Magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus for multi-channel endless tape

Claim 1

Magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus for 2-channel 4channel endless tape in the form of a cartridge which comprises; first actuating means (18) for exchanging 2-channel 4-channel output, a cassette detection switch 17 selectively operated in accordance with an outer shape of the cassette to be used for controlling operation of said first actuating means, a plurality of integrated recording switches (16, 30, 21) connected in parallel with said switch for controlling said actuating means and for controlling recording operation, a pair of 2-channel 4-channel switching means (39, 40) provided on the output of head output amplifiers and responsive to said switching means so as to supply either 2-channel or 4-channel output, sensing switch means (22) provided in the vicinity of a head mechanism for detecting passage of conductive piece attached at the ends of the tracks of the tape, second actuating means 19 coupled to said head mechanism for moving said head mechanism responsive to said sensing means, a pair of rotary switch means (25, 28) coupled to said second actuating means for performing predetermined modes of operation of the apparatus in cooperation with the condition of sensing switch so as to automatically eject cartridge at the end of either 2-channel or 4-channel tracks, and third actuating means (31) connected to the input of said second actuating means for ejecting the cartridge when actuated, whereby either 4-channel or 2-channel cartridge is automatically ejected at the end of the second program or at the end of the fourth program operation by the detection of the conductive piece thereby preventing double recording.