Identifying Copy-Protected VHS Tapes

[Zoltan]

I'm a newbie on this forum and I have not seen the topic I've raised in the detail that interests me. The question is: How can you determine whether a VHS tape is copy protected prior to attempting to copy it? I have not seen many that are explicitly identified as copy-protected on the cassette itself; playing the tape usually shows the FBI prohibition against copying, etc., but no clear indication that it is copy protected. Should one assume that because there is no explicit notice to this effect that the tape is not protected?

I am interested in archiving my VHS tapes to DVD. That is really my only interest in buying a DVD copier. I'm looking at the Go.Video VR4940 DVD/VCR recorder/player because of its ease of operation, but with it being a combo, there is no way to use a "copy enhancer" to override any copy-protection. Therefore, I'd like to know if there's anyway to identify these tapes prior to purchasing the unit.

Will appreciate any input.

[handyguy]

Fast forward it & if you see black & white bars along the top its protected.