Loading system for video cassettes

In a machine for recording and playing back information on magnetic tape contained in a cassette, a cassette loading apparatus for automatically placing a cassette in operative position with means for driving the tape and components for recording and for playing back recordings on the tape, and for ejecting the cassette, said apparatus comprising:

• a housing including means for guiding a cassette upon its inward movement edge forward in substantially a single plane from an insertion position to an intermediate position in said housing or its outward movement to said insertion position;
• means on said machine supporting said housing for movement of a cassette transversely to said plane between its intermediate position and its operative position;
• and
• cassette transport mechanism movably mounted on said housing, including a drive unit and means operated by said drive unit and cooperating with means on said housing for moving said transport mechanism including said drive unit, to transport a cassette inward to its intermediate position or to transport the cassette outward to its insertion position.