Tape reel sensor VXA4997 Panasonic

[Bullabill]

I need a tape reel sensor for my Panasonic NV-S90 camcorder. The service manual calls for VXA4997, there is an equivalent - VXA6117 but I can find neither here in Australia. Is it possible to use some other sensor or is there any sort of work around?

Maybe there's a supplier you know of in U.S.A. who could have stock?

Can anyone tell me how to test the sensor to confirm that it is unserviceable?

[Quasipal]

Its hard to test sensors. I had one go faulty myself, but managed to get a used but working replacement. Do you have a photo of the item? If its just generic parts, you may be able to put new ones in with a bit of careful dismantling.

[Bullabill]

Thanks, Quasipal,
No, I don't have a photo, but having thought about it , I realised that the sensor is part of the DL mechanism which is common to many models of camera of that vintage. I'm now watching E-Bay (local) to find a couple of cheap units I can take the sensor from. I have my camera stripped to the point of removing the sensor and it doesn't look as though it should present any problem, but I'll remove one from one of the bought ones first before unsoldering mine.