*ADATXT, ADATXT20, ADATLX20 have a shipping mode in the service menu . This is to position the transport parts so they are less likely to pop loose during rough handling
( This would be a BAD thing if they scratch the headstack, thus destroying it! )
To access : Hold input #1 and #7 when powering up (test mode). The first menu item will be " 0 SHIP" . Press play to engage ship mode. The unit will make a loading sound for about 5 seconds, then "SHIP r dy " will appear. ADAT is ok to ship now. ~Adat will cycle back to normal when powered on again (Wait 10 seconds).
**Original ADAT does not have this option specifically, but can be done with extra steps:
Hold #1 and #7 input while powering up. "ProG" will appear. Press pitch up button 7 times to show "CAP." Press autoplay button to remove the "period" next to the word "CAP" . Place a tape cartridge in the loader and hold onto the edge firmly. Press pitch down button and loader carraige should go down WITHOUT the tape. Press stop button and the loader should move for about 5 seconds . Power off and your ready to ship. ~Adat will cycle back to normal when powered on again (Wait 10 seconds).
*** M20 does not have this option. Transport is made differently ,so it doesn't need it.

PACKING DO's and DON'T's: ( Just writing "FRAGILE" won't protect it!)
*DON"T ship inside rack boxes!! These ARE NOT built to prevent the ADAT from twisting the front panels during drops in shipping. Shipper's may reject any shipping damage claim from improper packing. It will save you ultimately to box them seperately!
*DO use plenty of packing. SEAL the ADAT in plastic bag! I have to charge more time to clean packing dust and chips from inside! Place inside original box (if available) with packing, THEN place that box inside another with 4 more inches of packing around it.