GE VG2042 User Manual

VCR User’s Guide

VG2042

We bring good things to life.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

WARNING

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This symbol indicates
"dangerous voltage"
inside the product that
presents a risk of electric

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not
remove cover (or back). No user serviceable
parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified
service personnel.

This symbol indicates
important instructions
accompanying the
product.

shock or personal injury.

Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, match
wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.

Attention: Pour éviter les chocs électriques,
introduire la lame la plus large de la fiche dans la
borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqú au
fond.

Refer to the identification/rating label located on the back panel of your
product for its proper operating voltage.

FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this
equipment may void the user’s authority to operate it.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire or
shock hazard, do not expose
this product to rain or moisture.

Cable TV Installer: This reminder is provided to call your attention to
Article 820-40 of the National Electrical Code (Section 54 of the Canadian
Electrical Code, Part 1) which provides guidelines for proper grounding
and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to
the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry
as practical.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately.
Returning this card allows us to contact you if needed.

Keep your sales receipt to obtain warranty parts and service and for
proof of purchase. Attach it here and record the serial and model
numbers in case you need them. The numbers are located on the back
of the product.

Model No.

Serial No.

Purchase Date:

Dealer/Address/Phone:

VG2042

TABLE OF CONTENTS

First Things First..................................................3

Setting Up the VCR..............................................8

Using the Menu to Set Up Features ....................................... 8

Language ...........................................................................8

Cable Box Setup ................................................................8

VCR Channels List ........................................................... 10

To Auto Channel Search .................................................. 10

To Change the Signal Type ............................................. 11

To Add or Remove Channels ......................................... 11

Time and Date ................................................................. 12

Set Daylight-Saving Time .......................................... 12

Set the Time and Date ...............................................13

Additional Set-up Features in the PREFERENCES Menu ... 14

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option ............................................. 14

Auto Play .......................................................................... 15

EnergySaver

Tape Speed....................................................................... 16

TM

................................................................. 15

VCR Basics ........................................................ 17

Remote Buttons ..................................................................... 18

Component Buttons ........................................................ 18

VCR Function Buttons .....................................................18

TV Function Buttons ........................................................ 19

Playing a Tape ........................................................................ 20

Automatic Rewind ................................................................. 21

Tape Eject ............................................................................... 21

Recording ...............................................................................21

Check the Safety Tab ........................................................21

Recording .......................................................... 23

Recording Features ...............................................................24

Express Recording........................................................... 24

Timer Recording .............................................................. 25

Stopping a Timer Recording .....................................26

Review and Clearing Programs ................................ 26

Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes..................27

7

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Programming the Remote... ............................... 29

About Programming the Remote......................................... 30

Programming the Remote to Control a␣ TV.......................... 30

Programming the Remote to Control a Digital

Satellite Receiver or Cable Box ....................................... 32

Other Features................................................... 33

Picture Search Options .........................................................34

Forward and Reverse Search.......................................... 34

Slow Motion ....................................................................34

Commercial Scan (Search Button) .................................34

Frame Advance ................................................................35

Index Search .................................................................... 35

Zero Search ......................................................................36

Pro-Tect PlusTM Locking Feature .........................................36

Time Counter .........................................................................37

On-Screen Displays ...............................................................37

Tracking ..................................................................................38

Connections ....................................................... 39

Jacks and Cables ................................................................... 40

RF Jacks and Antenna Cables (F-type) ...........................40

Audio/Video Jacks and Cables (RCA-type) ....................40

Choosing a VCR Connection ................................................ 41

Advantages of Audio/Video Cable Connections ...........41

Don’t Forget About the Auto TV/VCR Feature................ 41

TV With RF Jack Only ............................................................42

TV With Audio/Video Jacks ................................................... 43

TV With Audio/Video Jacks and Cable Box

to Unscramble Pay Channels Only .................................44

Reference ..........................................................45

Front Panel .............................................................................46

Back Panel ..............................................................................47

Indicator Panel .......................................................................47

Troubleshooting T ips ............................................................. 48

Specifications ........................................................................ 51

Cleaning the VCR ................................................................... 51

Limited Warranty ................................................................... 52

Index ....................................................................................... 53

2

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Hi, my name is Roger...

and I wrote this User’s Guide. It’s my job to see that
you have a rewarding user manual experience. You’ll
find that I’ve arranged this manual to clearly explain
all your VCR’s features.

Read the First Three Sections

The first three sections of the manual introduce you to
your VCR, and show you how to set the VCR up and
use the on-screen menus. Reading these sections
gives you the basic information you need to use your
VCR.

What’s Left?

The rest of the book highlights playback and recording
information, contains a detailed connections section,
and a reference section that includes troubleshooting
tips, limited warranty, and index.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

➣

OTHER FEATURES

6

➣

CONNECTIONS

7

7

READ ME!

These note boxes give you tips for
your new video cassette recorder.

3

FIRST THINGS FIRST

STEP 1: Unpack What’s in the Box

The following items come packed in the box:

•VCR

• Remote control

• RF antenna cable

STEP 2: Install Batteries in the
Remote Control

Follow these steps whenever you need to install or change the
batteries in your VCR remote.

1. Remove the cover of the battery compartment.

2. Place batteries in remote, matching the + and – ends of each
battery to the diagram inside the compartment.

3. Replace the cover.

STEP 3: Connect Your VCR

If you connect your VCR to your home antenna or cable system
and then to your TV, use the VCR’s IN FROM ANT. and OUT TO TV
jacks for a good signal as shown.

If you have a TV with AUDIO/VIDEO jacks, use the audio/video
jacks on the TV and VCR for a better connection. Refer to the

Connections

section, toward the back of the manual.

STEP 4: Plug in the VCR

Match the wide blade of the plug with the wide slot in the outlet.
Be sure to insert the plug completely.

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

VCR

VIDEO

AUDIO

OUT

IN 1

IN FROM
ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

4

TV

CABLE/

ANTENNA

FIRST THINGS FIRST

STEP 5: Tune the TV

Tune the TV to the VCR viewing channel. The VCR viewing
channel is channel 3 or 4 or the TV’s video input.

• If you connect your VCR using the ANTENNA connectors
with RF antenna cable, set the 3CH.4 switch to channel 3 or
channel 4—the channel you want to use on your TV.

• If you connect your VCR using the AUDIO/VIDEO jacks with
audio/video cables, select the TV’s video input to see the
signal. See the

STEP 6: Turn On the VCR

Press POWER to turn on the VCR. Turning on the VCR for the first
time starts the Interactive Setup feature.

TV Owner’s Manual

.

STEP 7: Interactive Setup

The first time the VCR is turned on, Interactive Setup—a brief
series of on-screen menus—appears. These menus assist in
setting up several of the VCR’s features. Use the remote’s
number buttons to select options.

1. Press 1 for English, 2 for Español (Spanish), or 3 for Français
(French).

Select a language.
Seleccione un idioma.
Choisissez une langue.

1>English
2 Espanol
3 Francais

The remaining Interactive Setup menus will appear in the
language you choose. Follow the on-screen instructions to
complete the process.

˜

˜

VCR Viewing Channel

When using the ANTENNA jacks to
connect your VCR, tune your TV to
channel 3 or 4.

When using the audio/video jacks
to connect your VCR, tune your TV
to the TV’s video input channel.

5

FIRST THINGS FIRST

STEP 8: Access the Menus

When you’ve completed Interactive Setup, try out the VCR’s
regular on-screen menus. The MENU and number buttons let
you access, select, and change menu items. For example, to
change the Auto Play setting, you would do the following:

1. Press MENU to bring up the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the PREFERENCES menu

PREFERENCES
1 Remote Control: VCR1
2 Auto Play: ON
3 EnergySaver: 2:00
4 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

.

3. Press 2 to switch Auto Play to ON or OFF.

PREFERENCES
1 Remote Control: VCR1
2 Auto Play: OFF
3 EnergySaver: 2:00
4 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

See

Setting Up the VCR

for detailed information about the
Auto Play feature. Once you understand how to use the
menus, move on to the next section.

6

SETTING UP THE VCR

Set-up Features

Below is a list of set-up features that you may want to
set up before you begin using your VCR for the first
time:

• Select a language

• Set for use with a cable box

• Set up VCR channel list (Auto Channel Search)

• Set automatic daylight-saving time

• Set the time and date

• Set the Remote VCR1/VCR2 feature

• Set the Auto Play feature

TM

• Set the EnergySaver

• Set the preferred Tape Speed

feature

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

➣

OTHER FEATURES

6

➣

CONNECTIONS

7

7

7

SETTING UP THE VCR

Using the Menu to Set Up Features

You can set up features by using the menu system. Each feature
is explained in this section.

Language

Select your preferred language, and the on-screen displays will
appear in that language.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 5 to display the LANGUAGE menu.

LANGUAGE

Select a language.

1>English
2 Espanol
3 Francais

Press MENU to continue

3. Press 1 for English, 2 for Español (Spanish), or 3 for
Français (French).

Cable Box Setup

This setup applies only when all channels are received through
the cable box. The VCR will automatically enter the output
channel of the cable box when programming your VCR for timer
recordings.

8

On-screen Menus

Not all the VCR screens are shown in
this manual when explaining
the features.

SETTING UP THE VCR

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 3 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search
2 Add/Remove Channels
3 Signal Type: CABLE
4 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

3. Press 4 to display CABLE BOX SETUP. Then select one of the
three choices.

CABLE BOX SETUP

Do you use your cable
box to receive ALL
channels or only SOME
channels.

1 ALL channels
2 Only SOME channels
3 Cancel setup

4. If you select ALL CHANNELS, enter the output channel of
your cable box, usually 03, 04, or video line input and
press␣ MENU.

CABLE BOX SETUP
On what channel does
the VCR receive signals
from the cable box?
(usually 3, 4, or Video)

04

Press CLEAR to correct
Press MENU to continue

CABLE BOX SETUP

The VCR will now
receive all signals
from the cable box
on channel 04.

Press MENU to continue

Once you complete the setup, the VCR confirms that Cable
Box Setup is complete.

Cable Box Setup

ALL CHANNELS: enter two numbers
for output channel of your cable box
or press INPUT.

ONLY SOME CHANNELS: If you only
use the cable box to tune premium
channels.

CANCEL SETUP: select to cancel.

All Channels

If you do not use a cable box for

ALL

channels, then you will want to use a
channel list (Auto Channel Search).

9

SETTING UP THE VCR

VCR Channels List

If you use a cable box for

all channels

, this step is not necessary.
Your VCR may come with a channel list preset at the factory. Even
though your VCR may come with a list, it’s possible that you may
want to add or eliminate some channels depending on whether
they are active.

To Auto Channel Search

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 3 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search
2 Add/Remove Channels
3 Signal Type: CABLE
4 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

3. Press 1 to display the AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH menu.

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

What type of signal
are you using?

1 Cable TV
2 Antenna
3>Detect Automatically

0 Cancel

4. Select one of the three AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH options.

Choices one and two are self-explanatory. If you choose
Detect Automatically, the VCR automatically detects which
signal system you have attached to your VCR.

Detect Automatically

A strong cable or antenna signal in
your area may cause Auto Detect to
mis-detect. If this should happen,
select 1 or 2 for the system you have.

Auto Channel Search

Use the Auto Channel Search feature
to place all available channels in
memory.

If you ever change cable or antenna
signals, you may need to Auto
Channel Search again.

10

SETTING UP THE VCR

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

Now scanning channel 14

Press any key to cancel

The VCR begins scanning for the available channels—this
takes about one to two minutes. The lowest channel is tuned
once the search is completed. Pressing CHANNEL up or
down now selects the active channels.

To Change the Signal Type

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to display the CHANNELS menu.

3. Press 3 to change the Signal Type between CABLE and

ANTENNA.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search
2 Add/Remove Channels
3 Signal Type: CABLE
4 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

To Add or Remove Channels

You may want to add or delete channels after you Auto Channel
Search, especially if some of the channels have weak signals or
you don’t want to watch them.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to display CHANNELS menu.

3. Press 2 to display the ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS menu. Use

the CHANNEL up or down, or number buttons, to go to the
channels you want to delete or add.

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115
is presently ADDED

Press CLEAR to remove
Press MENU to exit

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115
is presently REMOVED

Press INFO to add
Press MENU to exit

Selecting Channels

The CHANNEL up and down buttons
access those channels active in your
VCR channel list.

You can still access channels not in
the channel list by using the number
buttons on the remote control.

11

SETTING UP THE VCR

Time and Date

Before you set the time and date, set the Auto DST (Daylight
Saving Time) feature to ON or OFF for your area.

Set Daylight-Saving Time

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display TIME menu.

TIME

1 Set time and date
2 Auto DST: ON

0 EXIT

3. Press 2 to turn the Auto DST ON or OFF.

• Select ON if you want the VCR’s clock to automatically
adjust for daylight-saving time.

• Select OFF if you do not want the VCR’s clock to adjust
for daylight-saving time.

Spring forward; Fall backward

In the Spring, daylight-saving time
begins on the first Sunday in April.
Because the clock automatically
changes from 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM
(forward one hour), remember to
include the extra hour for timer
recording that falls within this time
frame.

In the Autumn, daylight-saving time
ends on the last Sunday in October.
The VCR clock automatically changes
from 2:00 AM to 1:00 AM (back one
hour). Therefore, it can affect your
recording length.

12

SETTING UP THE VCR

Set the Time and Date

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display TIME menu.

TIME

1 Set time and date
2 Auto DST: ON

0 EXIT

3. Press 1 to display the SET TIME AND DATE screen.

SET TIME AND DATE

Time --:-­ (hh:mm)

Date --/--/--

Press MENU to cancel

4. Enter the data using the number buttons. Press 0 before
single-digit numbers and follow the on-screen directions.

SET TIME AND DATE

Time 12:34 PM

Date 10/24/97 Friday

Press CLEAR to correct
Press MENU to set

Time and Date

The time and date must be set
before a timer recording can be
programmed.

Time/Date Display

Pressing INFO on the remote
displays the time and date on the
TV screen.

13

SETTING UP THE VCR

Additional Set-up Features in the
PREFERENCES Menu

The features in this section are all accessed through the
PREFERENCES menu.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display PREFERENCES menu.

PREFERENCES
1 Remote Control: VCR1
2 Auto Play: ON
3 EnergySaver: 2:00
4 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

Now you are ready to select an item from the menu to set up.

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option

If you own a compatible GE, RCA or ProScan remote that has a
VCR2, VCR2•LD, or DVD•VCR2 button, this feature allows you to
set this VCR to respond to that button.

Press 1 to select the Remote Control item in the menu. Then
press the VCR2, VCR2•LD, or DVD•VCR2 button to change.

PREFERENCES
1 Remote Control: VCR1
2 Auto Play: ON
3 EnergySaver: 2:00
4 Tape Speed: SLP

PREFERENCES

(PRESS VCR2 TO CHANGE)
2 Auto Play: ON
3 EnergySaver: 2:00
4 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

14

0 Exit

Remote Control Option

Changing the Remote Control
option to VCR2 disables the remote
that came with your VCR.

SETTING UP THE VCR

The VCR will only respond to the compatible remote’s VCR2,
VCR2•LD, or DVD•VCR2 button. If you change the remote setting
to VCR2, the remote that came with your VCR will no longer
control the VCR.

Use the compatible remote to change the remote setting back to
VCR1. Display the PREFERENCES menu, press 1, and then press
VCR1. Then the remote that came with the VCR will be able to
control it again.

Auto Play

This feature allows the VCR to automatically start playing when
you insert a tape with the safety tab removed. Press 2 to switch
between ON or OFF.

• Select ON if you want a tape with its safety tab removed to
start playing automatically when the tape is inserted.

• Select OFF if you
removed to start playing automatically.

EnergySaver

By default, this VCR automatically turns off after two hours of
inactivity. Press 3 to change the time delay, or to disable the
feature.

• OFF: The VCR will remain turned on until you shut it off.

• 1:00, 2:00, or 3:00: The VCR turns off after one, two, or three
hours of inactivity.

Thirty seconds before shutting off, the VCR will warn you with a
screen reading, “The VCR will turn off in 30 seconds. Press any
key to cancel.”

If you use the VCR’s tuner instead of your TV to tune channels,
you may want to turn this feature off.

TM

do not

want a tape with its safety tab

TV•VCR Button

Pressing TV•VCR on the remote
will still switch between the VCR
and TV mode.

VCR mode: VCR indicator in the
display panel lights.

TV mode: VCR indicator turns off.

15

SETTING UP THE VCR

Tape Speed

You can select a preferred tape speed for recording. The speed
you select appears in the timer recording menu. The default
factory setting is SLP. Press 4 to switch between SP and SLP.

When making a recording, you can override the preferred tape
speed.

• Press the SPEED button on the remote.

• Set the tape speed in the timer.

Each time you turn on the VCR, the tape speed reverts to the one
you have selected.

Tape Speeds

SP (Standard Play)
Gives the best quality recording, but
fewer programs can be recorded on
the tape.

LP (Long Play)
Your VCR is capable of playing back
tapes recorded in LP. You cannot
record in the LP speed.

SLP (Super Long Play)
Gives three times the recording time
of tapes recorded in SP. Special
effects such as pause, slow motion,
picture search, and frame advance
work well when you play back tapes
recorded in this speed.

Recording Time

Cassette SP SLP

T-120 2Hr 6Hr

T-160 2Hr 8Hr

40Min

16

VCR BASICS

Learn the Basics to Get You
Started

These VCR basics should be enough for you to
begin enjoying your VCR. Learning the remote
control functions, playing a recorded tape, and
recording a program should do just that.

However, there are other features that enhance the
enjoyment of your VCR, but they aren’t necessary
to get you started. If you want to learn more about
your VCR, just keep reading.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

➣

OTHER FEATURES

6

5

CONNECTIONS

7

7

VCR Basics tells you what you
need to know in order to watch a
movie or tape your favorite show.

➣

17

CLEAR

INFO

MENU

TV•VCR

GO BACK

INPUT

SPEED

TRACKING

SLOW

STOP

PLAY

1 2 3

546

7

9

8

0

PAUSE

F.ADV

SEARCH

RECORD

FWD

REV

POWER

TV

VCR

SAT

CABLE

CHAN

VOL

MUTE

+

+

–

–

4

3

4

3

VCR BASICS

Remote Buttons

The remote control is capable of controlling more than just
your VCR, and if you have compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan
components, you may be able to control them without even
having to program the remote.

Component Buttons

POWER Turns off VCR when remote is set to control the VCR.
Also turns some compatible components on and off.

SAT CABLE Turns on a compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan digital

satellite receiver and sets the remote to control the receiver. Can
be programmed to control different brands of digital satellite
receivers. Used with the POWER button to turn on a compatible
cable box (if programmed) and sets the remote to control the
cable box.

TV Turns on a compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan TV and sets the
remote to control the TV. Also used with the POWER button to
turn on a different brand of TV (if programmed) and sets the
remote to control the TV.

VCR Turns on a compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan VCR and sets
the remote to control the VCR.

VCR Function Buttons

CHAN Up or Down Selects next higher or lower channel in
the VCR’s channel memory.

CLEAR Resets time counter to 0:00:00. Allows you to change
entries when setting the clock or a timer recording.

F.ADV Lets you view one frame with each press of the button
when tape is in pause.

FWD Fast forwards the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches
forward through a tape during playback. Starts slow motion
during play-pause and increases slow-motion speed.

GO BACK Switches between two channels. Select one channel
and then select another using the number buttons. Press GO
BACK to switch between the two channels.

INFO Shows the status displays on the TV screen.

INPUT Selects between the line input and the VCR’s tuner. Line

input refers to the signal coming from the component connected
to the AUDIO/VIDEO IN jacks on the back of the VCR.

18

VCR BASICS

MENU Brings up VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen.

Numbers (0 through 9) Select a channel up to 99 by pressing

two numbers. Select a cable channel over 99 by pressing and
holding 1 until 1 – – appears on the screen. Then press the other
two numbers.

PAUSE Pauses playback or recording. Press PAUSE again to
return to playback or recording.

PLAY Plays a tape.

POWER Turns the VCR off.

RECORD Starts VCR recording. Also used for express

recording.

REV Rewinds the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches
backward through a tape during playback. Starts slow motion
during play-pause and decreases slow-motion speed.

SEARCH Displays Index, Zero, and Blank Search menus on TV
screen.

SLOW + and – Used for slow-motion playback. Press + to
increase the speed or – to decrease the speed.

SPEED Selects a recording speed (SP or SLP).

STOP Stops the current VCR function such as record, playback,

rewind, or fast forward.

TRACKING Up or Down Lets you manually reduce the
streaks that may appear on the picture during play, slow motion,
or pause. Reduces picture “jitter” during stop-action playback.

TV•VCR Switches the picture signal so that it either comes
from the VCR or cable/antenna system.

TV Function Buttons

CHAN Up or Down Selects next higher or lower channel in
the TV’s channel memory.

CLEAR Removes menus or status displays from the screen.

GO BACK Switches between two channels. Select one channel

and then select another using the number buttons. Press GO
BACK to switch between the two channels.

INFO Shows the TV’s status displays on the TV screen.

MUTE Reduces volume to minimum level.

TV Function Buttons

The TV buttons may not control all
features of all models of GE, RCA,
and ProScan TVs.

19

VCR BASICS

Numbers (0 through 9) Select a channel up to 99 by pressing
two numbers. Select a cable channel over 99 by pressing and
holding 1 until 1 – – appears on the screen. Then press the other
two numbers.

POWER Turns the TV on and off.

SLOW + and – Used with some TV menus to select and adjust

features.

VOL Up and Down Raises and lowers sound of TV.

Playing a Tape

1. Tune the TV to your VCR viewing channel
(3, 4, or TV’s video input).

2. Insert a tape in the VCR.

POWER STOP•EJECT

CHANNEL

TV•VCR

TRACKING

RECORD REV PLAY•PAUSE FWD

If the Auto Play feature is set to ON, the tape automatically
begins playback (if the safety tab on the cassette is
removed).

• Press FWD or REV to position the tape.

• Press PLAY (if necessary) to begin tape play.

• Press PAUSE for stop action.

• Press TRACKING up or down to remove any streaks from the
picture, if necessary.

• Press STOP to stop playback.

Pause

If you pause, the VCR automatically
switches from pause to stop after a
few minutes to reduce tape wear.

Automatic Tracking

The VCR has automatic tracking
which adjusts the picture when
playing back a tape recorded on
another VCR. Automatic tracking is
turned on whenever a tape is
inserted or the VCR’s power is
turned on.

20

VCR BASICS

Automatic Rewind

The VCR automatically rewinds the tape if it reaches the end of
the tape during playback. While rewinding, you can press
POWER and the VCR will turn off after rewinding.

Tape Eject

Press EJECT on the VCR when it is stopped to eject␣ the␣ tape.

Recording

If you want to record something that you’re watching, you can
use basic recording.

1. Press the SPEED button on the remote if you want to
override the preferred Tape Speed setting.

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

3. Press STOP to stop recording.

If you just want to pause the recording for a short time
(like during a commercial), press PAUSE instead of STOP.

Check the Safety Tab

No matter which recording option you use, you need to make
sure there is a tape in the VCR, and that the tape’s safety tab is in
place. You cannot record on a tape with the safety tab removed.

Safety Tab

If the safety tab is removed and you want to record over it,
simply cover the hole with vinyl tape.

21

VCR BASICS

22

RECORDING

Several Recording Options

Now that you’ve gone through the necessary steps to
operate your VCR, I’ll explain the different recording
features that are available to suit your needs.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

Recording features:

• Recording (explained in

• Express Recording

• Timer Recording

• Copying and Editing Tapes

VCR Basics

section)

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

OTHER FEATURES

6

➣

➣

7

CONNECTIONS

7

7

23

RECORDING

Recording Features

There are three methods for recording programs:

• Recording lets you press one button to start recording a
program. (See

• Express Recording lets you start recording a program you
are watching, and then set the VCR to automatically stop
recording after a designated period of time.

• Timer Recording lets you program the VCR to
automatically start and stop recording at a predetermined
time.

Express Recording

Use express recording when you want to quickly record the
remaining portion of the program you are watching.

VCR Basics

section.)

1. Press the SPEED button on the remote if you want to
override the preferred Tape Speed setting.

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

3. Repeatedly press the RECORD button to set up the recording
duration.

Rec Ch 36
Record Length 0:00

Press REC to set length

Each press of the RECORD button increases the recording time
(up to 4 hours).

The VCR continues to record for the amount of time you
indicate, and then automatically turns off.

To stop an express recording, press and hold the STOP button
on the remote (STOP•EJECT button on the VCR) for a few
seconds, or press STOP (STOP•EJECT) three times within 5
seconds.

Rec Ch 36
Record Length 1:30

Press REC to set length

Express Recording

Express recording is a great way to
tape the last quarter of the game, or
the last part of a movie when you
have to leave.

24

RECORDING

Timer Recording

You can set up as many as eight timer recording programs.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU
1 Timer Recordings
2 Time
3 Channels
4 Preferences
5 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 1 to display the TIMER RECORDINGS menu.

TIMER RECORDINGS

1 Create a New Progam
2 Review Existing Progs.

0 Exit

3. Select 1 to CREATE A NEW PROGRAM.

How often should this
program record?

1 One time
2 Daily (every day)
3 Weekdays (M-F)
4 Weekly (once per week)

0 Cancel

Timer Recording Information

Clock must be set correctly.

Insert a tape with the safety tab in
place and enough tape to record the
program.

PROGRAMS OVERLAP appears if you
have entered two programs where
the times overlap.

The output of your cable box appears
in the “channel” item of the timer
recording if you’re set up for a
cable box.

For cable box, turn on the cable box
and tune it to the channel you want
to record before the recording is
to␣ begin.

4. Select how often you want the program to record.

Program 1 (One time)

Channel -­Start Time --:-­End Time --:-­Start Date --/--/-­Tape Speed SLP

Press MENU to cancel

5. Enter the data for the program with the number buttons.
The data includes the channel number (press INPUT to

select the line input), start time including AM or PM, end
time. The start date is automatically entered based on the
VCR clock. Both the date and speed can be changed.

Tape Speed

The speed of your timer recording
cannot be changed once the timer
recording is saved. You must clear the
timer and reprogram it.

Changing your preferred tape speed
does not affect those timer
recordings already programmed.

The factory setting for the VCR speed
is SLP.

VCR playback is not affected by the
preferred tape speed.

25

RECORDING

6. Review the information to make sure it is correct, and then
press MENU to save.

Program 1 (One time)

Channel 03 Cable
Start Time 08:00 PM
End Time 09:30 PM
Start Date 10/24/97 Fri
Tape Speed SLP
1=SP 2=SLP
Press CLEAR to correct
Press MENU to save

Program 1 has been saved

Remember to insert a
recordable tape and
turn the VCR off before
the program start time.

Press MENU to continue

Stopping a Timer Recording

To stop or cancel a timer recording in progress (even an express
recording):

• Press and hold the STOP button on the remote (STOP•EJECT
button on the VCR) for a few seconds, or press STOP
(STOP•EJECT) three times within 5 seconds.

Review and Clearing Programs

To review programs that you have already set up:

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 1 to display the TIMER RECORDINGS menu.

TIMER RECORDINGS

1 Create a New Progam
2 Review Existing Progs.

0 Exit

3. Press 2 to display the REVIEW PROGRAMS screen.

Program 1 (One time)

Channel 104 Cable
Start Time 12:00 AM
End Time 01:30 AM
Start Date 10/24/97 Fri
Tape Speed SLP

Press CLEAR to erase
Press MENU for next prog.

4. Press CLEAR to erase or MENU to see the next program.

26

RECORDING

PLAYBACK VCR

CABLE BOX

OR ANTENNA

RECORDING VCR

OR

OR

TO TV

TO TV

3 CH. 4

IN FROM
ANT.

VIDEO

OUT

AUDIO

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

IN 1

3 CH. 4

IN FROM

ANT.

VIDEO

OUT

AUDIO

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

IN 1

IN

OUT

Using Two VCRs for Copying and
Editing Tapes

Use one VCR as the

recording␣ VCR

playback VCR

.

and the other as the

1. Turn on the TV and VCRs.

2. Tune the TV to the VCR viewing channel (either 3, 4, or TV’s
video input).

3. If you connected your VCR using the ANTENNA jacks, tune

recording VCR

back of the

to channel 3 or 4—the one selected on the

playback VCR

.

If you connected your VCR using the audio/video jacks, press
INPUT on the

recording VCR’s

remote to select the line

input.

4. Insert the tape you want to copy into the

playback VCR

.

Insert a blank tape with safety tab in place into the

recording␣ VCR

.

5. When you reach the point on the tape or program where you
want to begin copying, press PLAY•PAUSE and then
PLAY•PAUSE again on the

playback VCR

. You may need to

adjust the tracking.

6. Press the RECORD button, then press PLAY•PAUSE, on the

recording VCR

7. Press the PLAY•PAUSE buttons on

.

both VCRs

at the same

time to begin copying the tape.

Caution:

The unauthorized recording of
television programs or other
materials may infringe on the
rights of␣ others.

Two VCR Connection

8. To edit segments that you do not want to copy:

• Press PLAY•PAUSE on

recording VCR

• Locate the next segment you want to copy on

9. Press STOP•EJECT on

VCR

by using FWD, REV, and PLAY•PAUSE, and then

press PLAY•PAUSE.

• Press PLAY•PAUSE on

resume copying.

both VCRs

both VCRs

to stop copying.

playback

at the same time to

when you are finished.

27

RECORDING

28

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE

Control Your Other Components...

The remote can be programmed to control a television
and satellite receiver or cable box.

It is initially programmed to control a GE, RCA,
or ProScan TV and satellite receiver. Other
manufacturers’ brands need to be programmed.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

6

➣

CONNECTIONS

7

29

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE

About Programming the Remote

The remote can be programmed to control other brands or
remote controllable TVs, digital satellite receivers, and cable
boxes. It is already programmed to operate most GE, RCA,
and ProScan televisions and digital satellite receivers.

Programming the Remote to Control a␣ TV

If the TV does not turn on when you press the TV button, the
remote needs to be programmed.

Follow these steps to program the remote to control your
particular TV:

1. Turn on the TV.

2. Find your TV brand and code number(s) on the code list on
the next page.

3. Press and hold the TV button on the remote.

4. Enter the three-digit code from the code list.

5. Release TV, and then press CHAN up or down. If the TV
responds to the remote commands, the remote is
programmed.

6. If the TV does not respond, repeat these steps using the next
code listed for your TV’s brand

Operate the TV

After you set up the remote, see which buttons operate your TV.

1. Point the remote at the TV, and press the TV button.
If the TV does not turn on, press the TV button and then press

the PWR button.

2. You may want to experiment to see which buttons operate
your TV. Try pressing buttons, such as VOL and MUTE. See
“TV Function Buttons” in the

VCR Basics

Section for details.

This remote may not operate all
models of the brands that are
shown.

Note the difference between the TV
and VCR on-screen displays to see
which one the remote is operating.

30

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE

TV Codes

Akai .................................. 03

AOC ............................. 06,12

Candle .............................. 06

Citizen .............................. 06

Colortyme ........................ 06

Concerto ........................... 06

Curtis Mathes .............. 01,06

Daewoo ....................... 06,12

Daytron ............................ 06

Electrohome ................ 06,12

Emerson............................ 06

Envision ....................... 05,06

Fisher ........................... 05,08

GE ...................... 00,01,06,11

Goldstar ....................... 06,12

Hallmark ........................... 06

Hitachi ......................... 06,14

Infinity .............................. 04

J C Penney .... 00,01,06,09,12

JBL..................................... 04

Jensen ............................... 06

JVC ............................... 10,11

Kawasho ...................... 03,06

Kenwood ..................... 06,12

Loewe ............................... 04

Luxman ............................. 06

LXI ........................... 04,05,07

Magnavox .............. 04,06,12

Marantz ....................... 04,06

MGA ............................ 06,12

Mitsubishi .................... 06,12

MTC .................................. 06

NAD .................................. 07

NEC ................................... 06

Panasonic ............... 04,08,11

Philco ...................... 04,06,12

Philips ................ 03,04,06,12

Pioneer ............................. 06

Portland....................... 06,12

ProScan ............................. 01

Proton............................... 06

Quasar .............................. 11

Radio Shack ............ 01,05,13

RCA ......................... 01,06,12

Realistic ............................ 05

Sampo............................... 06

Samsung ................. 06,09,12

Sanyo ........................... 05,08

Sears ................. 01,05,06,07,

08,10,12

Sharp ........................... 06,13

Sony .................................. 03

Soundesign....................... 06

Sylvania .................. 04,06,12

Technics ............................ 11

Techwood ......................... 06

Teknika ............................. 06

TMK .................................. 06

Toshiba .............. 05,07,08,09

Universal .......................... 00

Victor ................................ 10

Wards ...... 00,01,04,06,12,13

Yamaha ............................ 12

Zenith ............................... 02

31

PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE

Programming the Remote to Control a
Digital Satellite Receiver or Cable Box

The remote is programmed to control an GE, RCA, or ProScan
digital satellite receiver.

If you have another brand of cable box or digital satellite
receiver with its own remote, you may be able to use the VCR’s
remote to operate it.

1. Turn on the cable box or digital satellite receiver.

2. Look up your brand and its code number(s) in the code list
on the right.

3. Press and hold the SAT•CABLE button on the remote.

4. Enter the three-digit code from the code list.

5. Release the SAT•CABLE button and press POWER or CHAN
up or down to see if the cable box or receiver responds to
the remote commands.

6. Repeat these steps using the next code listed for your brand
until the cable box responds to the remote commands.

Operate the Cable Box or Digital Satellite
Receiver

After you have set up your remote, see which buttons will
operate your cable box or digital satellite receiver.

1. Point the remote at the box or receiver, and press
SAT•CABLE. If it does not turn on, press SAT•CABLE and
then␣ POWER.

2. You may want to experiment to see which buttons will
operate your cable box or digital satellite receiver. Try
pressing buttons, such as CHAN up or down.

Cable Box Codes

ABC......................................... 22,46,53,54

Anvision ........................................... 07,08

Cablestar .......................................... 07,08

Diamond ............................................... 56

Eagle ................................................ 07,08

Eastern International ........................... 02

General Instrument ....................... 04,05,

................................. 15,23,24,25,30,36,46

Hamlin.................................... 12,13,34,48

Hitachi ......................................... 37,43,46

Jerrold ................................... 04,05,15,23,

................................. 24,25,30,36,45,46,47

Macom ............................................. 37,43

Magnavox ............................. 07,08,19,21,

................................. 26,28,29,32,33,40,41

NSC ........................................................ 09

Oak .............................................. 01,16,38

Oak Sigma............................................. 16

Panasonic .................................... 03,27,39

Philips .......................... 07,08,19,21,26,28,

........................................... 29,32,33,40,41

Pioneer ........................................ 18,20,44

Randtek............................................ 07,08

RCA.............................................. 00,27,60

Regal ................................................ 12,13

Regency............................................ 02,33

Samsung................................................ 44

Scientific Atlanta ........................ 03,22,35

Signature .............................................. 46

Sprucer .................................................. 27

Starcom ................................................. 46

Stargate 2000 ....................................... 58

Sylvania ............................................ 11,59

Teknika .................................................. 06

Texscan ........................................ 10,11,59

Tocom ................................ 17,21,49,50,55

Unika ........................................... 31,32,41

Viewstar ........................... 07,08,19,21,26,

...................................... 28,29,32,33,40,41

Warner Amex ....................................... 44

Zenith .......................................... 14,42,57

32

Satellite Receiver Codes

GE .......................................................... 00

Panasonic .............................................. 97

ProScan ................................................. 00

RCA........................................................ 00

Toshiba.................................................. 96

Sony....................................................... 95

This remote may not operate all
models of the brands that are shown.

OTHER FEATURES

Features to Enhance VCR Operation

• Picture Search Options

TM

• Pro-Tect Plus

• Time Counter

• On-Screen Displays

• Tracking

Locking Feature

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

➣

OTHER FEATURES

6

➣

CONNECTIONS

7

7

33

OTHER FEATURES

Picture Search Options

The most basic way to search during playback is using the
forward and reverse functions. This section contains several
other options available for searching a tape.

Search features work well for tapes recorded at the SLP speed.

Forward and Reverse Search

You can view a tape during play or play-pause. Sound is turned
off during picture search.

1. Press FWD to search forward or REV to search in reverse.

2. Press FWD or REV again or press PLAY on the remote
(PLAY•PAUSE on the VCR) to return to normal playback.

Slow Motion

You can view a tape during play or play-pause using slow
motion. Slow motion works best for tapes recorded at the
SLP speed.

1. Press SLOW+ or SLOW– on the remote to begin slow motion
playback.

2. Use TRACK up or down to remove any streaks from the
picture.

3. Use SLOW+ or SLOW– on the remote, or FWD and REV on
the VCR to speed up or slow down slow motion playback.

4. Press PLAY on the remote (PLAY•PAUSE on the VCR) to
return to normal playback.

The VCR switches automatically from slow-motion playback
to stop after a few minutes.

Commercial Scan (Search Button)

This is useful for skipping commercials or short program
segments.

• Press SEARCH once during playback to advance the tape
approximately 30 seconds of recorded material.

• Each press of the SEARCH button adds an additional 30
seconds up to 5 minutes.

Insert Tape

Remember to insert a recorded tape
when using the search features.

34

OTHER FEATURES

Frame Advance

Frame advance lets you view one-stop action frame after
another.

1. Press PAUSE or F.ADV on the remote (PLAY•PAUSE on the
VCR) to freeze the action.

2. Press F.ADV each time you want to view the next frame of
the scene.

3. Press PAUSE or PLAY on the remote (PLAY•PAUSE on the
VCR) to return to normal playback.

Index Search

The VCR has a “VHS Index Search System” that automatically
records an index mark on the tape every time you start
recording. During playback you can locate the program you
want to play by the number of index marks or by scanning. The
VCR will search forward or reverse from the location you are on
the tape.

To Search:

1. Stop the tape and press SEARCH on the remote to display
the INDEX SEARCH menu on the TV screen.

2. If you want to search through a certain number of index
marks, press two number buttons to enter the number of
marks you want to search. Press CLEAR on the remote to
correct an entry.

3. Press FWD to search forward or REV to search in reverse.
The VCR will locate your index mark and begin playback. If
you did not enter a specific index number, the VCR will
locate the next index mark and begin playback.

4. Press STOP to stop index searching.

Some index marks may be missed by the VCR:

• A mark too close to your location on the tape.

• The mark at the beginning of a recorded segment of five
minutes or less.

• The first index mark on the tape when you start at the
beginning of the tape.

INDEX SEARCH

Press REV or FWD
to begin scanning
or
enter a specific
index number
_ _

Press SEARCH to exit

INDEX SEARCH

Press REV or FWD
to begin search

Index number
12

Press SEARCH to exit

INDEX SEARCH

Searching for
index number 12...

Press STOP to cancel

35

OTHER FEATURES

Zero Search

The zero search feature enables the VCR to quickly return to a
counter reading of 0:00:00 anywhere on the tape. This is
especially convenient when you want to repeat a segment of the
tape several times.

1. Go to the beginning of the program you wish to return to.

2. Press INFO twice to display the timer counter on the TV
screen

3. Press CLEAR to reset the counter to 0:00:00.

4. Continue playing the tape.

5. Press STOP.

6. Press SEARCH on the remote twice to display the ZERO
SEARCH menu.

7. Press REV to return to 0:00:00 on the tape.

Pro-Tect PlusTM Locking Feature

To disable the usage of the VCR, or to protect your timer
recordings, you can lock the VCR so that the buttons on the VCR
or remote won’t work.

ZERO SEARCH

Current tape counter is
2:17:25

Press REV to go to
0:00:00

Press SEARCH to exit

ZERO SEARCH

Searching for
0:00:00

Press STOP to cancel

• To lock: Press and hold either the remote’s POWER or OFF
button. The front panel POWER indicator flashes when the
feature is activated. POWER will also flash if you attempt to
turn on the VCR while the feature is on.

• To unlock the feature and turn on the VCR: Press and hold
either the remote’s POWER or VCR button.

36

OTHER FEATURES

Stop Ch 05 0:30:00

11/17/97 Mon 01:30PM SLP

Time Counter

The time counter shows the actual time it takes to record a
program or play back a segment of a recorded tape. It helps
locate the beginning or end of programs you taped. The time
counter resets to 0:00:00 whenever the tape is ejected from
the␣ VCR.

For example, if you record a 30-minute program at the
beginning of the tape and you want to go to the end of that
program to begin another recording, you would:

1. Press INFO twice to display the time counter.

2. Press CLEAR to reset the time counter to 0:00:00.

3. Press FWD to forward the tape until the time counter reads
0:30:00.

4. Press STOP. This is the approximate end of the program.
(You may want to press PLAY to verify.) Now, you can begin
recording at this spot.

5. Press INFO to remove the time counter from the screen and
return to the normal display mode.

0:30:00

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

1

On-Screen Displays

The INFO button shows the status of the VCR (STOP, PLAY,
RECORD, etc.), channel number, time counter, date, time, and
tape speed on the TV screen. The date and time must be set
before they can be displayed.

1. Press INFO to see the on-screen displays.

2. Press INFO again to have only the time counter remain on
the␣ screen.

3. Press INFO again to return to the normal display.
No displays appear on the screen.

Turning off the VCR also resets the displays.

On-screen display (times out)

0:30:00

2

Timer counter only
(does not time out)

3

Normal display

37

OTHER FEATURES

Tracking

Your VCR has automatic tracking which removes the streaks or
snow from the picture. Automatic tracking is activated when you
insert a tape or turn on the VCR. Occasionally you may need to
manually adjust tracking, especially if the tape was recorded on
a different VCR. Just use the TRACKING buttons to remove the
streaks or snow. You can also use tracking when you PAUSE a
tape to reduce jittering of the picture.

When you manually adjust the picture, automatic tracking is
turned off. To turn automatic tracking back on, press both
TRACKING buttons on the front of the VCR at the same time, or
eject the tape and re-insert it.

Tracking has no effect during recording—only playback.

38

CONNECTIONS

Things to Know Before Connecting
Components

Protect Your Components from Power Surges

• Connect all components before plugging any
power cords into the wall outlet.

• Always turn off the TV and other components before
you connect or disconnect any cables.

Position Cables Correctly to Avoid Audio Hum
or Interference

• Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.

• Place the audio/video cables to the sides of the TV’s
back panel instead of straight down the middle
after you connect your components.

• Try not to coil any twin-lead cables and keep them
away from the audio/video cables as much as
possible.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

1

➣

SETTING UP THE VCR

2

➣

VCR BASICS

3

➣

RECORDING

4

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

5

REMOTE

5

➣

• Make sure all antennas and cables are properly
grounded. Refer to the Safety Tips sheet packed
with your unit.

Protect Your Components from Overheating

• Do not block ventilation holes in any of the
components. Arrange the components so that air
can circulate freely.

• Do not stack components.

• Allow adequate ventilation when placing your
components in a stand.

• Place an amplifier or satellite receiver on the top
shelf of the stand so heated air rising from it will not
flow around other components.

OTHER FEATURES

7

6

➣

CONNECTIONS

7

39

CONNECTIONS

RF Jack

Connecting Your VCR

Refer to these pages to help you connect your VCR.

Jacks and Cables

RF Jacks and Antenna Cables (F-type)

The RF jacks provide good picture and mono sound, and must
be used if audio/video connections are not available for your
TV.

These jacks are required for antenna or cable-TV connections.
The RF jacks on the VCR are labeled IN FROM ANT. and OUT
TO TV. The antenna cable supplied with your VCR is used to
connect the VCR’s OUT TO TV jack and your TV’s antenna
input.

Audio/Video Jacks and Cables (RCA-type)

The audio/video jacks provide very good picture and sound
and can be used if your TV has audio/video input jacks.

These jacks are used for most audio/video connections. The
VCR audio/video jacks are color coded (yellow for video and
white for left audio). If your TV has two inputs for audio
(stereo), connect the one labeled mono. If one is not labeled
mono, you may need a Y-adapter.

Audio/Video Jack

40

CONNECTIONS

Choosing a VCR Connection

There are several different ways to hook up your VCR, depending
on whether or not you have cable, and if you have cable,
whether you have a cable box, and if some of the channels are
scrambled and...well, you get the picture.

Three connections are described in this section and one of them
should provide you with a VCR hookup that works.

• TV with RF jack only

• TV with audio/video jacks

• TV with audio/video jacks and cable box to unscramble pay
channels only

If you need to hook up additional components not shown in the
diagrams here (and are unsure of how to connect them), refer to
the instruction manual that came with that particular component.

Advantages of Audio/Video Cable
Connections

Using a simple antenna cable connection gives you good picture
quality. If your television has A/V jacks, I highly recommend
using them to get even better picture and sound when recording
and playing back videotapes. These connections give you more
convenient operation by not sharing the signal from the RF cable.

Don’t Forget About the Auto TV/VCR
Feature

The TV/VCR switch controls whether the picture signal is coming
from the VCR or the TV. The TV/VCR feature automatically
switches the VCR to the VCR model when the VCR is turned on or
you press the PLAY button. You can change the setting manually
by using the TV•VCR button on the remote.

41

CONNECTIONS

TV With RF Jack Only

This connection assumes:

• You are connecting antenna, cable, or cable box system.

• Your television has only an RF input jack.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

• Record one channel while watching another (except
when using a cable box for all channels).

To use this connection, you must have:

• (1) antenna cable for cable or antenna connection; (2) for
cable box

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to

First Things First

, then follow the steps.

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to channel 3 or 4 whichever one you selected
with the switch on the back of the VCR. Use the TV•VCR
button to watch the VCR.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape.

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

1. Begin recording a program using one of the recording
options.

2. Press the TV•VCR button and select a different channel
on the TV.

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

VCR

VIDEO

AUDIO

OUT

IN 1

TV

IN FROM
ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

42

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CONNECTIONS

TV With Audio/Video Jacks

This connection assumes:

• You are connecting an antenna, cable, or cable box system.

• Your television has audio/video jacks.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

• Record one channel while watching another (except when
using a cable box for all channels).

To use this connection, you must have:

• (1) antenna cable for cable/antenna connection; (2) for cable
box

• (2) audio/video cables

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to

First Things First

, then follow the steps.

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

1. Begin recording a program using one of the recording
options.

2. Select a different channel on the TV.

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

VCR

VIDEO

AUDIO

OUT

IN 1

TV

VIDEO

VIDEO

INPUT 1

S-VIDEO

R

L/MONO

R

L

AUDIO

OUTPUT

R

L/MONO

INPUT 2

IN FROM
ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

CABLE/

ANTENNA

43

CONNECTIONS

TV

3 CH. 4

IN FROM
ANT.

VIDEO

OUT

AUDIO

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

IN 1

VCR

INPUT 1

VIDEO

R

L/MONO

S-VIDEO

AUDIO

OUTPUT

R

L

INPUT 2

VIDEO

R

L/MONO

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE

CABLE BOX

SPLITTER

IN

OUT

TV With Audio/Video Jacks and Cable Box
to Unscramble Pay Channels Only

This connection assumes:

• You are using a cable box only to unscramble premium
channels.

• Your TV has audio/video input jacks.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

• Recording a scrambled or unscrambled channel through the
cable box while watching an unscrambled channel.

To use this connection, you must have:

• (3) antenna cables

• (2) audio/video cables

• (1) splitter

All scrambled channels must be viewed
through the VCR.

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to

First Things First

, then follow the steps.

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record a scrambled or unscrambled program and watch another
unscrambled:

1. Begin recording a scrambled program through the cable box

2. Select an unscrambled channel on the TV.

using one of the recording options.

44

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

This section gives you some additional information about
the VCR, including a description of the unit’s controls and
display.

You also will find a Troubleshooting Tips section in this
Appendix, which might help to resolve some of those
simple problems.

Finally, this section contains your warranty information.

45

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Front Panel

POWER STOP•EJECT

CHANNEL

TRACKING

TV•VCR

Remote Sensor

RECORD REV PLAY•PAUSE FWD

CHANNEL•TRACKING Up or Down Selects next higher or
lower channel in the VCR’s channel memory. Adjusts tracking
when a tape is playing.

FWD Forwards the tape when the VCR is stopped.
Searches the picture forward during playback.

PLAY•PAUSE Plays a tape. Pauses action for viewing during
playback. Pauses recording to prevent recording of unwanted
scenes.

POWER Turns the VCR on or off.

RECORD Starts VCR recording. Used for express recording.

Remote Sensor Receives signals from the remote control. Aim

the remote at this sensor.

REV Rewinds the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches the
picture in reverse during playback.

STOP•EJECT Stops the normal functions such as record,
playback, rewind, fast-forward, or pause. Ejects the tape when
the VCR is stopped.

TV•VCR Switches the picture signal so that it either comes
from the VCR or the TV.

46

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Back Panel

VIDEO

AUDIO

OUT

IN 1

3 CH. 4 Switch Selects the channel to which you will tune the
TV to see the VCR picture if you connect the VCR using the
ANT.IN and RF OUT jacks.

AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks Receives signals from another
component, like a VCR or camcorder, when it is connected to
these jacks. Use INPUT on the remote to select.

AUDIO and VIDEO OUT Jacks Sends signals from VCR to
another component, like a TV or VCR, when it is connected to
these␣ jacks.

IN FROM
ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

IN FROM ANT. Jack Receives a signal from an antenna or
cable system when attached.

OUT TO TV Jack Passes signal to TV using the cable supplied.

Indicator Panel

POWER

POWER Indicator Lights when the VCR is turned on.

RECORD Indicator Lights when the VCR is recording.

TIMER Indicator Lights during an express or timer recording, or

when the VCR is set for a timer recording and the VCR is turned off.
Flashes when a timer recording is set, and there is no cassette in
the VCR, and when the clock is not set.

VCR Indicator (Applies Only if the VCR Viewing Channel is 3
or 4). Press the TV•VCR button to turn on or off.

VCR

TIMER

RECORD

•VCR indicator on: Picture from VCR.

•VCR indicator off: Picture from TV channel.

47

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Troubleshooting Tips

No power

• Check to make sure it is plugged into an operating outlet.

• Check to make sure your connections are correct.

VCR does not respond to remote

• Check to make sure there are no objects between the VCR and remote.

• The batteries may need changing.

• Make sure the Remote VCR1/VCR2 setting is set to VCR1 so the remote that came packed with your VCR
can operate it.

• Remove batteries and hold number button 1 for at least 60 seconds to drain the microprocessor inside
the remote. Release number 1 and replace the batteries.

Poor or no picture for normal TV viewing

• Check to make sure the VCR indicator is off.

• Check to make sure the TV is switched to an active channel.

• Check to make sure the antenna connections are secure and correct.

Snowy or no picture during playback

• Press TV•VCR to turn VCR indicator on.

• Check TV channel selected (3 or 4) to make sure it matches the channel selected with 3 CH. 4
back of VCR.

• Check to make sure the TV’s fine tuning is correct for the channel you have selected.

• Check video cable connections between VCR and TV monitor.

• Check to make sure the TV monitor is set to video input channel.

• Try another tape.

• Some snow/streaks are normal during search, stop action, frame advance, and slow-motion playback.

switch on

Streaks in picture during normal playback

• Press one of the TRACKING buttons to move streaks up or down for the best picture.

• Check to make sure the tape is of good quality and not worn out.

Time counter not working or time counter not working in search modes

• The time counter does not advance during unrecorded portions of tape. When an unrecorded segment
of tape is encountered, the time counter will hold its count until recorded material is detected again.

• A minus (–) will appear in front of the time if you rewind the tape farther back than a counter reading of
0:00:00.

• The time counter disappears during search; this is normal.

48

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Will not record or play

• Check to make sure there is a tape in the VCR.

• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.

• Check to make sure the tape is not broken.

• Check to make sure the VCR is not in pause mode. Press PAUSE or PLAY on the remote
(PLAY•PAUSE on the VCR) to return to normal playback.

Will not record

• Check to make sure the safety tab is intact.

• Check to make sure the VCR is not in the line mode. Press INPUT on the remote.

Rewind does not operate

• Check to make sure the tape is not already rewound.

Timer recording not made or wrong program recorded

• Check to make sure the cable box was turned on when recording was to begin.

• Check to make sure the program was entered correctly (wrong channel or times).

• Power interruption. Reset the clock.

• Check to see if time and date are correct—including AM/PM.

• Check to make sure the program did not exceed the tape’s length or the tape was not rewound
beforehand.

• Check to make sure the VCR was turned off at the time recording was to start.

• Check to make sure there was a tape in the VCR and the cassette’s safety tab was intact.

• VCR ejects cassette when the end of the tape is reached during a timer recording.

Internal clock shows incorrect time or date

• Power interruption.

• Check to make sure the clock is set accurately (check AM/PM and date).

• Check Auto DST setting. The clock may have adjusted for daylight-saving time.

Time did not adjust for daylight-saving time

• Check to make sure Auto DST feature is turned on.

VCR makes noise when stopped

• VCR is removing tape from heads. This is normal. The head cylinder inside the VCR will continue to
rotate for a few minutes after you put the VCR in the stop mode.

49

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Will not Auto Channel Search active channels correctly

• Check to make sure the antenna connections are secure and correct.

• Check to make sure the Signal Type: CABLE/ANTENNA feature is set correctly.

• If Detect Automatically was selectged for the Signal Type in the Auto Channel Search menu, try using either CABLE TV
or ANTENNA instead.

• May not need to auto channel search if using a cable box. Refer to the VCR Channel List or contact your cable
company for more information.

Cannot add or remove channels

• Channels must be placed in memory using the AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH feature before channels can be added or
removed from channel memory.

Tape plays back in slow motion

• Press PLAY to return to normal playback.

Cannot select channels over 69

• Cable channels over 69 can only be selected if Signal Type: CABLE/ANTENNA feature is set to CABLE.

Cassette with safety tab removed does not start to play automatically

• Check to make sure the Auto Play ON/OFF feature is set to ON.

TIMER indicator flashes

• Check to make sure there is a cassette in the VCR when a timer recording is set.

On-screen menus appear in an incorrect language.

• Use the Language feature to change the on-screen display language.

50

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Specifications

Format: VHS

Record/Playback Video: 2-Head
System: Audio: Mono record/playback

Video Signal System: EIA standard: NTSC color

Antenna: 75-ohm external VHF/UHF combined

antenna terminal

Tuner: USA: 181 channels capability*

(125 cable channels)

Canada: 178 channels capability*

(122 cable channels)

Type: AutoProgramming frequency synthesis

Power Requirement: 120V AC, 60 Hz

Power Consumption: 18 watts (standby < 4 watts)

Dimensions: 3.7 inches high (93 mm)

14.2 inches wide (360 mm)
12 inches deep (300 mm)

Weight: 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg)

Storage Temperature - 22˚F to +149˚F
Range: (-30˚C to +65˚C)

Operating +41˚F to +104˚F
Temperature Range: (+5˚C to +40˚C)

*Check your cable company‘s compatibility requirements.

Cleaning the VCR

Use a soft cloth or dusting attachment of your vacuum cleaner
to dust your VCR. Remove dust from the ventilation holes on
the top, back, sides, and bottom of the cabinet.

Plastic surfaces are easily scratched and can be marred by
alcohol and various solvents. Avoid excessive use of oil-based
furniture polishes since the materials used in the cabinet will
accumulate more dust. We recommend using a nonabrasive,
antistatic cleaner and polisher.

Specifications are subject to change.

51

APPENDIX A: REFERENCE

Limited Warranty

What your warranty covers:

• Any defect in materials or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• 90 days for labor charges.

• One year for parts.

The warranty period for rental units begins with the first rental or 45 days from date of shipment to the
rental firm, whichever comes first.

What we will do:

During the initial 90 days

• Pay any Authorized GE VCR Service Center the labor charges to repair your VCR.

• Pay any Authorized GE VCR Service Center for the new or, at our option, refurbished replacement parts
required to repair your VCR.

How you get service:

• Take your VCR to any Authorized GE VCR Service Center. To identify your nearest Authorized GE VCR
Service Center, ask your dealer, look in the Yellow Pages, or call 1-800-447-1700.

• Show the Authorized Service Center Representative your evidence of purchase date or first rental.

• Pick up your VCR when repairs are completed.

What your warranty does not cover:

• Customer instruction. (Your Owner’s Manual clearly describes how to install, adjust, and operate your
VCR. Any additional information should be obtained from your Dealer.)

• Installation and related adjustments.

• Signal reception problems not caused by your VCR.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• Cleaning of video/audio heads.

• Batteries.

• A VCR that has been modified or incorporated into other products or is used for institutional or other
commercial purposes.

• A VCR purchased or serviced outside the USA.

• Acts of God, such as but not limited to lightning damage.

Product Registration:

• Please complete and mail the Product Registration Card packed with your VCR. It will make it easier to
contact you should it ever be necessary. The return of the card is not required for warranty coverage.

How state law relates to this warranty:

• This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you also may have other rights that vary from state to
state.

If you purchased your VCR outside the United States:

• This warranty does not apply. Contact your dealer for warranty information.

52

APPENDIX A: REFERENCEINDEX

3 CH. 4 switch 47

A

Accessing menus 5
Audio/video jacks 18, 47
Auto play feature 20
Automatic rewind 21

C

Cable box codes 32
Cable box setup 8, 9
Cables 39, 40
Channel, viewing 5
CHANNELS menu 9
Cleaning the VCR 51
Clearing programs 26
Commercial scan feature 34
Component buttons 18
Connections 39–44

E

EnergySaver 15
Express recording 24

F

Front panel controls 46

I

Index search feature 35
Indicator panel 47
Interactive Setup 5

J

Jacks, types of 40

L

LP tape speed 16

M

Menus, accessing 5

N

Number button 20
Number buttons 19

O

On-screen displays 37
Overheating 39

P

Panel, indicator 47
Picture search options 34
Playing a Tape 20
Programming the remote 29–32
PROGRAMS OVERLAP message 25

R

Recording 21, 23–26
Remote sensor 46
Reviewing programs 26

S

Safety tab 21
Search 34–36
SLP tape speed 16
SP tape speed 16
Specifications 51
Stopping a timer recording 26

T

Tab, safety 21
Tape eject 21
Tape, playing a 20
Time counter 36
Timer recording 25

stopping 26

Troubleshooting tips 48–50

W

Warranty, limited 52

Z

ZERO search feature 36

53

If your VCR needs service, please contact your dealer or the
nearest Service Center from the yellow pages. Please do not
send any products to the Indianapolis address listed in this
manual or on the carton. This will only add delays in service
for your product.

10330 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290

©1998 Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Trademark(s)® Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)

Printed in Japan

TOCOM 15313560

VQTS3466 (A)

As an ENERGY STAR® Partner, Thomson Consumer
Electronics has determined that this product or
product model meets the ENERGY STAR® guidelines
for energy efficiency.