Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

I obtained this camera a few days ago and it has given me problems with the tape ejector. I am able to open the cassette door but the mechanics inside don't budge. I performed a hard reset on the camera and it worked for a few minutes and now it doesn't work again. Anyone have any advice? I am running out of patience.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Sorry to say it, Jeremy, but it sounds like a trip to Canon factory service will be your next step. That's always a good idea anyway for any newly acquired used camcorder.
They will do a clean & check, and diagnose your trouble.

Start here: Canon U.S.A. : Consumer & Home Office

Good luck, and please report back.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Jeremy that's a sad first post fer sure.

But don't feel downcast-dejected-discouraged-depressed-dispirited-despondant or down in the dumps.

While your device is away in dock, digest your manual and dig through the discussions here to decide what custom presets
you might decide to delve into .. there's definately a deal to do.

Cheers.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Hi, Jeremy............

Check the hand strap hasn't been tightened too much.

If it has, it can stop the cassette compartment door from opening far enough to trip the eject mechanism switch.

If the previous owner had small hands it's very possible that is the cause.


CS

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Hadn't thought of that -- but it's absolutely a real possibility here. Thanks for the tip!

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

I checked the strap and had no luck. I was going to return it to the buyer for a refund but he has been MIA...and I'm not sending it out without a guaranteed refund. So it looks like its going off to visit canon.

Anyone have a rough idea as to how much an repair cost through them?

I appreciate all the responses.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Since the XHA1 can stream HD video live over firewire, you can skip the tape and record direct to any computer with a firewire. I would suggest testing the rest of the camera using this direct firewire recording method before sending it in for repairs. In the best case, you may discover that you already own small notebook computer that works well as a recorder.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Jeremy, check out the sticky up top to see if you qualify for the free handgrip upgrade when you send it in for repairs it might be still available .. also there's Canon contact info there you'll probably be able to get a quote from.

All the stickies are worth looking at, is your onboard mic Ok? You should have a UV filter on your lens if only for protection from scratches.

If your A1 has any custom settings and you want to keep them, write out a list before you send it in because they will all be deleted while it's being checked.

Also I'd send it in without the battery, Canon will have one. There's a post from someone who claims he didn't get *his* battery back after the repair.

Cheers.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Now that you mention it, the on board mic doesnt function. It works fine when I attach an external mic. Do you think the handle would effect this?

Thank you for the quote information.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

That could be a switch setting. Look for the LINE / MIC switch on top of the XLR audio input block.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Also go into your settings to make sure that the xlr is turned off when tring to use the onboard mic.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

So Jeremy, how are things in Harrisburg what's the state of your A1?

A post detailing what happened might help other new owners.

Cheers.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

I shipped my camera off to canon. They received it today. Hopefully in a few days I will have more of a update to deliver.

-JD

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

I recently had the same issue with my five year old XH A1. Canon tech told me, it was caused by wear and tear of something like a flexible circuit board /flat ribbon cable (german: "Flexplatine") connected with the tape-eject mechanism. They charged me 115 Euro for repair.

Re: Xh A1 Tape eject issues
 

Here is what my estimate said:

Cassette compartment will not work to load or eject tape. Mic glued to unit. Screw stripped on mic holder. Replace Extra mic holder assy. Replace grip. Grit in focus, zoom and iris rings. Replace Ring Assy. Signs of corrosion on screws. Check all internal functions. Repair, clean and adjust.

Jan, That is what I read as well throughout my research.

I should be getting it back next week.