3/4" U-matic
AKA
3/4", three-quarter
Era
1971–1990s
Analog/digital
analog
Format
Cassette
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
- This format was named after the letter U, because the course of the tape running through a playback device is shaped like the letter U
- 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
- The first format in a cassette.
- Many early U-matics do not say U-matic on them.
