Apparatus for recording data with a multi-level arrangement of error correction coding

摘要

An apparatus for recording video data with a multi-level arrangement of error correction coding. Input video data is demultiplexed so as to form a plurality of data streams each having a plurality of data blocks. A stream error correcting code is generated for each of the plurality of data streams, which is adaptable to allow correction of a data block. The respective data blocks and stream error correcting code of each data stream is distributed or arranged in a predetermined manner. The distributed data blocks and stream error correcting code of each data stream are recorded on recording tracks of a recording medium by n recording heads such that only either a data block or a stream error correcting code of a respective data stream is recorded at corresponding positions along n adjacent recording tracks of the recording medium. Additionally, track error correction codes and inner error correction codes may be provided which may enable correction of data recorded on a respective track and error correction for inner blocks, respectively.