INFORMATION RECORDING ON ELONGATE CARRIERS WITH CARRIER PRESENCE AND/OR POSITION DETERMINATION

Tensioning forces are applied to an elongate information carrier prior to the performance of a predetermined function relative to the carrier. The application of tensioning forces is timed and performance of the predetermined function is only initiated if a tensioning of the elongate information carrier occurs within a predetermined time. A determination of the carrier position preparatory to the performance of a desired function may be effected by sensing whether the beginning, and end, or another portion of the carrier is located at a function performing station. In response to this determination the information carrier is operated until its beginning is located at the station.