Videotape
There are several things you should keep in mind to insure good recordings:
- tape needs to be handled carefully, which means don't handle at all
if possible, videocassettes should either be in the VCR in or a case!
- store in a cool, dry, clean place (not a car trunk in summertime).
Ideal storage = 68 degrees and 40% relative humidity
- videotape should never be spliced (however, if spliced only for one
dub)
- should be stored on end, tape edges must be protected from damage or
you could loose audio or control track
- keep away from strong magnetic fields, i.e., monitors, speakers, etc.
- do not keep VCR in pause mode for long periods of time
- avoid using the first minute and last minute of tape due to the potential
for excessive dropouts
- most production facilities use tape for only a single pass, although
you can get many passes if you are careful
- beware of losing power to VCR before tape is ejected, otherwise you
could eject tape before it is returned to its cassette
- it is a good idea to "exercise" or "fluff" a new
tape, (ff to end and back)
- never use a wrinkled or creased tape, it could damage heads
- make sure that the VCR is properly maintained; cleaned, tape guide
tension checked, worn belts replaced, etc.
To contact professor Ebersole, e-mail him at samuel.ebersole@colostate-pueblo.edu
Return to CSU-Pueblo Television Production Handbook home page.