VCR shuts down (memorex)
#1
12-11-03, 08:35 AM
VCR shuts down (memorex)
I install tape in machine , it plays a couple of seconds and stops, then VCR shuts down.Any ideas?
#2
12-11-03, 04:45 PM
This is not an uncommon problem. There is a photoelectric
sensor in the tape path. It uses a small LED diode to sense if
there is a tape in the tape path. When the sensor fails, the
machine "assumes" there is no tape in the machine and shuts
down.
It's fixable but not cost effective to do so unless you have some
electronic expertise and want to pursue it on your own. It is
cheaper to replace the machine than take it to a shop.
sensor in the tape path. It uses a small LED diode to sense if
there is a tape in the tape path. When the sensor fails, the
machine "assumes" there is no tape in the machine and shuts
down.
It's fixable but not cost effective to do so unless you have some
electronic expertise and want to pursue it on your own. It is
cheaper to replace the machine than take it to a shop.
#3
12-22-03, 02:04 PM
There is often a photo-sensor to detect reel movement mounted on the deck underneath the take-up reel. It works in conjunction with a series of small mirrors on the underside of the reel itself. The mirrors can become tarnished, so preventing the sensing of movement.
This may be the cause of the problem. If it is, polishing the mirrors should effect a cure.
This may be the cause of the problem. If it is, polishing the mirrors should effect a cure.
#4
02-14-04, 12:44 AM
Had the same problem
After checking service and parts prices, I decided to buy a Sony VCR with all the bells and whistles for $99 at Best Buy. Much better than the old RCA that I had. The problem is long gone and life goes on. Unless you are able to fix it yourself, repairing VCRs is not worth it anymore.
#5
02-14-04, 03:34 AM
Buying a new video recorder is often the best course to take in view of the prices these days. It only becomes a worthwhile prospect if you want to mend it out of interest, or because you can't bear the thought of throwing the old one away. 
I'm sure the days of the video recorder are numbered anyway. DVD recorders are coming right down in price now and I read the later ones are much more reliable than those that first appeared on the market.
I'm sure the days of the video recorder are numbered anyway. DVD recorders are coming right down in price now and I read the later ones are much more reliable than those that first appeared on the market.
