Leaving the tape door open is one trick that often works. Try
different variations with no tape in the cam.


Thanks for the input everyone, I got quite excited there for a minute but
this particular camcorder (It's a Telefunken 4300 ) switches the video off
the second the cassette door is opened. Damn piece of junk! Luckily I only
paid 4 GBP for it at a boot (trunk) sale. But I must say I think it's very
short sighted and unimaginative of the maker not to think that someone might
want to use the camera in this way for a longer period of time than ten
minutes. Arrogant sob's.
Anyway thanks to all who took the time to reply, It's appreciated.
Pete