My Sony video camera is popping the tapes back out right after I close the tape door and a blinking light comes on with the word "DEW" underneath? What does this mean and how cam I fix it? This video camera is a few years old. Sony Handycam 8 w/ Steady Shot.

Kristina, October 2006

DEW is a term that is used in camcorders and vcr's to indicate that moisture is present within the mechanism using a sensor within the mechanism chassis and the vcr or camera will not operate while this is active to prevent damage to the mechanism/tapes. In your case the camcorder is simply giving you the tape back as moisture has been detected and this can be due to the obvious or a faulty sensor. If it does not operate after being in a warm room after an hour then contact your dealer to have the sensor checked/replaced.

Tom, November 2006