BS ISO/IEC 13923:1996

Overview

BS ISO/IEC 13923:1996 specifies the requirements for 3.81 mm wide magnetic tape cartridges designed for information interchange. This standard is particularly relevant for helical scan recording systems and outlines the DDS-2 format utilizing a 120 m length tape. The standard ensures compatibility and interoperability among various devices and systems that utilise magnetic tape technology.

Key Requirements

The standard encompasses several critical specifications that manufacturers and users must adhere to:

• Physical Dimensions: The tape cartridge must conform to the specified dimensions to ensure compatibility with existing tape drives.
• Recording Format: The helical scan recording method must be employed, which is essential for achieving the required data density and reliability.
• Data Integrity: The standard includes provisions for error detection and correction to maintain data integrity during storage and retrieval.
• Environmental Conditions: Guidelines for storage and operational conditions are provided to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the tape cartridges.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS ISO/IEC 13923:1996 offers numerous advantages for organisations that rely on magnetic tape technology:

• Interoperability: Compliance with this standard ensures that tapes produced by different manufacturers can be used interchangeably, reducing the risk of compatibility issues.
• Data Preservation: The standard's focus on data integrity and error correction mechanisms enhances the reliability of data storage, which is crucial for long-term data preservation.
• Cost Efficiency: By standardising tape cartridges, organisations can reduce costs associated with proprietary formats and equipment, leading to more economical data management solutions.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to recognised standards helps organisations meet industry regulations and compliance requirements, thereby mitigating legal risks.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS ISO/IEC 13923:1996 not only facilitates operational efficiency but also enhances an organisation's credibility in the marketplace. By utilising standardised magnetic tape cartridges, companies can demonstrate their commitment to quality and reliability in data management practices. Furthermore, compliance can serve as a competitive advantage, as it assures clients and stakeholders of the organisation's dedication to maintaining high standards in information technology.

In conclusion, BS ISO/IEC 13923:1996 is a vital standard for organisations that utilise magnetic tape technology for data storage and interchange. Its specifications ensure compatibility, reliability, and efficiency, making it an essential reference for compliance professionals in the information technology sector.