Sony AIT (Advanced Intelligent Tape) format is intelligently engineered to stand apart - no other tape cartridge features both an MIC chip (the brains) and a pure metal magnetic layer designed for maximum capacity and longevity (the brawn). The AIT cartridges feature a built-in flash memory chip that stores directory and operational information. The result is rapid access to desired data and greatly reduced loading and ejection times. The tape surface is protected by a smooth carbon coating that is nearly as hard as diamond and 20 times harder than metal oxides. The benefit is maximum reliability and life.

Previous metal evaporated tapes used a cobalt-nickel alloy, but now Sony delivers 100% pure cobalt for high retentivity. Above the magnetic layer are the tough DLC protective film and a high-performance lubricant coating. Fine pigment backing and optimized front surface smoothness are augmented by an advanced back coating to stabilize tape guide friction and maximize durability.