Sony CCD-TR81 Troubleshooting

No matter what I do I can't get an image in the viewfinder

Ensure that the battery pack is installed properly onto the back of the video camera. The battery pack must align with the white line on the back of the camera near the viewfinder. Refer to the guide on installing the battery properly.

If the battery is installed properly and still does not start the video camera, remove the battery and place it on the battery charger for 60 minutes.

Replacement batteries can be found at the Sony website.

No matter what you do, your video camera won't start recording.

Check to see that the power button is switched to CAMERA on the top of the video camera

Be sure the STANDBY knob is slid upward so that the camera is switched from LOCK to STANDBY. The video camera should read "STBY" in the viewfinder.

If the START/STOP button is stuck, remove the outer case to access the button.

"I can't get the video cassette out of my video camera"

The cassette compartment only works when the camera is powered. Check to ensure that the camera has power by looking for numbers in the display window.

"I can't hear any sound when I play back my tapes"

Check to make sure there are no obstructions in the way of the microphone located at the front of the camera near the lens.

Disassemble the microphone casing and replace the broken parts.

"I can't see through the viewfinder clearly"

Use the maintenance guide to clean off the water from the viewfinder.

Use the maintenance guide to remove the dust from the viewfinder.