On 12/27/18 9:46 AM, Glen Slick via cctalk wrote: > On Thu, Dec 27, 2018 at 9:17 AM W2HX via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote: >> >> I've been building up a nice little PDP-11/23+ with cabinets, RL02's etc. To >> really round things off, I'm looking for a open reel-to-reel style 9-track >> tape drive to add to the system (don't ask why, punishment must be somewhere >> in my nature). Not interested in the autoloading/drawer type drives. >> >> There are some fujitsu drives on ebay at the moment, but shipping from CA to >> NY is both costly and risky. >> >> Does anyone have a (preferably working) 9-track drive that can be used with >> a PDP-11 (like a pertec interface) for sale? Willing to drive anywhere from >> Philly to Boston for one. >> > > If you can find a Fujitsu M2444AC within driving distance that is a > good option. The cache buffer in the drive can prevent a lot of > start/stop action with a slower host. I have used one to install > 2.11BSD and RSTS/E 10.1 on PDP-11 systems with Pertec controller > boards. But at somewhere around 200 pounds they are not something you > want to ship.
If you;re only interested in 1600 PE and 6250 GCR, the Fuji drive is a great choice--well-constructed and easy to operate. Yes, it is pretty heavy, but in the universe of open-reel tape drives, it's a featherweight. Not sure about 200 lbs, though. I managed to get mine off a pickup truck bed onto a dolly, up a short flight of stairs and into a 6' rack single-handedly. Maybe I was just lucky or stupid. --Chuck
