I made this video on Youtube a long time ago. I still haven't fixed this player, but I do heavily suspect capacitor problems. I have an oscilloscope since when this was filmed, and I might try and take another stab at this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSBMHBs0-GQ

The direct-drive motor is a glorified stepper motor. Have you checked the part of the circuit that "rotates" among the coils? It could be looking for a missing pulse from the control head that would regulate the servo that tells it "how fast".

I do hope you get it going again buddy!! -- I hear BETAMAX looks/sounds even better than VHS (Which sounds/looks excellent (Especially in SP mode))


Good luck :)

The direct-drive motor is a glorified stepper motor. Have you checked the part of the circuit that "rotates" among the coils? It could be looking for a missing pulse from the control head that would regulate the servo that tells it "how fast".

I never thought of that! Good idea, I will check that.

Look for surface mount electrolytics that have leaked their electrolyte on the motor PC board. These can cause the foil to be eaten away causing many problems. It has been a common problem for a while.
Once repaired, those slim Beta machines are real workhorses!
Also, look for open electrolytics in the power supply.