Method of determining and storing indexing data on a sequential data storage medium for supporting random access of data files stored on the medium

摘要

A format structure for storing retrievable data on a sequential data storage medium, which includes in an exemplary embodiment a start field for indicating the start of a data file, an index field for storing indexing data respecting the data file, and a data field. Stored encoded data on the storage medium can use the last file written on the storage medium to create indexing data that can be stored alongside the data files as they written so that each sequential data storage medium remains fully indexed.