Technical
Camera and MIC connectors
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Camera SocketThe 14 Pin Camera socket found on the side of the unit is known as a Sony K-connector. Details of the pin connections are available online. A MIC connector is also available.Multi-ConnectorThe 8-pin Din Connector is known as a Sony Multi-connector and carries a combined Audio, Video and Remote control ( later known as CTRL-S ) signals. Details of the pin connections are available online.Fault and repair guideGetting insideTop Cover
Bottom cover
Access to the drive motors
Tuning problemsThere are sometimes problems with the SL-F1 tuner failing to lock on to a TV channel. The first thing to try is to switch off the AFT. This is to cater for the case whereby it is not locking onto a signal due to a NICAM sound carrier throwing it off.Failing that, it sounds like a fault, the problem is possibly that a fuse has gone. These though are very small circuit board (silicon) fuses. They are small components labeled f-1, f-2. If you have a meter and can find them it is possible to test to see if they have blown. This is quiet common on the F1. The first fuses to test are the ones nearest to the metal can (i.e. the DC to DC convertor). Irregular tape transport during rewind/review.This is cause by the tape which sticks to the upper drum when it is worn. It can be fixed by replacing the upper drum. Sony now supply an improved type which is made of a harder wearing alloy.The photo below shows the new upper drum which no longer has a mounting plate. Grating noise during tape threading/unthreading.This is caused by a split threading gear. Sony now supply an improved type which does not contain the inside metal bush. In the original design this would expand and cause the plastic to crack. It is also advisable to replace the threading belt at the same time.Machine appears dead.The circuit protectors in the secondary power supplies are common to failing. Check the one near the centre of the bottom PCB first. If all fuses check out OK then suspect failure of one of the micro processors. These are surface mount components and are difficult to replace.Tracking noise bar across picture.With older machines it is not unknown for the capstan servo lock to drift slightly. This can result in what looks like a tracking noise bar permanently across the picture. The cure is to readjust the capstan bias.
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Hall effect sensor attached with glue |
No head drum rotation / shuts downYou may find that the head drum fails to rotate or shuts down after only a few seconds. This is due to a problem with the Hall effect device on the head drum motor which is secured by a blob of glue. Full details on how to fix this can be found on the head motor page. |
SL-F1 ribbon connector |
Erratic operationOver time, this ribbon connector is prone to fracture causing erratic behavior of the VCR. Symptoms include random operation of machine functions or loss of audio. Also pressing a button can get no response or a strange response.See also the ribbon connector parts page. |
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