DECtape

This document covers the TU55 DECtape Transport and the TC01 DECtape Control, detailing their use as a fast, reliable, and low-cost input/output storage system. It explains the system's key features, including fixed-position addressing, bidirectional operation, redundant phase recording, and automatic word transfers using the PDP-8 block transfer control (BTC). The document includes sections on:

• Transport Mechanism: Explains the TU55's motor control, solid-state switching (SCR), and electromagnetic braking for tape tension and motion.
• TC01 Control: Describes how the control interface manages tape movement and data transfers to the computer.
• Tape Format: Provides details on block structuring, mark channels, and data word organization.
• Programming & Software: Details the Library System, diagnostic routines (DECTOG), and assembly subroutines for data storage.
• Specifications: Lists physical dimensions, power requirements, and operational characteristics for the transport and control units.