A Additional Format Considerations - Alesis ADAT Reference Manual

Note:
Format extension is not possible from the LEAD or DATA sections of the tape. If the
tape is formatted but is in the leader or data sections of the tape (i.e., prior to time
00:00), entering format mode will automatically rewind the tape to the beginning and
start reformatting. While rewinding, the display shows "-FO-" and the rewind LED
flashes. This indication is telling you that ADAT must "FORMAT OVER" from the
LEAD or beginning portion of the tape.
3.1C Additional Format Considerations
Audio can be recorded while formatting, just in case you have a hot musical idea
but no formatted tapes. Simply press record enable for the tracks to be recorded
before pressing the Format button. Tracks not enabled prior to pressing Format
will be recorded with silence, and cannot be enabled once formatting begins.
It is a good practice to "exercise" the tape before formatting it by fast forwarding it
to the end, then rewinding it back to the lead. This evens out the tape pack and
relieves any stresses and strains that may have occurred during tape
manufacture and storage.
Blank tapes must be rewound to the very beginning in order
to be formatted.
Caution: Do not re-format over a previously formatted tape, then stop re-
formatting. When the tape transitions from the newly-formatted part to the
previously formatted part, there will be timing discontinuities and the audio will do
unpleasant things. Also, during that transition the tape will be non-functional and
you will not be able to record anything over it. When in doubt, either re-format the
tape all the way to the end, or back up a bit and do a format extension (see
previous section and next section) when you need to re-format over the transition
zone.
For safety, label your tape. You don't want your ADAT tape
confused with a standard video tape.
The only way to stop formatting is to press Stop—punching
out is not sufficient.
Tapes can be bulk-erased with a bulk tape eraser.
In a multiple-ADAT setup where one is the master and other
ADATs are slaves, there are several other considerations. See Chapter 5.