Bottom side of a MiniDV tape for use in Panasonic digital camcorders.
Panasonic DVC (digital video cassette) camcorders record video on MiniDV tape stored in a plastic housing about the same size as old 8mm videocassettes. The standard recording time for a DVC is an hour, although the recording speed on some camcorders can be adjusted to get 90 minutes of recording time on a tape. DVCs can be loaded and replaced in seconds for fast shooting so precious time won't be lost while changing out cassettes.
Instructions
1. Slide the "On/Off" switch on the back of the Panasonic camcorder to the "On" position.
2. Push the "Open/Eject" button on the top of the camcorder forward toward the lens to release the tape compartment door, which will pop open to the right of the camera when viewed from above.
3. Remove any MiniDV cassette in the camera with thumb and forefinger, then place a new cassette straight down into the compartment with the top of the cassette facing toward the door and the bottom of the cassette turned toward the camera body.
4. Push the tape compartment door closed to lock the tape in the camcorder, which is now ready for use.
Tags: compartment door, MiniDV tape, Panasonic digital, recording time, tape compartment, tape compartment door