Cycling tapes?

[redCashion]

I took a film class where the professor advised us to cycle MiniDV tapes by fast forwarding and then rewinding them. This seemed like an antiquated process to me, and something that must be automated by now by the tape manufacturers. Do you guys still cycle tapes or is there no need?

 

[redCashion]

Btw, sorry I know it's not a Canon specific question, but I didn't see a better forum for it and my camera is a XH A1.

 

[Alan Craig]

I am not sure but I think one reason for cycling is to get the tape lined up in the tape housing to match the tape transport system in the camera.
Also to make sure that the tape runs smothly through the camera.

 

[Huy Vu]

The reason for cycling is to shake loose any particles that might be stuck on the tape that might cause dropout.

 

[sagemaster]

I had never heard of that. Those of you who know about it and understand it, do you do that? Do you recommend doing that? Before recording to each and every new tape?