Hitachi VT-M281A User Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HITACHI
VHS Video Deck
VT-M281A
Owner's Manual
Your Complete Guide
to Videocassette Viewing
and Recording
Using these quality features:
Up to 8 delayed recording programs
Auto tracking for improved picture in playback
Cable-compatible frequency synthesizer quartz tuner
Remote control for use with your VCR, TV and cable converter
All basic playback functions on the VCR
On-screen graphic programming guide
Front Audio and Video Jacks
Auto Head Cleaning
HITACHI HOME HITACHI SALES HITACHI
(HSC)
ELECTRONICS CORPORATION CANADA
INC.
(AMERICA), INC. OF HAWAII, INC. 3300 Trans
Canada Hwy.
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., 3219 Koapaka Street
Pointe Claire, Quebec
Norcross, GA 30093 Honolulu, HI 96819
H9R1B1, CANADA
Tel. 404-279-5600 Tel. 808-836-3621 Tel. 514-6979150
E72118
QR10204 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1994
Printed in Malaysia
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction.........................................................................................................................4
FOR YOUR SAFETY...................................................................................................4
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS................................................................................5
Simple Hookups........................................................................................................9
1 Decide Where to Put Your VCR............................................................................9
2 Decide Which Hookup Method to Use...................................................................9
3 Hook up the Audio/Video Signal.............................................................................9
4 Hook Up the RF Signal...........................................................................................10
5 Attach the TV and VCR to the Power Supply..................................................... 12
6 Install Batteries in the Remote Control................................................................ 12
7 Set the RF or Video Channel Switch ...................................................................12
Getting Started (Controls).................................................................................................14
Quick Tour of the Controls....................................................................................14
Remote Control Buttons ............................................................................................14
When the Remote Doesn't W ork Right...................................................................15
VCR Controls ..............................................................................................................16
Display Indicators.......................................................................................................16
Meet Your On-Screen Guide....................................................................................16
Getting Started (Initial Setup)...........................................................................................18
Setup for First-Time Operation.............................................................................18
Setup Options.............................................................................................................18
Setting the Clock.........................................................................................................19
More About Channel Selections...............................................................................19
Getting Started (Videotapes).............................................................................................21
About Videocassette Tapes..................................................................................21
Types............................................................................................................................21
Safety Tabs Prevent Erasure ...................................................................................21
Loading and Ejecting.................................................................................................21
Tape Storage...............................................................................................................22
Basic Operations ...............................................................................................................23
Viewing a Videocassette.......................................................................................23
To Play Back a Recorded Tape...............................................................................23
To Fine Tune the Picture...........................................................................................23
Rewinding the Tape...................................................................................................23
Special Playback Effects...........................................................................................24
To Find Specific Sections on a Tape.......................................................................24
Basic Operations (Recording)...........................................................................................27
Recording a Program.............................................................................................27
Before you Record .....................................................................................................27
Basic Recording Steps..............................................................................................27
Recording Tips............................................................................................................27
Using the Instant Recording Timer (IRT)................................................................28
Setting the VCR to Record Later.............................................................................28
Reviewing What You Hav e Prog r ammed...............................................................30
Programming Priorities..............................................................................................30
Advanced Operations........................................................................................................32
Controlling Your TV with the VCR's Remote .....................................................32
Programming the Remote Control...........................................................................32
Controlling the TV.......................................................................................................33
Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups)....................................................................34
Hooking Up to a Cable Box..................................................................................34
A Step-by-Step Approach .........................................................................................34
Remote Control of the Cable Converter .................................................................36
Advanced Operations (Second VCR) ...............................................................................37
Integrating a Second VCR ....................................................................................37
Hookup.........................................................................................................................37
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
To Control Both VCRs with the Remote Control...................................................37
Copying from One VCR to Another (Dubbing).......................................................37
Copying Tapes From A Camcorder.........................................................................37
VCR Care and Servicing...................................................................................................39
Routine Cleaning....................................................................................................39
Head Cleaning............................................................................................................39
Periodic Maintenance................................................................................................39
If the VCR Doesn't Work Right.............................................................................39
Don't Attempt Repairs Yourself................................................................................39
Care and Servicing (Problems) pg. 47 .....................................................................41
Often Encountered Problems...................................................................................41
Hitachi Service Hotline...............................................................................................42
Specifications....................................................................................................................43
Technical Specifications........................................................................................43
3
Introduction
Introduction
FOR YOUR SAFETY
POWER SUPPLY: AC 120V, 60 Hz ONLY.
The POWER switch turns the VCR on and off, leaving the clock/timer
unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period, it is
recommended that the unit be completely switched off and
unplugged.
Illustrated below is the label on the back of your unit.
This symbol warns the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may
have sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock. Therefore, it is dangerous
to make any kind of contact with any inside part of this unit.
This symbol alerts the user that important literature concerning the
operation and maintenance of this unit has been included. Therefore, it
should be read carefully in order to avoid any problems.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING: Many television programs and films are copyrighted. In certain
circumstances, copyright law may apply to private in-home videotaping of
copyrighted materials.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE
THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF
PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT PLUG.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Caution to user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible
for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
"Note to CATV system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV
system installer's
attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper
grounding and, in
particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding
4
Introduction
system of the building,
as close to the point of cable entry as practical".
Read This First
Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best VCR for
you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please
take time to become familiar with this manual and how it is set up. Keep it
handy for future reference, too.
To guide you, we've concluded:
"Must read" sections containing important cautions for your family's
safety as well as the basic facts you need to use the VCR. These
sections are highlighted like this in the table of contents:
Information on the advanced features of your Hitachi VCR. We hope
you'll take time to learn about these functions since we've designed them
for you. But you can use the VCR without reading these sections.
We want this manual to be a tool for you, so we provide two ways to find
the information you need:
A quick index to the basic functions of the VCR which you will use often
(this page).
A detailed table of contents directing you to specific information quickly
(page 4).
Get to know your VCR by using this manual, and get to know Hitachi. We
appreciate your business.
Quick Index
To reset the clock and channel selections.....21, 22
To play a tape.....25
To record a program.....30
Problem chart.....47
Instructions in Spanish.....50
This section explains safety rules, how to hookup, quick tour of the
controls, set up for first-time operation using on-screens menus,
Videocassette tapes. Let's get started.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the
manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of
every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too.
This page lists important information that will help to assure your
enjoyment and proper use of a Video Cassette Recorder and accessory
equipment. Please read it carefully before operating your video product
and keep it in a handy place for future reference.
INSTALLATION
1 Read and Follow Instructions -- All the safety and operating
instructions should be read before the video product is operated. Follow
all operating and use instructions.
5
Introduction
2 Retain Instruction -- The safety and operating instructions should be
retained for future reference.
3 Heed Warnings -- Comply with all warnings on the video product and in
the operating instructions.
4 Polarized Plug -- This video product is equipped with a polarized
alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the
other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a
safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try
reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. To prevent electric shock do not use this
polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the
blades can be fully inserted without blade exposure. If you need an
extension, use a polarized cord.
5 Power Sources -- This video product should be operated only from the
type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of
the type of power supply to your home, consult your video dealer or local
power company. For video products intended to operate from battery
power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
6 Overloading -- Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this
can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Overloaded AC outlets and
extension cords are dangerous, and so are frayed power cords, damaged
or cracked wire insulation and broken plugs. They may result in shock or
fire hazard. Periodically examine the cord and have it replaced by your
service technician if appearance indicates damage or deteriorated
insulation.
7 Power Cord Protection -- Power supply cords should be routed so that
they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.
8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for
ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video product and to protect
it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered.
The openings should never be blocked by placing the video product on a
bed, sofa, rug or other similar surface. This video product should never be
placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This video product should
not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless
proper ventilation is provided or the video product manufacturer's
instructions have been followed.
9 Attachments -- Do not use attachments unless recommended by the
video product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
6
Introduction
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Power-line operated equipment or
accessories connected to this unit should bear the UL listing mark or CSA
certification mark on the accessory itself and should not have been modified
so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard
from electric shock or fire. If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel.
10 Water and Moisture -- Do not use this video product near water - for
example, near a bath, tub,
wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a
swimming pool, and the like.
11 Accessories -- Do not place this video product on an unstable card,
stand, tripod, bracket or table. The video product may fall, causing
serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the appliance.
Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table recommended by the
manufacturer, or sold with the video product. Any mounting of the product
should follow the manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting
accessory recommended by the manufacturer.
11A An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care.
Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the
appliance and cart combination to overturn.
12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable
system is connected to the video product, be sure the antenna or cable
system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage
surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical
Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1984, provides information with respect to
proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the
lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors,
location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes,
and requirements for the grounding electrode. See example below:
EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING
13 Power Lines -- An outside antenna system should not be located in
the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits,
or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an
outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from
touching or approaching such power lines or circuits as contact with them
might be fatal. Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and
should be left to a professional antenna installer.
USE
14 Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before
cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp
cloth for cleaning.
15 Object and Liquid Entry -- Never push objects of any kind into this
video product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage
points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the video product.
7
Introduction
16 Lightning -- For added protection for this video product during a
lightning storm, or when it its left unattended and unused for long periods
of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cablesystem. This will prevent damage to the video product due to lightning
and power-line surges.
SERVICE
17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as
opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or
other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product from the
wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions.
a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged
b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the video product.
c. If the video product has been exposed to rain or water.
d. If the video product does not operate normally by following the
operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the
operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the video product to its normal operation.
e. If the video product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
f. When the video product exhibits a distinct change in performance - this
indicates a need for service.
19 Replacement Parts -- When replacement parts are required, have the
service technician verify that the replacements he uses have the same
safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replacements specified
by the video product manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock or other
hazards
20 Safety Check -- Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
video product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks
recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the video product is
in safe operating condition.
8
Introduction
Simple Hookups
1 Decide Where to Put Your VCR
Be sure your chosen location allows for proper ventilation, stability, and
protection from heat and moisture (see Important Safeguards).
Place the VCR near your TV but not on top of it. For convenience in
using the remote control, locate them no more than three feet apart.
If you have an external cable or antenna, place the TV and VCR where
you have ample cable to hook them up. If necessary, you can purchase a
cable extension and connector.
If you plan to route your VCR audio through your stereo speakers for
better sound reproduction, place the VCR near the stereo receiver, or
have enough long audio cables to make the connections. (But keep in
mind that the electronic signal weakens the further it has to travel.)
2 Decide Which Hookup Method to Use
To make your VCR function, you'll deal with two basic hookups:
1. The audio and video signal: If all you want to do is view a prerecorded
videotape on the VCR, this two-line hookup is the only one you need.
2. The radio frequency (RF) signal from a cable or antenna: Make this
hookup if you also want to record programs, or if you have no audio/video
connectors on your TV.
We will show you the simplest hookups first and then present several
variations to suit specific needs. Be aware that you may need to purchase
additional connectors to make the desired hookup. These are available at
video stores and electronic hardware stores.
Choose which hookup method to use based on:
Your TV's capabilities
The type of antenna or cable system you have (for cable box hookup,
see Advanced Operations)
Any other devices you want to include in the system (second VCR, etc.)
We will guide you through the process. But first, turn the T V and the VCR
around so you are looking at their backs. Note the various input and
output receptacles, their shapes, and how they are labeled. Then read
through the rest of this hookup section before proceeding to an actual
hookup.
DO NOT TURN ON THE POWER YET. FOR YOUR S AFETY,
LEAVE YOUR TV AND VCR UNPLUGGED WHILE HOOKING THEM UP.
3 Hook up the Audio/Video Signal
If your TV is a fairly recent model, you probably have both audio and video
jacks. Look on the back of your TV for two jacks - possibly color-coded
yellow and white. They will be labelled AUDIO IN, or VIDEO IN. (If you are
not sure, look at the back of your VCR - you will see two sets of these
jacks.)
If you have no jacks like these on your TV, skip this step and proceed to
Step 4.
9
Introduction
TV with Audio and Video Jacks
Connect the yellow VIDEO OUT jack on the VCR (bottom row of jacks)
to the VIDEO IN jack on the TV.
This direct video input will give you the best picture. It will also let you
play videos in a "picture in picture" feature, if your TV has it.
Then connect the white AUDIO OUT jack on the VCR to the AUDIO IN
jack on the TV. This audio hookup will give you better sound than the RF
signal hookup, because the electronic signal won't have to go through a
conversion process.
Capabilities: The audio and video signal connections are all you need to
play back a prerecorded tape. If you do not intend to record on your VCR
from your antenna/cable, then you're all hooked up now. Otherwise,
continue with Step 4, which will let you record off TV channels.
4 Hook Up the RF Signal
Look at the back of your TV for a connector that looks like one of these,
and follow the corresponding hookup option. If you have any sort of cable
box, see the hookup options in Advanced Operations (page 38)
Simple Antenna/Cable 75 Ohm Hookup
This is an easy hookup that you can use if your cable or antenna has a 75
ohm round wire connector. You will need the 75 ohm cable supplied with
your VCR. It looks like this:
(Refer to page 11 for 300 ohm UHF connection to the TV and antenna.)
If you have been watching the TV in your home before getting the VCR,
you will already have a round wire attached to your TV. Otherwise, look
for a cable connection coming in through the wall from outside. ( If y ou find
this connection, remember to call your local cable company to start the
service.)
1. If still hooked up to your TV, unscrew the round wire from the 75 ohm
connector on your television. Otherwise, take the wire that comes in from
the wall.
2. Screw this round wire into the IN FROM ANT lower jack on the back of
your VCR.
3. Using the 75 ohm cable supplied with your VCR, slide on either end to
the OUT TO TV upper jack on the back of the VCR.
4. Connect the other end of the same cable onto the 75 ohm antenna
input on your TV (where you first disconnected the TV in step 1.)
5. Connect accordingly when you are using 300 ohm connection. (Refer
below.)
10
Introduction
Capabilities: With this hookup, you should now be able to perform all the
basic functions provided by this equipment.
External or Internal 300 Ohm Antenna
If you have either an external or internal (rabbit ears) antenna rather than
cable, you may have 300 ohm connectors like these.
In this case, you will need special adapters (not provided with VCR) to
make the 75 ohm round wire connections shown below. (You may already
have one on your TV.)
1. Remove the antenna line from the back of your TV if it is already
connected there, or take it from where it comes in on the wall.
2. Considering the three pictures below, determine which adapter you will
need to hook it into your VCR.
If you have Use this adapter
Single 300 ohm flat wire
Separate UHF and VHF
antenna wires, both 300 ohm
flat wire
300 ohm flat UHF and 75 ohm
round VHF
11
Introduction
If you have "rabbit ears" (an antenna on top of your TV), you will need an
additional adapter and 75 ohm extension to make your leads reach from
the antenna to the VCR. This connection will work only if you have a
strong, clear picture on the TV, indicating a strong signal. Connect the
antenna to the adapter, and use the cable extension to go from the
adapter to the VCR. Use the supplied 75 ohm cable to connect the VCR
to the TV.
Now continue with the hookup:
1. Using whichever adapter you have fit your antenna with, attach that
connector to the IN FROM ANT lower jack on the back of the VCR.
2. Using the 75 ohm cable supplied with your VCR, connect either end to
the OUT TO TV upper jack on the back of the VCR.
3. Use a second adapter to attach the other end of the 75 ohm connector
back into the TV (where you first disconnected the antenna).
Capabilities: With this hookup, you should now be able to perform all
basic functions provided by this equipment.
5 Attach the TV and VCR to the Power Supply
Plug in the TV and VCR power cords to the wall outlet or an appropriate
extension cord or surge protector. See Important Safeguards for further
precautions (page 6).
6 Install Batteries in the Remote Control
The remote control requires two fresh "AA" batteries. On the back of the
remote, a plastic cover
pushes off in the direction shown by the arrow. Remove this cover and
install the batteries, matching the plus end of each battery with the plus
mark on the remote.
7 Set the RF or Video Channel Switch
When the VCR is on, its video signal can come into your TV on either
channel 3 or channel 4. You need to select the appropriate channel.
Turn the power on to both the TV and the VCR, and look for a switch on
the back of the VCR. Set the switch to 3 or 4, whichever is not a
commercial channel in your area.
Your basic hookup is now complete. When you're ready to try hooking up
a second VCR or a video camera for a complete home entertainment
system, see Advanced Operations.
12
Introduction
Now turn the TV and VCR back around facing you and begin your quick
tour of the controls (page 14).
13
Getting Started (Controls)
Getting Started (Controls)
Quick Tour of the Controls
Study these pictures carefully to learn about the buttons and controls that
you'll need for everyday operation. Various controls are explained
throughout this manual as they are needed, but now is a good time to get
familiar with their locations.
Most of the time, you'll be directing the VCR from the remote control, but
there are some controls on the VCR that will come in handy too.
When you're familiar with these basic controls, proceed to Setup (page
19). We'll show you how to program your local channels and set the clock
to make your VCR fully functional.
How the Remote Control Works
Pressing a button on the remote control transmits an invisible beam of
light (infrared) to a receiver at the right front of the VCR.
When using the remote, aim the front end toward the VCR and make sure
nothing - such as a coffee table or your dog - is blocking the path of the
infrared beam.
Picture of Remote Control
Remote Control Buttons
POWER Turns the VCR on and off.
VCR1, TV, CATV, VCR2 Device buttons let you set the remote to control
one of four devices.
MUTE (TO CONTROL TV) Turns off the audio until you press Mute
again.
VOLUME/SLOW Increase or decrease the audio volume and plays back
in adjustable slow motion.
REW Rewinds the videotape.
PLAY Starts playing a loaded cassette.
14
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