Suddenly my Sharp VL-Z100 can't record or play any of my cassettes! And after I finish to try to record something a red icon with an X inside appears on the screen. Anyona can help me please?

i need the t.v attachment to camcorder 8mm vl e33 dont know where to get it ,,already try it on ebay...but nothing

Having the same problem. I got this from a friend who also gave me a blank cassette. I could record on the cassette without any problems, but when it comes to using a memory card, it said the same thing. First it said Format Memory Disk, which I already did. Then when I tried to record, it says Please Use Photo Button. My son's graduation is coming up in 12 hours and I still haven't found a solution!! If someone could enlighten us on how to fix this, it will be greatly appreciated.

Let me reach back into the past here!
Well, protection tabs are on the cassettes. Video8 & Hi8 used a built in re-usable tab (unlike VHS, Beta etc which used a once only break-it-off tab, a method originating near 50 years ago with audio cassettes)
In reverse of the that method, when the tab is out (or slid over) recordings can be made on 8mm's including D8's and not when the tab shows.
they are located on the back edge of the cassette usually with indicator icons in the plastc of the case to help.

Check in this link for Sharp VL-Z100s Digital Camcorder & Video Recorder (size: 3.6 MB)

Hope helps (remember to rate and comment this answer).

Try different brand of cassette and if problem is still there then it is a serious problem with a part inside and it needs to be replaced. The sharp has the best sound of all camcorders it's a shame your is not working but it can be fixed very easily by a small part change (repair). or maybe just dirt check with a cleaning tape and see if it helps, if not then bring it to a professional.

To transfer video you need to use firewire, not usb. If you use firewire to connect, set the camera to the 'play' icon and then open up a capture program (ie, movie maker) you should be able to just record/capture from there. Good luck!

Make sure the little red tab on top of the tape is set to record and not save. The camcorder will not let you record it its set to save

something is wrong with the m-chassis needs repair sorry the chassis on any cameras are very sensitive and they break alot not yor fault.

the firewire cable is available at the computer shop when you buy a ee1394 card...the av cable i know is included on the camera kit when you the camera.. if not included then try to the authorized dealer of sharp..

a cleaning cassette ( the red ' x ' ) will help : if cleaning works ? retire your old tapes , or your heads may need replacement - sooner rather than later ;