How can I use a DVCPro tape in a DV camcorder? The casettes are almost identifcal but the camcorder won't load the tape.

What's the secret?

You can't use DVCPRO tapes in a mini-DV/DV camcorder.

DVCPRO tapes come in L and M sizes. There's also a "s" size, which really refers to mini-DV tapes. You can load a mini-DV tape in the adapter and it will play back in the DVCPRO deck.

DV (the DV format) has tapes that come in large/full-size and mini size (mini-DV).

See Adam Wilt's DV FAQ for lots on information on the various DV-related formats. DV, DVCPRO, DVCAM, digital8, etc.

Yes you can use DVCPro L size tape to record in DV camera. I'm using it with Panasonic DVC200 and it give you four and a half hour worth of recording in DV format on a DVCPro 126 tape. Only thing is you need to remove the chip on the tape. If not, the tape will eject by itself.

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