1/2" Open Reel
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Format name: 1/2" open reel
Analog or digital: Analog
Date introduced: 1965
Dates in use: 1965 - late 1970s
Tape width: 1/2"
Reel: Commonly used reels are 5" in diameter or 7 1/4" in diameter.
Tape container: The most common containers for smaller tapes are approximately 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" x 1" and made of a soft or hard plastic. Larger reels will be in containers approximately 8 3/8" x 8 3/8" x 1 1/4". The plastic container may also be inside of a separate paperboard sleeve. There are other containers that are approximately the same size but have handles.
Tape variations and/or identifying features: There are two common 1/2" tape versions - CV and AV (EIAJ Type 1) - they look the same, but will playback on different decks. CV tapes were manufactured beginning in 1965; AV was introduced in 1969. The tape reels are typically made from translucent plastic. The Sony tape containers are typically black and will say "for helical scan video recorders."
Common manufacturers/brands: Sony, Panasonic, Ampex, and others.
Tape players/recorders: As noted above, not all 1/2" tapes will play on the same deck. The AV or EIAJ format became the recording standard. Decks for this format are rare, especially in working order. They are found primarily with preservation/restoration vendors, media arts centers, schools, and with artists and collectors. It is difficult to find parts, and some parts need to be manufactured. It is also difficult to find people to repair these decks.
Primary usage: The 1/2" open reel format was developed for the industrial, educational and consumer markets. Artists, independent producers, community organizers, schools, and television stations were among the groups using this format. The smaller reels were used in the first portable video recorders or "portapaks." The larger reels were typically used for stationary recording and/or video editing. 1/2" open reel was gradually replaced with cassette formats in the mid to late 1970s.
Risks: Due to its sheer age, 1/2" open reel is at great risk of signal loss due to problems with the physical material, and from hardware and media obsolescence. See Risks.
Condition assessment: Extensive inspection is difficult without playback, though assessment can be made for signs of binder deterioration, mold, and other problems. 1/2" open reel tapes are known for problems with sticky shed syndrome. See Risks and Condition Assessment.
Conservation actions: Re-mastering is recommended through a vendor with proven experience with this format. Cleaning is likely to be needed before transfer. Re-housing of the original may be required. See Conservation Actions.
Resources: The following web sites have additional information on 1/2" open reel. See also Resources.
- Experimental Television Project Video History Project - Tools
- Experimental Television Project Video History Project - Preservation
- BAVC Video Preservation Resources - Hardware
- Vidipax
- LabGuy's World
