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How to Erase a MiniDV Tape

Recording and storing videos is easy with Mini DV tapes. A Mini DV features a metal tape with a diamond-like coating made of carbon for protection. The Mini DV tape delivers videos and sound in a sharp and high quality format. When you no longer want the videos stored on your Mini DV tape, you can replace them. By doing so, you will reformat the tape and can record new videos. One way to erase the Mini DV tape is to override the old video stored to it. To maintain the quality of the new video, and to prevent damage of the tape, you should erase the stored files properly.

Things You'll Need

  • MiniDV Camcorder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select the Mini DV tape that you want to erase.

    • 2

      Disengage the safety tab on the Mini DV tape. The safety tab, which is a small switch on the top of the tape, prevents recording onto the tape if it is engaged. Exact symbols will vary, but the tab will either display an icon of a lock or a color to signal engagement. Switch the tab away from this symbol to disengage.

    • 3

      Insert the tape into the camcorder.

    • 4

      Rewind your Mini DV tape to the beginning of the recording.

    • 5

      Put the lens cap on the camcorder. Either disable the camera's microphone or place the camera in a quiet place.

    • 6

      Black out the tape. Press the record button in the camera and record until the end of the tape.

    • 7

      Rewind the Mini DV tape to the beginning. Record your new material.

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