Did we forget to mention that we're currently closed for Canada Day? I think we did. So, yeah. We're not really around for the rest of today, but we'll be back in action tomorrow to return phone calls and emails and ship your orders. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get back to […]
Vintage AMPEX VR1200B 2" Quadruplex VTR ...
Solar botics
January 8, 2016
I occupy a studio space in a building that is a former movie shooting facility turned into an artist hovel. The building itself is wonderfully old but the hallways are also full of ancient audio and video equipment from the movie days. One of the things that got the attention of our RnD and tech geek was the AMPEX VR1200B Quadruplex videotape recorder from 1966. The machine stands about 5' tall, about the same in width, and weighs 'under 1000 pounds' as the spec sheet puts it. This was one of the first machines to use magnetic tape technology for recording video in the form of 2" quad tape for video, as opposed to film that was used previously.
A couple interesting points about this machine:
- 60PSI Air was needed for air bearings and a Venturi system for holding the 2" tape in alignment;
- These machines were the workhorses in TV Stations throughout the 60's and 70's. Running these machines required a full time technician!
Here's the beast in action:
A photoset of AMPEX VR1200B
An Overview of Ampex History:
MORE POSTS
Website Issue: Country and Province Entr...
Hello Everyone! Some of you may have noticed that when trying to complete your order, our website is not allowing you to get passed the billing/shipping information input. Fear not! We have located the issue and working diligently to fix it but in the meantime, please complete your order as a guest rather than using […]
BIG Solar cars in Calgary tomorrow!
The America Solar Challenge finishes here in Calgary tomorrow (July 27) betweein 11 and 3:30pm! The teams are coming up over McKnight Blvd., which isn't far from our offices. We'll be out watching them go by for a few hours tomorrow, so if the phones don't get answered for a bit, you'll know why. Go […]
New Front End!
The new updated front-end for Solarbotics.com is up! Those who had problems before with Netscape browsers, and the slow upload time is alleviated! As well there are new features, and easier to use functions. Check them all out. If you experience any problems please report them to the Webmaster
Solarbotics has been operating for more than 25 years, bringing electronics know-how and supplies to both the electronics professional and hobbyist. We'll be happy to help you too!
Solarbotics, Ltd. is not responsible for misprints or errors on product prices or information. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov for more information. This item was manufactured prior to August 31, 2018.