Telex Computer Products, Inc.

Joel O Thies

Marold H Lohrenz

Scott T Jednacz

A tape deck providing means to drive and control a file reel and a machine reel including a vacuum source and a capstan drive means, the tape deck including a first vacuum column of relatively wide width and short length extending upwardly and at an acute angle to the vertical plane encompassing the axis of the file reel and machine reel, and a second relatively wide, short length vacuum column below the first vacuum column and having an axis intersecting the axis of the first vacuum column at an acute angle, the second vacuum column having a transverse end wall at an angle to the second vacuum column outer wall, the sources of vacuum being applied to the vacuum columns, the capstan being positioned at the entrance to the second vacuum column so that a short length of tape extends from the capstan to the exit of the first vacuum column, the tape being wrapped 180.degree. around the capstan, with a read-write head positioned to engage the tape between the capstan and the exit from to the first vacuum column, the tape path geometry providing improved performance in handling of the tape within the confines of a relatively small area.

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Tulsa, OK, United States of America

Joel O Thies