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August 12, 2004
miniDV tape care
Well beyond the advancements in research & development and quality control that a manufacturer invests in the production of their product, the life span of a given video tape for the End-User is dependent to a large degree, on the conditions of their care, handling, and the storage environment. To ensure optimal results, the following precautionary measures are recommended.
TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY
For long term storage of a recorded video tape (i.e., 10 years or more), the storage area should consistently be maintained within the following ranges for both temperature and humidity:
Temperature: 15-25?C
Humidity: 40-60%RH
Fluctuations of temperature and humidity should be minimized to prevent expansion & contraction of the base film. The storage area should also be as free from dust as possible, both from internally as well as externally generated sources.
PROPER WINDING OF TAPE
Inspect the condition of the tape winding. If the tape pack is not neatly wound, rewind it on a VTR before storage. If a tape with uneven winding and “slipped” sections (commonly referred to as “blocking”) is left in storage for long periods, uneven stretching of the tape will occur. Images that are recorded in the more stressed portions of the tape will show disturbance on playback. Also, all tapes should be completely rewound to the supply side before storage.
PHYSICAL PLACEMENT OF TAPE
Recorded videotape should be stored upright in their protective cases. If tapes are left out of their cases and stacked one on top of another, the collective weight could cause distortion as well as potential breakage of the cassettes. When transporting tapes, place them in the upright position, as this will provide the best protection against vibration and tape edge damage.
PERIODIC REWINDING OF TAPE
For ventilation purposes, tapes should be fast-forwarded or rewound at least once every 3 years. This procedure should also be followed for any tapes you intend to re-record, but have not been used for a substantial period of time.
AVOID STRAY MAGNETIC FIELDS
Keep tapes away from electrical equipment (speakers, electric motors, etc.) which generate a strong magnetic field. Also be cognizant of products on the market, such as certain business/desk items, toys, and health articles which also have small but strong magnets. Magnets from these articles, which come in contact with a videocassette, can cause tape noise, and in the worst case, even erase recorded video & audio.
VTR MAINTENANCE
As video tape incorporates a thin plastic base film, irreparable wrinkles and scratches may be incurred when playing the tape on a VTR with a faulty tape transport mechanism or tape path. Regular maintenance & adjustment of the VTR is critical. Please pay particular attention to the degradation of the rubber on the pinch roller, which grips and pulls the tape during transport. This rubber should be replaced at regular intervals.
AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
If fire extinguisher equipment is installed in the tape storage area, please make sure the extinguishing agent is gaseous. Liquid or powder extinguishers will harm tape performance.
Posted by robeva at August 12, 2004 11:59 PM
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