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We frequently receive email asking for help in finding replacement remotes, or locating someone to service a television or stereo. We have listed some links (Click here) to aid you in finding what you are looking for.
Customers call with these questions:
1. Question: A tape is stuck in my VCR. How can I get it out?
Answer: Do not attempt to remove it yourself! You could do serious damage to your VCR. Our technicians will extract the tape for you, possible at no charge, depending on your VCR. If the stuck tape was caused by a fault in your VCR, we will be able to give you an estimated cost of repairs.
2. Question: How often should I use a tape head cleaner to clean my VCR?
Answer: We do NOT recommend routine cleaning with a tape head cleaner for a couple of reasons. First, head cleaners are not very thorough, and second, they can promote additional wear to your expensive video heads. However, it IS okay to have a head cleaner on hand for that Saturday evening when you've rented some tapes and suddenly the picture goes snowy. For that kind of "emergency ", head cleaners can help.
3. Question: How often should I get my VCR cleaned?
Answer: Most manufacturers recommend cleaning every 1,000 hours of use. However, that is dependent upon the kind of use it gets. An owner who primarily uses his VCR for time-shifting programs and uses good-quality tapes will get far more use between cleanings than one who only plays tapes from a cut-rate video rental that doesn't guard the quality of their stock. In addition to merely cleaning a VCR, we also clean out the accumulated dust and relubricate the mechanism. We check to make sure the
torque and back tension are okay so that it won't damage your tapes. Next, we check the tape-path alignment to be sure it is correct. Then we check both the record and playback functions to make sure everything is working properly. If there are any potential problems detected, we notify you with an estimate of the cost to repair those.
4. Question: The estimate for my repair was half the cost of a new VCR or less! Why would I want to spend $70-$110 on a repair when I can buy a new VCR for $79 on sale?
Answer: Maybe you wouldn't! But here are some things to consider: you bought your VCR five years ago for $350. Now the estimate to repair it is $50. If you spend the $50 and repair this one, you'll have a $350 VCR that you are familiar with. Many customers we talk to really like particular the features of their current VCR. If you buy the $79 special, you'll have a $79 VCR that you'll have to learn how to use. AND, the quality of your old VCR is probably better than the newer, cheaper model. Besides, you'll have to dispose of the old unit.
5. Question: My camcorder batteries don't seem to hold a charge any more
Answer: You probably have one of two types of batteries. The lead-acid type of 12-volt batteries used in the older, full-sized camcorders generally just wear out, like your car battery does. Those have to be replaced. The nickel-cadmium batteries used in the majority of newer, smaller camcorders develop Memory Effect. This is a condition that decreases the battery's ability to hold a charge. Memory can be reversed by fully discharging the battery and then recharging it. Some chargers offer this capability; most do not. We can cycle your batteries for you at a nominal cost. A third type of battery that is available is the Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery that has the benefits of the Nickel-Cadmium but does NOT have the disadvantage of the Memory Effect.
6. Question: My remote control doesn't work anymore. Will an over-the- counter replacement remote control work on my TV?
Answer: If your TV has on-screen programming, you must have the remote designed for your TV to access any functions other than the basic channel and volume controls. Some remote controls can be repaired, and we will gladly assess the condition of your remote.
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