11 Feb
2000
11 Feb
'00
2:04 a.m.
I have a problem with one TK50 that the connector
between the motors
and one of the PCBs is flaky. It will load tapes sometimes, but
eventually, the tape goes slack in the drive and won't rewind.
In my experience this particular problem is often due to the capstan
near the take-up reel side. If the tape gets pulled over the capstan
without the capstan actually turning, the TK50 gets confused and thinks
that no tape motion is taking place, so it gives up. Check that all
the capstans turn nice and freely before assuming the problem is in the
electronics.
I would remove the covers and see what state the tape
is in. It might be
half-in, half-out, it might be stuck on the leader, indicating a problem
with the optical interrupters as mentioned before. Also, when you get the
tape out, finally, inspect the barb at the end of the takeup leader in the
drive (not the cassette). If it is crimped, you'll get unreliable loading.
If it's missing, you won't get *any* loading.
Absolutely - in fact, before loading a TK50 in unknown condition it's
always a good idea to make sure the take-up doo-dad is in the correct
position and in good shape.
Tim.