This standard, for an unrecorded cartridge containing 0.250 in (6.30 mm) magnetic tape, presents the minimum requirements for the mechanical and magnetic interchangeability of the cartridge between information processing systems, communication systems, and associated equipment utilizing a standard code for information interchange, as agreed upon by interchange parties. This standard refers solely to the magnetic tape and cartridge with various lengths of tape for digital recording, and complements American National Standard Recorded Magnetic Tape Cartridge for Information Interchange, 4 Track, 0.250 in (6.30 mm), 1600 bpi (63 bpmm), Phase Encoded, ANSI X3.56-1977.

The magnetic tape cartridge consists of two coplanar hubs loaded with 0.250 in (6.30 mm) wide magnetic tape (see figure 1). The tape is transported between hubs by an internal belt which is coupled by an internal belt capstan to the external drive. No tape-driving or position-sensing elements penetrate the cartridge.

This standard applies to cartridges used for data interchange. Where it applies to cartridge testing only, it is specifically stated.

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