Corrupted MiniDV tape

[glitchee]

I recently shot a training for work using two MiniDV tapes. I was able to successfully import the footage from the second tape to my computer, however, the first tape that i used is having issues. When playing back the tape on the camera chunks of the timecode are missing, for example: there is timecode data from 10 min to 12 min and then no timecode is displayed until 18 min. On top of that, when i try to play the footage that has timecode data, it only shows a blue screen and the timecode doesnt change. Anyone have any ideas on what caused this, and if there is a solution?

[filmboss80]

Many playback devices have circuitry that produce a blue screen when there is no signal. Timecode numbers will stop advancing when there is no control signal. You are going to have to determine whether this is a playback issue or a problem that occurred during recording. Possible causes:

1. Playback head clog due to oxide flaking off from a certain spot on the MiniDV tape. (Especially prevalent when being a cheapskate and reusing blank tapes over and over again.) The remedy is to clean the tape heads on the playback device.
2. Recording head clog. No remedy. The signal did not get laid to tape.
3. Idiot camera operator, hitting the fast forward or play button during an interval of time when he/she was intending to record. Or, possibly, accidentally hitting a line input source. Again, no remedy.

Diagnostic test: was there any audio playing back at all (even broken up sound) when the screen went blue? If so, you can rule out scenario 3.

In the meantime, clean the heads on your playback device. Also, try borrowing another camcorder to see if the problem is repeated.