Magnetic record/reproduce module for camera

Abstract

Magnetic record/reproduce apparatus for recording or reproducing information on a magnetic layer of a filmstrip in a camera, and more particularly, modular magnetic recording apparatus for optional attachment to photographic still cameras. Power and control signals supplied from within the module define the format and content of information recorded or reproduced from tracks in a substantially transparent magnetic layer. In one embodiment, the camera contains a record/reproduce head in the film transport path. In a further embodiment, the module contains the record/reproduce head, and the camera is adapted to receive the record/reproduced head in a record/reproduced aperture and position it in the film transport path on attachment of the module to the camera housing. In both embodiments, the magnetic head is preferably an elongated multi-head element array. Preferably the magnetic head aperture of the second embodiment is shaped to receive the elongated multi-head array as either a single elongated opening or a row of individual head receiving openings aligned in the cross-film direction, and a light tight flexible, opaque membrane is stretched over the magnetic head aperature so that the multi-head array may be inserted therein and physically bear against the membrane and the magnetic layer of the film strip adjacent to the membrane. A further external movable door or cover may be provided over the magnetic head aperture that is movable out of the way when the module attachment to the camera is made.