A technique includes in a data storage device, sensing a plurality of data streams from a track of storage media as the media moves in a given direction using a plurality of read elements such that at least one of the read elements is redundant. The technique includes combining the data streams to generate a data stream indicating data read from the track.

A data storage device is disclosed comprising a reel that is rotated for a first interval in order to expose a first frame of a magnetic tape to a head. The head is actuated in a first and second dimensions over the magnetic tape in order to access the first frame of the magnetic tape.