System for reading and stopping reading data from magnetic tape into memory in response to mount command and write command respectively from the system processor

摘要

In response to the mounting of a magnetic tape on the tape drive, the tape drive begins reading data from the tape into the preload buffer while concurrently signalling the data processor that the tape drive is instantaneously available to read/write data. The data processor can then begin the data transfer operation without incurring the delay occasion by media set up time. The data that is transferred from magnetic tape is stored in the preload buffer in anticipation of the data processor issuing a data read command. Upon receipt of the data read command, the tape drive reads the data out of the preload buffer to the data processor via the data channel while simultaneously reading data from the magnetic tape into the preload buffer.