The MiniDV format uses a 6-mm tape packaged in a cartridge that is inserted to a MiniDV camera's tape deck. It is one of the industry-standard tape formats that followed older tape technologies, including the Digital8, Hi8 and Video8. When repairing a broken MiniDV cassette or a jammed MiniDV tape, this typically requires opening the cartridge to fix any damaged part or transferring the magnetic tape to a brand new cartridge.
Instructions
1. Check the damage on the MiniDV tape. If the cartridge is broken, you need to replace it. If there the magnetic tape is tangled or torn, fix it by unlocking the tape guard button on one side of the cassette, then flattening the tangled magnetic tape from the top of the cartridge's tape guard with your fingers. You may actually use a Scotch tape, but this is not recommended as a long-term solution because its chemicals will eat away the magnetic tape over time. If the damage is inside the cartridge, you need to open it for repair and possible part or cartridge replacement.
2. Disassemble the catridge using a small screwdriver.
3. Remove one side of the cartridge so you can look at any internal part that encountered damage.
4. Fix the damaged part. Look for a photo of the internal parts of a fully-functional MiniDV tape on the Internet if you are not familiar with its internal parts. This way, you will be able to check what particular part has damage. If you encounter any problem beyond practical repair, transfer the two reels that hold the magnetic tape to a replacement cartridge.
If the cause of the problem is a jam on the magnetic tape and there seems to be no other part damaged, carefully flatten and untangle the crumpled using your fingers. If there is a tear on the tape, use a video splicing tape, or Scotch tape, to fix it.
5. Assemble back the original or new tape cartridge that should house the fixed magnetic tape. Be careful not to accidentally entangle the magnetic tape during the process.
6. Return the screws using a small screwdriver to close the cartridge.
Tags: magnetic tape, MiniDV tape, cartridge that, damaged part, internal parts