a telescopic pick - and - place robotic mechanism used to retrieve and deposit magnetic tape cartridges from a remote position , configured to be mounted to a typical robotic assembly located in proximity of a storage area for computer data or other storage media . the present invention has a reduced cross - sectional area due to its telescopic nature . the pick - and - place mechanism includes a base connected to the robotic arm and a number of slider plates coupled to the base which telescopically extend and retract relative to the base in a single axis of movement to reach the remote location . the slider plates are coupled to each other by slider means for enabling each of the slider plates to translate relative to each other along the single axis of movement . each slider plate is controlled by a crank and slider mechanism which converts a incoming rotational force to a linear force in the direction of the single axis of movement . the mechanism is driven by a servo motor which is coupled to the base and outputs the necessary rotational force . a gripper mechanism is connected to at least one of the slider plates holds and releases the cartridge translates it on and off mechanism .