Ideal for protecting the beginning and the end of a magnetic tape. Also useful for dividing the tracks recorded on the tape.
Color versions were used in a home Hi-Fi and semi-professional domain, striped versions in broadcasting stations and recording studios.
For separating the tracks recorded on the tape. This procedure eliminates the risk of print-through on the beginning and the end of tracks, especially on master tape recordings.
You may find interesting German leader tape colour scheme table too.