Backwards read/write capability in linear tape by track trimming

摘要

A read and write head (16) system for removable storage medium (14) is taught for implementing multiple generation backwards write capability. The read and write head (16) system includes a read apparatus (40) and a write apparatus (42). The read and write head (16) system also includes an indexer (20) that is operative to position the read apparatus (40) and the write apparatus (42) during read and write operations. The read and write head (16) system is also configurable to position the write apparatus (42) during writing of a track (56) so as to at least partially overlap an adjacent previously written track (54). <IMAGE>