Single reel cartridge with thinner cover and leader block area dimensional stability

A single reel tape cartridge insertable into a tape drive apparatus comprising:

• a leader block;
• a length of tape connected at one end to the leader block;
• a tape reel on which the tape is wound;
• a base;
• and
• a cover, wherein the cover comprises a rear wall;
• two opposing side walls;
• a front wall;
• a substantially rectangular upper wall connecting the rear, front, and side walls, wherein the upper wall has an upper surface, a lower surface, and four corners;
• a leader block area formed in one of the corners of the upper wall;
• and a strengthening rib formed on the lower surface of the upper wall adjacent the leader block area;
• wherein the portion of the upper wall adjacent the strengthening rib and outside of the leader block area is at least as thick as the portion of the upper wall in the leader block area.