Illustrated Media Format Guides

3/4" U-matic

AKA
(None)
Era
1971–1990s
Format
digital
Developed by
Sony
(Max) Capacity
Small: 20 minutes Standard: 60 minutes
Size
Small (S): 18.4 × 12.2 × 3.2 cm Standard (SP): 22.1 × 14.0 × 3.2 cm
Fun facts
  • The 44.1 kHz sampling standard used in Compact Discs was defined by the bandwidth available on this format's tapes
  • While this format was primarily used to store analog video, it was also used for the storage of digital audio data
  • All tapes have a round red button on the back that can be removed to prevent accidental recording