[BlueVinney]

I've just tried capturing some footage on my PC from one of my Hi8 tapes and it is intermittently 'squeaking' in the camcorder. When it squeaks the image has banding lines, when the squeaking stops the image is fine so it could be caused by slow tape speed through friction. I've taken the tape out and it's definitely not a mouse or other rodent for those who might make the suggestion.

When I wind the tape by hand I can reproduce the sound, I guess the cassette advance mechanism needs lubricating but has anybody got some advice on how I can deal with this problem without damaging camcorder or tape?

[MarkE19]

Before lubricating the tape I would suggest that you start by fast forwarding to the end and rewinding the tape a few times to see if this loosens it up a bit. With a bit of luck this is all you will need to do.

Mark.

[BlueVinney]

Thanks MarkE19. I've tried once but was afraid I might be damaging the tape or drive if I did it too much. I'll give it a go another couple of times.