Technical information

2.2.17 TF85 Tape Drive
The TF85 is a cartridge tape subsystem that can store up to 2.6 Gbytes.
The TF85 is a streaming tape drive with a built-in DSSI (Digital Storage
Systems Interconnect) controller, and can be used as a part of a DSSI
VAXcluster.
Functional Information
Recording media Magnetic, metal-particle tape
Tape dimensions 1.27 cm (0.5 in) wide, 366 m (1100 ft) long
Mode of operation Streaming
Recording method Serpentine
Recording density 42,500 bits/in
Number of tracks 48
Storage capacity 2.6 Gbytes, formatted
Transfer rate 800 Kbytes/second, formatted
Ordering Information
TF85–AA 2.6 GB cartridge tape subsystem for DSSI-based
systems; includes tape drive, DSSI controller, tape
cartridge, and head cleaning cartridge
TF85E–JA Same as –AA but factory-installed
TF85–TA Same as –AA but tabletop version, 120 V
TF85–TB Same as –AA but tabletop, 220 V
Performance
Tape start time 300 milliseconds maximum
Tape stop time 300 milliseconds maximum
Tape speed 390 cm/second (100 in/second)
Streaming data rate 800 Kbytes/second
Access time (from insertion of tape)
TF85 mode 3 min max
TK70/50 mode 60 min max
Recording technique Two-track parallel, serpentine
Burst rate on DSSI bus 3.8 Mbytes/second
Option Specifications 2–23