Reproducing apparatus for magnetic tape having a pressure roller mounted on a first movable member and a tape lifter mounted on a second movable member. Solenoid and spring means connected to the first movable member moves the pressure roller between a tape-driving position pressing the tape into frictional driving engagement with a capstan, and a non-tape-driving position spaced from the capstan. Mechanical connecting means between the movable members moves the tape lifter between lifted and lowered positions in response to movement of the first member between its non-tape-driving and tape-driving positions. The mechanical connecting means includes a lost motion connection enabling manual override movement of the tape lifter between its lifted and lowered positions when the first member is in its non-tape-driving position for fast mode operation. This enables manual adjustment of tape proximity to the head, and therefore adjustment of audio output level while editing or scanning the tape in a fast mode. The mechanical connecting means also includes manually overrideable detent means to hold the tape lifter in lowered position when the first member is in the non-tape-driving position to provide preselected audio output level while editing the tape in fast mode.
A recording and/or reproduction apparatus for an endless tape which includes a hollow fixed reel, the outer wall of which is wound with an endless tape which is conducted from the innermost portion and wound onto the outermost side a head mechanism for scanning the thus guided tape, a pinch roller and capstan which are driven with the tape held therebetween thereby causing the tape to be slackened downstream of the capstan, a swingable arm which releases the pinch roller from the capstan before its rotation is brought to an end, and a guide pin for releasing the tape from the head mechanism, capstan and pinch roller.
A data cartridge which is edge loaded must be loaded before the access door is opened, permitting the head to enter the cartridge but entry and opening of the door can be accomplished when the head is moved vertically from a first lowered position to an upper operative position against the tape and to permit movement of the head to the upper operative position, the tape must be temporarily moved from its path in the cartridge to permit vertical movement of the magnetic head without contacting the tape. The present invention permits tape movement and head positioning upon operation of a cam shaft with a front knob.
