Reverse-direction tape translation

Claim 1

In a tape translating device for reproducing at one location plural recorded tracks including a first track of spaced interval signals and a second track of time related information signals, said signals having been recorded at another location in a continuous sequence on a magnetic tape beginning with an initially recorded signal and ending with a last recorded signal each recorded adjacent an opposite end of said tape after movement in a single recording direction, the combinatioN comprising: a first reel and a second reel; said first reel retaining said tape in a stationary wound position, said stationary position being the position assumed by said tape after recording said last recorded signal; means for counting said signals on said tape with said counting beginning at said last recorded signal and ending at said initially recorded signal; means for mounting said first reel and said second reel when said first reel contains said tape in said stationary position; means for winding said tape onto said second reel from said first reel in a direction opposite to said recording direction; and a tapehead pick-up means responsive to said signals on said tape for applying said signals to the counting means when said tape is wound from said first reel to said second reel, said second reel being wound with said tape in a final condition upon said initial recorded signals passing said pick-up means such that with said tape being in said final condition on said second reel it is directly usable for movement in said recording direction to record further of said signals without further winding.