SCR-59  (140-1205)          Hints and Tips              Faxback Doc. # 6655

ERASING TAPES

To erase a recording, simply record over it.  To completely erase a tape
without making a new recording, use a bulk tape eraser (available at your
local Radio Shack).

ERASE-PROTECTION TABS

Cassettes have a built-in device to automatically prevent erasure of a
tape by accidentally recording over it.

The cassette has two small plastic tabs on its back edge.  If you break
off Side A's tab, you cannot record on Side A.  There is a separate tab
for Side B.

If, however, you later want to record on a side after you have removed the
tab, cover the tab's hole with a piece of strong, plastic adhesive tape.

Caution:  Never try to force down RECORD if you removed the tab for that
          side.  This can damage the tape mechanism.

Note:  This protection device does not prevent erasure using a bulk tape
       eraser.

CLEANING THE TAPE-HANDLING PARTS

Dirt, dust or particles of the tape's coating can accumulate on the tape
heads and the other parts that the tape touches.  This material can
greatly reduce the performance of the SCR-59.  Use the following cleaning
procedure after every 20 hours of operation.

1.  Remove the batteries and disconnect any other power source from the
    recorder.

2.  Open the cassette compartment door.

3.  Press PLAY to expose the tape-handling parts.

4.  Use a cotton swab dipped in denatured alcohol or tape head cleaning
    solution to clean the play head, pinch roller, capstan, and erase
    head.  Your local Radio Shack store carries a complete line of tape
    cleaning supplies.

RESTORING TAPE TENSION AND SOUND QUALITY

After you play a cassette tape several times, the tape might become
tightly wound on the reels.  This can cause playback sound quality to
deteriorate.

To restore the sound quality, fast-forward the tape from the beginning to
the end of one side, then completely rewind it.  Then loosen the tape
reels by gently tapping each side of the cassette's outer shell on a flat
surface.

Note:  Be careful not to damage the cassette when tapping it.  Do not
       touch the exposed tape or allow any sharp objects near the
       cassette.

(br/all-7/11/94)