HELP! HVX-200 MiniDV Drive Won't Function

[cmb_1455]

Hey guys,

I'm having a problem with the HVX. I was doing my routine camera check before a show tomorrow. I checked to see if there was a tape in the tape drive. After ejecting the tape, I could not (and still can't) get the Mini DV Drive itself to go pack into it's proper position. At most, I can get the drive to close again (if I include a tape in the drive), but the tape holder just sits there, it doesn't move down into normal position.

Also, get this, the little tape turners (the drive's that make the tape spin), are moved up into place so that I can still record/play back the tape. It's weird. usually the whole DV deck would move down into place about an inch and stay there. I've tried everything from powering off the camera, to removing the battery.

I really need this cam tomorrow, and I can't rent another one at all. Luckily I'm using P2, but I still can't hand hold the camera as is.

HELP?! :cry:

[andythefilmer]

This probably won't help but you could try resetting the camera. I wouldn't recommend forcing it closed, so try contacting Panasonic support but if you can't fix it, try running down to a local best buy and pick up a Sima Video Bracket. Like $30 and it has a side grip, plus it has 2 hot shoe mounts. It goes out to the side and mounts on the bottom by the screw.