How to Clean Cassettes for Sony Digital 8 Camcorders

Sony Digital 8 cameras are slightly older than the cameras using MiniDV tapes. The tapes used in the Sony cameras are also bigger, almost reaching the size of a standard cassette tape. If you will be using a tape that has been removed from the plastic packaging, you should probably clean it and remove any fingerprints and dust that may be on the tape. Dust and smudges on the tape can result in recording problems later down the line.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Digital 8 tape
• Cotton swabs
• Water

1. Press down and hold the small button on the side of the Digital 8 tape. Open up the flap protecting the magnetic recording strip. Keep the lid open with one of your fingers. You can now let go of the side button.

2. Wet your cotton swab with water and run it alongside the top and bottom of the magnetic strip. This removes any dust or grime. Do not use any harsh cleaning products on the tape, because it can damage the actual tape itself.

3. While you hold open the plastic protector, insert the pointer finger of your other hand into the left spokes wheel on the tape. Rotate your finger counter-clockwise to advance the tape. Clean the newly exposed tape with the cotton swab.

4. Repeat this process until you have cleaned all areas of the tape. If you have never used the tape before, it is only necessary to clean the tape currently exposed under the plastic flap and a little slack to either side (the rest of the tape has not been exposed, so it doesn't require cleaning). However, if you have previously used the tape before and it has been sitting outside a case for a long period of time, you may want to clean the entire tape.

References

• Sony Digital Tape Information