DV tape question

[brookelh]

I got a new DV camcorder for Christmas, and I read in my manual and on another website that you should take the tape out when you aren't using the camera. One recommendation even said to rewind the tape to the beginning if you won't be using it for more than a day. Something about creasing the tape. Is this really necessary? I usually grab the camcorder when the kids are doing something cute, and it would be a pain to have to search for the end of the tape everytime.

On my old 8mm camcorder, I left the tape in for months and just used it whenever. I suspect that is what most people do with miniDV as well, but I thought that I would ask for advice first.

[edDV]

I never bother doing either but there is a certain amount of truth that MiniDV is more delecate than 8mm. I would unload the tape if the camera is going to be roughly handled (e.g. shipped, airplane baggage) but as for having it ready to grab if the kids do something fun, just keep the tape cued and ready.

[guns1inger]

It is also to keep the tape from getting stretched. While it is loaded in the camera, the tape is wound around the drive mechanism. Sitting like this increases the likelihood of the tape stretching, and exposes part of the tape surface to potential damage.