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| Ultra-thin layer technology |
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| Magnetic layer thickness, as well as magnetic particle characteristics, are important factors in achieving high output in magnetic recording. Reducing this thickness from conventional 2-5µm to 0.1-0.5µm effectively reduces recording loss (self-demagnetization loss) caused by the thickness. Maxell’s ultra-thin layer technology is used for sub-micron-order magnetic coating with a thickness of 0.1µm. This allows sufficient output and C/N ratio to meet requirements necessary for the DVCPRO format of 4.4µm²/bit recording density, and other formats that require even higher density. |
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| High-precision slitting technology |
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| In the slitting process, tape is cut from jumbo rolls into strips according to the width of each format. The process requires consistent tape width and surface smoothness, for proper tape tracking. To reduce error rates and winding errors, the cut edges of the tape must be as smooth and even as possible. Many factors must therefore be taken into account, such as the slitter’s speed, the level of tension, as well as the shape and precision of the blade, in accordance with various tape format requirements of different width, thickness and rigidity. Maxell uses computer technology to analyze all of these factors (see Fig. 2) in order to meet the appropriate slitter conditions for each and every tape format. The result is exceptionally fine tape edges (see Fig. 3), for remarkably low error rates and smooth tape winding. |
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When the tape is stored for long periods of time, slight tape shrinkage occurs. This is especially true when it is stored at high temperatures. And with modern narrow track width recording formats, even the slightest tape deformation can cause track shift (see Fig. 4).
This can cause problems in playback and editing. However, Maxell uses its exclusive production process to minimize the tape shrinkage factor and produce tapes with superior heat-shrinkage-resistance performance (see Fig. 5). That is why Maxell tapes in narrow track width formats are so reliable, even after long-term storage. |
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| Uniform filler dispersion |
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The VTR head traces the HDCAM or Digital BETACAM at 23m/sec. with 5400 rotations/min. During this time, dust in the air or resulting from friction between the tape and the head may stick to the head’s surface. This dust contamination creates spaces between the tape and the head, which reduces the output and could cause clogging.
With special ceramic filler spread evenly across the magnetic layer (see Fig. 6), Maxell tapes can self-clean dust gently from the head surface (see Fig. 7). By removing dust caused by the tape itself from the head while the tape is recording or playing, Maxell tapes maintain optimum head-to-tape contact and good head surface condition even after repeated use. |
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| In order to achieve optimum output from the recorded tape when using a VTR, it is important to optimize head-to-tape contact and minimize magnetic recording loss. Maxell conducts computer analysis on various factors, from both hardware and tape perspectives affecting head-to-tape contact, according to each tape format (see Fig. 8 and Image 1), and to determine the optimum tape rigidity and friction levels. This helps Maxell offer high-output reproduction with stable head-to-tape contact, and realize minimal error rates. Thus, superior rigidity and performance under various conditions are ensured. |
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