Bulk tape eraser? at DVinfo.net

Alan Christensen · April 5th, 2004, 11:42 PM

I have run into an occasional problem re-using tapes. My VX 2100 sometimes comes up with the "need to clean heads" message when recording over a tape that was originally recorded on a Canon camcorder. The reverse problem sometimes occurs when my Canon camcorder tries to record over a tape that was previously recorded using my VX (it gives an "eject tape" message). Both problems can occur at any point in the tape and both force you to eject the tape and load a fresh tape. This is clearly unacceptable when filming an event.

Both cameras work perfectly when using a new tape. Has anyone else ever run into this problem?

My theory is that the timecode that is laid down by the two cameras is slightly off, and that the cameras have trouble synching the new recording with the existing timecode originally laid down by the other camera.

To get around this problem I'm considering buying a handheld tape eraser to wipe out any previous signal in order to make all the tapes reusable on either camera. It's too much hassle and too risky to try to keep the tapes separated.

Do any of you use a tape eraser to return tapes to a like new condition? Do you have any handheld erasers that you recommend?

Frank Granovski · April 6th, 2004, 12:17 AM

Why don't you just buy new tape in bulk? Cheaper, and it'll save time and headaches.

April 5th, 2004, 11:42 PM	#1
Alan Christensen Regular Crew Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: California Posts: 139	Bulk tape eraser? I have run into an occasional problem re-using tapes. My VX 2100 sometimes comes up with the "need to clean heads" message when recording over a tape that was originally recorded on a Canon camcorder. The reverse problem sometimes occurs when my Canon camcorder tries to record over a tape that was previously recorded using my VX (it gives an "eject tape" message). Both problems can occur at any point in the tape and both force you to eject the tape and load a fresh tape. This is clearly unacceptable when filming an event. Both cameras work perfectly when using a new tape. Has anyone else ever run into this problem? My theory is that the timecode that is laid down by the two cameras is slightly off, and that the cameras have trouble synching the new recording with the existing timecode originally laid down by the other camera. To get around this problem I'm considering buying a handheld tape eraser to wipe out any previous signal in order to make all the tapes reusable on either camera. It's too much hassle and too risky to try to keep the tapes separated. Do any of you use a tape eraser to return tapes to a like new condition? Do you have any handheld erasers that you recommend?

April 6th, 2004, 12:17 AM	#2
Frank Granovski Outer Circle Join Date: May 2002 Location: Hope, BC Posts: 7,524	Why don't you just buy new tape in bulk? Cheaper, and it'll save time and headaches.