Remove cassette My ZR80 seems to be completely dead. I've tried different batteries, can't get the camera to "power on", therefor not able to eject the dv cassette. I want to at least be able to salvage the video, which is from my friend's wedding. I'm wondering out to physically remove the cassette. Do I take apart the camera? Thanks!

SOURCE: Message reads eject. won't eject

My camera did the exact same thing. I called Canon tech support and they advised to unplug power cord, remove large main battery, and remove smallbackup battery. The small back up battery is under a small door under the main backup battery. With everything disconnected, turn camera to "camera" and then to "vcr" and then to off. Wait a few seconds. Put everything back together and try to eject again. The tech said that resets all the mechanical parts. However, it did not work for me. They now want me to send it to them for a paid repair. I have done some research on the internet and this is a VERY commom problem and it usually costs about $150 to correct via Cannon. Many times the problem occurs again. I am very very frustrated. I pulled my camera out last night to get it ready as my wife is 9months into her pregnancy. Now, I have to send my camera away for 5-9 days. Really really upset.

SOURCE: cassette stuck

I have the same problem eject cassette stuck on my brothers camera he gave it to me to bring home to try and fix for him how-ever not before his son tried to force it and damaged some of the casing that holds the cassette. I straighten it all out and then found that a very small spring at the back of the camera had come off which was stopping it from ejecting. Once I lifted this spring and hooked it back on that it now ejects no worries at all..

SOURCE: cassette loading - keeps on ejecting cassette

The "remove cassette" problem on Canon DV cameras is a general fault error that can be induced by many varied problems from faulty dew sensors to jammed mechanisms. These mechanisms are small and delicate and it does not take much to stop them working. If the head drum is starting the next thing that should happen is the capstan spins which in turn drives the take-up spools when the cassette loads. Tape tension problems (other than a broken tape) would not be detected until after the capstan is running. With the battery removed and the cassette door open, CAREFULLY attempt to rotate the capstan spindle. I use a small rubber insulating sleeve stretched over a small screwdriver. If this does not solve the problem then other possibilities are that the printed ribbon cable from the cassette mechanism to the camera needs re-seating or perhaps the capstan drive motor is faulty. However, try and look for the obvious first. To investigate further by dismantling is extremely difficult and I would not recommend it unless you want to risk writing-off your camera completely. I have done this operation (successfully) as a last resort and found that re-seating the printed cable in its socket solved the problem, however, I would not recommend or suggest this decision be entered into lightly. Its a good feeling when you get it working again but sickening when you have to allocate it to the re-cycle bin. As I say, this fault indication has many causes. Getting it serviced by Canon is not an option as the cost would exceed its value so unless you can find a local repairer that's prepared to look at it, then you have very few options.

SOURCE: Canon MVX200 will not load dv tape

The "remove Tape" error message on Canon DV camcorders is a general message meaning something is not correct with the tape transport system. These are miniature precision mechanisms and It could be anything from dew sensors to head motor, capstan drive etc. If the cassette drawer closes OK with no tape inserted then the tape sensor/ end tape sensor is operating. With no tape inserted the head drum does not run when the drawer closes but it does with a tape present. Does the head drum start up when you load a tape or is there no noise at all? If the head runs then it is possible the capstan is not starting or is jammed. If the head does not run then the cure will be either extremely tedious and delicate or very expensive. These units do not dismantle easily so unless you have some experience with this, or are willing to take a risk, then I would not recommend it. However, without such action you may have to write-off the unit anyway. Canon's repair charge will exceed the camera's value unless it's still under warranty. Your best option would be to find a local repairer that is willing to look at it, but I wouldn't be too optimistic .To some, this error message is a major issue when deciding to buying canon dv cameras. However, they are great little cameras and treated kindly will give many hours of excellent service. Don't store the camera with tapes loaded. don't subject it to sudden temperature changes or excessive vibration. Store it in a dry protected atmosphere and refrain from taking it onto the beach (salt AND sand !!!!) when on holiday etc.

SOURCE: Canon zr300 ejects tapes

Hi guys,

Thank you very much for this solution posting. Really it worked. I was about to buy another one instead of fixing the problem. Because you know how the pain is, to send it factory and getting it repaired.

Once again Thank you.