tracking

Definition

The clarity and stability of the picture on a VCR during playback, controlled by manually adjusting the tracking dial on the machine. Poor tracking resulted in wavy lines, distortion, or snow on the screen, making the tape unwatchable.

Example Usage

The VCR picture was so fuzzy; I had to adjust the tracking knob to get it to play properly.

Origin

From the technical process of aligning the playhead with the magnetic tracks on a VHS tape; users without auto-tracking VCRs had to manually fine-tune this alignment.

Fun Fact

Tracking problems were one of the most common reasons people called tech support or took their VCRs in for repairs, and adjusting it remains a universal memory for anyone who used VHS.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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