Direct file access system for magnetic tape

摘要

A direct file access system for a magnetic tape where all data files begin at a designated location on the tape. The direct file access system may be used with a reduced rewind data configuration to decrease data access time. The reduced rewind data configuration divides data files into generally equal portions so that data files begin and end at the designated location on the tape, eliminating rewind sequences. A method and system for reducing the number of tape retensioning passes is included to further decrease access time.