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VHS Tape

VHS Tape Details

Dates in Use

Introduced: 1976

Decline: Late 1990s to early 2000s

 

Obsolete: Officially phased out around 2008, though limited usage continued for niche markets and collectors.

 

Dimensions

Standard VHS Cassette Size:

Length: 7.4 inches (187 mm)

Width: 4.2 inches (107 mm)

Thickness: 1 inch (25 mm)

Storage Capacity

Typical Lengths:

 

Standard Play (SP): 120 minutes

Long Play (LP): 240 minutes

Extended Play (EP): Up to 360 minutes (at reduced quality)

Storage Equivalent: Analog; roughly 1.2 GB/hour for digital equivalent comparison at standard resolution.

 

Format

Type: Analog

Magnetic tape encoding video and audio signals in composite format.

 

Stability Rating

Stability: 3

Magnetic tape can degrade over time, especially under poor storage conditions.

Lifespan: 10-30 years, depending on temperature, humidity, and handling.

 

Obsolescence Rating 4

Obsolete for consumer and commercial purposes.

Digital formats (DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming) replaced VHS due to superior quality and convenience.

 

Description

The VHS (Video Home System) cassette revolutionized home entertainment and video recording in the late 20th century. Developed by JVC, it allowed consumers to record television programs and play pre-recorded media. Though later formats surpassed its video quality (240 horizontal lines), the VHS was synonymous with the home movie experience for over two decades. Key competitors like Betamax provided initial competition, but VHS ultimately dominated due to affordability and longer recording times.

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Uploaded on November 22, 2024
Taken on November 22, 2024