In an automatic tape loader mechanism, for example for a digital tape storage system, the forces of registration springs intended to engage notches in a tape cartridge are de-rated prior to andor during insertion of a tape cartridge into the loader. The plurality of liquid-impermeable layers have a coextensive area A1. The reflective superstrate includes a third surface and a fourth surface, wherein the third surface is opposite to the fourth surface. A gate dielectric of Silicon Oxynitride is formed over the channel, and a polysilicon gate is formed over the gate dielectric. The ion transmission device can have a number of effects, including: substantially spreading out the generated ions along an ion axis to generate a quasi-continuous beam; reducing the energy spread of ions emitted from the source; and at least partially suppressing unwanted fragmentation of analyte ions.