1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the proper use, care, and maintenance of your Maxell 109085 UR-60 Normal Bias Cassette Tapes. Please read this guide thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your audio recording media. These cassette tapes are designed for general-purpose audio recording, offering reliable performance for voice and music.
2. Product Overview
The Maxell 109085 UR-60 cassette tapes are normal bias (Type I) audio recording media, providing 60 minutes of total recording time (30 minutes per side). They are suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from voice memos to music. This package contains eight individual cassette tapes.
Figure 2.1: An 8-pack of Maxell UR-60 Normal Bias Audio Cassettes. The packaging is red with white Maxell branding and "AUDIO CASSETTE" text. "NORMAL BIAS UR" is prominently displayed, along with "GREAT FOR EVERYDAY RECORDING". The bottom right indicates "SUPER SIZE 8 PACK" in yellow and white lettering. A vintage image of a person listening to music is visible on the right side of the pack.
3. Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the cassette tapes from their packaging.
- Labeling: Use the provided labels or a permanent marker to clearly identify the contents of each tape. Write on the label area of the cassette shell, not directly on the tape window, to avoid damaging the tape mechanism.
- Preparation: Ensure your cassette recorder/player is clean and in good working order. Refer to your recorder's manual for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Inserting the Cassette
- Open the cassette compartment of your recorder/player.
- Insert the cassette with the open edge (where the tape is exposed) facing towards the playback/record heads. Ensure the correct side (A or B) is facing up if you intend to record or play that specific side.
- Close the cassette compartment securely.
4.2 Recording Audio
- Set Bias: Ensure your cassette recorder is set to "Normal" or "Type I" bias for optimal recording quality with these tapes.
- Prepare Source: Connect your audio source (microphone, line-in) to the recorder.
- Record: Press the RECORD and PLAY buttons simultaneously (or as per your recorder's instructions) to begin recording. Monitor recording levels to prevent distortion.
- Stop: Press the STOP button to end recording.
- Prevent Accidental Erasing: To protect your recordings, break out the small plastic tabs on the top edge of the cassette for the corresponding side (left tab for side A, right tab for side B). This prevents the record function from engaging.
4.3 Playback Audio
- Insert the recorded cassette into the player.
- Press the PLAY button.
- Adjust volume as needed.
4.4 Fast Forward and Rewind
- Use the FF (Fast Forward) and REW (Rewind) buttons on your recorder/player to quickly navigate through the tape.
- Always press STOP before switching between FF/REW and PLAY/RECORD to prevent tape damage.
5. Maintenance
- Storage: Store cassette tapes in their original cases or suitable storage boxes, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and strong magnetic fields (e.g., speakers, televisions).
- Handling: Avoid touching the exposed tape surface. Handle cassettes by their edges.
- Tape Slack: Before inserting a cassette, ensure there is no slack in the tape by gently tightening the hubs with a pencil or your finger.
- Recorder Maintenance: Regularly clean the heads, capstan, and pinch roller of your cassette recorder/player using a specialized cleaning kit or isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs. Dirty components can degrade sound quality and damage tapes.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tape Jamming/Snagging | Tape slack, dirty capstan/pinch roller, worn-out recorder mechanism. | Gently tighten tape slack before insertion. Clean recorder's capstan and pinch roller. If problem persists, recorder may need service. |
| Poor Sound Quality (Muffled/Distorted) | Dirty record/playback heads, incorrect bias setting, worn tape. | Clean recorder heads. Ensure recorder is set to "Normal" or "Type I" bias. Try a new tape. |
| No Recording/Accidental Erasing | Record protect tabs broken off, recorder not in record mode. | If tabs are broken, cover the holes with adhesive tape to enable recording. Ensure RECORD and PLAY buttons are pressed correctly. |
| Tape Not Moving | Tape stuck, recorder mechanism failure. | Remove cassette and check for physical obstructions. If the tape is not visibly damaged, the recorder may require repair. |
7. Specifications
- Brand: Maxell
- Model: 109085
- Tape Type: Normal Bias (Type I)
- Recording Capacity: 60 Minutes (30 minutes per side)
- Package Quantity: 8 Cassette Tapes
- Product Dimensions (Package): 5.4 x 4.3 x 2.7 inches (13.7 x 10.9 x 6.8 cm)
- Item Weight (Package): 1 Pound (0.45 kg)
- UPC: 025215112171
8. Warranty and Support
Please note that the product warranty does not cover misuse of the product. For further assistance or inquiries regarding Maxell products, please refer to the official Maxell website or contact their customer support channels. Specific warranty details and contact information may vary by region and are typically provided with the product packaging or on the manufacturer's website.
This manual is for informational purposes only. Maxell reserves the right to make changes to product specifications without prior notice.
