The illustration above is from the service manuals and it shows the method for preparing a cassette for doing the alignment. Click on the picture. In the front is a cassette prepared in the manner described. Recorded on this cassette and the ones in the background, labeled COLOR BARS, is the standard NTSC color pattern. All these are used for testing and alignment and I make a good number of them in advance to have on hand. For preliminary checking I have some that I consider consumables, like the one in front. This is because if the path happens to be way off it could cause tape damage. It could get curled or wrinkled as it crawls around in the path. I would rather risk a disposable tape on the first try than one of the alignment copies that I have so carefully prepared. Even though every step up to this point has been to insure that the path components are as close to new as possible, experience has taught me that it's always best to do this precautionary step. Click on the photo. In the photo above you see what is most desirable. Flat tape travel across the ACE assembly with no curling or deformities. Click on the photo to see these components showing the tape in place with the guard and pinch roller removed. All the adjustment points are identified. Click on the photo again to see the desired travel characteristics for the entry side (shuttle block). Smooth and flat is what we want with no curl at the edges of the guides or as the tape enters the drum rail. (More information is coming on the guides, ACE assembly and drum rail when we get into the actual adjustment.) Shown at the top of this photo in the background are two dental mirrors. These are used throughout the inspection and adjusting process to examine various components that would otherwise be out of site or difficult to see directly. Click the photo again to see the shuttle adjustment points. The next and last photo shows the number two and three guides positioned in their respective adjusting plates and the tape traveling over them. Number two and three guide adjustment is not as demanding as the others in the alignment process but it is important that they be securely positioned band located to prevent damage to the tape. This is especially important when scanning backwards. To go on to the ENTRANCE SIDE ENVELOPE click here To go back to the TAPE PATH ALIGNMENT AMD ELECTRICAL ADJUSTMENT page click here. ©Misterßetamax go to homepage