BOT Marker Definition/Meaning:
Short for beginning of tape marker. A physical feature of a magnetic
tape by which the tape transport senses on the tape the start of the volume into
which data can be recorded, or has been recorded. When the transport senses the
marker it commences the logical sequence of recording or reading data. The
marker may be, for example, a rectangular strip of reflective material adhering
to the tape, a transparent part of the tape, or a hole in the tape, according to
the type of tape and transport.
The distance of the marker from the physical
beginning of the tape allows the tape to be loaded, threaded through the
transport, and wound on to a point at which data will be reliably recorded. This
distance, and the Form of the marker, are defined by the standard pertaining to
the type of tape. See also EOT marker. Compare tape mark.
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