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Magnetic-tape data storage
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<p>Magnetic-tape data storage is a system for storing <a href="/facts/Digital_information/JChckAvr">digital information</a> on <a href="/facts/Magnetic_tape/wj6IDTR1">magnetic tape</a> using <a href="/facts/Digital_recording/ecC4G1FU">digital recording</a>. </p><p>Tape was an important medium for <a href="/facts/Primary_data_storage/wPHKFpdx">primary data storage</a> in early computers, typically using large open <a href="/facts/Reel/5p70yYea">reels</a> of <a href="/facts/IBM_7-track/HSoVDxMh">7-track</a>, later <a href="/facts/9-track_tape/5Eb6MjMr">9-track</a> tape. Modern magnetic tape is most commonly packaged in <a href="/facts/Tape_cartridge/nLDxBI9J">cartridges</a> and <a href="/facts/Cassette_tape_(format)/s1eTFa0C">cassettes</a>, such as the widely supported <a href="/facts/Linear_Tape-Open/TVMKJP3Q">Linear Tape-Open</a> (LTO) and <a href="/facts/IBM_3592/GkC4vQfj">IBM 3592</a> series. The device that performs the writing or reading of data is called a <a href="/facts/Tape_drive/9MfLuCa0">tape drive</a>. <a href="/facts/Autoloader_(data_storage_device)/hBg9VeYx">Autoloaders</a> and <a href="/facts/Tape_library/hBg9VeYx">tape libraries</a> are often used to automate cartridge handling and exchange. Compatibility was important to enable transferring data. </p><p>Tape data storage is now used more for system backup, data archive and data exchange. The low cost of tape has kept it viable for long-term storage and archive. </p>