Method for tracking control

USRE39568E1 · kind E1 · reissue

Assignee

• Thomson Licensing · FR

Inventors

• Jurgen Kaaden · Villingen-Schwenningen, DE
• Peter Mahr · Cochem, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 7, 2004
• Grant date: Apr 17, 2007
• Expiry date: Aug 7, 2024

Classification

• Technology area (CPC —): General

Abstract

A method for tracking control of a head unit with respect to data tracks on a magnetic tape determines a first tracking signal and a second tracking signal from control tracks recorded on the tape. The data tracks are divided into successive data sections, each of which is subdivided into an initial region and a useful region. A first control track extends over the entire length of the data section. In addition to this, a second control track is provided in the initial region of each data section. A first tracking signal is generated from the first control track and a second tracking signal is generated from the first and second control track. A difference signal is generated and stored, which is based on a comparison of the first and second tracking signal. A tracking control signal applied to an actuator adjusting the head unit is generated from the second tracking signal when the second tracking signal is available. The tracking control signal is generated from the first tracking signal and the difference signal when the second tracking signal is not available.