The magnetic tape drive unit creates a tape memory system when a magnetic tape is inserted. This system enables the loading of a magnetic tape for use with a computer equipped with a half-duplex RS-232C compatible serial interface, allowing control through a serially inputted command word consisting of an operational mode, track select code, and status enable bit. Key characteristics include: baud rate 2400 baud (Hz), word size of 8 bits, and two stop bits.