Older models of camcorder used magnetic tapes to record video
Tracking is a setting on many camcorders and VCRs that dictates the position of the reading heads on the magnetic tape. With the introduction of digital memory cards and DVD camcorders, tracking adjustments have become less of a problem for modern video cameras. Many people still use magnetic tape cameras and will have to adjust their tracking from time to time. Finding adjust the tracking on a particular make of camcorder should not take long.
Instructions
1. Examine the camera and look for a tracking slider or dial. On some basic models, the tracking control is on the outside of the camera. It may be labeled something else apart from tracking, like "Picture." Set the camcorder to playback mode and start watching a tape. Adjust the slider or dial until the picture and sound improves to a satisfactory standard.
2. Turn on the camcorder and look for a "Menu" button. Some camcorders have a semi-automatic tracking function, which can be controlled from within the camera's software. The control is likely to be under a Picture or Playback menu within the camera's menu. Set the camera in playback mode and adjust the tracking to find the best picture and sound.
3. Press the "Menu" button on the camera and look for an auto tracking button. During playback, some camcorders have an auto-tracking facility that, when activated, will automatically adjust the tape heads to the best position. Some camcorder tracking is completely automatic, and when you start playing a tape, it will adjust without the need for pressing any buttons.
Tags: adjust tracking, camcorders have, camera look, magnetic tape, Menu button, picture sound