D-2 storage performance analysis For longer tape storage Of the three major factors affecting tape quality—low error rates, overall durability and long-term stability—long-term stability is the most difficult to measure since it can be confirmed only after long periods of actual storage. Since conditions of use vary, technologies for magnetic particles and binder system materials, as well as the manufacturing process, must all be evaluated thoroughly. Of Maxell’s metal tape product lineup, D-2 videocassettes have been amongest the most often used by broadcasters for archiving. D-2 was selected by Maxell shortly after its introduction for utilization in long-term testing in order to prove the effectiveness of Maxell’s long-term storage technology. Maxell has verified the levels of magnetic and electrical performance deterioration after completion of accelerated tests (under 60°C/140°F, 80%RH conditions).   D-2 storage performance analysis Fig.1 represents the deterioration curve of the magnetic saturated retentivity (Bm) under various conditions. This figure shows that the Bm deterioration was only 10% after three weeks under conditions of high temperature (60°C/140°F) and high humidity (80%RH). At normal room temperature and humidity levels (25°C/77°F, 60%RH), the Bm deterioration rate was only 5% after 5 years. According to prediction, if the tape is stored under normal conditions, it will take at least 20 years for its Bm to decrease a mere 10%. Maxell has checked how this 10% decrease in Bm influences the electrical performance of the tape. The following chart shows the change in RF output (see Fig. 2), C/N (see Fig. 3), and B.E.R. (Block Error Rate—see Fig. 4) of a D-2 tape under conditions of extreme heat (60°C/140°F) and humidity (80%RH). From this data, it can be seen that a 10% decrease in Bm affects the tape very little, and poses no major problems in practical use. As a result, Maxell’s metal tape, under normal room temperatures, shows only small signs of deterioration caused by oxidation—even after 20 years. TOP For longer tape storage When storing tape for extended periods of time, it is important to know the proper temperature and humidity levels of the storage area. The figure and chart below show ideal conditions specified by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). At Maxell, we believe that storage environments maintained within these guidelines achieve excellent results.     Operation environment Storage environment Transportation environment Short-term storage (under 10 years) Long-term storage (over 10 years) Temperature +17°C-+25°C +63°F-+77°F +15°C-+23°C +59°F~+73°F +17°C±2°C +63°F±3°F -20°C-+45°C -4°F-+113°F Humidity RH 30%-70% 40%-55% 30% ±5% 5%-80% Temperature change per hour under 10°C (50°F) /hour - - under 10°C (50°F) /hour Humidity change per hour under 10%/hour - - under 10%/hour TOP