Hitachi VTMX100EUK User Manual

Videorecorder

VTMX100EUK

Operating instructions

&

IN BRIEF

The remote control

VTR/TV TV monitor: To switch between TV reception

and VCR playback

STANDBY m Switch on or off: Switching device on/off,

cancelling function, Cancelling programmed
recordings (TIMER)

0-9 Number buttons:0-9

SELECT Select: To select a function

CLEAR (CL) Delete: To delete last entry/Clear

programmed recording (TIMER)

REC/OTR n Record: To record the TV channel selected

on the video recorder. Press REC/OTR n
and A at the same time

A To activate recording

STILL R Still picture: To stop the tape and show a

still picture

INDEX E Index search: In combination with H /

I : to search for previous or next

recording on the cassette.

I Forward wind: During STOP and STANDBY: forward wind, during

PLAYBACK: forward scanning

h Pause/Stop: To stop the tape, except during TIMER-recording

;P+ Select: To select the next line or programme number

OK Store/Confirm: To store or confirm entry

MENU Menu: To call up or end main menu

P- = Select: To select the previous line or programme number

TIMER TIMER: To make a TIMER programming or to alter or clear a

programmed TIMER

G Playback: To play a cassette

H Rewind: During STOP and STANDBY:

rewind, during PLAYBACK: reverse scanning

&

Front of the device

m Switch on or off: To switch off or on, interrupt a function, interrupt a programmed

VCR/TV TV monitor : To switch between TV reception and VCR playback

PROG r Select: One line or programmenumber down

PROG q Select: One line or programmenumber up

REC n Record: To record the TV channel selected at this moment

H Rewind: During STOP and STANDBY: rewind, during PLAYBACK: reverse

I Forward wind: During STOP and STANDBY: forward wind, during PLAYBACK:

h Pause/Stop: To stop the tape, except during TIMER-recording

recording (TIMER)

scanning

forward scanning

Back of the set

EXT.1 AV. 1 Scart socket 1: To connect the TV set (programme number '

4 Mains socket: To connect the mains cable

E1')

2 Aerial input socket: To connect the aerial cable

TV Aerial output socket: To connect the TV set

G Playback: To play a cassette

J Eject: To eject a cassette

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS HITACHI VT-MX100EUK

Thank you for buying a HITACHI video recorder. The

VT-MX100EUK is one of the most sophisticated and
easy-to-use video recorders (VCR) on the market.
Please take the time to read this operating manual before
using your video recorder. It contains important information
and notes regarding operation.
The video recorder should not be turned on immediately
after transportation from a cold to a hot area or vice versa, or
in conditions of extreme humidity.
Wait at least three hours after transporting the device. The
video recorder needs this time in order to become acclimatised
to its new environment (temperature, air humidity, etc.).

We hope you enjoy your new video recorder

This video recorder is used for the recording and playback of
VHS video cassettes.
Cassettes with the VHS-C label (VHS cassettes for
camcorders) may only be used with a suitable adapter.

Important notes regarding operation

A Danger: High voltage!

Do not remove the top cover as there is a risk of an electrical
shock!

A The video recorder does not contain any components that can be

repaired by the customer. Please leave all maintenance work for
qualified personnel.

A As soon as the video recorder is connected to the power supply,

there are some components that are in constant operation. To
switch off the video recorder completely you must disconnect it
from the power supply.

C These operating instructions have been printed on non-polluting

paper.

C Deposit old batteries at the appropriate collection points.
C Please make use of the facilities available in your country for

disposing of the packaging of the video recorder in a way that
helps to protect the environment.

C This electronic device contains many materials that can be

recycled. Please enquire about the possibilities for recycling your
old device.

B Make sure that air can circulate freely through the ventilation

slots on the video recorder. Do not place the device on an
unsteady base.

B Make sure that no objects or liquids enter the video recorder. Do

not place vases or the like on the video recorder. If liquid is spilt
into it, immediately disconnect the video recorder from the power
supply and call After-sales Service for advice.

B Do not place any combustible objects on the device (candles,

etc.).

B Make sure that children do not place any foreign objects within

the openings or ventilation slots.

So that you can identify your machine for service questions or
in the event of theft, enter the serial number here. The serial
number (PROD.NO.) is printed on the type plate fixed at the
back of the device.

MODELNO. VT-MX100EUK

PROD. NO. ...........................

This product complies with the requirements of Directive
73/23/EEC +89/336/EEC +93/68 EEC.

Specifications

Voltage: 220-240V/50Hz
Energy consumption (Standby): less than 4W
Rewind time : Forward/rewind approx. 260/170 seconds

(cassette E-180)

Dimensions in cm (B/H/T): 38.0/9.3/26.0
Number of video heads:2
Recording/playback time: 4 hours (SP) (cassette E-240)
8 hours (LP) (cassette E-240)

Supplied accessories

• Operating instructions

• Remote control and batteries

• Antenna cable

• Power cable

• Quick install guide

1

Table of contents

1. Connecting the video recorder 4..............

Preparing the remote control for operation 4...........

Connecting your video recorder to the TV set 4.........

Connecting with a scart cable 5.....................

Connecting without a scart cable 6...................

Connecting additional devices 7.....................

2. Installing your video recorder 8...............

Initial installation 8...............................

Manual TV channel search 8.......................

Using the satellite receiver 9.......................

Automatic TV channel search 9.....................

Monitor function 9................................

Sorting and clearing TV channels manually 9..........

Setting the time and date 10........................

3. Important notes for operation 11..............

4. Playback 12...............................

Playing cassettes 12..............................

Displaying current tape position 12...................

Searching for a tape position with picture

(scanning) 12...................................

Still picture 13...................................

Searching for tape position without picture (forward

wind and rewind) 13..............................

Easy View 13...................................

Tape Finder 13..................................

5. Eliminating picture interference 14............

Optimising tracking 14............................

Optimising still picture 14..........................

6. Manual recording 15........................

General information 15............................

Recording without automatic switch-off 15.............

Recording with automatic switch-off (OTR

One-Touch-Recording) 15.........................

Preventing accidental erasing of cassettes 15..........

Lining up recordings (assemble cut) 16...............

Selecting the recording speed (SP or LP) 16...........

7. Programming a recording (TIMER) 17..........

General information 17............................

Programme recordings 17.........................

Problem solving for programmed recordings 18.........

How to check, change or delete a programmed

recording (TIMER) 18.............................

8. Other functions 19.........................

Changing the video (colour) system 19...............

Child lock 19....................................

Automatic switch-off 19...........................

9. Suppressing interference 20.................

Optimising the modulator 20........................

Switching the modulator on / off 20..................

10.Before you call an engineer 21...............

2

Important information for customers
in Great Britain

This set is fitted with an approved moulded 13 amp plug. To
change the fuse in this plug or to attach a different plug,
please proceed as follows:

1 Take off the fuse cover and remove the old fuse.
2 Insert a new fuse. Suitable fuses are those of the type BS

1362 3A, A.S.T.A. standard or BSI standard.

3 Close the fuse cover.

If the attached plug does not meet your requirements, you can
cut it off and replace it with a suitable plug. Please observe the
following conditions:

• If your new plug uses a built-in fuse, this should be a 3A
fuse.

• If your new plug does not contain a built-in fuse, please do
not use any fuses in your fusebox with a rating of more
than 5A.

• Please destroy the old, cut-off plug so that it cannot be
used elsewhere.

1 Connect the blue cable (neutral 'N') to the terminal in the

plug which is marked with the letter 'N' or coloured black.

2 Connect the brown cable (live, 'L') to the terminal in the

plug which is marked with the letter 'L' or coloured red.

3 Do not in any circumstances connect either of the two

cables to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the
letter 'E', the symbol "\" or coloured green or green /
yellow.

Before you refit the plug cover, make sure, that the grip at
the bottom of the plug is clamped over the plastic cover of
the lead, not just over the two wires.

3

1. Connecting the video recorder

Preparing the remote control for
operation

The remote control and its batteries are packed separately in
the original video recorder packaging. You must install the
batteries in the remote control before use - described in the
following section.

1 Take the remote control and the enclosed batteries (2

batteries).

2 Open the remote control's battery compartment and place

the batteries in it as shown in the picture and close the
battery compartment.

The remote control is now ready to use. Its range is
approximately 5 metres.

Connecting your video recorder to
the TV set

The necessary cable connections must be made before you
can record or playback TV programmes using your video
recorder.
We recommend that you use a scart cable to connect your TV
set and video recorder.

What is a scart cable?

The scart or Euro AV cable serves as the universal
connector for picture, sound and control signals. With this
type of connection, there is practically no loss of quality
during the picture or sound transfer.

When you install your video recorder for the first time, select
one of the following options:

'Connecting with a scart cable'

If your TV set has a scart socket and you are using a scart
cable.

'Connecting without a scart cable'

If you do not wish to use a scart cable.

4

Connecting with a scart cable

Have the following cables ready:
an aerial cable (1, supplied), a mains cable (2, supplied), a
scart cable (3).

1 Remove the aerial cable plug from your TV set. Insert it

into the socket

2 Insert one end of the supplied aerial cable into the socket

TV at the back of the video recorder and the other end

into the aerial input socket at the back of the TV set.

2 at the back of the video recorder.

5 Insert one end of the supplied mains cable into the mains

socket
other end into the wall socket.

My screen is empty

* Many TV sets are switched to the programme number for
the scart socket by way of a control signal sent through the
scart cable.

* If the TV set does not automatically switch to the scart
socket programme number, manually change to the
corresponding programme number on your TV set (see your
TV's operating instructions).

Then, read the paragraph 'Initial installation' in the chapter
'Installing your video recorder'.

4 at the back of the video recorder and the

3 Plug one end of a scart cable into the scart socket

EXT.1 AV. 1 at the back of the video recorder and the

other end into the suitable scart socket on your TV set
reserved for the video recorder operation (see your TV's
operating instructions).

My TV set has several scart sockets. Which one should
I use?

Select that scart socket which is suited for the video output
as well as for the video input.

My TV offers me a selection menu for the scart socket.

Select 'TV' as a connection source of this scart socket.

4 Switch on the TV set.

5

Connecting without a scart cable

Have the following cables ready:
an aerial cable (1, supplied), a mains cable (2, supplied).

Which programme number is used for video recorder
operation?

To ensure the stability of the television picture during
cassette playback (prevention of waves or streaks), special
programme numbers have been set aside on the TV for the
use of video recorders. This is usually the highest possible
programme number, e.g. '12', '16', '99' or even programme
number '0'. For more information, please see your TV's
operating instructions.

Important: For a Hitachi TV use programme 0

1 Switch off your TV set.
2 Remove the aerial cable plug from the aerial input socket

of the TV set. Insert it into the socket
the video recorder.

3 Insert one end of the supplied aerial cable into the socket

TV at the back of the video recorder and the other end

into the aerial input socket at the back of the TV set.

4 Insert one end of the supplied mains cable into the mains

socket
other end into the wall socket.

4 at the back of the video recorder and the

2 at the back of

7 Select this programme number and manually start the

TV's channel search as if you wanted to save a new TV
channel until the 'test image' appears.

8 Switch off the video recorder using the button

STANDBY m .

I do not see a 'test screen'

* Check the cable connections.

* The video recorder 'transmits' on the 583MHz frequency
(channel 35)
Repeat the channel search on your TV set.

9 Save this programme number setting on your TV set for

video recorder operation.

5 Press and hold the STOP button h on the remote

control and while holding that button, press and hold the
STOP button
several seconds the display on the video recorder will
show 'M583' or a similar number.

6 Switch on your TV set and select the programme number

used for video playback on your TV set (see your TV's
operating instructions).

h on the front of the video recorder. After

6

Programme number for video recorder operation

You have now saved a programme number for use by your
video recorder as you would a regular TV channel. This
programme number must now be used in future for video
recorder playback ('video recorder' TV channel).

You can find more details in chapter 'Initial Installation'.

Connecting additional devices

You can connect additional devices such as satellite receivers,
camcorders, etc. to the socket
video recorder.

If you want to connect an additional device to the scart socket,
you must adjust the TV set to the video recorder. Please read
the section 'Connecting without a scart cable'.

EXT.1 AV. 1 at the back of the

7

2. Installing your video recorder

Initial installation

This chapter shows you how to start the initial installation. The
video recorder automatically seeks out and stores all available
TV channels.

'Aim' correctly

In the following sections, you require the remote control for
the first time. When using, always aim the front of the
remote control at the video recorder and not at the TV set.

Connecting additional devices

After you have connected additional devices (satellite
receiver, etc.) through the aerial cable, switch them on. The
automatic channel search will recognise them and save
them.

1 Press the

The automatic TV channel search starts. This will appear
on the display:

The video recorder does not find any TV channels
during the search

* Select channel 1 on the TV set. Can you see the saved TV
channel on the TV set?
If not, check the cable connection of the aerial (aerial
socket), video recorder, TV set.

* Please have patience.
The video recorder searches the entire frequency range in
order to find and save the largest possible number of TV
channels. It is possible that the TV channels in your country
are broadcast in a higher frequency range. As soon as this
range is reached during the search, the video recorder will
find the TV channels.

MENU button on the remote control.

8 Press
9 If required, change the time in the same way (e.g.

'20:00').

0 Press

'OK' will briefly flash in the video recorder display.

The initial installation is now complete.

Satellite receiver

If you are connecting a satellite receiver, please read the
section 'Using the satellite receiver'.

OK .

OK .

Manual TV channel search

In some cases it could occur that all of the TV channels were
not found and saved during the initial installation. In this case,
the missing or coded TV channels must be searched for and
stored manually.

1 Switch on the TV set. If required, select the programme

number for the video recorder.

2 Press

the display.

3 Using

(manual channel search).

4 Press
5 Using

number that you want to use for the TV channel, e.g. 'P01'
and confirm with

6 Confirm with

'CH' will flash in the video recorder display.

7 Enter the channel of the desired TV station using the

number buttons

MENU on the remote control. 'CLK' will appear in

P- = or ;P+ , select 'MAN' in the display

OK .

P- = or ;P+ , select the desired programme

OK .

OK .

0-9 .

2 As soon as the automatic TV channel search is

completed, 'OK' will briefly appear in the video recorder
display.
Next the year will appear in the video recorder display
(e.g. '2001').

2001

3 If required, change the year with the number buttons

0-9 on the remote control.

4 Confirm with
5 If required, change the month in the same way (e.g. 'M

01').

6 Press
7 If required, change the date in the same way (e.g. 'D01').

8

OK .

OK .

I don't know the channels for my TV stations

* In this case, press
search. A changing channel number will appear in the video
recorder display.
Continue the automatic search until you have found the
desired TV channel.

8 To save the TV channel, press

necessary until 'OK' appears in the display.

9 To search for other TV channels, begin again at step 4.
0 To end, press

;P+ to start the automatic channel

OK as often as

MENU .

Using the satellite receiver

Sorting and clearing TV channels

TV channels from a satellite receiver (connected to the scart
socket
programme number 'E1'.
To do this, select the programme number 'E1' with
remote control.
You should select the TV channels to be received by the
satellite receiver directly on the receiver itself.

EXT.1 AV. 1 ) are received on the video recorder on

0 on the

Automatic TV channel search

During installation, all available TV channels are searched for
and saved. If the channel assignments of your cable or
satellite TV provider change or if you are reinstalling the video
recorder, e.g. after moving house, you can start this procedure
again. This will replace the TV channels already saved with the
new ones.

1 Switch on the TV set. If required, select the programme

number for the video recorder.

2 Press the

appear on the display.

3 In the display, select 'AUTO' (Automatic TV channel

search) with

4 Press

MENU button on the remote control. 'CLK' will

P- = or ;P+ .

OK .

manually

After you have performed the automatic channel search you
may not agree with the sequence in which the individual TV
channels have been allocated to the programme positions
(programme numbers) of the video recorder. You can use this
function to individually sort the TV channels already saved or
to delete unwanted TV channels or those with poor reception.

1 Switch on the TV set. If required, select the programme

number for the video recorder.

2 Press

the display.

3 In the display, select 'ALLO' (Manual TV channel search)

with

4 Press

MENU on the remote control. 'CLK' will appear on

P- = or ;P+ .

OK .

CH21

5 Using ;P+ or P- = , select the saved TV channel that

you want to assign to the programme number '01'.

6 Confirm with
7 The next highest programme number (e.g. '02') will briefly

appear in the display. After that, the channel number of
the already allocated TV channel will blink.

OK .

5 The automatic TV channel search starts. This allows the

video recorder to save all available TV channels. This
procedure may take several minutes.

6 When the TV channel search is complete, 'OK' will appear

on the screen.

7 To end, press

You can read about how to search for a TV channel manually
in the section 'Manual TV channel search'.

MENU .

Monitor function

You can switch back and forth between the TV picture and
video recorder picture with
when you use a scart cable to connect the video recorder to
your TV set and your TV set responds to this switch-over.
You can also use

VCR/TV on the video recorder.

VTR/TV . But this only works

8 Using

you want to assign to this programme number (e.g. '02').

Deleting TV channels

Unwanted channels or those with poor reception can be
deleted using

9 Confirm with
0 To assign other TV channels to a programme number,

repeat steps 7to 9.
A Confirm the assignment of the TV channel with
B To exit the main menu, press

;P+ or P- = , select the saved TV channel that

CLEAR (CL) .

OK .

MENU .

MENU .

9

Setting the time and date

If the display shows an incorrect time or '--:--', the time and
date must be reset manually.

1 Press

the display.

2 Confirm the function 'CLK' (time and date) with

MENU on the remote control. CLK' will appear on

OK .

2001

3 Next, the year, for instance, '2001' will appear in the video

recorder display. 2001). If required, change it using

;P+ , P- = or with the number buttons 0-9 on the

remote control.

4 Confirm with
5 If required, change the month, for instance, 'M01' in the

same way. Confirm with

6 If required, change the date, for instance, 'D01' in the

same way. Confirm with

7 If required, change the date, for instance, '20:00' in the

same way.

8 Press

'OK' will briefly flash in the video recorder display. The
time/date setting is now complete.

OK .

OK .

OK .

OK .

9 To end, press

MENU .

10

3. Important notes for operation

Switching on

You can switch on the video recorder with the

STANDBY m button, the number buttons 0-9 or by

putting in a cassette.

Automatic switch-off

If the video recorder is not used for several minutes, it
switches itself off automatically. This function can be
deactivated (e.g. if you want to use the video recorder as a
TV receiver). For more information, please read the section
'Automatic switch-off' in chapter 'Additional functions'.

Time in the display

If you have switched the video recorder off with

STANDBY m , the time will show in the display, e.g.

'18:00'.
If the clock has not been set, '--:--' will appear.

Energy consumption

The video recorder should always be connected to the
mains so as not to affect the use of the TV or programmed
recordings.
Power consumption is less than 4W.

Power outage/no power

Channel information remains saved for up to 1 year, the
time and timer information is saved for up to 3 hours.

Emergency exit

The video recorder and the remote control have the option
of an 'Emergency exit'. You can use the
button to interrupt any function or step during use.
You can operate your device without worry. There is no risk
whatsoever of damaging the video recorder by performing
user steps incorrectly.

STANDBY m

The symbols on your video recorder
display

These symbols can light up on your video recorder display:

This is where the current operating mode is
shown as a symbol.

LP When you have switched on the LP (Long Play)

function or when you play a tape that has been
recorded in LP (Long Play).

When you have switched on the child lock.

When you are making a recording.

k When you have programmed a recording or

when a programmed recording is being made.

When you have put a cassette in the video
recorder.

DATE When the date of the programmed recording is

shown.

START When the start time of the programmed

recording is shown.

PROG. When the programme number of the

programmed recording is shown.

END When the end time of the programmed recording

is shown.

Display of programme number of the TV channel
/ tape position / channel name / function.

Tape position in seconds.

11

4. Playback

Playing cassettes

You can use this video recorder to play back recorded VHS
video cassettes. You can operate the video recorder using the
remote control or the buttons on the front of the video recorder.

What does VHS mean?

'Video Home System' (VHS) has become the world-wide
standard for the playback and recording of amateur video
cassettes. This popular standard continues to be improved.
Super VHS (S-VHS) provides a sharper picture and less
noise. Digital VHS (D-VHS) works with digital picture and
sound signals. Your video recorder can only record and play
standard VHS cassettes.

Do I need to change the playback speed when playing
back LP recordings?

For playback, the correct recording speed 'SP' will
automatically be selected. For more information, please
read the section 'Selecting the recording speed (SP/LP)' in
the chapter 'Manual recording'.

Displaying current tape position

The display shows the tape position in hours, minutes and
seconds.

How can I set the counter to '0:00:00'?

You can set the counter to '0:00:00' using
When you put a cassette in the machine, the counter will
automatically reset to 0:00:00'.

The counter does not move

* This occurs when there are no recordings on a portion of a
tape. Therefore, the video recorder cannot receive any
information from the tape. This is not a fault in your
machine.

CLEAR (CL) .

1 Put a cassette into the cassette slot.

The cassette is inserted automatically. '
the display.

2 Press the Play button

This will, for example, appear in the display:

G to view the tape.

v' will appear on

0:00:02

Picture/ sound quality is poor

* When playing rental videos or older, poorer quality
cassettes, it may not be possible to completely filter out
picture and sound interference. This is not a fault in your
machine.
Read the chapter 'Eliminating picture interference'.

3 To stop the playback, press

h on the video recorder.

4 To eject the cassette, press

when the video recorder stops the playback (STOP).

Automatic switch-off of special functions

Many functions (e.g. pause, still picture, search) switch
themselves off automatically after a short time in order to
protect the cassette and to save energy.

h on the remote control or

J on the video recorder

The display shows '-0:01:20'

* If you rewind a cassette from the tape position '0:00:00',
the counter will show for instance, '-0:01:20' (the cassette
will be rewound to 1 minute and 20 seconds before
'0:00:00').

Searching for a tape position with
picture (scanning)

1 While a cassette is playing, press H (reverse) or

I (forward) one or more times. This will, for example,

appear in the display:

0:30:21

2 To stop at a certain place on the tape, press G .

Decreased picture quality

Scanning interferes with the picture quality. The sound is
switched off. This is not a fault in your machine.

12

Still picture

Tape Finder

1 During playback, press STILL R to stop the tape and

display a still picture. This will, for example, appear in the
display:

0:00:02

2 Each time you press STILL R , the picture will

advance one frame.

Interference stripes

Interference stripes may appear on the screen during still
picture. This is normal and not a fault in your machine.

3 To continue playback, press

G .

Searching for tape position without
picture (forward wind and rewind)

1 Stop the tape with h .
2 Press

example, appear in the display:

H (reverse) or I (forward). This will, for

0:30:21

3 To stop at a certain place on the tape, press h .

Automatic search for a tape position
(index search)

Every time a tape is recorded an index marking is written on
the tape. This marking can be compared with a bookmark.
These marked positions can be found again quickly and easily
later by pressing a button.

1 To search for the previous marking, press

then

H .

2 For the next marking, press

This will, for example, appear in the display for the next

marking.

INDEX E and then I .

INDEX E and

0:30:02

3 As soon as the video recorder finds this marking, it

automatically switches to playback.

Automatic search for a blank space
on the tape

You can search for space on the tape (at least 1 minute of
blank tape) for a new recording, for example, after an existing
recording on the tape.

1 Press

example, appear in the display:

INDEX E . Then press h . This will, for

Easy View

With this function you can switch to picture search during wind
and rewind.

1 If you hold

rewind, you will switch to picture search.

2 As soon as you release the button, the video recorder will

automatically switch back to rewind or wind.

H (rewind) or I (wind) during wind or

0:00:00

2 As soon as the video recorder finds the corresponding

tape position, it automatically switches to pause.

The cassette is ejected

* The video recorder was unable to find any blank space on
the tape inserted.

13

5. Eliminating picture interference

Optimising tracking

This video recorder has an automatic tracking function. In
order for the video heads to optimally read the video track of
the newly inserted video cassette, the tape speed is slightly
corrected automatically.
In some cases however, interference will still occur.
The following section will explain how to manually adjust the
tracking settings.

1 While a cassette is playing, hold

(TRACking) appears in the display.

2 Hold down the buttons

quality is at its best.

3 Wait a few seconds, until 'TRAC' disappears from the

display.

These selected picture settings will not change until you eject
the cassette.

;P+ or P- = until the playback

;P+ until 'TRAC'

Optimising still picture

If the still picture vibrates vertically, you can improve the still
picture as follows:

1 During still picture, hold

quality is at its best.
'JITT' will appear in the display.

2 When you release the button, 'JITT' will disappear.

The video recorder will store these settings automatically.

I cannot reach optimal quality for the still picture

* Interference which cannot be alleviated by this function
can occur in cassettes of poor quality or camcorder
cassettes .

;P+ or P- = until the picture

14

6. Manual recording

General information

Use 'Manual Recording' to make a spontaneous recording (for
example, a programme currently being shown).

If you want to start and stop a recording manually, read the
section 'Recording without automatic switch-off'.

If you want to start a recording manually but have it stopped
automatically, read the section 'Recording with automatic

switch-off'. (e.g. not to record to the end of the tape)

Recording without automatic
switch-off

1 Insert a cassette.
2 Use

;P+ or P- = to select the programme number

you want to record, for example, 'P01'. This will appear on
the display:

P01

Programme number 'E1'

This programme number is provided for recording from
external sources (via the scart socket

EXT.1 AV. 1 ).

Recording with automatic switch-off
(OTR One-Touch-Recording)

1 Insert a cassette.
2 Use

3 Press

4 Each time you press

How can I clear the recording time just setted?

To delete an entry, press
shows the recording time.

;P+ or P- = to select the programme number

you want to record.

REC/OTR n and A on the remote control at the

same time.

REC/OTR n and A at the same

time you will add 30 minutes to the recording time.

CLEAR (CL) while the display

Preventing accidental erasing of
cassettes

All cassettes (except for rental and store cassettes) have a
security tab on the back of the cassette (see arrow).
To prevent recording over important recordings (erasing), you
can remove this security tab or slide it to the left.
If you later decide to record on a protected cassette, simply
cover the hole with adhesive tape or slide the tab to the right.

3 To start recording, press

remote control at the same time or
recorder. This will, for example, appear in the display:

REC/OTR n and A on the

REC n on the video

P01

Displaying tape position

Using

4 Stop recording with

OK you can show the tape position in the display.

h .

15

Lining up recordings (assemble cut)

Selecting the recording speed

When you add a further recording to a cassette, which already
has a recording on it, a short blank (flicker) can appear
between the old and the new recording or the picture itself can
flicker. To help reduce these from occurring, proceed as
follows:

1 Find the tape position of the old recording where you

want to insert the new recording.

2 Look at the last minute of the old recording (playback).
3 Press

where the new recording is to go.
display.

4 Now start recording as usual by pressing

and A on the remote control.

5 Stop recording with

h on the remote control at the tape position

9' will appear on the

REC/OTR n

h .

(SP or LP)

You can reduce the recording speed by half. This makes it
possible to record, for example, eight-hours instead of
four-hours on an 'E240' (four-hour) cassette.
For playback, the correct recording speed will automatically be
selected.

1 Press

the display.

2 Select 'SPEE' in the display with
3 Press
4 Select the required recording speed with

'SP'/'LP'
'SP': StandardPlay (normal recording speed) offers the usual

first-class picture quality.

'LP': LongPlay (half recording speed, double recording
time). 8 hours can be recorded on a 4 hour cassette (E240)
with a somewhat reduced picture quality.

5 Confirm with

MENU on the remote control. 'CLK' will appear on

P- = or ;P+ .

OK .

;P+ or

P- = .

OK .

6 To end, press

MENU .

16

7. Programming a recording (TIMER)

General information

Use programming a recording (TIMER) to automatically start
and stop a recording at a later date. The video recorder will
switch to the right programme number and begin recording at
the correct time.
With this video recorder, you can pre-programme up to six
recordings within a period of one month.

To make a programmed recording, your video recorder needs
to know:
* the date you want to make the recording
* the programme number of the TV channel
* the start and stop time of the recording

This information is saved in a 'TIMER block'.

Programme recordings

1 Press TIMER on the remote control.

An empty TIMER block will appear in the display.

'CLK' will briefly appear in the video recorder display
then 'CLK' will flash

* The internal clock of the video recorder must be reset.
Please read the section 'Setting the time and date' (starting
at step 3 ) in chapter 'Installing your video recorder'.

2 Press

The video recorder display will read, for instance,
'DATE 01'.
If required, change the date of the recording with

control.

TIMER .

;P+ , P- = or the number buttons 0-9 on the remote

4 Press

The video recorder display will read, for instance,

'START 20:00'.

If required, change the start time of the recording with

control.

TIMER .

;P+ , P- = or the number buttons 0-9 on the remote

20:00

5 Press TIMER . The video recorder display will read, for

instance, 'END 22:00'.

If required, change the end time of the recording with

;P+ , P- = or the number buttons 0-9 on the remote

control.

22:00

6 When all informations are correctly, confirm with

TIMER .

'OK' will briefly flash in the video recorder display. The

programming information is stored in a TIMER block.

7 Insert a cassette with an intact security tab (unprotected).
8 Switch off with

The programmed recording will only function when the

video recorder is switched off with

If any of the TIMER blocks are in use, '

the video recorder display.

STANDBY m .

STANDBY m .

k' will light up on

01

3 Press TIMER .

The video recorder display will read, for instance,
'PROG. 01'.
If required, use

0-9 on the remote control to change the programme

number of the TV channel from which you want to record.

;P+ , P- = or the number buttons

01

Programme number of the 'E1' scart socket

You can also programme recordings from external sources
(via scart socket

EXT.1 AV. 1 ).

17

Problem solving for programmed

How to check, change or delete a

recordings

The video recorder does not react

* While a programmed recording is being made, you cannot
operate your video recorder manually. If you want to cancel
the programmed recording, press

A cassette was automatically ejected during recording

* The end of the tape was reached during recording.

Error message: 'CASS''
display

* No cassette was inserted. Insert a cassette and switch off
the video recorder using

* A cassette was inserted with the security tab removed.

Undo the erase protection (chapter 'Manual Recording',

section 'Preventing accidental erasing of cassettes') or

insert a different cassette.

Error message: 'FULL'

* If this error message appears after pressing
all TIMER blocks are already programmed. No more
recordings can be programmed. If you want to clear or
check a programmed recording (TIMER block), select it with

;P+ or P- = .

k' will flash in the video recorder

STANDBY m .

STANDBY m .

TIMER , then

programmed recording (TIMER)

1 Press TIMER on the remote control.
2 Select the programmed recording (TIMER) you want to

check, change or delete with

Delete programmed recording

Press
'--' appears rather than the displayed values
To end, press

3 Press

CLEAR (CL) .

MENU .

TIMER . The video recorder display will read, for

instance, 'DATE 01' for the date of the recording.

If required, change the displayed information in this step

and the following steps using

number buttons

0-9 .

P- = or ;P+ .

;P+ , P- = or the

01

4 Press TIMER . The video recorder display will read, for

instance, 'PROG. 01' for the programme number of the TV

channel.

01

5 Press TIMER .

The start time will appear in the video recorder display,

e.g. 'START 20:00'.

'ERR' appears in the display

* The data for the recording could not be transferred. Please
check date, start time and end time of the programmed
recording.

20:00

6 Press TIMER .

The end time will appear in the video recorder display,

e.g. 'END 22:00'.

22:00

7 Press TIMER .'OK' will briefly flash in the video recorder

display.
8 Switch off with

STANDBY m .

18

8. Other functions

Changing the video (colour) system

If you play back recordings made on a different kind of tape,
the automatic video (colour) system switch-over may lead to
colour distortion.
You can manually switch off the video (colour) system for
playback or switch off the colour.

Video (colour) systems

Other countries, other video (colour) systems:
In central Europe transmissions are broadcast in the PAL
system (Phase Alternation Line) standard. France uses
SECAM (Séquentiel à mémoire). In some countries (USA
and Japan), TV viewers receive their programmes as an
NTSC signal (National Television System Committee).

1 During playback , press the

remote control. 'CLK' will appear in the display.

2 In the display, select 'SYST' (switching video/colour

system) with

3 Select the TV (colour) system with the least disruptions

using

P- = or ;P+ .

If colour interference still occurs, you can switch to 'B/W'
(black and white).

;P+ or P- = . Confirm with OK .

MENU button on the

Child lock

You can prevent unauthorised use of your video recorder with
this function. When the child lock is active, the buttons on the
front of the device are blocked (will not function). You can
make programmed recordings while the child lock is on.

1 Hold down the

recorder. In addition, hold down the

the remote control until '
2 Put away the remote control somewhere out of reach of

children.
3 To turn off the child lock, hold down the

button on the video recorder. In addition, hold down the

SELECT button on the remote control until ' {'

disappears from the display.

'

{' will flash in the video recorder display

* This symbol flashes when a button is pressed when the
child lock is active.

STANDBY m button on the video

SELECT button on

{' appears in the display.

STANDBY m

Automatic switch-off

4 Confirm with
5 To end, press

How can I change back to 'Automatic Switch-over'?

If you change the programme number, the video (colour)
system for recording will switch itself back to 'AUTO'
(automatic switch-over).

If you eject the cassette, the video (colour) system for
playback will switch itself back to 'AUTO' (automatic
switch-over).

OK .

MENU .

If you haven't used the video recorder for a few minutes in
certain modes (e.g.: STOP), it will switch to standby
automatically. You can cancel this function to use the video
recorder as a television receiver.

1 Press

the display.

2 In the display, select 'AST' (Automatic switch-off) with

3 Select 'AST-' (no automatic switch-off) or 'AST+'

(automatic switch-off) with the menu buttons

4 Confirm with

'OK' will briefly flash in the video recorder display.
5 To end, press

MENU on the remote control. 'CLK' will appear on

P- = or ;P+ and confirm with OK .

P- = or

;P+ .

OK .

MENU .

19

9. Suppressing interference

Optimising the modulator

In some reception locations it is possible that a TV channel will
be sent on the same or similar frequency as the video
recorder.
Result: As soon as the video recorder is switched on, the
reception quality for this or several other TV channels will
decreased.
The following steps will show you how to change the pre-set
'transmission' (modulator) frequency on the video recorder.

What is a modulator?

This electronic component in the video recorder allows the
device to transmit audio and video signals via the aerial
cable. These signals can be received on a TV set just like
TV channels.

What is an modulator frequency?

This frequency or channel indicates the frequency or
channel on which the audio or video signal is transmitted.

1 Switch on the TV set. Select the programme number

used for video recorder playback (see TV operating
instructions).

2 Press

device.

J to eject any cassette that might be in the

Switching the modulator on / off

If you cannot clear picture or sound interference despite
optimisation, you can switch off the built-in modulator.

Warning:
this is only possible if you have connected the video
recorder to the TV set with a scart cable. Without a scart
cable you will not receive a picture from the video
recorder on the TV set when the modulator is switched off.

1 Press

device.
2 Press and hold the STOP button

control and while holding that button, press and hold the

STOP button

several seconds the display on the video recorder will

show 'M583' or a similar number.

J to eject any cassette that might be in the

h on the remote

h on the front of the video recorder. After

3 Press and hold the STOP button

control and while holding that button, press and hold the
STOP button
several seconds the display on the video recorder will
show 'M583' or a similar number.
The video recorder will now transmit a test image on UHF
channel 35/Frequency 583MHz.

4 Change the modulator frequency with the 0-9 number

buttons on the remote control.

5 Tune in the TV set to the new modulator frequency

(channel 21 - 69) shown in the video recorder display.

6 Keep pressing

h on the front of the video recorder. After

OK until 'OK' appears in the display.

h on the remote

3 Press OK .

The display will read 'MOD+' (modulator on).
4 In the display, select 'MOD-' (modulator off) with

How can I switch the modulator back on?

In the display, select 'MOD+' (modulator on) with

5 Keep pressing

display.

OK , until 'OK' briefly appears in the

;P+ .

;P+ .

Optimising the modulator is now complete.

20

10. Before you call an engineer

If, contrary to expectation, you have any problems using this
video recorder, it may be caused by the following reasons.

Your video recorder does not respond to any button
being pressed:

* There is no power supply: check the power supply.

* A programmed recording is currently being made: if
desired, cancel the programmed recording with

STANDBY m .

* Child lock active: switch the child lock off.

* There is a technical problem: disconnect from the mains
power supply for 30 seconds, then connect again.
If this doesn't help, you could reset your video recorder to
the default factory settings.

Resetting devices to default factory settings

* Attention:
All the information stored (TV channels, time and date,
TIMER) will be cleared.

1. Disconnect from the mains power supply.

2. Press and hold the
reconnect to the mains power supply.

3. Release the button when '--:--' or 'E1' appears in the
video recorder display.

m button on the device and

* Please read chapter 'Eliminating picture interference'.

No recording possible:

* The TV channel you want to record is not stored or you
selected the wrong programme number: check TV channels
stored.

* A cassette was inserted that does not have the security
tab (cannot be used to record): Insert a cassette with an
intact security tab or change cassette. For more information,
please see the section 'Preventing accidental erasing of
cassettes' in chapter 'Manual Recording'.

Programmed recording does not work:

* You have programmed the wrong time or date: check time
and date.

* You have not set the TIMER properly: Check the
programmed recordings (TIMER block).

* You have put in a cassette that cannot be recorded on:
undo the erase protection on the cassette.

There is picture or sound interference on TV reception:

* Turn to chapter 'Suppressing interference' and read
'Optimising the modulator' and 'Switching on/off the
modulator'.

Cassette is jammed in the video recorder:

* Don't use force. Pull out the mains plug for a moment.

Remote control does not work:

* Remote control not pointed toward the video recorder:
point it at the video recorder.

* There is a technical problem: Take out the batteries, wait
for 10 seconds and place them back.

* Batteries have run out: change the batteries.

No picture when you play a cassette:

* There is no recording on the cassette: change the
cassette.

* You have selected the wrong programme number on the
TV for playing cassette: on the TV, select the correct
programme number for the video recorder.

* The cable connecting the TV set and the video recorder
has come loose: check the cable.

Poor picture quality when you play a cassette:

* Your TV set is not properly adjusted.

* Have your aerial checked.

* The cassette is badly worn or of poor quality: use new
cassette.

* Tracking is not properly adjusted: turn to chapter
'Eliminating picture interference' and read the section
'Optimising tracking'.

21

HITACHI - YOUR GUARANTEE OF EXCELLENCE (for UK only)

For the period of 12 MONTHS from the date of purchase your product has the benefit of our FULL PARTS AND
LABOUR GUARANTEE as detailed below.

We undertake to replace or repare any part of the product which fails due to a manufacturing defect within 12
months of the date of purchase provided that:

1) The product has been installed and used only in accordance with the instructions supplied with the product.

2) The product has not been repaired, maintained, or modified by any person other than our authorised Engineer.

3) The product serial number is not removed or altered.

This guarantee does not apply to products acquired second-hand or for commercial or communal use.
This guarantee does not extend to user control adjustments, battery replacement and aerial adjustment. Any parts
replaced under guarantee shall become the property of HITACHI HOME ELECTRONICS (EUROPE) LTD.
Please note that evidence of the date of purchase will be required before service under guarantee is carried out.

This guarantee does not affect your statutory rights. In all cases of difficulty consult your HITACHI dealer.

HITACHI HOME ELECTRONICS (EUROPE) LTD.
Dukes Meadow,
Millboard Road,
Bourne End,
Buckinghamshire
SL8 5XF

Tel: [phone]

(WwnnNNNwwnwNNnwNWwnnWnNnwwWnnN)

3103 166 31532

1185/758 VT-MX100EUK

22

Hitachi, Ltd. Tokyo, Japan

International Sales Division

THE HITACHI ATAGO BUILDING,

No. 15 –12 Nishi Shinbashi, 2 – Chome,

Minato – Ku, Tokyo 105-8430, Japan.

Tel: [phone]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD,

Whitebrook Park
Lower Cookham Road
Maidenhead
Berkshire
SL6 8YA

UNITED KINGDOM

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE GmbH

Munich Office
Dornacher Strasse 3
D-85622 Feldkirchen bei München

GERMANY

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hotline: [phone] (12ct/min)
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE srl

Via Tommaso Gulli N.39, 20147
Milano, Italia

ITALY

Tel: [phone]
Tel: [phone] Servizio Clienti
Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.S

Lyon Office
B.P. 45, 69671 BRON CEDEX
FRANCE
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACH EUROPE AB

Egebækgård
Egebækvej 98
DK-2850 Nærum

DENMARK

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Hitachi Europe Ltd

Bergensesteenweg 421
1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw

BELGIUM

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

www.hitachidigitalmedia.com

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.

364 Kifissias Ave. & 1, Delfon Str.
152 33 Chalandri
Athens

GREECE

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.

Gran Via Carlos III, 101-1
08028 Barcelona

SPAIN

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI Europe AB
Box 77 S-164 94 Kista

SWEDEN

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD (Norway) AB
STRANDVEIEN 18
1366 Lysaker
NORWAY
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE AB

Neopoli / Niemenkatu 73
FIN-15140 Lahti

FINLAND

Tel : [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD

Na Sychrove 975/8
101 27 Pr aha 10 – Bohdalec

CZECH REPUBLIC

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

QUICK SET UP GUIDE

Hitachi video recorder VT-MX100EUK

Dear Hitachi Customer,

Congratulations on your choice of a Hitachi video
recorder. Welcome to our company-wide commit­ment to your complete statisfaction and viewing
enjoyment. Before using your Hitachi video recorder
for the first time, we suggest that you spend a few
minutes reading these setup instructions.
Even if you have never used a video recorder before,
you can probably get your video recorder connected
and preset quickly by following this quick set-up guide.

Accessories provided

Check and identify the accessories provided.
If any are missing or appear damaged, contact your
dealer immediately.

How to connect your video recorder

1 Unplug the aerial cable from your TV set and insert it into

the 2 socket at the back of the video recorder.

2 Insert one end of the aerial (RF) cable provided into the

3 socket on the video recorder and the other end into

the aerial input socket on your TV set.

Fitting the remote control batteries

3 If your television does not have a scart (AV-Euro) socket

(shown below) or if you do not want to use a scart cable

for the connection to your television, please proceed with

the next chapter ’Tuning your TV to your video recorder’.

4 Insert the plug of a scart cable into the scart socket

AV1 EXT1 at the back of your video recorder. Connect the

other plug to the TV set.

5 Insert the small plug of the mains cable into the mains

socket 4 at the back of the video recorder. Insert the

other end of the mains cable into the wall socket.

6 Subsequently, read the paragraph ’Initial Installation’.

Note: Many televisions automatically switch to programme
number ’EXT’ (EXTernal) ’0’ or ’AV’ (Audio/Video) when a
video cassette is played back.
If the television does not switch automatically, select
programme number e.g.: ’EXT’, ’0’, or ’AV’ on the TV set
manually.

1

Tuning your TV to your video recorder

Initial installation

1 Insert the small plug of the mains cable into the mains

socket 4 at the back of the video recorder. Insert the
other end of the mains cable into the wall socket.

2 Press and hold h on the remote control and while

holding that button, press and hold h on the video
recorder. After several seconds the dipslay on the video
recorder will show ’M583’ or a similar number.

3 Switch on your TV set and select the programme number

that you have chosen for video playback (see operating
manual for your TV set).

4 The video recorder will now send a testpicture on

UHF-channel CH35 or 583 MHz.

5 Tune in the TV set until this picture appears.

Note: Note that if you were using a video recorder before,
you will probably need to retune the ’video channel’ on your
TV to obtain this picture.

The video recorder will search for all TV channels.

1 Press MENU on the remote control.

The automatic TV channel search starts.

2 Wait until all the TV channels have been found. This can

take several minutes.

3 When all TV channels have been found, ’OK’ will briefly

appear in the video recorder display.

• Next, the year, for instance, ’2001’ will appear in the video

recorder display. Change it if required with the number
buttons 0-9 on the remote control.

2001

6 When the TV has been tuned in read the paragraph

’Initial Installation’.

If you experience picture interference, please read ’Optimising
the modulator’ in the chapter ’Suppressing interference’ in the
operating manual.

(WwnnNNNwwnwNNnwNWwnnWnNnwNwnwN)

4 Confirm with OK .

5 If required, change the month, for instance ’M01’inthe

same way.

6 Confirm with OK .

7 If required, change the date, for instance, ’D01’inthe

same way.

8 Confirm with OK .

9 If required, change the time, for instance, ’20:00’ in the

same way.

0 Confirm with OK .

’OK’ will briefly flash in the video recorder display.

The initial installation is now complete.

3103 166 31591

1141/000 VT-MX100EUK

2

Hitachi, Ltd. Tokyo, Japan

International Sales Division

THE HITACHI ATAGO BUILDING,

No. 15 –12 Nishi Shinbashi, 2 – Chome,

Minato – Ku, Tokyo 105-8430, Japan.

Tel: [phone]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD,

Whitebrook Park
Lower Cookham Road
Maidenhead
Berkshire
SL6 8YA

UNITED KINGDOM

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE GmbH

Munich Office
Dornacher Strasse 3
D-85622 Feldkirchen bei München

GERMANY

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Hotline: [phone] (12ct/min)
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE srl

Via Tommaso Gulli N.39, 20147
Milano, Italia

ITALY

Tel: [phone]
Tel: [phone] Servizio Clienti
Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.S

Lyon Office
B.P. 45, 69671 BRON CEDEX
FRANCE
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACH EUROPE AB

Egebækgård
Egebækvej 98
DK-2850 Nærum

DENMARK

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Hitachi Europe Ltd

Bergensesteenweg 421
1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw

BELGIUM

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

www.hitachidigitalmedia.com

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.

364 Kifissias Ave. & 1, Delfon Str.
152 33 Chalandri
Athens

GREECE

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE S.A.

Gran Via Carlos III, 86, planta 5
Edificios Trade - Torre Este
08028 Barcelona

SPAIN

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI Europe AB
Box 77 S-164 94 Kista

SWEDEN

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD (Norway) AB
STRANDVEIEN 18
1366 Lysaker
NORWAY
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE AB

Neopoli / Niemenkatu 73
FIN-15140 Lahti

FINLAND

Tel : [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

HITACHI EUROPE LTD

Na Sychrove 975/8
101 27 Pr aha 10 – Bohdalec

CZECH REPUBLIC

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]