Used cameras what/how to test ? at DVinfo.net

Jose Marrero · September 1st, 2003, 07:52 PM

Hello everyone, learning many new things because of this forum.
Considering purchase of used pd150 or vx1000 from online auctions where I can test the camera before I accept it. How do you test and what do you test for in a used camera over 3 days ?. Also, can an extended warranty be purchased by new camera owner?
Thanks in advance

Mike Rehmus · September 2nd, 2003, 09:19 AM

The camera checkout subject was covered in this forum not too long ago I think. Do a search. Otherwise, test everything that is covered in the manual and do a lot of shooting.

I don't believe anyone will write an extended warranty for a used camera unless it is a warranty from a specific store for a camera sold by them. Armatos is one that comes to mind.

Try to avoid the VX-1000. Just too old, hard to get repaired and very expensive to repair. Not nearly the camera as the VX-2000 or PD150.

Lou Bruno · September 3rd, 2003, 08:37 AM

Testing a Used Camera

1) Look for external marks, dents etc.

2) Check for DEAD PIXELS-place lens cap over the lens and increase the gain/db's. If you see white spots then you may have a bad ccd block.

3) Listen to the tape transport system. If you hear a loud buzzing then a lower head drum assembly may be needed-a common problem with the camera.

4) Actually look at the recorded tape. If there is excessive digital break-up or a venitian blind type "look" you may need a good cleaning or even worse-new heads.

5) Ask for the ORIGINAL box and bill of sale from the seller. The camera could be a third or fourth hand camera.

6) Lastly, make sure that the lens has a protective filter. Look for MOLD, scratches etc. on the original lens. Make sure that the battery is included as well as ALL accessories.

September 1st, 2003, 07:52 PM	#1
Jose Marrero New Boot Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Brooklyn, New York Posts: 7	Used cameras what/how to test ? Hello everyone, learning many new things because of this forum. Considering purchase of used pd150 or vx1000 from online auctions where I can test the camera before I accept it. How do you test and what do you test for in a used camera over 3 days ?. Also, can an extended warranty be purchased by new camera owner? Thanks in advance

September 2nd, 2003, 09:19 AM	#2
Mike Rehmus Wrangler Join Date: May 2002 Location: Vallejo, California Posts: 4,049	The camera checkout subject was covered in this forum not too long ago I think. Do a search. Otherwise, test everything that is covered in the manual and do a lot of shooting. I don't believe anyone will write an extended warranty for a used camera unless it is a warranty from a specific store for a camera sold by them. Armatos is one that comes to mind. Try to avoid the VX-1000. Just too old, hard to get repaired and very expensive to repair. Not nearly the camera as the VX-2000 or PD150. __________________ Mike Rehmus Hey, I can see the carrot at the end of the tunnel!

September 3rd, 2003, 08:37 AM	#3
Lou Bruno Go Cycle Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Huntington, NY Posts: 815	Testing a Used Camera 1) Look for external marks, dents etc. 2) Check for DEAD PIXELS-place lens cap over the lens and increase the gain/db's. If you see white spots then you may have a bad ccd block. 3) Listen to the tape transport system. If you hear a loud buzzing then a lower head drum assembly may be needed-a common problem with the camera. 4) Actually look at the recorded tape. If there is excessive digital break-up or a venitian blind type "look" you may need a good cleaning or even worse-new heads. 5) Ask for the ORIGINAL box and bill of sale from the seller. The camera could be a third or fourth hand camera. 6) Lastly, make sure that the lens has a protective filter. Look for MOLD, scratches etc. on the original lens. Make sure that the battery is included as well as ALL accessories. __________________ Lou Bruno