Problems With Mini DV Tapes
MiniDV camcorders are one of the most popular types of camcorders on the market today. MiniDV camcorders all record video to small MiniDV tapes. Sometimes those MiniDV tapes have problems. Here are a few of the most common MiniDV tape problems and what to do about them.
Eaten Tape
Sometimes the internal mechanisms of a MiniDV camera will malfunction, causing your tape to be "eaten" much like a VHS tape might have been eaten by your VCR. If you catch the damage early on you may be able to wind the tape back into the cassette and save the footage. If a good bit of the tape has been crumpled, then your best bet is to send the tape off to a audio/video repair store to be fixed. Most of those stores can also simultaneously backup your video to a DVD so you won't lose it again.
No Tape
Sometimes your camcorder may give an error message saying there is no tape inserted when you have just put in a new tape. if that is the case try removing the tape and then reinserting it into the camera.
Record Inhibited
MiniDV tapes have a small switch on the side that locks them against further footage being recorded onto them. The idea behind the switch is that if you record something important you can turn the switch to prevent yourself from accidentally taping over your footage. The switch can also occasionally be accidentally tripped. If you get the message on your camcorder that recording has been prevented, check the side of the tape and make sure the switch is moved to the "unlocked" position.
Broken
MiniDV tapes are made of plastic and therefore can be easily broken if they are stepped on, run over with by a car or mistaken for a bone by your dog. if your MiniDV tape casing becomes broken the best plan of action is to take the tape to your local audio/video repair shop to get the tape repaired. Any "repairs" you try to do yourself at home are likely to further destroy the tape rather than repair it.
Dirty
It is easy to get sand or other debris inside your tape cassette, as well as accidentally sit your tapes into something less than desirable that might soil the outside of the case. For external problems, use a lightly moistened paper towel or cloth to remove debris. For internal debris, try opening the top of the tape and shaking out anything that might be inside. You can also use a can of compressed air to lightly remove debris. Do not stick your fingers or other apparatus inside the tape or you may damage your footage.
Tags: MiniDV tapes, audio video, audio video repair, Mini Tapes, MiniDV camcorders, MiniDV tape
