Multi-format read drive

An apparatus comprising:

• a plurality of modules configured to at least read data stored on a magnetic recording tape, each of the modules having an array of readers;
• wherein one module is configured to read data on a magnetic recording tape which none of the other modules can read;
• and
• an actuator for moving the plurality of modules as a single head unit,
• wherein the plurality of modules includes a first module configured to read data in a first range of formats, a second module configured to read data in a second range of formats, and a third module configured to read data in a third range of formats, the third range of formats encompassing at least one format not included in the first range of formats, the third range of formats encompassing at least one format not included in the second range of formats, the second range of formats encompassing at least one format not included in the first range of formats.

An apparatus, comprising:

• a first module configured to at least read data stored on a magnetic recording tape in a first range of formats;
• at least a second module configured to at least read data stored on a magnetic recording tape in at least a second range of formats;
• and
• a third module configured to read data in a third range of formats,
• wherein the first range of formats does not include a format that is in the second range of formats,
• the third range of formats encompassing at least one format not included in the first range of formats,
• the third range of formats encompassing at least one format not included in the second range of formats,
• wherein all of the modules are aligned along, a tape travel direction.