Videobändern

Videobändern, also known as videocassettes or VCR tapes, are a magnetic tape recording format for storing analog video and audio signals. Developed in the 1970s, they became the dominant home video recording and playback medium for several decades. The most popular formats were VHS (Video Home System) and Betamax, with VHS eventually becoming the industry standard. Videobändern consist of a plastic casing containing two spools of magnetic tape. When inserted into a VCR (Videocassette Recorder), the tape is drawn across read/write heads that either record or play back the video and audio information. These tapes allowed consumers to record television programs, watch pre-recorded movies, and even create their own home videos. Despite their widespread popularity, videobändern have largely been superseded by digital formats like DVDs, Blu-rays, and streaming services due to their lower storage capacity, susceptibility to wear and tear, and comparatively lower video and audio quality. Nevertheless, many older films, personal recordings, and historical footage still exist exclusively on videobändern.