Rotary head data storage and retrieval system and method with tape medium having transverse primary data tracks and longitudinal secondary data track

Disclosed is a data storage and retrieval system including a head carriage unit having multiple heads disposed at a working surface and a tape drive unit configured to move the tape past the working surface in a direction substantially parallel to a tape length. The heads are configured to write or read primary data tracks on the tape as the head carriage unit rotates and the tape moves past the working surface. The primary data tracks have an accurate shape and extend substantially along a tape width. The heads are also configured to write or read a secondary data track on the tape as the head carriage unit rotates and the tape moves past the working surface. The secondary data track extends substantially along the tape length along one or both edges of the tape. Using the secondary data track, the search and seek operations can be performed at higher linear tape speeds than using the primary data tracks.