I have a Canon XL1s that has a flashing red tape symbol with a line through it. I was given your name by Matt Buerhaus in Maryland as a good source of repair. He says it is probably a gear in the drive motor, and could be an easy fix. My problem is that I am going to need this for next Thursday the 18th. If I overnight the camera to you, do you think you can fix it in Monday and overnight it back to me. If so I will ship on Friday. PLease let me know if you cannot, since the shipping both ways will be brutal. Thank you, Bill Rettberg [email protected]

SOURCE: Canon MVX200 will not load dv tape

The "remove Tape" error message on Canon DV camcorders is a general message meaning something is not correct with the tape transport system. These are miniature precision mechanisms and It could be anything from dew sensors to head motor, capstan drive etc. If the cassette drawer closes OK with no tape inserted then the tape sensor/ end tape sensor is operating. With no tape inserted the head drum does not run when the drawer closes but it does with a tape present. Does the head drum start up when you load a tape or is there no noise at all? If the head runs then it is possible the capstan is not starting or is jammed. If the head does not run then the cure will be either extremely tedious and delicate or very expensive. These units do not dismantle easily so unless you have some experience with this, or are willing to take a risk, then I would not recommend it. However, without such action you may have to write-off the unit anyway. Canon's repair charge will exceed the camera's value unless it's still under warranty. Your best option would be to find a local repairer that is willing to look at it, but I wouldn't be too optimistic .To some, this error message is a major issue when deciding to buying canon dv cameras. However, they are great little cameras and treated kindly will give many hours of excellent service. Don't store the camera with tapes loaded. don't subject it to sudden temperature changes or excessive vibration. Store it in a dry protected atmosphere and refrain from taking it onto the beach (salt AND sand !!!!) when on holiday etc.

SOURCE: Canon MV550i Mini DV Digital- red flashing symbol

from canon's support page:

This symbol indicates an empty or missing backup battery. The backup battery allows the camcorder to retain date, time and other settings when the main power source is removed.
The flashing symbol is not recorded by the camcorder so you can continue filming without problems.

To stop the flashing symbol remove the old backup battery and replace it with a new one, or recharge the built-in lithium battery if the camcorder has a built-in rechargeable battery.
Note: when the backup battery runs out during filming please do not remove the power supply (battery pack) before the camcorder is powered from a household power source and power adapter, or the user settings and date/time will be reset.

For more detailed information please consult the instruction manual.

SOURCE: Canon XL2 wont record or playback tapes - grey lines.

The video heads may be clogged. Depending on the severity of clogging, if minor, you can clean the heads with the head cleaning tape other option would be manual and direct cleaning by technician. First, open the tape loading area for dust removal by canned air, clean pinch roller with Q-Tip using denatured alchohol and try it. If it did not do the job. Assigne it to a technician for about $99 for a professional cleaning. Good luck -James. For further assistance by email, go to www.camerarepairjapan.com

SOURCE: Canon XL1. Unable to playback tape in camcorder

I have the solution that the canon expert forgot to mention. And this solved my exact problem too. I put in the tape and then shut the white door over top. This doesn't engage the tape. Problem solved. Human error, The fix cost nothing.

SOURCE: little flashing red symbol with a diagonal line

Telling you the Clock Battery is dead. There is a little grey door inside the LCD screen cavity. Takes a 2025 coin battery.

Peace