Characterization of dropouts with data read-back errors for digital magnetic-tape recorders

A data-acquisition system for characterizing dropouts in terms of data-recording errors is introduced. Data acquired with the system is presented, and a method of data analysis suggested. Dropouts, where the amplitude decreases to 10-15 percent nominal, are shown as the primary cause of data read-back errors. Possible applications of the techniques for data acquisition and analysis are discussed briefly.