Error message ingesting DV tape into FCP
 

I am shooting on a Sony PD170 in DV SP format on Sony Mini DV ME tapes. I am editing on a MacBook Pro FCP 7.0.3. with capture set to DV NTSC. When capturing, I am getting the following error: "Capture encountered a problem reading data on your source tape. This could be due to a problem with the tape." It happens with clip, batch, and capture now. It has happened several times on different tapes. Does anyone know why this may be happening and what I can do to fix it?

Thanks, Catherine

Re: Error message ingesting DV tape into FCP
 

Clean your heads. Dropouts are often a result of dirty heads from accumulation of dust and other debris due to environment and/or differing tape stocks. The dropout MAY be permanently "written" to the tape if the heads were dirty at the time of recording or the problem may simply be that the heads are CURRENTLY dirty.

Use a Sony branded cleaning cassette following the enclosed instructions EXACTLY.

Cleaning cassettes are VERY abrasive and prolonged usage can "sand" the heads clean off of the head drum assembly.

Re: Error message ingesting DV tape into FCP
 

I thought that may be the problem because its very dirty here, but I am hesitant to use those cleaning tapes. Also, I am not getting any eror message from the camera that says its needs cleaning, so I am curious about that. There's one that's hanging around here I don't know any background- such as previous use- would it be fine to use? It doesn't have any instructions how long do you run it? Are there other options like swabbing with q tips with alcohol? There's no opportunity here for any kind of service but am going back to the States next week and thought I could take it and get it cleaned professionally? Thanks for the help!

Re: Error message ingesting DV tape into FCP
 

Been using abrasive head cleaning tapes for 12 years and haven't burned out a set of heads yet on my old PD150, my DHR1000 VTR or on either of my JVC ProHD cams.

10 seconds usually.

I clean heads about every 20 tape hours as I CAN'T afford a drop out. This is VERY likely excessive. Or every time I pass JVC/Panasonic tapes over Sony heads or vice versa which IN MY EXPERIENCE (your experience may well vary...) causes me the only issues I ever have around head clogs.