Why is there static on my VHS tapes?

Question

I have a Panasonic VCR that I bought in 2000, and by the outside, it looks like it's in good condition. But everytime I record a show, the show has some static all over the screen. When I try adjusting the tracking, it does not help too much. I know that it is not the tape. I tried cleaning the inside, but it didn't help. Is there a reason for the static?

Answer 1

What you could do is try buying a special cleaning tape, and running that in the recorder for a while.

I assume also that this problem only recently happened, that it isn't a function of you just recording on a used tape at SLP speed.

If the cleaning tape does not help, your best bet may be to get another recorder.  You could keep the one you have to play old VHS tapes, and get a new DVD-based recorder for the future.

Answer 2

cause its a vhs

Answer 3

You tried cleaning the heads?  Make sure the cable or antenna hooked up to the back is also good and tight.

If those dont work you may have to change the heads.

Answer 4

try the tape in a different machine to confirm tape is ok

try replacing the coax from tv to vhs machine with one from radio shack or similar place the best reception comes from coax jumpers that have the  gold colored ends on them the old original coax doesnt cut it today