Fix your 8 mm tape.
The 8 mm tape format was first introduced in the 1980s. It survived through the 1990s and even into the 2000s with the addition of Hi8 and Digital 8 to the mix. These gained popularity over their VHS and Beta counterparts because of their lighter form factor and improved audio quality. If you manage to somehow break an 8 mm tape, don't panic. It's still possible to fix it by splicing it back together.
Instructions
1. Choose a work area with plenty of space and a good light source. Spread the lint-free cloth out over the area.
2. Turn the 8 mm tape upside down so that the sprockets are facing up, and lay it in your work area.
3. Press the small square catch on the left side of the tape. This is called the release guard. While continuing to press down on this, lift the front cover down, exposing the tape inside. Insert a toothpick between the cover and the tape case to keep it wedged open.
4. Insert the edge of a toothpick behind the exposed tape and pull forward gently. If the tape is snapped, you can pull either side out from the sprockets. Do this slowly so that you do not damage the tape.
5. Cut out the damaged portion of the tape with the razor blade. Ensure that the cuts on both sides of the tape are square. Turn the tape so that the shiny side is face down on the lint-free cloth. Cut a piece of tape to the size of the 8 mm tape and press it into place to secure the two cut sides together. Smooth this over with a toothpick.
6. Insert the end of a pencil eraser into the tape sprocket. Slowly wind the tape back into the case until the slack is taken up. Remove the toothpick to close the tape cover.
Tags: lint-free cloth, Turn tape, work area
