While writing to disk with an engraving tool, Terry went on about Log request 
to  Robby Dittmann
 RD>  Then... THE TAPE HEADER CONTAINS UNREADABLE 
 RD> INFORMATION.  So I figure, if it's gone, I guess I'll 
 RD> format the tape.  So it runs and runs and runs.  
 RD> Then... THE TAPE IS NOT FORMATABLE.
 TC> That's because of an uncleaned drive!!! The information was still
 TC> on tape but your drive couldn't read it because of dirty heads!!!
Over time tapes and simillar data storage devices degrade. This also includes 
video and cassette tapes, disks etc etc. The bonding between the plastic and 
metal oxide breaks down, or the surfae becomes 'infected' with something (eg 
touching the surface).
But you're right, dirty tape drive heads can be a problem and sometimes a 
blessing. I got 3 from a company who sells such things. They all came in with 
various data errors, and were replaced under warranty. The manufacturer said 
'chuck em in the bin', which means they bounce my way. A little cleaning 
fluid and 5 minutes each drive.. :-) :-) 
Dave
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