Encoder device for recording data on a magnetic tape

Claim 1

An encoder device, for recording data on a magnetic tape, comprising, in combination, an encoder circuit operable to convert input data thereto into binary coded decimal numbers, said encoder circuit having parallel output terminals each respective to a different bit of the binary code; keyboard means connected to said encoder circuit and operable to supply input data thereto; a memory circuit having parallel input terminals each connected to a respective output terminal of said encoder circuit, and including registers operable to store therein, in the block unit, binary coded decimal numbers encoded by said encoder circuit, said memory circuit having parallel output terminals each respective to a different bit of the binary code; frequency generating means including a plurality of oscillators each generating a different frequency with each frequency being respective to a different bit of the binary code and hAving a magnitude corresponding to the relative numerical weight of the respective bit; a magnetic recording circuit having a signal input terminal; a conductor operatively associated with said frequency generating means and connected to said signal input terminal, the outputs of said oscillators being connected in parallel to said conductors; an output control circuit having parallel input terminals, each connected to a respective output terminal of said memory circuit, and having parallel output terminals each corresponding to a respective control circuit input terminal; respective output gate means each connected between an output control circuit output terminal and the output terminal of the respective oscillator having the frequency corresponding to the associated binary code bit, each output gate means controlling application of the frequency of its associated oscilator to said conductor; and pulse generating means connected to said memory circuit and to said output control circuit, and supplying shifting pulses to said memory circuit and a synchronizing signal to said output control circuit; each output gate means controlling application of the frequency of its associated oscilator to said conductor responsive to the respective bit, supplied thereto from said output control circuit, having a predetermined binary state; whereby the binary coded decimal numbers from the respective output terminals of said encoder circuit are magnetically recorded as an output signal in the form of a series of mixed frequencies each having a magnitude corresponding to a respective binary code bit.