Tape heads

Thanks, Nsgarch. I am using it for a R2R. I know how to use one but I actually do have a question about the method.

First, here's what I know.
Turn the unit on about 6' away from the tape heads and approach the heads slowly. When at the heads, move the demagnetizer back and forth 4 or 5 times over the heads, guides, etc. at a speed of 1" per second. Slowly move the unit until 6' away from the tape deck, turn the demager 90 degrees, and turn off. Repeat for each head, guide, capstan, etc.

So here's my question. Do I have to move the demagnetizer 6' away from the deck after each individual component is demaged or can I just demag all of the components and THEN move the demager away from the deck?

It would be difficult to completely demagnetize a screwdriver. Maybe they make stainless steel screwdrivers (non-magnetic) for this job. A plastic screwdriver would be too soft.

To demagnetize your screwdriver, simply drop it on the concrete(or other hard surface) with the tip down. Repeat as necessary to eliminate any residual magnetisim.

Cody

Ketch,

I think you mean 6 inches, not 6 feet, don't you? Anyway, I suggest 18" to 2' for that size unit. You can approach the deck, demag everything, and then move away. The idea is not to turn the unit on or off while close to the metal heads, or you can actually magnetize them more than the tape would. With that small a unit, you probably don't want to run it for more than a minute or two at a time. The buzz is normal.

Move the tip of the demag unit back and forth over the head in the direction of the gap about 1/8" to 1/4" away from the metal. I think your unit has some kind of plastic over the tip so you can't scratch the head if you accidentally touch it. If not, wrap a turn of electrical tape around it where the two prongs come together, it won't affect the operation.

I think the unit is probably too small to have much effect on a typical screwdriver. You'd probably have better luck just heating the screwdriver over the stove, or with a propane torch.

I agree with Codygrayland. Fawley's magnetic principle states that the screwdriver's tangent point increases the chance for a charge, so the concrete, which is inherently an antiferritic mineral substance, should do the trick. Good luck!