HDV Tape Lifespan?

Kimberly wrote on 4/10/2010, 5:29 PM

Hello All:

My Sony HC-3 camcorder uses HDV tapes. I shoot about 20 to 30 minutes of footage a day Monday through Thursday, using a different tape for each day.

I re-use each daily tape for several months. About every 3 months I replace them just because I am worried the tapes are getting worn out or otherwise damaged. I used a head-cleaner once a week, otherwise I get the "dirty head" message from the camcorder.

My question: How long can/should I be using each tape before replacing it? I would rather replace the tapes versus having them break in my camcorder due to wear. I am not noticing diminished quality in my footage after a few months, but I replace them anyway.

Thanks for reading.

Kim

Comments

musicvid10 wrote on 4/10/2010, 5:55 PM

You are talking about how many "months" you are using them rather than how many "times" you are using them before replacing.

The factor is use rather than age (unless you are talking about years). Even so, I suspect you are re-using them way too many times and that is a contributing factor to your head clogging message. Even though you can't see a difference in the video, the coating is flaking off every time you use them.

A purist would never re-use a tape. I get a bit edgy after a couple of uses and they wind up in a box in a closet.

If it's cost you are concerned over, why not just use Mini-DV tape? You won't see any difference, and they're cheaper.

ALR-James wrote on 4/10/2010, 8:27 PM

Reminds me of how much I love my Sanya Xacti and recording to an SDHC card. No more tapes, no more capturing, no more rewinding. Of course the quality is lower, but it's plenty for my needs and I'm just capturing memories and having fun!

Kimberly wrote on 4/11/2010, 5:52 PM

Thanks MusicVid!

I use each tape about 15 times before I replace it. I am not overly concerned with cost as much as with supply. I am on a dive boat based in a developing nation, and there are no tapes available locally. I brought a stockpile with me, but when they are gone, there are none until I return home.

Based on your input, I'll start changing out my tapes earlier and make arrangements for a bigger supply of "fresh" tapes when I return from home. Always good advice from this forum and from you in particular!

Kim