Tape transport

A tape transport is the collection of parts of a magnetic tape player or recorder that the actual tape passes through. Transport parts include, but are not limited to, the head, capstan, pinch roller, tape pins, and tape guide. The tape transport as a whole is called the transport mechanism.

Tape head

Capstan

The capstan is a rotating spindle used to move recording tape through the mechanism of a tape recorder. The tape is threaded between the capstan and one or more rubber-covered wheels, called pinch rollers, which press against the capstan, thus providing friction necessary for the capstan to pull the tape. The capstan is always placed downstream (in the direction of tape motion) from the tape heads. To maintain the required tension against the tape heads and other part of the tape transport, a small amount of drag is placed on the supply reel. Tape recorder capstans have a function similar to nautical capstans, which however have no pinch rollers, the line simply being wound around them.