Using the Database Pages

Finding Your Database Page

There are several links to get to the Database Pages from various points on this site. When you click on one of them, the first screen you see will be a list of manufactureres or brand names. They are in alphabetical order. Click on the brand name of your VCR and you will be taken to a list of model numbers for that brand. The model numbers are also in alphabetical order. Click on your model number and the Database Page for your VCR appears on your screen.

You may ocassionally find that a model number matches except for the last letter, the suffix. Usually a different suffix means minor changes like a different cabinet, color or other small option. Otherwise, the VCR is basically the same. In other cases a different suffix means an entirely different VCR. To find out, check the Database Page in question and see if the deck layout drawings match your VCR. If it matches, it's good enough to use for the most part. But be careful when ordering parts from a different page. For example, video heads are famous for being optional upgrades by only one suffix letter.

At other times, you may find that a model number is not there at all. This website launched focusing on VCRs that are 3 to 15 years old. Right now we have 80 percent of the model numbers in that age group. In the meantime, we suggest the Knowledgebas for possible answers to your problems.

Finding Parts for Your VCR - the first menu item is where the parts for that model number are listed.

Symptoms and Repair Tips - the second menu item is where the common problems for that model number are listed.

Basic VCR Notes - is where you will find information about what motors, cassette carriage mechanisms, moving mechanisms, etc. your VCR uses. It also has information about removing covers (when available), room light sensitivity for tape end sensors and any other information we may have.

Removing Cassettes That Won't Eject - is where you will find procedures for your model number on removing stuck cassettes.

Layout Drawings - the last menu item is a link for the drawings we have for that model.

This website always refers directions from the front of the VCR. For example, when talking about the right side plate of the cassette carriage, it is refering to the right end of the carriage as you are looking at it from the front. If we are talking about something on the bottom of the VCR, lets say like the master cam gear and that it's located on the left side of the deck underneath. Once again, it's on your left as you are looking at it from the front, but this time it's on your left with the VCR upside down.