Now that these models are over twenty years old the lithium back up batteries are beginning to fail. The symptoms include loss of timer and tuning memories and a machine that is stuck in standby and cannot be started using any of the keys. In the latter case the problem can be cleared by applying the mains power for about 15 seconds, briefly interrupting it and then applying it again, the machine should then function normally. The battery is located behind the deck, near to the capstan motor. New batteries are still available (e.g. RS Components 702-0812) but in an emergency two normal alkaline AAA-sized cells can be fitted instead. [Beocord VX 5000]