Datatape

A data tape, also information tape, was a recording device that could be read by a holoprojector, such as the one standard in R2 units, or a computer terminal. The plans for the first Death Star were recorded on data tapes, which were stolen by Princess Leia Organa and uploaded into R2-D2. Later, the tapes came into the possession of the Rebellion, and helped in the Battle of Yavin.

Behind the scenes
The use of the word "tapes", in A New Hope was in 1977. In the 1970s, tapes were a modern way of recording audio, video, and computer data.

Appearances

 * Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope novelization
 * Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
 * Splinter of the Mind's Eye