Re: [ARSCLIST] Magnetic recording tape

["joe@xxxxxxxxxxx" <sergei01@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Would a completely sealed tape box minimize sticky shed syndrome by
insulating the tape from moisture in the environment?

Joe Salerno
Video Works! Is it working for you?
PO Box 273405 - Houston TX 77277-3405
http://joe.salerno.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Radlauer" <Dradjazz@xxxxxxx>
To: <ARSCLIST@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2004 1:44 AM
Subject: Re: [ARSCLIST] Magnetic recording tape


> In a message dated 6/9/04 9:01:04 PM, LISTSERV@xxxxxxx writes:
>
> << Speaking of storage media, can anyone tell me whether reel-to-reel
should =
> be put in special storage cases?  Most of our tapes are currently in the =
> boxes the tape comes in.  We are planning a digitizing project and I am =
> trying to calculate cost.  Any assistance would be helpful. >>
>
> Tape is proving remarkably durable over time, particularly older tape
> formulations prior to the late 1970s.  After that time professional tapes
have become
> quite probleatic due to "sticktion" and "sticky shedding" symptoms as a
> result of moisture absorbtion.
>
> For a while Scotch and some other manufacturers sold what they called an
> archival box, a plastic case that would shut tight, though hardly
hermetic.
>
> As usual, best storage is stable humidity control (in the 50% range) and
> stable temperature, preferably around 50 degrees F.  But again, tape
formulations
> prior to the 1970s seem remarkably tolerant of most indoor environments.
Be
> sure to keep them several feet away from magnetic fields that can be
generated
> by electromagnetic sources like transformers (which are in most electronic
> equipment including flourescent lighting), video screens, speakers.
Usually such
> fields can be detected with a portable AM radio that is not tuned to a
> broadcast signal.  If it picks up a buzz or electronic hash, you've got a
local
> electromagnet field possibly strong enough to affect tapes over time.
>
> Other list members may have helpful suggestions.
>
> Dave Radlauer
> Rhythm Productions
> www.JAZZHOT.Bigstep.com