Sharp VC-A400U User manual

1
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
S39E7VC-A400U
SERVICE MANUAL
This document has been published to be used for
after sales service only.
Thecontentsaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice.
SHARP CORPORATION
VIDEO CASSETTE RECORDER
SERVICE MANUAL MODELS VC-A400U/H800U
VIDEO CASSETTE RECORDER
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
In the interests of user-safety (Required by safety regula-
tions in some countries) the set should be restored to its
originalconditionandonlypartsidenticaltothosespecified
be used.
MODELS VC-A400U
VC-H800U
Page
1. GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................................................ 4
1-1 FEATURES ............................................................................................................................. 4
1-2 SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................. 4
1-3 LOCATION OF MAJOR COMPONENTS AND CONTROL.....................................................5
2. DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY............................................................................................6
2-1 DISASSEMBLY OF MAJOR BLOCKS....................................................................................6
2-2 DISASSEMBLING THE MECHANISM/MAIN PWB ASSEMBLY............................................ 7
2-3 CARES WHEN REASSEMBLING...........................................................................................8
3. FUNCTION OF MAJOR MECHANICAL PARTS ...........................................................................9
4. ADJUSTMENT, REPLACEMENT AND ASSEMBLY OF MECHANICAL UNITS ........................ 11
4-1 MECHANISM CONFIRMATION ADJUSTMENT JIG ............................................................11
5. ELECTRICAL ADJUSTMENT...................................................................................................... 30
5-1 ADJUSTMENT OF HEAD SWITCHING POINT....................................................................31
5-2 ADJUSTMENT OF FV (False Vertical Sync) OF STILL PICTURE ...................................... 31
5-3 CHECKING OF OFF TRACK ................................................................................................31
5-4 ADJUSTMENT OF SIF-INPUT LEVEL .................................................................................32
5-5 ADJUSTMENT OF STEREO SEPARATION ........................................................................32
6. MECHANISM OPERATION FLOWCHART AND TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE ...................... 33
7. TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................................................................. 39
8. BLOCK DIAGRAM....................................................................................................................... 50
9. SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM AND PWB FOIL PATTERN..................................................................58
10. REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST .................................................................................................... 73
11. EXPLODED VIEW OF MECHANICAL PARTS............................................................................81
12. PACKING OF THE SET .............................................................................................................. 85
CONTENTS

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
IMPORTANT SERVICE NOTES
WARNING :TOREDUCETHERISKOFFIREORELEC-
TRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS AP-
PLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO
NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage
withintheunitthatcancausedangerouselectricshocks.
This symbol alerts the user that there are important
operatingandmaintenanceinstructionsintheliterature
accompanying this unit.
This symbol mark means fast operating fuse.
For continued protection against risk of fire, replace
only with same type fuse F901 (3.0A, 125V).
CAUTION:
BEFORE RETURNING THE VIDEO CASSETTE
RECORDER
Beforereturning thevideo cassetterecorder tothe user,
perform the following safety checks.
1. Inspect all lead dress to make certain that leads are
not pinched or that hardware is not lodged between
thechassisandothermetalpartsinthevideocassette
recorder.
2. Inspect all protective devices such as non-metallic
control knobs, insulation materials, cabinet backs,
adjustmentandcompartmentcoversorshields,isola-
tion resistor/capacitor networks, mechanical insula-
tors etc.
3. To be sure that no shock hazard exists, check for
current in the following manner.
●Plug the AC line cord directly into a 120 volt AC outlet
(Do not use an isolation transformer for this test).
●Using two clip leads, connect a 1.5k ohm, 10 watt
resistorparalleledbya0.15µFcapacitorinserieswith
all exposed metal cabinet parts and a known earth
ground, such as a water pipe or conduit.
●Use an SSVM or VOM with 1000 ohm per volt, or
higher, sensitivity or measure the AC voltage drop
across the resistor (See Diagram).
●Move the resistor connection to earth exposed metal
part having a return path to the chassis (antenna,
metalcabinet,screwheads,knobsandcontrolshafts,
SSVM
AC SCALE
1.5k ohms.
10W
CONNECT TO
KNOWN EARTH
GROUND
TO EXPOSED
METAL PARTS
0.15 µF
TEST PROBE
etc.) and measure the AC voltage drop across the
resistor. Reverse the AC plug on the set and repeat
AC voltage measurements for each exposed part.
Anyreading of 0.45Vrms (thiscorresponds to 0.3mA
rms AC.) or more is excessive and indicates a poten-
tial shock hazard which must be corrected before
returning the video cassette recorder to the owner.
3.0A 125V

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
PRECAUTIONS IN PART REPLACEMENT
When servicing the unit with power on, be careful to the section marked white all over.
This is the primary power circuit which is live.
When checking the soldering side in the tape travel mode, make sure first that the tape has been loaded and then turn
over the PWB with due care to the primary power circuit.
Make readjustment, if needed after replacement of part, with the mechanism and its PWB in position in the main frame.
(1) Start and end sensors: Q701 and Q702
Insert the sensor’s projection deep into the upper hole of the holder. Referring to the PWB, fix the sensors tight
enough.
(2) Photocoupler: IC901
Refer to the symbol on the PWB and the anode marking of the part.
(3) Cam switches A and B: D708 and D709.
Adjust the notch of the part to the white marker of the symbol on the PWB. Do not allow any looseness.
(4) Take-up and supply sensors: D707 and D706.
Be careful not to confuse the setting direction of the parts in reference to the symbols on the PWB. Do not allow any
looseness.

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1-1 FEATURES
Only for VC-H800U
•Hi-Fi Stereo Sound
• Built-in MTS (Multi-channel TV Sound) Decoder
Common Features
• EZ Set Up
• S-VHS Quasi Playback
• Double-Azimuth 4-Heads
•19
µClear Picture System (in EP mode)
• HQ System for Better Resolution and Color Reproduction
• Multi-Language(English/Spanish/French)OSD(OnScreen
Display) with Menu Screen Guidance
• 181-channelPLLQuartzSynthesizedRandomAccessTuner
with Automatic Channel Setting
• Quick Start with Full Loading Mechanism
• 1-Year, 8 Event Programmable Timer
• Simple Recording Timer
• Unified Remote Control
• Sharp Super Picture
• 20 Seconds Timer Backup
• Field-Still/Variable Slow/Frame Advance
• Real-Time Counter (On Screen Display)
• Automatic Daylight Saving-Time (D.S.T.) Adjustment
• Blue Screen Noise Elimination
• Auto Tracking Control System
• Digital Program Search System (DPSS)
• Skip Search
• Instant Replay
• Auto Zero Back
• Recorded Section Auto Repeat
• Full Automatic Playback
• Tamper Proof
• Up to 8 Hours of Recording and Playback (with T-160
cassette)
1-2 SPECIFICATIONS
Format: VHS NTSC Standard
Video Recording System: Rotary Two-Head Helical Scanning
Number of Video Heads: 4
Video Signal Standard: NTSC Color System
Audio Recording System: 1 Stationary Head for Linear Audio
2 Rotary Heads for Hi-Fi stereo (Only Hi-Fi model)
Tape Width: 12.7 mm (1/2 inch)
Tape Speed: (SP) 33.35 mm/sec. (1.31 i.p.s.)
(LP) 16.67 mm/sec. (0.66 i.p.s.) (playback only)
(EP) 11.12 mm/sec. (0.44 i.p.s.)
Maximum Recording Time: (SP) 160 min. (T-160)
(EP) 480 min. (T-160)
Channel Coverage: VHF 2-13
UHF 14-69
CATV 1-125
Antenna Input: 75 Ohm
Video Input: 0.5 to 2.0 Vp-p, 75 Ohm unbalanced
Video Output: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ohm unbalanced
Audio Input: –8 dBs, 47 kOhm unbalanced (0 dBs = 0.775 Vrms)
Audio Output: –8 dBs, 1 kOhm unbalanced (0 dBs = 0.775 Vrms)
Hi-Fi Audio (Only for Hi-Fi model):
Dynamic Range: 90 dB
Frequency Response: 20 Hz-20 kHz
Memory Backup: 20 seconds
Operating Temperature: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)
Storage temperature: –20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F)
Power Source: 120 V AC, 60 Hz
Power Consumption: 20 W
Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 lbs)
Dimensions (approx.): 360 (W) x 92 (H) x 253 (D) mm (14-3/16" x 3-5/8" x 9-31/32")
Accessories included: 75 ohm coaxial cable, Operation manual, Infrared remote control, Battery (2 pcs.),
Timer card
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
1-3 LOCATION OF MAJOR COMPONENTS AND CONTROL
LED Indicator (explained throughout the operation Instruction)
1
1
POWER
2
TIMER
3
VCR
4
REC
5
TAMPER
PROOF
6
REMOTE SENSOR
POWER LED indicator This indicator lights up GREEN whenever the VCR is turned on.
2
TIMER LED indicator This indicator lights up when the VCR is set for timer recording, Simple Recording Timer and Recording with the Timer.
3
VCR LED indicator This indicator lights up when selecting "VCR" by using the TV/VCR button.
4
REC LED indicator This indicator lights up on during recording. This indicator flashes during REC-Pause.
5
TAMPER PROOF ( ) LED indicator This indicator lights up when the set mode is locked.
6
Remote Sensor Point Remote Control at this window.
POWER TIMER VCR REC TAMPER
PROOF REMOTE SENSOR
Cassette compartment (see Playback/Recording)
POWER button (When pressed to turn on the VCR, POWER LED indicator will light up GREEN. When the power is turned off. POWER LED indicator wil turn to RED.)
Basic function controls (see Playback/Recording)

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
B
C
A
B
5
9
6
10
11
7
8
3
3
C
1
A
12
2
4
2. DISASSEMBLY AND REASSEMBLY
2-1 DISASSEMBLY OF MAJOR BLOCKS
TOP CABINET : Remove 2 screws 1.
FRONT PANEL : Remove button 2.
Remove 2 screws 3and 7 clips 4.
OPERATION : Remove 1 screw 5.
PWB
SHIELD ANGLE : Remove 1 screw 6with shield angle.
MECHANISM/ : Remove 1 screw 7, 1 screw 8, 2
MAIN PWB screws 9, 2 screws 0. Remove 1
screwqwithantennaterminalcover.
Remove 1 screw wwith top cabinet
fix angle.
MAIN FRAME
FRONT PANEL
SHIELD
ANGLE
TOP CABINET
ANTENNA
TERMINAL
COVER
MECHANISM/
MAIN PWB
ASSEMBLY
TOP CABINET
FIX ANGLE
H/A SHIELD
TOP
OPERATION PWB
LED PWB

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
MECHANISM CHASSIS
2-2 DISASSEMBLING THE MECHANISM/MAIN PWB ASSEMBLY
1. When removing the mechanism from the main PWB,
remove the antenna cover 1 screw 1, and remove the
antenna terminal cover.
Remove the PWB bottom plate 1 screw 2.
RemovetheFFCcable(AA,AD,AH)3whichconnect-
ing the PWB and the mechanism.
Take out vertically the mechanism so that it does not
damage the adjacent parts.
2. Removing the mechanism and cassette housing.
Remove 2 screws 4fixing the cassette housing to the
mechanism, and remove the cassette housing.
2
1
3
4
CASSETTE
HOUSING
MAIN PWB

8
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
START SENSOR
2-3 CARES WHEN REASSEMBLING
INSTALLING THE CASSETTE HOUSING
When the cassette housing is installed on the mechanism,
the initial setting is essential condition.
Therearetwoinitialsettingmethods,namelyelectricaland
mechanical.
1. Electrical initial setting
So as to perform initial setting of mechanism execute the
Step1ofInstallationofcassettehousing.Afterascertaining
the return to the initial setting position (*1) install the
cassettehousing.(Conditions:WhenmechanismandPWB
have been installed)
2. Mechanical initial setting
Feed the pulley feed gear of loading motor with screw
driver.Afterascertainingthereturntotheinitialsetposition
(*1) install the cassette housing in the specified position.
(This method is applied only for the mechanism.)
INSTALLING THE MECHANISM ON PWB
Lower vertically the mechanism, paying attention to the
mechanismedge,andinstallthemechanismwithduecare
so that the parts are not damaged. So as to fix the mecha-
nismtothemainPWBinstalltwohousings.(Fittheantenna
cover to one of them. For other, fix the vicinity of loading
motor and solder joint side of main PWB.) Connect again
the FFC cable (AA-MH, AD-ME, AH-MH) between the
mechanism and the main PWB.
PARTS WHICH NEED PARTICULAR CARE
When installing the mechanism chassis on the PWB unit,
take care so as to prevent deformation due to contact of
mechanism chassis with REC TIP SW.
Pulley feed gear
Screwdriver
AE CONNECTOR
AL CONNECTOR
Casecon
drive gear
Drive angle of
cassette housing
REC TIP SW
END SENSOR
AC CONNECTOR
Tilt mark (*1)

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
3. FUNCTION OF MAJOR MECHANICAL PARTS (TOP VIEW)
No. Function No. Function
1 Full erase head
2 Supply pole base ass’y
3 Tension arm
4 Idler wheel ass’y
5 Pinch drive lever ass’y
6 Supply reel disk
7 Supply main brake
8 Take-up main brake
9 Pinch drive cam
10 A/C head ass’y
11 Reverse guide lever ass'y
12 Casecon drive gear
13 Take-up reel disk
14 Pinch roller lever ass’y
17
15 10
11
5
9
14
12
8
16
13
4
6
2
7
3
1
18

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
FUNCTION OF MAJOR MECHANICAL PARTS (BOTTOM VIEW)
No. Function No. Function
15 Drum ass’y
16 Loading motor
17 Drum drive motor
18 Take-up pole base ass’y
19 Slow brake lever
20 Master cam
21 Capstan D.D. motor
22 Reel belt
23 Clutch lever
24 Limiter pulley ass'y
26 Shifter
26
24
21
22
19
20
12
23

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
4. ADJUSTMENT, REPLACEMENT AND ASSEMBLY OF MECHANICAL UNITS
The explanation given below relates to the on-site general service (field service) but it does not relates to the adjustment
and replacement which need high-grade equipment, jigs and skill. For example, the drum assembling, replacement and
adjustment service must be performed by the person who have finished the technical courses.
4-1 MECHANISM CONFIRMATION ADJUSTMENT JIG
So as to perform completely the mechanism adjustment prepare the following special jigs. So as to maintain the initial
performance of the machine the maintenance and check are necessary. Utmost care must be taken so that the tape is
not damaged. If adjustment needs any jig, be sure to use the required jig.
JiGTG1200 CN
JiGMP0001 BY
1. Torque Cassette Meter JiGVHT-063 CZ
No. Jig ltem Part No. Code Configuration Remarks
JiGTG0090 CM
3. Torque Gauge Head JiGTH0006 AW
JiGRH0002 BR
JiGSG2000 BS
JiGSG0300 BF
7. JiGADP003 BK
Tension Gauge
These Jigs are used for checking
and adjusting the reel disk height.
Whenfixinganyparttothethreaded
hole using resin with screw, use the
jig. (Specified torque 5 kg)
Thiscassettetorquemeterisusedforcheck-
ing and adjusting the torque of take-up for
measuring tape back tension.
These Jigs are used for checking
and adjusting the torque of take-up
and supply reel disks.
Master Plane Jig and
Reel Disk Height
Adjusting Jig
Pinch pressing force
measuring jig
This Jig is used with the tension
gauge.Rotarytransformerclearance
adjusting jig.
There are two gauges used for the
tension measurements, 300 g and
2.0kg.
4. Torque Driver JiGTD1200 CB
8. JiGDRiVER11055 AR
Reverse guide height
adjusting box driver This Jig is used for height adjustment of the
reverse guide (for reverse guide height ad-
justment).
Thesetapes are especially used for
electrical fine adjustment.
Video Audio HiFi Audio Track
525 Monoscope 7k — 58µm
NTSC Color Bar 1k — 58µm
VROEFZCS BG
OR
VROEFZHS BH
1k
This screwdriver is used for adjusting the
guide roller height.
For X value adjustment
This Jig is used for height
adjustment of the reverse guide.
Guide roller height
adjustment drive
11. JiGDRiVER-6 BM
X value adjustment
gear type screw driver
Reverse Guide Height
Adjusting Jig
10. JiGDRiVERH-4 AP
12. JiGRVGH-F18 BU
2.3k
Black Level
(only SYNC) signal
—19µm
2. Torque Gauge
6.
5.
9. Alignment Tape VROATSV CD

12
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
MAINTENANCE CHECK ITEMS AND EXECUTION TIME
Perform the maintenance with the regular intervals as follows so as to maintain the quality of machine.
NOTE : Part replacement. : Cleaning : Apply grease
<Specified> Cleaning liquid Industrial ethyl alcohol
* This mechanism does not need electric adjustment with variable resistor. Check parts. If any deviation is found,
clean or replace parts.
Maintained
Parts Remarks
500
hrs. 1000 hrs. 1500 hrs. 2000 hrs. Possible symptom
encountered
Guide roller ass’y
Sup guide shaft
Reverse guide
Slant pole on pole base
Full erase head
A/C head
Upper and lower drum ass’y
Capstan D.D. motor
Pinch roller
Reel belt
Tension band ass’y
Loading motor
Idler ass’y
Limiter pulley
Supply/take-up main brake levers
AHC (Automatic Head Cleaner)
Colour and beating
Small sound or sound
distortion
Poor S/N ratio, no colour
Poor flatness of the
envelope with alignment
tape
No tape running,
uneven colour
No tape running, tape
slack
No tape running, tape
slack, no fast forward/
rewind motion
Lateral noises Head
occasionally blocked
Abnormal rotation or significant
vibration requires replacement.
Clean tape contact part with the
specified cleaning liquid.
Clean tape contact area with the
specified cleaning liquid.
Clean rubber and rubber contact
area with the specified cleaning
liquid.
Replace the roller of the cleaner
when it wears down.
Just change the AHC roller
assembly for new one.
Screen swaying
Cassette not loaded or
unloaded
No tape running, tape
slack
Tape slack

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VC-A400U
VC-H800U
Figure 4-1.
• Reassembly
1. Before installing the cassette housing control, short-
circuit TP801 provided at the center (when facing to the
main PWB), press the eject button. The casecon drive
gear turns and stops when the positioning mark ap-
pears. Engage two teeth of casecon drive gear with the
three teeth of casecon drive angle gear, and set on the
mechanism chassis as shown below.
Figure 4-2.
2. Install in the reverse order of removal.
Notes:
1. When fitting the S/E sensor holder to the cassette
controller frame L/R, take care.
2. Misengagementofteethofcasecondrivegearanddrive
anglegearcausesmalfunction.(Thecassettecannotbe
set, load and ejection are repeated).
3. Inthecasewhenyouusethemagnetscrewdriver,never
approach the magnet driver to the A/C head, FE head,
and drum.
4. When installing or removing, take care so that the
cassette housing control and tool do not contact the
guide pin or drum.
5. After installing the cassette housing control once per-
form cassette loading operation.
TO RUN A TAPE WITHOUT THE CASSETTE
HOUSING CONTROL ASSEMBLY
1. Remove the full-surface panel.
2. Short-circuit TP801.
3. Plug in the power cord.
4. Turn off the power switch.
(The pole bases move into U.L.position.)
5. Open the lid of a cassette tape by hand.
6. Hold the lid with two pieces of vinyl tape.
7. Set the cassette tape in the mechanism chassis.
8. Stabilize the cassette tape with a weight (500g) to
prevent floating.
9. Turn on the power switch.
10. Perform running test.
REMOVINGANDINSTALLINGTHECASSETTE
HOUSING
• Removal
1. In the cassette removing mode, remove the cassette.
2. Unplug the power cord.
3. Remove in the following numerical order.
a) Remove two screws 1.
b) Slide and pull up the cassette housing control.
1
Casecon
drive gear Casecon drive
angle gear
500g
Figure 4-3.
Mechanism chassis
Weighttoprevent
float (500g)
Note:
The weight should not be more than 500g.
To take out the cassette tape.
1. Turn off the power switch.
2. Take out the cassette tape.

14
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
REEL DISK REPLACEMENT AND HEIGHT
CHECK
• Removal
1. Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
2. Pull the tension band out of the tension arm ass'y.
3. Remove the Supply/Take-up main brake ass'y.
4. Openthehookatthetopofthereeldisk,andremovethe
reel disk.
Note:
Take care so that the tension band ass'y and main brake
ass'y (especially soft brake) are not deformed.
4. Assemble the Supply main brake ass'y.
Notes:
1. When installing the reel disk, take due care so that the
tension band ass'y is not deformed and grease does no
adhere.
2. Donot damagethe Supplymain brakeass'y. Becareful
so that grease does not adhere to the brake surface.
• Reassembly (Take-up reel disk)
1. Clean the reel disk shaft and apply grease (SC-141) to
it.
2. Align the phase of the reel disk to that of the reel relay
gearandtoinstallanewtake-upreeldiskontotheshaft.
3. Check the reel disk height and reassemble the take-up
main brake ass'y.
Note:
1. Take care so that the Take-up main brake ass'y is not
damaged.Takecaresothatgreasedoesnotadherethe
brake surface.
2. After reassembly, check the video search rewind back
tension (see page 17), and check the brake torque (see
page 19).
• Height checking and adjustment
Note:
1. Set the master plane with due care so that it does not
contact the drum.
2. When putting the master plane, shift the reverse guide
alittleintheloading direction. Care mustbetakensince
excessive shift results in damage.
Figure 4-6.
Note:
• Check that the reel disk is lower than part A but higher
than part B. If the height is not correct, readjust the reel
diskheightbychangingthepoly-sliderwasherunderthe
reel disk.
Figure 4-4.
Note:
When the tension band ass'y is pressed in the direction of
the arrow for removal, the catch is hard to be deformed.
Figure 4-5.
• Reassembly (Supply reel disk)
1. Clean the reel disk shaft and apply grease (SC-141) to
it.
2. Matchthephasesofreeldiskandreelrelaygear,andset
the new reel disk.
3. After checking the reel disk height, wind the tension
band ass'y around the reel disk, and insert into the hole
of tension arm ass'y.
Tension arm ass'y
Supply reel disk Take-up reel disk
Master plane
Reverse
guide
Position
pin
Take-up main brake ass'y
Supply reel disk
Cassette lock
release shaft
Take-up reel disk
Tension band ass'y
Supply main brake ass'y

15
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
Note:
Wheneverreplacingthereeldisk,performtheheightcheck-
ing and adjustment.
Notes:
1. Hold the torque gauge by hand so that it is not moved.
2. Donotkeepthereeldiskinlockstate.Donotallowlong-
time measurement.
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TAKE-UP
TORQUE IN REWIND MODE
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Set a torque gauge to zero on the scale. Place it on the
supply reel disk.
2. Press the rewind button.
3. To calculate the remaining capacity, slowly rotate the
take-up reel disk, and then shift it into the rewind mode.
• Checking
1. Turn the torque gauge slowly (one rotation every 2 to 3
seconds) by hand in the CCW direction.
2. Makesurethatthe indication of torquegaugeis not less
than 30mN·m (306gf·cm).
AB
Figure 4-7.
Master plane Reel disk height
adjusting jig
Mechanism chassis
Reel disk
10 ±0.2mm Reel disk
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TAKE-UP
TORQUE IN FAST FORWARD MODE
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Set a torque gauge to zero on the scale. Place it on the
take-up reel disk.
2. Press the FF button.
3. To calculate the remaining capacity of the play back
mode, slowly rotate the supply reel disk, and then shift
it into the forward mode.
• Checking
1. Turn the torque gauge slowly (one rotation every 2 to 3
seconds) by hand in the CW direction.
2. Makesurethatthe indication oftorquegaugeis not less
than 30mN·m (306gf·cm).
Figure 4-9.
Torque gauge
30mN·m (306gf·cm)
or more
Supply reel disk
Idler ass'y
The gauge is held at
its maximum value.
(Red mark)
• Adjustment
1. Iftherewindwinding-uptorqueislessthanthespecified
value, clean the capstan D.D. motor pulley, drive belt,
andlimiterpulleywith cleaning liquid, rewindagain,and
check the winding-up torque.
2. If the winding-up torque is still out of range, replace the
drive belt.
Figure 4-8.
Torque gauge
30mN·m (306gf·cm)
or more
The gauge is held at
its maximum value.
(Red mark)
Idler ass'y
• Adjustment
1. If the FF winding-up torque is less than the specified
value, clean the capstan D.D. motor pulley, drive belt,
and limiter pulley with cleaning liquid, and check again.
2. If the torque is less than the set value, replace the reel
belt.
CCW
CW

16
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
Notes:
1. Hold the torque gauge by hand so that it is not moved.
2. Donotkeepthereeldiskinlockstate.Donotallowlong-
time measurement.
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TAKE-UP
TORQUE IN RECORD/PLAYBACK MODE
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Turn off the power switch.
• Open the cassette torque meter lid, and fix it with
tape.
• Load the cassette torque meter into the unit.
• Put the weight (500g) on the cassette torque meter.
• Turn on the power switch.
• Press the picture record button, and set EP picture
record mode (x3).
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TAKE-UP
TORQUE IN VIDEO SEARCH REWIND MODE
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
Press the playback button and rewind button to set the
video search rewinding mode.
• Checking
Place the torque gauge on the supply reel disk, and turn it
counterclockwise very slowly (one rotation every 1 to 2
seconds) and check that the torque is within the set value
14.0 ±3.9mN⋅m. (144 ±40gf⋅cm)
Figure 4-11.
Torque gauge
Supply reel disk
Note:
Surely put the torque gauge on the reel disk to measure. If
the torque gauge is raised, accurate measurement is
impossible.
• Adjustment
Iftherewindingplaybackwinding-uptorqueisnotwithinthe
setting, replace the limiter pulley assembly.
Note:
The winding-up torque fluctuates due to variation of rota-
tion torque of supply reel disk. Read the center value of
fluctuation as setting.
CCW
Set value EP6.9 ±2.5mN⋅m (70 ±25gf⋅cm)
500g
Cassette torque meter
Figure 4-10.
• Checking
1. Make sure that value is within the setting 6.9±2.5mN·m
(70±25gf·cm).
2. The winding-up torque fluctuates due to variation of
rotation torque of limiter pulley ass'y. Read the center
value of fluctuation as setting.
3. Set the EP record mode (x3) and make sure that the
winding-up torque is within setting.
• Adjustment
If the playback winding-up torque is not within the setting,
replace the limiter pulley assembly.
Note:
When the torque cassette is set, put a weight (500g) to
prevent rise.
When the cassette torque meter is taken out.
Turn off the power switch.

17
VC-A400U
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Figure 4-13.
1. Detach the pinch roller from the capstan shaft.
Do not separate excessively. Or the pinch lever and
pinch double action lever may disengage.
2. Engage the tension gauge adapter with the pinch roller
shaft, and pull in the arrow direction.
3. Gradually return the pinch roller, and measure the
pulling force when the pinch roller contacts the capstan
shaft.
4. Make sure that the measured value is within setting 9.0
N to 11.8 N (900 to 1,200gf).
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF TENSION
POLE POSITION
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Turn off the power switch.
2. Open the cassette tape (T-120), and fix with tape.
3. Set the cassette tape in loading state.
4. Put the weight (500g) on the cassette tape.
5. Turn on the power switch.
6. MaketheadjustmentwiththebeginningofaT-120tape.
CHECKING THE VIDEO SEARCH REWIND
BACK TENSION
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Checking
1. After pressing the play button, press the rewind button,
and set the video search rewind mode.
2. Placethetorquegaugeonthetake-upreeldisk,andturn
it counterclockwise very slowly (one rotation every 2 to
3 seconds) and check that the torque is within the set
value 3.4±1.5mN⋅m (35±15gf⋅cm).
Pinch roller Tension gauge
900 - 1,200gf
Capstan shaft
Tension gauge adapter
Figure 4-12.
Torque gauge
Take-up reel disk
Notes:
Set the torque gauge securely on the take-up reel disk.
If it is not secure, the measurement will be incorrect.
CHECKING THE PINCH ROLLER PRESSURE
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Checking
Press the play button to set the playback mode.
CCW
Figure 4-14.
500g
(T-120)
Weight to prevent
float (500g)
• Checking
1. Set a cassette tape, push the REC button to place the
unit in the SP record mode. Now check the tension pole
position.

18
VC-A400U
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2. Visuallychecktoseeif therightedgeofthetensionpole
is within the 2.3 ±0.25 from the right edge of the Sup
guide shaft.
Insert the slotted screwdriver in the tension pole adjuster,
and rotate clockwise.
Figure 4-17.
At left side from the center line
Figure 4-15.
Figure 4-16.
Insert the slotted screwdriver in the tension pole adjuster,
and rotate counterclockwise.
At right side from the center line
Tension pole adjuster adjusting range
2.3 ±0.25
2.3 ±0.25
2.3 ±0.25
Sup guide shaft
Adjust so that the delta mark of tension pole adjuster is
within 90°range (left, right).
CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT OF RECORD/
PLAYBACK BACK TENSION
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Turn off the power switch.
2. Open the torque cassette meter and fix with tape.
3. Set the cassette tape in loading state.
4. Put the weight (500g) on the cassette torque meter.
5. Turn on the power switch.
Make the adjustment with the beginning of a T-120 tape.
Tension pole adjuster
90°
90°
Figure 4-18.
Tension pole
500g
Weight to prevent
float (500g)
Cassette torque
meter
Figure 4-19.
• Checking
1. Push the REC button to place the unit in the SP record
mode.
2. At this time ascertain that the back tension is within the
setting (36.5 to 52g·cm) by seeing the indication of
torque cassette meter.

19
VC-A400U
VC-H800U
• Adjustment
1. If the indication of torque cassette meter is lower than
the setting, shift the tension spring engagement to the
part A.
2. If the indication of torque cassette meter is higher than
the setting, shift the tension spring engagement to the
part B.
• Checking the brake torque at the take-up side
Figure 4-22.
CCW: 4.9~13.7mN⋅m (50~140gf⋅cm)
CW: 3.9~10.8mN⋅m (40~110gf⋅cm)
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Switch from the FF mode to the STOP mode.
2. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Set a torque gauge to zero on the scale. Place it on the
take-up reel disk.
• Checking
1. Turn the torque gauge at a rate of about one turn/2 sec
in the CCW direction/CW direction so that the reel disk
and torque gauge pointer rotates at equal speed and
make sure that the value is within the setting (CCW
direction: 4.9 to 13.7mN·m (50 to 140gf·cm), CW direc-
tion: 3.9 to 10.8 mN·m (40 to 110gf·cm).
2. Adjustmentofthebraketorqueatthesupplysideandthe
take-up side
• Unless the supply side brake torque or take-up side
brake torque is within the setting, clean the felt surface
of reel disk (supply, take-up) brake lever, check again
the brake torque.
• If value cannot be set within the setting yet, replace the
main brake ass'y or main brake spring.
Figure 4-20.
CHECKING THE BRAKE TORQUE
• Checking the brake torque at the supply side
CCW: 2.9~9.8mN⋅m (30~100gf⋅cm)
CW: 4.9~13.7mN⋅m (50~140gf⋅cm)
Figure 4-21.
• Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
• After short-circuiting TP801 provided at the center
(facing to the main PWB), plug in the power cord.
• Setting
1. Set a torque gauge to zero on the scale. Place it on the
supply reel disk.
2. Switch from the FF mode to the STOP mode.
3. Disconnect the power cord.
• Checking
Turn the torque gauge at a rate of about one turn/2 sec
in the CW direction/CCW direction with respect to the
supply reel disk so that the reel disk and torque gauge
pointer rotate at equal speed, and make sure that the
valueiswithinthesetting(CWdirection:4.9to13.7mN·m
(50 to 140gf·cm); CCW direction: 2.9 to 9.8mN·m (30 to
100gf·cm).
Tension arm
Tension spring
CW
CCW CW
Supply reel disk
Torque gauge
Torque gauge
CCW
Take-up reel
disk
AB

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VC-A400U
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Figure 4-24.
• Replacement
1. Solder the removed PWB to the new head assembly.
2. AdjusttheheightfromtheA/Cheadarm(lower surface)
to the A/C head plate to 10.8mm with slide calipers. (3
placesofazimuthscrewsection,tiltscrewsectionandA/
C head front section) (See the figure below.)
3. Align the left end of gear of A/C head arm with the
punched mark of chassis, tentatively tighten the screws
1and 2so as to ensure smooth motion of A/C head
arm. Tentative tightening torque must be 0.15 to 0.20
N·m (1.5 to 2.0kgf·cm).
REPLACEMENT OF A/C (Audio/Control) HEAD
1. Remove the cassette housing control assembly.
2. In unloading state unplug the power cord.
• Removal
1. Removethescrews123,Azimuthscrew,Tiltscrew.
2. Unsolder the PWB fitted to the A/C head.
Notes:
1. When replacing, never touch the head. If you touched,
clean with the cleaning liquid.
2. When removing the screw 3, take care so that the
spring may out.
New A/C head ass'y
A/C head PWB
2
Spring 1
Solder
Never touch the head
10.8mm10.8mm
Azimuth screw
Height screw
Tilt screw
A/C head plate
Figure 4-25.
Note:
1. Ifthescrews1and2aretightententativelytooloose,
the azimuth and height of A/C head may change when
theyarefinallytightened. Thereforecaremustbetaken.
2. After completion of A/C head be sure to adjust tape
running.(Executetherunningadjustmentbythemethod
described in Page 22, 23.)
Punched line mark on chassis
Left end of A/C head arm gear
1
2
3
Height screw
Figure 4-23.
3