Like any mechanical product, video cameras require periodic maintenance to keep them in good working order. In particular, the tape drive mechanism requires routine service - how frequently this is required depends entirely on how much use, the type/condition of tapes used and the environment the camera has been used in (i.e. moisture/dust/humidity etc.).
As mentioned above, cleaning tapes only really give the heads a wipe – any dirt & tape particle build-up on the head drum, tape guides, capstan and mechanism rollers can only be totally removed by a full mechanism service.
This is not a quick & easy task as modern cameras are designed to be as small/compact as possible, so access to the tape drive mechanism for servicing can only be done by completely dismantling the camera and removing the mechanism. Full inspection/service to the actual mechanism itself can then be performed. This is then followed by any necessary checks & adjustments, reassembly of the complete camera and finally, a full functional test & operational confirmation.
At CCD Camera Service, we take before/after microscope pics of your camera’s tape drive mechanism like the example below, so you can rest assured that when your camera actually needs a "real" service - you get what you pay for.......a professional full mechanism service!
BEFORE AFTER
