The TES-3 emulates reel-to-reel, half inch tape drives that connect to Raytheon Data Systems NRZI, PE or PE/NRZI Magnetic Tape Controller. These drives were used on computers made by Raytheon Data Systems, such as the RDS-500. Tape speed is typically 45ips, Start/Stop only. Recording densities from 800bpi NRZ mode to 1600fpi PE. The TES-3 can replace an existing drive and formatter. An existing formatter and its supported drive may be connected to the TES-3 using a special cable available from Reactive.

The TES-3 is available in a 19" rack mount chassis, with Magneto Optical disk output.