
TAPE TRANSPORT 1
r------.....J
1
1
1
I
_.-1
I 1
1 1
1 I
: I
I
I
I
I
I
I
POWER I
SUPPLY I r>--.....
A-C
POWER
CABLE
:.------:3:-- I.~ ------------------l
I I I
I
I
I
I
1
I
I
I
1
1
1
CLEARANCE FOR
ELECTRONICS CARD
ON EXTENDER BOARD
I 1
I ELECTRONICS 1
I CARD CAGE 1
I I
1
I 1 I 1
---
L _________ _ L _________________ ~
L ___ ~
1I\ 110 CONNE~TOR
I
I
I ; --------~--------, C I'
Ii r::=::::s \ ~ )
t~13/41-
SPECIAL
INTERFACE CARD
(NORMAL POSITION)
OPTIONAL
ADDITIONAL
CARD POSITIONS
r-- - ----- ---
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
CARTRIDGE
INSERTIONIREMOVAL
CLEARANCE
L _______ , __ _
.... 1-3/4 ... )
RACK MOUNT
BRACKET
13-1/2 .1__ 2-3/4_
-------1
I
1-- I
I I
I
~RACKMOUNT
i BRACKET
I
I
I
L_
-L
318
REMOVE FEET
FOR RACK MOUNTING
I
1
1
17
- ---- ----------------,
13_1/
1
POWER SUPPLY
SWING-OUT CLEARANCE
/
./
./
/'
/'
/'
/'
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
!
/
/, ,
/
I
I
/
/
,
I
I
I
1131

Operational Characteristics
The following paragraphs describe the operational
characteristics
of the CartriFile 40 tape unit: signal
levels, tape motion, data transfer rate and storage capacity,
and so forth.
INPUT/OUTPUT SIGNAL LEVELS
CartriFile 40 input and output circuitry uses
Transistor-Transistor Logic (TTL), +2.5 to +5.0 v for
High
and -0.5 to +0.5 v for Low. Sink current requirements
for a Low input
will not exceed 2 rna. The outputs can
supply 1 rna
at minimum High voltage and can sink
10 ma at maximum Low voltage.
TAPE MOTION
The tape is driven at 10 inches per second in a "forward"
direction in the three operating modes: Write Tape, Read
Tape, and Load-Point Search. "Reverse" or "backspace"
tape movement is not possible.
RECORDING TECHNIQUE
The CartriFile 40 tape unit employs a bit-serial
phase-encoded, two-track recording technique with
record-error detection.
RECORD FORMAT
Records of sequential data words are written on the tape,
with the records separated by
gaps. Each record may
contain any number of words,
as determined by the
external control unit during writing.
The data words may contain 8, 12, or 16 bits. Either
8 or
12 bits-per-word formats may be program-selected
by the external control unit
or fixed by wiring the select
input
to ground at the interface. For 16 bpw, no ground
connection
is required.
DATA TRANSFER
The data words are transferred in and out bit-parallel.
The data are written on the tapes bit-serial, with internal
circuitry making the parallel-to-serial conversion during
Writing and the serial-to-parallel conversion during Reading.
The using external control unit (e.g., digital computer)
has wide latitude in servicing the data transfers during
both Writing and Reading. During Writing, a Write Data
Clock pulse output occurs at a fixed rate; the using control
unit has the major portion
of the period between each
Data Clock
to input the data word with a Write Data
Transfer
input pulse. During Reading, the data outputs
may be sampled by the external control unit at any time
1-4
during the major portion of the period between Read
Clock pulse outputs. Precise timing for the data transfers
is given in Section III, OPERATION.
INTER-RECORD GAPS
In Writing each record, a Write Start delay of 16 msec
and a Write Stop delay
of 8 msec accommodate the
start- and stop-tape motion transients and provide the
time for writing a 0.16-inch (maximum length) inter-record
gap. Internal circuitry times both delays and controls the
tape motion and gap writing.
After reading each record, internal circuitry recognizes
the inter-record gap remaining to accommodate the start
transient prior to reading the next record. The Read
Start and Read Stop delays are 9.5 msec and 4.75 msec,
respectively.
BEGINNING-OF-TAPE AND END-OF-TAPE
A 3-inch long photoreflective Load Point marker affixed
to the continuous-loop tape marks both the beginning
and the end of the tape. Each tape passes a photosensor
before reaching the magnetic head; the 1.45-inch separation
between the photosensorand head provides for the following
beginning-of-tape timing and end-of-tape warning.
On writing the first record on a tape, a Write Start delay
of 375 msec
is initiated after the Load Point marker passes
the photosensor
to assure adequate beginning-of-tape
gap. The resulting total Write Start or Read Start delay
for the first record
is therefore between 375 and 675
msec, depending upon the exact Load Point position
of the tape when the Start Command input occurs.
An end-of-tape warning is provided during Writing when
the leading edge of-the marker passes under the photosensor
and causes the Load Point status line for the tape to
go
True. When this occurs, 1.2 inches of the tape (up to
180 8-bit words) may be written before a Write Stop
Command
is mandatory.
DATA TRANSFER RATE
The bit rate is 18,000 bits per second, recording 900
bits to the inch (at 10 inches per second) on two tracks.
The written tape format
is bit-serial, and a Start bit is
added to each half-word prior to writing it on the tape.
The transfer rate during either writing or reading
is
therefore:
18,000
Transfer Rate = B+2 words per second,
where B
is the number of data bits in each word at the
data input and data
output (Table 1-2).

Table 1-2. Data Transfer Rates
Word Length Peak Transfer Rate
8 bits 1800 words/second
12 bits 1286 words/second
16 bits 1000 words/second
DATA TRANSFER TIME PER RECORD
When writing records at the maximum rate, the elapsed
time for each record
is
Time per record
where B
N
0.025
(B + 2)N
18,000 + 0.025 second,
data bits per word
record length in words, and
the sum
of the Write Start and Write
Stop delays,
with the exception
that an additional 0.375- to 0.675-sec
Write Start delay occurs at the beginning of each tape.
When reading records
at the maximum rate, the elapsed
time for each record is
(B + 2)N
Time per record = 18,000 + 0.020 second,
where B
N
0.020
data bits per word (8, 12, or 16),
record length in words, and
the sum
of the Read Start and Read
Stop delays,
with the exception
that an additional 0.375- to 0.675-sec
Read Start delay occurs at the beginning of each tape.
LOAD-POINT SEARCH TIME
Upon receipt of a Load-Point Search command input,
the tape
is advanced at 10 inches per second until the
Load Point marker
is reached. Load-Point Search time
is directly proportional to the length of tape remaining
on the tape loop
at the time of the Load-Point Search
command input.
L
Load-Point Search Time = 10 seconds,
where L
is the length of tape remaining (in inches).
Average search time for a
150-foot file is 90 seconds.
TRI-OATA
DATA STORAGE CAPACITY
The data storage capacity on each tape varies with the
bits-per-word and words-per-record format written and
the length
of the tape. The total storage available in the
unit without reloading
is the capacity of the four tapes
with which it
is loaded. The tape length required per
record
is
(B + 2)N
Tape length per record = 2 x 900 + 0.16 inch,
where B
N
900
0.16
data bits per word,
words per record,
CartriFile recording density in bits
per inch, and
inter-record
gap (maximum).
The tape length required
to store a number of records
is the sum of the lengths required for each record plus
3 inches for the Load Point marker and initial record
gap.
For fixed record lengths, the capacity of a tape in
records
is
. Total inches tape - 3 inches
Record capaCIty = Inches Tape per Record
The capacity in words
is the capacity in records times
the words per record.
For data in 1,000-character records,
the capacity
of a 150-foot tape is 300,000 8-bit words.
System capacity for the same data
is 1,200,000 8-bit words.
1000 Series Tape Cartridges
Tape Length
Size
File Protect
Tape
Certification
Model 1010:
Model 1025:
Model 1050:
Model 1150:
10 feet
25 feet
50 feet
150 feet
4 inches wide by 6 inches long
by
7/8 inches thick.
Self-locking switch with integral
position indicator.
Endless loop
of 1/4-inch wide
computer-grade magnetic tape. One
per cartridge.
Tape
is tested and certified
error-free.
1-5

TRf-OATA
SECTION II
INSTALLATION
GENERAL The CartriFile 40 tape unit shipment consists of the tape unit itself, four 1000 Series
single-tape cartridges, one Instruction Manual, an a-c power cord, and interface equipment.
Brackets and hardware for rack mounting are also included. The interface equipment shipped depends
on the type of
interface ordered. Refer to the INTERFACE section for information on the equipmentsupplies and installation instructions.
Be certain that all parts have been unpacked before discarding the packing material.
INST AL LA TION The CartriFile 40 tape unit is designed for operation at sites that are not subject to shock,
vibration, or wide ranges
of ambient temperature. The CartriFile cabinet is suitable for placing
on a desk or table top. Brackets for mounting the cabinet
into a standard 19-inch rack are included. In either case, the unit
should be
mounted to provide access to the front and rear of the cabinet. Installation consists of placing the unit in its
selected location and making the power and interface connections.
Table-Top Placement
If the CartriFile tape unit is to be positioned on a desk
or table top, the only requirements are a level surface, a
location close enough
to the computer or controlling
device
to provide for safe installation of the connecting
cables and the power cord, and availability
of access to
the front of the cabinet for cartridge insertion and removal.
Access
to the rear of the cabinet is necessary only for
cable installation and for servicing.
Four rubber feet are
provided
on the bottom of the cabinet to prevent marring
the mounting surface.
Rack Mounting
The CartriFile 40 cabinet requires 7 inches of vertical
space in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. In addition,
the
10404-0 Rack Mount Adapter Assembly (two brackets
and two covers, plus hardware) must be installed on the
cabinet. Installation
is as follows.
1. Two 1/4-20 socket drive set screws are located near
the front
of each side panel on the cabinet. Carefully
remove enough paint
to insert a l/S-inch hex key and
withdraw the set screws.
2. Note that there is a left-hand and a right-hand
bracket. Install each one
on its matching side panel using
the
1/4-20 hardware provided.
3. Remove the four rubber feet from the bottom of
the cabinet, then mount the cabinet in the equipment
rack.
4. Install the
rack-mount covers by engaging the lip
with the
bottom of the bracket. Lift up against the spring,
push in at the top, then release. The spring will pull
the cover down, engaging the pin
at the top.
Power Connection
CAUTION
The CartriFile tape unit may be operated
at 115 v nominal or at 230 v nominal.
To avoid damaging the equipment, the
line selector slide switch on the rear
panel must be in
the proper position
before connecting power
to the tape unit.
An a-c power switch
is located behind the front panel
below the cartridge slots on the transport. This switch
is normally left in the "on" position so that power is
applied when the power cable is connected.
Connect the female end
of the a-c power cord to the
recessed power receptacle, J1,
on the rear panel. The
male end
of the power cord connects to any standard
V-ground receptacle.
The CartriFile power supply will operate
at a line frequency
of 50 Hz to 60 Hz. The capstan drive motor will also
operate
at either frequency, but pulley diameters must
be changed to accommodate the differences in rotational
speed. The pulley on the
motor shaft is provided with
two grooves for the drive belt: units sold domestically
are furnished with the belt positioned on the 60-Hz
2-1

TRI-DATA
(smaller diameter) pulley groove. The change from 60-Hz
to 50-Hz operation is made as follows.
1. Remove the front panel by reaching through a
cartridge slot, grasping the panel, and pulling outward.
The front panel
is held by two spring catches, one at the
extreme left center and one
at the extreme right center.
2. Remove the transport retaining screw (above the
upper right-hand corner
of the transport), and swing the
transport outward on its hinge.
3. Disengage the drive belt from the groove in the
small pulley, then withdraw it over the capstan flywheel.
4. Loosen the two set screws in the
motor pulley
with a 0.050-inch hex key. Remove the pulley from the
motor shaft.
5. Reverse the pulley and place
it back on the shaft.
Align the large diameter (50-Hz) pulley groove with the
groove in the capstan flywheel, then tighten the two set
screws securely.
6. Install the drive belt first
in the flywheel groove,
then stretch
it gently and engage it in the groove in the
large pulley.
7. Swing the transport back into the cabinet, install
the transport retaining screw, and snap the front panel
onto the cabinet.
2-2
Grounding
On the CartriFile rear panel are two ground terminals,
SIGNAL and CHASSIS. The tape
unit is shipped with these
terminals tied together. Depending
on system grounding
requirements, the jumper can be removed from these
terminals; however, CartriFile SIGNAL and CHASSIS
grounds must be connected together
at some point in
the system.
Remote Load-Point Search Control
Connector J2 on the CartriFile rear panel provides for
optional remote control
of the Load-Point Search operation.
Supplying a ground through the mating plug (Switchcraft
12CL5M), switches tape 1 (pin 1), tape 2 (pin 2), tape 3
(pin 3), or tape 4 (pin 4) into the Load-Point Search
mode. (Pin 5
is ground.) The mating plug may be ordered
through Tri-Data
as part no. 00021':'015.
Interface Connections
Installation of the interface equipment supplied with
the CartriFile 40 tape unit is presented in the separate
INTERFACE section in the front
of this manual. Interface
equipment manufactured by Tri-Data Corporation can
be used in the various CartriFile models: when referring
to the INTERFACE section, note that the information
presented covers the CartriFile
40 tape unit and the other
CartriFilemodels which use the same interface equipment.

SECTION III
OPERATION
INTRODUCTION The CartriFile 40 tape unit operates automatically under the control of a data processing
system. Under Automatic control, the data processing or controlling system may command
the CartriFile tape
unit to Read, Write, or Load-Point Search its tapes. (Refer to Section I for limitations regarding
such commands.) Manual operations are limited
to inserting and removing the tape cartridges.
CONTROLS AND The CartriFile 40 front panel contains five plastic indicator buttons which are lighted,
IN DI CA TO RS from behind by lamps mounted on the tape transport. The upper and lower (white) indicators
are lighted whenever the associated tape
is "busy", i.e., in motion during a Read, Write, or Load-Point Search operation.
The center (red) indicator is lighted whenever power is applied to the CartriFile tape unit.
An a-c power switch is located behind the front panel below the cartridge slots on the transport. This switch is primarily
a service aid and
is normally left in the "on" position. On the rear panel, provision is made for optional remote control
of Load-Point Search operations through connector J2.
Application of Power
Connect the a-c power cable to a power outlet and check
that the transport power switch, located below the
cartridge slots, is in the "on" position. The center
indicator on the front panel will light (red) when power
is applied.
,Cartridge Insertion and Removal
Before inserting a cartridge, move the cover door to its
recessed position and set the Protect/Enable switch
appropriately.
When the cartridge switch indicates
PROTECT, the tape is file-protected. Moving the switch
in and to the right sets the switch in the ENABLE
position, permitting data
to be written on the tape. A
plastic switch lock can be inserted on the
top of the slide
switch
to keep the switch from being accidentally moved.
Slide the cartridge into the cartridge slot until it seats.
To remove the cartridge, simply pull outward.
If the
cartridge
is not to be used again immediately, slide the
cover door
out and across the open end to exclude dust
and other contaminants from the tape and pinchroller.
Remote Load-Point Search Control
Connector J2 on the CartriFile rear panel is provided for
optional remote control
of Load-Point Search, an operation
normally initiated
by command from the data handling
system. Grounding the appropriate line
(J2-1 for tape 1,
J2-2 for tape 2, J2-3 for tape 3, J2-4 for tape 4) places
the tape
in the Load-Point Search mode.
AUTOMATIC The automatic operations initiated by commands from the data processing system include
OP E RA T IONS the Write sequence and timing, the Read sequence and timing, and the Load-Point Search
sequence. These operations and the bits-per-word format selection are described in the paragraphs which follow. The
CartriFile
40 tape unit operates in either the Write mode or the Read mode for only one selected tape at a time. The
Load-Point Search mode can be initiated for any tape at any time.
Write Sequence and Timing
Figure 3-1 shows the time relationships of input and
output signals associated with writing a record on a tape.
Only one tape can be processed at a time. With the Write
Select Tape (1, 2, 3,
or 4) input True, a Write Start input
pulse commits the selected tape to write a record. The
Write Mode and Busy (1,
2, 3, or 4) status lines go True
at the initiation of the pulse. At the fall of the pulse,
the tape drive circuits are enabled and an internal Write
Start delay is initiated.
A Write Clock
output pulse occurs 16 msec after the
fall
of the Write Start input pulse (the delay is between
375 and 675 msec
at the beginning of each tape), and
subsequent Write Clock outputs occur at a fixed rate
until a Write Stop
input pulse is received.
3-1

TRI-DATA
TAPE
SELECT
WRITE START
(WSTC)
TAPE BUSY
WRITE MODE
+5V
OV
WRITE CLOCK
(RWCL)
~
-
-
-
WRITE WORD TRAN
(WXFR)
SFER
DATA BITS (DBT)
WRITE STOP
(WSPC)
w---
r
A
W r
.I
,
,
16 msec, except at
beginning
of tape:
375 to 675 msec
1
WXFR -r
BPW
PERIOD
8 0.4 msec
12 0.5
msec
16 0.8 msec.r
r
'1' - OV
'0' - +5V
A
,
,
Ji
r
.A
, ......---
A
'r
r---
A
.,
BPW RWCL PERIOD
8 0.56 msec
__ 8msec_
12 0.78 msec
16 1.00 msec
.A
W W W W r
C\ .1
.A
t:1WA v/A~ WdLJ V///hi
,
t%'WORD OJ
VWORD/j
VWOR~
.A
J
'L/AVLl
,
Figure 3-1. Write Timing Relationships
After each Write Clock
output pulse, either a Write
Word Transfer
input pulse or a Write Stop input pulse
must occur within a fixed time period (as listed in
Table 3-1),
or else the last previously transferred data
word
will be repeated on the tape. A Write Word
Transfer input pulse will set the data input registers
being used
to a "1" or "0" state, determined by whether
the data bit inputs are
ONE or ZERO at the time the
Write Word Transfer pulse occurs. At the end
of the fixed
period, if a Write Stop input pulse has not been received,
internal circuitry samples the input registers
and transfers
the data
to a parallel-to-serial converter. As the data are
written on the tape from the converter, the
input register
is ready to accept the next data word.
Table 3-1. Write Clock Timing
TIME SPAN FOR WRITE
WORD
TRANSFER OR WRITE STOP
TIME BETWEEN WRITE INPUT INSERTION
BITS-PER-WORD SELECTION CLOCK OUTPUTS FOLLOWING WRITE
CLOCK OUTPUT
8 bits 0.56 msec 0.4 msec
12 bits 0.78 msec 0.6 msec
16 bits 1.00 msec 0.8 msec
3-2

A Write Stop input commits the tape that is writing to
terminate the record and stop. Further Write Clock
outputs are inhibited.
At the time at which the next Write
Clock would have occurred had the Write Stop input
not occurred, the tape drive circuitry is de-energized and
an internal 8-msec assurance time delay
is initiated. At
the end of this delay, the Write Mode and Busy status
lines
go False. An exception to this happens when
a Load-Point Search input occurs while the record
is
being written: at the completion of the record, the Busy
status line will remain True and a Load-Point Search
operation will begin immediately. The Write Mode status
will
go False.
Note
that the CartriFile 40 tape unit can be operated
as a Write Only unit by removal of the Read Amplifier
circuit board. Removing this board inhibits the Read
Start command.
TAPE
SELECT
READ START
(RSTC)
TAPE BUSY
READ MODE
READ CLOCK
(RWCL)
DATA BITS
(DBT)
+5V
OV
(MAY BE SAMPLED
AT ANY TIME BETWE
RWCL RISE AND NEX
=::L
-
-
-
EN
TFALL
U __
y
-A
W y
A
Y
~
Y
16 msec, except at
~
beginning of tape:
375 to 675 msec.
.A
r
'1' ~OV
'0' = +5V
I%' WORD /:
r
U-
TRI-DATA
Read Sequence and Timing
Figure 3-2 shows the time relationships of the input and
output signals associated with reading a record from the
tape.
With the Read Select Tape (1, 2, 3,
or 4) input True, a
Read Start
input pulse commits the tape to read a record.
The Read Mode and Busy (1, 2, 3,
or 4) status lines go True
at the initiation of the pulse. At the fall of the pulse,
the tape drive circuits are enabled and an internal Read
Start delay is initiated.
The first data word
is encountered and read from the
tape approximately 16 msec after the fall
of the Read
Start input pulse (at the beginning of the tape, the delay
will be between 375 and 675 msec). Subsequent Read
Clock
outputs occur as each data word is read from the
A
r
A
r
I---
.4
~r
I---
.4
y
BPW RWCL PERIOD
8 -0.56 msec
12 -0.78 msec
16 -1.00 msec
J
U-
W y
~W9RD :/
!«'WORDX
V,/; WORD //.
A
----
f-- "" 0.5 msec ,
~
INTER-RECORD GAP ~
3 msec
DETECTED I
INTERNALLY
I
Figure 3-2. Read Timing Relationships
3-3

TRI-OATA
tape. The data bit outputs will be ONE or ZERO,
representing the word read from the tape continuously
from the time
of the fall of the Read Clock output
pulse until the time of the next Read Clock output pulse.
When the last word
of the record has been read, internal
circuitry recognizes the absence
of data in the inter-record
gap and de-energizes the tape drive. After a 4.75-msec
delay, the Read Mode and Busy status lines
go True.
An exception to this happens when a Load-Point Search
input occurs while the record
is being read: at the
completion
of the record, the Busy status line will
remain True and a Load-Point Search operation will
begin immediately. The Read Mode status will
go False.
If an error has been detected, the Record Error output
goes True at the time of the Read Clock output and
remains True until the Read Start Command for the next
record occurs,
at which time Record Error is reset to False.
Read Timing Variations
The 16-msec Read Start Delay and the times between
Read Clock outputs (shown in Figure
3-2, in Table 3-2,
and in Section I) are determined by times at which data
are read from the tape; they are therefore varied by
all
conditions that change the tape length or the tape speed
between writing and reading the data. The CartriFile
has adequate margin
to operate normally with the Read
tape speed departing from the Write tape speed by
as
much as ±20%.
Table 3-2. Read Clock Timing
BITS-PER-WORD NOMINAL TIME BETWEEN
SELECTION READ CLOCK OUTPUTS
8 0.56 msec
12
0.78 msec
16
1.00 msec
Load-Point Search and Status
A Load-Point Search input pulse normally causes one of
three actions on the tape and its status outputs.
If the tape is at Load Point when the Load-Point Search
input occurs, no tape motion results. It is recommended
however,
that a Load-Point Search command always be
given
to a newly loaded tape for the following reason:
the
output of a flip-flop in the Load Point circuitry
3-4
determines whether a normal (short) start delay or a Load
Point (long) start delay will be initiated. The short delay
is used during normal writing or reading. The output of
this flip-flop may be set such that a normal (short)
start delay will be actuated even though a new cartridge
tape which is already at Load Point has been inserted
and the long start delay
is required to clear the Load
Point Marker. A Load-Point Search command, however,
will reset the flip-flop so
that the long start delay will
be actuated.
If the tape is not at Load Point and not being written
or read when the Load Point Search input occurs, a
Load Point Search sequence results. The Busy status
output goes True, and the tape is advanced until it
reaches its Load Point. At Load Point, the tape stops and
the Busy status
output goes False.
If the tape is being written or read when the Load
Point Search input occurs, writing or reading will continue
until the record
is completed. Then the Load-Point
Search sequence described above will occur.
The Load Point status
output is True when the tape is
at Load Point and False when it is not.
Bits-Per-Word Format Selection
The data input and output registers provide for up to
16 parallel data bits in each word. The internal circuitry
is set by the Bits-Per-Word Select inputs to write and
read
8-bit parallel data words using only the first 8 data
bit inputs and outputs, or for
12-bit parallel words using
the first 12, or for
16-bit parallel words using all 16.
The word transfer rate for each bits-per-word format is
a different constant since the data are written on the
tapes bit-serially
at a constant bit rate.
If the bits-per-word format to be used in a particular
CartriFiIe installation
is to be fixed, the Bits-Per-Word
Select input may be pre-wired
at the interface for the
format used.
If the bits-per-word format is selected under
program control:
The Bits-Per-Word Select
input must be held True
during writing a record from the time
of initiation of the
Write Start pulse until the record
is complete.
The Bits-Per-Word Select
input must be held True
during reading a record from the time of initiation of the
Read
Start pulse until the record has been completed,
and the select input must be the same
as that used in
writing the record.

TRI-OATA
SECTION IV
THEORY OF OPERATION
GENERAL The CartriFile 40 tape unit consists essentially of a tape transport mechanism for driving
four magnetic tapes, tape motion control logic, Read/Write electronics, and power supplies.
In this section, the recording technique and the tape transport are discussed first, followed by circuit descriptions for
all of
the circuit boards within the tape unit. Interface circuit boards are discussed in the separate INTERFACE section.
In general, the CartriFile 40 tape unit performs three basic operations: writing data, reading recorded data, and searching
for the Load Point marker. In a Write operation, after tape motion
is initiated, input data bits in parallel form are converted
to serial form, phase-encoded, and recorded on the tape on two tracks. At the end of a record, tape motion
is stopped
by command. In a Read operation, tape motion
is initiated, and flux transitions on the tape are detected. Timing is
reconstructed and the data assembled bit by bit. There is also error detection. When a word is completely assembled in a
register,
it is made available for strobing out in parallel form. Detection of the inter-record gap automatically stops tape
motion.
When Load-Point searching, the selected tape is driven forward until a photoreflective marker attached to the tape
loop
is sensed, generating a signal which stops tape motion.
RECORDING The recording technique used in the CartriFile 40 tape unit is the phase-encoded,
TECHNI au E non-return-to-zero type, which is self-clocking. Figure 4-1 shows the recording and playback
waveforms
of a 16-bit data word. Data "ones" are recorded as positive transitions and "zeros" as negative transitions.
Note that there
is always a transition at data times, and a half-cell transition occurs only if the next data cell hasthe
same data value. The half-cell transition
is opposite to the next data cell value.
DATA CELL I i 1 I
VALUE ISYNC 1 I 1 I 0 I 1 o I 0 I 0
CHANNEL A . I I I I I I I
________ +H
CHANNEL B
WRITE
DATA ...,
Mag. Field l:iJ
CHANNEL A
READ
DATA
(emf)
CHANNEL B
READ
DATA
(emf)"
r
r:
I s I I I
I y I 0 I I
I N I 0 0 I
·1
0
c
I I I I
-------+H
L..- __ ....,~(f-r _ .....f:
I I ~ 1/2 CELL TRANSITION (SAMPLE)I
I ~DATATRANSITION I
141'---- SYNC TRANSITION I
I I
1 I ________ +V
--------v
-------+v
_____ -V
Figure 4-1. Write/Read Waveforms of 16~Bit Data Word 1010100110010101
4-1

TRI-DATA
Information is recorded on the tape in serial-bit form at 900 bits per inch on two tracks, designated channel A and channel
B. The data word is broken into two half-words: the odd-numbered bits are recorded on channel A, the even-numbered
bits on channel
B. The channels are independent of each other, except at the start of each word when both tracks are
made to record a "one". The detection
of this .first positive transition is used as a "start" bit for timing purposes during
reading.
TAPE The Tape Transport consists
of the capstan and drive motor, two pinchroller actuator
TRANSPORT assemblies, two actuator drivers, and Read/Write head assemblies, Write drivers, Read
preamplifiers, and Load Point sensing circuits. The electronics associated with the Tape Transport
are located on three circuit
boards mounted to the transport frame. The pinchroller.
is part of the cartridge itself and is mechanically coupled to the
pinchroller arm when the cartridge
is inserted into the transport. A Protect/Enable switch for the tape and a cartridge-insert
switch for each cartridge are used for interlocking and status indications.
When power is applied to the tape unit, an a-c motor continuously drives the capstan (Figure 4-2). Each cartridge
contains a continuous-loop tape which passes in front of its pinchroller. The solenoid-actuated arm, engaged with the
pinchroller, pulls the pinchroller againstthe capstan, forcing the tape against the capstan.
While in contact with the
capstan, the tape
is driven at 10 inches per second. In this manner, the tape is pulled past a two-track magnetic head
assembly. (The same head
is used for both Read and Write functions.)
4-2
TAPE
PACK
ARMATURE-
PINCHROLLER ARM
R/WHEAD
SOLENOID
CARTRIDGE
Figure 4-2. Tape Transport Mechanism
PINCHROLLER
CAPSTAN
A-CMOTOR

TRI-DATA
CI RCU IT The electronic operation of the CartriFile 40 tape unit is described below under four major
OPERATION 'divisions: Power Supplies, Motion Control, Write Electronics, and Read Electronics. The
circuitry
is contained primarily on six printed circuit boards in the card cage and two printed circuit boards mounted
on the transport. The transport frame also mounts the photosense circuit board and the tape motion indicator lamps.
The power supply chassis
is located on the hinged rear panel. In tracing some of the functional operations, it is necessary
to follow signal paths on several
of the schematics; the schematics carry the assembly numbers of the circuit boards and
are located in Section VI. The overall interconnection diagram
is schematic 99005.
The logic circuits used throughout are TTL and DTL types. Logic operation is described in terms of Positive Logic, where
a high
is +2.5 to +5 volts and a low is -0.5 to +0.5 volts. CartriFile mnemonics for the signals are listed in Table 4-1.
A bar over the mnemonic on a signal line indicates
that the "true" level is low for that function. Integrated circuit gates
are shown as NAND gates on the schematics. References to logic sections
of an integrated circuit package are made by
package number and
output pin: for example, ML4-6 designates pin 6 of package ML4.
Table
4-1. CartriFile 40 Mnemonics
MNEMONIC FUNCTION
BPW 8, 12 Bits per word select (8 or 12)
CISW (X) Cartridge insert switch (tape X)
DBT (1-16) Data bit (1 through 16)
FPSW (X) File-protect switch (tape X)
FWD (X) Forward drive (tape X)
HSLD (X) Head (X) selected for write or read
LPA (X) Load Point attained (tape X)
LPSC Load-Point Search command
PSN (X) Photosensor for tape (X)
RDCL Read data clock
RESET Resets certain circuits at power-on
RERR Record error
RM Read mode
RSLD (X) Read selected (tape
X)
RSTC Read Start command
RWCL Read or Write clock
TSLP Tape selected
is at Load Point
T(X)BY Tape (X) busy
T(X)FP Tape (X) file-protected
T(X)LP Tape (X)
at Load Point
T(X)OL Tape (X) on line
T(X)SL Tape (X) select
T(X)SM Tape (X) in Search mode
WDCL
Write clock
WM
Write mode
WSLD (X) Write selected (tape X)
WSPC Write Stop command
WSTC Write Start command
WXFR Write word transfer
(X) indicates tape 1,
2, 3, or 4
Power Supplies
All the necessary power for the internal operation of the
tape unit and, in some cases, power for external interface
circuitry
is supplied by two units, the Power Supply and
the Regulator board.
POWER SUPPLY 10947-1
Incoming a-c power is applied to transformer T1 through
a switch on the
front of the transport. Switch Sl is
used for changing the T1 primaries from parallel to series
connection when the a-c
input is 230 v ac instead of115
v ac. Three of the four secondaries of T1 connect to
full-wave rectifier-capacitor circuits
to supply the +15 v,
-15 v, and +5 v regulators. The +30 v unregulated supply
is used for the pinchroller actuators and load-point lamp
regulator.
B1 is a fan (115 v) placed across one of the
T1 primaries.
REGULATOR BOARD 10790-0
The Regulator board contains the circuitry for power
regulation and Reset control and some circuits associated
with the Write Clock and Load-Point Search functions.
With power off, the normally
off contact of K1 grounds
the Reset line. When power
is applied initially, a 100-msec
delay occurs before the Reset line is switched to "high".
The delay results from C1 charging up to 10 volts (set
by Zener diode CR3),
at which point Q1, Q2 turns on
and energizes K1.
ML18, ML19, and ML17 and associated components
are series regulators for the +5
v, +15 v, and -15 v supplies,
respectively. The regulators are current-limited
by R23,
R22, and R24, with the
output voltages adjusted by
potentiometers R20, R13, and R16. Q3 and Q4 are used
to turn
off the 15 v supplies rapidly to avoid Write
transients when power
is turned off. The falling of the
+5 v supply turns off Q3, allowing Q4 to turn on (since
the unregulated +20 v remains high for a longer period),
thereby switching
off the 15 v regulators through CR5
and CR6.
4-3