RTI VT-3100 U-matic cleaner
The RTI VT-3100 is a magnetic U-matic videotape cleaner specifically designed for ¾” cassettes, in both large and small formats. It’s a trusted solution for archivists and technicians preparing U-matic tapes for safe playback and digitisation.
Why use a tape cleaning machine?
Verifying both the physical mechanism and the tape itself before inserting it into a VCR is simply the best way to prevent unnecessary damage. During the cleaning process, dust, oxide particles, and environmental contaminants are safely removed from the tape surface, helping to avoid:
- Picture dropouts: see video
- Head clogging
- Excessive wear on playback equipment
Built-in Safety features
The cleaner automatically stops if it detects a sticky or binder-degraded tape, displaying “BIND” on the front panel. This safety feature helps prevent damage to both the tape and the machine.
RTI VT-3100, reliable, and Archive-friendly
Used by major archives and video preservation labs, the VT-3100 is known for its reliability and ease of use. It’s compact enough (but quite heavy!) for desktop setups and rugged enough for daily professional use.