A half-inch tape reel uses 1/2-inch tape ribbon stored on a tape reel. its tape drive on which we have to mount the tape reel for data processing. During processing, the tape moves from a supply reel to a take up reel via two vacuum channels and through a read/write had assembly. The read/write head assembly reads/writes data from/to the tape. It is a single unit having one read/write head for each tape track. Therefore, the read/write head assembly of a 9-track tape drive will have a set of nine heads. Each head operates independently and stores information on nine tracks parallel to the edge of the tape. This method of storing data in adjacent bit configuration is known as parallel representation. In parallel representation, a tape drive reads/writes data a byte at a time.
Different tape drives use different mechanisms to prevent tape damage from sudden bursts of speed. the tape drive uses to vacuum channels to take up slack tape, acting as buffers, to prevent the tapes from snapping or stretching when starting from the stationary position or slowing down from full speed.
Users commonly use magnetic tape reels archival storage for off-line storage of data and for exchange of data and programs between organizations. Mainly organizations having large computing systems (such as mainframe systems) use them because the tape controller and tape drives of magnetic tape reels are bulky and expensive. Many medium-sized business organizations have vaults containing several thousands of tape reels. a large insurance company have a storage area containing over50,000 magnetic tape reels. However, tape cartridge, streamer tape, and digital audio tape are fast replacing magnetic tape reels because these new magnetic tape storage devices are more compact, cheaper, and easier to handle and use.