How to Fix a Mini DV Tape
Most video cameras use mini DV tapes to record content. Mini DV tapes are about a third of the size of a standard music cassette tape. Despite being recorded onto a tape, the content is digital. This being said, it is possible to have multiple problems arise when using a mini DV, which can range from image issues to difficulties importing the tape's content onto a computer.
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Instructions
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Black the mini DV tape before using it. For most home-use video cameras, this can be done by leaving the cap on the camera, followed by pressing the record button. Let the tape record this "black" until the tape is done. Now rewind the tape, and it is ready to be used. Blacking a tape is recommended because when content is recorded off and on, with breaks in between, this will create time code breaks. Time code is how the video editing system reads the tape. If there are breaks in the time code, the editing system may have trouble importing the data. Blacking the tape creates a solid time code, so even when you start and stop multiple recordings over the blackened tape, there will still be a consistent code.
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Flip open the plastic flap that protects the tape from exposure. This can be done by pressing down the small button on the side of the tape, followed by pulling the flap up. Occasionally, bends will occur in the tape. As long as the tape does not rip, you will be okay. Insert a pencil or pen into the spools of the tape and spin gently. This will tighten the tape and relieve the bend of the tape. If there is a slight crease left over from the bend, this is fine and should not cause any pictures issues.
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Purchase a cleaning tape for the your video camera. This tape has a special cleaning fluid on the tape and will help clean the inside of the camera. Insert the tape just like any ordinary mini DV tape and press play. Cleaning out the inside of the camera will help prevent dust from collecting on the tape you record with. The dust, if left in place, may cause scratches on the mini DV tape, which can result in sound and image problems. Once these scratches occur, you will not be able to fix them.
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