The speed of access can be quite slow, however, when the tape is long and what you want is not near the start. So this method is used primarily for major backups of large amounts of data.
Function:
ü used to access data in a sequential way
ü store large amounts Magnetic tape is one form of magnetic storage of data in a variety of convenient package sizes (reels, cartridges, or cassettes)
ü used for data collection, backup and archiving.
Magnetic tape consists of a thin film of magnetic oxide material bonded to a polyester-based strip. Tape has been more economical than disks for archival data, but that is changing as disk capacities have increased enormously. If tapes are stored for the duration, they must be periodically recopied or the tightly coiled magnetic surfaces may contaminate each other.
