Panasonic PV-8401 User Manual

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Panasonic

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Video Cassette Recorder

MODEL PV-8401
3 o
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VQTS3413 (A)
Operating
Instructions
Easy Toping.
connect, operate or adjust this product. Please save this manual. Spanish Quick Use Guide is included. (Guía para rápida
consulta en español está íncludo.)
Quick Use Guide is on the back cover.

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Congratulations
on your purchase of one of the most sophisticated and reliable products on the market today. Used properly, it will bring you and your family years of enjoyment. Please fill in the information at right. The serial number is on the tag located on the back of your VCR.
Date of Purchase.
Dealer Purchased From. Dealer Address_________ Dealer Phone No Model No
^Serial No.
_____
_______
PV-RAni
Safety Precautions
Warning: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
This video recorder, equipped with the HQ (High Quality) System, is compatible with existing VHS equipment. Only use those tapes with the IVtlSI mark. It is recommended that only cassette tapes that have been tested and inspected for use in 2, 4, 6, and 8 hour VCR machines be used.
FCC Warning: Any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would void the user's authority to operate.
This symbol warns the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may
A A
CAUTCN: TO REDUCE THE RBKOF ELECTRtC SHOOK.
DO NOT REMOVE COrER (OA SACiq
NO USER-8ERVIC&ifil£ PARTS MSCE
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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.

Table of Contents

Important Safeguards and Precautions.............................................................................................................. 3
Unpacking Your VCR • Product Features.......................................................................................................... 4
VCR and Cassette Information (Record Tab, Tape Speeds, Head Cleaning, DST., Specifications)
Connection.s
Basic Connection (Antenna and VCR, VCR and TV)....................................................................................................... 6, 7
Other Connections (cable, AudioA/ideo)......................................................................................................................... 8, 9
Gettili» Started
Location of Controls (Remote Control, VCR).............................................................................................................. 10,11
One Time VCR Setup (On-Screen Language, Channel Memory, Clock Set)
On-Screen Displays (OSD) (Function, Channel, Menu, VCR Status & Clock, Warning)................................................. 15
Basic Operation
Playback a Tape (Main operation. Special Effects, Quality Picture Features)................................................................... 16
Record On a Tape (Main operation. One Touch Record, Channel Selection)................................................................... 17
Timer Recording (Main Operation, Cancel, Clear or Replace Program Contents)
More Yon Can Do
Tape Operation (index Search, Auto Functions, One Minute Skip, Repeat Play, Zero Search) Copying Your Tapes (Dubbing) (Connection, Main Operation, Monitoring, Select Input Mode)
VCR Plus+ Setup (Cable Box Setup, VCR Ptus+ Channel Setup)............................................................................ 24 -26
VCR Plus+ Programming (Main operation, Make Correction).......................................................................................... 27
Multi-Brand Control Feature...................................................................................................................... 28, 29
Special VCR Features (VCR Lock, Blue Back ON/OFF, warning Beeper)
.........................................................
.....................................................
.......................................................................
................................
12 ~ 14
.............................
.....................................
20-22
18, 19
5
23
30
Other Information
Before Requesting Service (Seif-check items)................................................................................................................ 31
Service Center List............................................................................................................................................ 32
Warranty............................................................................................................................................................ 33
Spanish Quick Use Guide........................................................................................................................... 34, 35
Quick Use Guide................................................................................................................................Back Cover
FOR YOUR SAFETY, READ AND RETAIN ALL SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUC TIONS. HEED ALL WARNINGS IN THE MANUAL AND ON THE UNIT

INSTALLATION

1 POWER SOURCE CAUTION
Operate only from a power source indicated on the unit or in this manual. If necessary, have your Electric Utility Service Company or Video Products Dealer verify the power source in your home.
2 POLARIZED OR GROUNDING PLUG
As a safety feature, this Video product comes with either a polarized power cord plug (one blade is wider than the other), or a three-wire grounding type plug.
POLARIZED PLUG CAUTION:
This plug will only fit into an outlet one way. If you cannot fully insert the plug, try reversing it. If it still will not fit, have an electrician install the proper wall outlet. Do not defeat the safety feature by tampering with the plug.
GROUNDING PLUG CAUTION:
This plug will only fit into a three-hole grounding outlet, if necessary, have an electrician install the proper outlet. Do not defeat the safety feature by tampering with the plug.
3 POWER CORD
Make sure power cords are routed so that they are not likely to have anything rest on them, roll over them, or be in the way of walking traffic. If an extension cord is used, make sure it also has either a polarized or grounded plug and that the cords can be securely connected.
Prayed cords, damaged plugs, and damaged or cracked wire insulation are hazardous and should be replaced by a qualified service technician. Overloaded outlets and extension cords are fire hazards and should be avoided.
4 DO NOT BLOCK VENTILATION HOLES '
Ventilation openings in the cabinet release heat > generated during operation. If they are blocked, heat build-up inside the unit can cause failures that may result in a fire hazard or heat damage to cassettes. For protection, follow these rules: a. Never cover ventilation slots or the unit while In use,
or operate the unit when placed on a bed, sofa, mg, or other soft surface.
b. Avoid built-in irrstallation, such as a book case or
rack, unless proper ventilation is provided.
5 AVOID EXTREMELY HOT LOCATIONS OR SUDDEN
TEMPERATURE CHANGES
Do not place the unit over or near any kind of heater or
regulator, in direct sunlight, inside a closed vehicle, etc..
Do not move the unit suddenly between areas of •
extreme temperature variation. If the unit is suddenly
moved from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense in the unit and on the tape,
6 TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY
• Do not place unsecured equipment on a sloping surface.
• Do not place this unit on any support that is not firm, level, and adequately strong. The unit could fall causing serious injury to a child or adult and damage to the unit.
■ 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.
• Carefully follow all operating instructions and use the manufacturer's recommended accessories wrhen operating this unit or connecting it to any other equipment.

OUTDOOR ANTENNA INSTALLATION

SAFE ANTENNA AND CABLE CONNECTION
If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the equipment, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against built up static charges and voltage surges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code. ANSl/NFPA 70 (in Canada, part 1 of the Canadian Electrical Code) 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.
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KEEP ANTENNA CLEAR OF HIGH VOLTAGE POWER LINES OR CIRCUITS
An outside antenna system should be located well away from power lines, electric light or power circuits and where it will never come into contact with these power sources if it should happen to fall. When installing an outside antenna, extreme care should be taken to avoid touching power lines, circuits or other power sources as this could be fatal. Because of the hazards involved, antenna installation should be left to a professional.

USING THE VIDEO UNIT

If the unit has been in storage or moved to a new location, refer first to the INSTALLATION section of these safeguards.
1 KEEP THIS VIDEO UNIT AWAY FROM WATER OR
MOISTURE OF ANY KIND.
2 IF EQUIPMENT IS EXPOSED TO RAIN, MOISTURE, OR
STRONG IMPACT, unplug the unit and have it inspected by a qualified
service technician before use.
3 DURING AN ELECTRICAL STORM
During a lightnirrg storm, whether indoors or outdoors, or before leaving the unit unused for extended periods of time, disconnect all equipment from the power source as well as the antenna and cable system.
4 WHEN THE UNIT IS PLUGGED IN
• Never expose the unit to rain or water, DO NOT OPERATE if liquid has been spilled into the unit. Immediately unplug the unit, and have it inspected by a service technician. Fire and shock hazards can result from electrical shorts caused by liquid contact inside.
• Never drop or push any object through openings in the unit. Some internal parts carry hazardous voltages and contact can cause electric shock or fire hazard.
• Avoid placing the unit directly above or below your TV set as this may cause electrical interference. Keep all magnets away from electronic equipment.
5 USING ACCESSORIES
Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer to avoid risk of fire, shock, or other hazards.
6 CLEANING THE UNIT
Unplug the unit. Then, use a clean, dry, chemically untreated cloth to gently remove dust or debris. DO NOT USE cleaning fluids, aerosols, or forced air
' that could over-spray, or seep into the unit and cause electrical shock.
Any substance such as wax, adhesive tape, etc. may mar the cabinet surface. Exposure to greasy, humid, or dusty areas may adversely affect internal parts.

SERVICE

DO NOT SERVICE THIS PRODUCT YOURSELF
If, after carefully following the detailed operating instructions, this Video product does not operate properly, do not attempt to open or remove covers, or make any adjustments not described in the manual. Unplug the unit and
contact a qualified service technician.
IF REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE REQUIRED
Make sure the service technician uses only parts specified by the manufacturer, or those having the same safety characteristics as the original parts. The use of unauthorized substitutes may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
HAVE THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN PERFORM A SAFETY CHECK
After any service or repairs to the unit, request the service technician to conduct a thorough safety check as described in the manufacture’s service literature to insure that the video unit is in safe operating condition.

Unpacking Your VCR • Product Features

Unpacking Your VCR
The accessories below are provided to help you use or set up your VCR.

Accessories

Remote Control VSQS1560
2“AA”
)
Batteries
__
)
RF Coaxial
Cable
VJAS0196
^
To order accessories, call toll free 1 -800-211 -PANA (7262).
Loading the Batteries
1 Press in and up on the
latch with your thumb nail and lift off the ltd.
Install two batteries as indicated inside the Battery Compartment.
Fit the lid’s hinge piece into the indent on the case, and snap the lid into place.
Battery replacement caution
• Do not mix old and new batteries. * Do not mix alkaline with manganese batteries.
Product Features
All Channel Auto Set/181 -CH TV/ CABLE Tuner
Auto Daylight Saving Time................................................................................................................................. 5
Auto Features for a Quality Picture.................................................................................................................. 16
Auto Operation Functions (Auto Playback, Rewind, Tape Eject, Power off)................................................................. 21
Auto Repeat Function....................................................................................................................................... 22
Digital Auto Picture........................................................................................................................................... 16
Easy-to-Read English/ Spanish/ French On-Screen Displays
Multi Brand TV/ Cable Box/ DSS Remote Control..................................................................................... 28, 29
One Minute Skip............................................................................................................................................... 22
One Month, 8 Program Timer Recording................................................................................................... 18,19
One Touch Recording (OTR)
Program Director Remote Control............................................................................................................. 18,19
Special Effects Playback.................................................................................................................................. 16
Special VCR Features (VCR Lock, Blue Back ON/OFF, Warning Beeper)................................................................... 30
Timer Recording Using VCR Buttons............................................................................................................... 19
VCR Plus+ Recording.............................................................................................................................. 24 - 27
VHS Index Search System (Direct Access Search, index Scan Search).............................................................. 20, 21
Zero Search...................................................................................................................................................... 22
_______________
...................................................................................
...................................................
.............................
:............................................................................................. 17
_______________
12-14
12 - 14,18,19
, . -i 'V -, t

VCR and Cassette Information

[ Erase Protection (Record Ta^

Cassettes have a record tab to ensure that recordings are not accidentally erased.
To prevent accidentat erasure, break off the tab with a screwdriver
To record again, cover the hole with cellophane tape.
Maximum Record/Playback Time
Only use tapes with the IVtiSI mark in this unit.
Tape Speed
Setting
SP
(Standard Play)
LP
(Long Play)
Type of Video Cassette
T60 T120
1 Hour
2 Hours
2 Hours
4 Hours
«à
iver. (“¿rr-
T160
2 Hours
40 Minutes
5 Hours
20 Minutes
Reset all VCR Memory Functions
Use when moving the VCR to a new location, or if a mistake was made in the One Time VCR Setup section.
• Make sure a tape is not inserted in the VCR.
1) Turn VCR Power on.
2) Press and hold both PLAY and CHANNEL A on the
VCR for more than 5 seconds.
• The power will shut off.
3) Perform the One Time VCR Setup section on page 12.
D.S.T. (Daylight Saving Time)
Your VCR can be set to automatically adjust the clock for Daylight Saving Time. (Page 13.)
Spring (First Sunday in April)
When set to DST:ON, the VCR will automatically set the clock ahead one hour.
Autumn (Last Sunday in October)
When set to DST:ON, the VCR will automatically set the clock back one hour.
• If your area does not observe Daylight Saving Time, select DST:OFF.
• Keep these time changes in mind when programming the VCR for timer recordings.
SLP
(Super Lortg Play)
3 Hours
6 Hours 8 Hours
Head Cleaning
Your VCR will not normally require head cleaning, however the heads may become clogged when playing an old or darnaged tape.
Video Heads Sensor System
If head cleaning becomes necessary, the VCR will display the screen at right while playing back a recorded signal. To exit this screen, push PLAY on the remote control or VCR.
• Uso “dry" type head cleaning cassette* only.
• Be sure to follow the cleaning tape instructions carefully. Excessive use of a cleaning cassette can shorten head life.
• If using a head cleaning cassette does not solve the problem, contact your nearest Factory Service Center or authorized Service Center, {See page 32.)
• Cleaning cassette part No. NV-TCL30PT Is recommended.
VIDEO HEADS MAY NEED CLEANING PLEASE INSERT HEAD CLEANING CASSETTE OR REFER TO MANUAL
END:PLAY KEY
Specifications
Power Source: Power Consumption:
Video Signal; Video Recording System:
Audio Track: Tuner: Broadcast Channels: CABLE Channels:
Operating Temperature: Operating Humidity: Weight: Dimensions:
Note: Designs and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
120V AC, 60 Hz Approx. 18 watts (Power on) Approx. 4.1 watts (Power off) EIA Standard NTSC color 4 rotary heads helical scanning system 1 track (Normal)
VHF2-13, UHF 14-69 Midband A through I (14-22) Superband J through W (23-36) Hyperband AA-EEE (37-64) Lowband A-5-A-1 (95-99) Special CABLE channel 5A (01) Ultraband 65-94, 100-125 4rF-104°F(5“CU0“C) 10%-75%
7.5 lbs. (3.4 kg) 14-15/16” (W)x 3-2/3" (H)x 12-3/16" (D) 380 (W) X 93 (H) X 310 (D) mm

Basic Connection

Cable TV
V
1 Disconnect the antenna or
cable from your TV and connect it to the VCR (IN FROM ANT.)
( VCR)
or
or
3 Set the Output Chennel of your VCR
to channel 3 or 4 (whichever is not being transmitted on by a Locai TV broadcast).
2 Connect the VCR to your TV with
the RF Coaxial Cable (OUT TO TV).
r WARNING----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When using “Nut type" RF coaxial cables, tighten with lingers only. Overtightening may damage terminals.
RF Coaxial Cable
(VCR-TV Connection Cable) (supplied)
Between Antenna and VCR
Between VCR and TV

Case 1: Twin Lead Cable Only

To VCR Terminal
(Flat) Twin Lead 300 Ohm Cable
300-75 ohm Transformer (not supplied)
Case 2: Twin Lead & Coaxial Cables
UHFA/HF Band Mixer
(not supplied)
(Round) 75 Ohm coaxial Cable
D
To VCR Terminal

Case 1: Screw & Plug Type Terminal

UHFA/HFBand ^ Separator
(not supplied)
RF Coaxial Cable

Case 2: Screw Type Terminal

TV
Case 3: Double Screw Type Terminal
VHF
UHF
VHF
or
UHF

Case 3: Two Twin Lead Cables

(not supplied)
To VCR Terminal
If your TV has both post and plug-type VHF terminals, the post connection is recommended to minimize signal loss.
UHFA/HF Band Separator (not supplied)
TV

Case 4: Complex TV Terminal

TERMINALS ON BACK OF TV SET
Connect to one of the ANT terminals and select the same antenna number on the TV.
VHF
UHF

Other Connections

CABLE Connections
Without a Converter/Descrambler Box
You can: ■
1) Use your VCR Remote Control to select channels.
2) Program one or more unscrambled channels for unattended recording.
You cannot: record or view scrambled channels with this connection.
All connections on №ese pages are made with 75 Ohm coaxial cables.
VCR
IN FROM
CABLE

With a (CABLE to VCR) Converter/Descrambler Box

You can:
1) Record and view any channel including scrambled channels; channel selection must be made at the Cable TV Converter Box.
2) Program one channel for unattended recording.
You cannot: select channels from VCR or TV. watch one station while recording another. place channels in memory (pg.12) other than the Cable box output channel.
Cable TV Converter Box
IN FROM CABLE
IN FROM ANT.
VHF/UHF
OUT TO TV
VHF/UHF

With a (VCR to TV) Converter/Descrambler Box

You can:
1) Use your VCR Remote Control to select channels.
2) Program unattended recordings of more than one unscrambled channel.
You cannot:
record scrambled channels with this connection.
IN FROM CABLE
Cable TV Converter Box

With Two Converter/Descrambler Boxes

If you want to record and view a combination of scrambled and unscrambled channels, you will need additional equipment. This connection requires two converter boxes, an A/B switch, and a 2-way splitter as shown here.
IN FROM
CABLE
IN FROM ANT.
OUT
Converter Box 1
VHF/UHF
^ OUT TO TV
8

With a DSS Receiver

You can:
1) Record and view any channel including scrambled channels; channel selection
IN FROM
CABLE or Antenna
IN FROM
Satellite Dish
must be made at the DSS Receiver.
2) Program one channel for unattended recording.
NOTE: The DSS receiver must be turned off to
view programs from a cable box or antenna. See the DSS nnanual for details.
"DSS® is a registered trademark of DIRECTV, INC., a unit of GM Hughed Electronics.
AudioA/ideo Connections
If your TV has AUDIO IN and VIDEO IN terminals, you can connect your VCR to them to receive a higher quality picture and sound. If your TV is not stereo, you can connect a stereo amplifier to the VCR to enjoy stereo sound.
OUT TO TV
VHF/UHF
1 Connect the VIDEO OUT terminal on the VCR to the VIDEO IN terminal of your TV.
2 Connect the AUDIO OUT terminals on the VCR to the AUDIO IN terminals of your TV. 3 Set the VIDEO/TV selector of your TV {Monitor/Receiver) to “VIDEO.”
NOTE: To use your TV as a VCR monitor, set the VlDEO/TV selector on the TV (Monitor/Receiver) to “VIDEO."
Note to CABLE system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CABLE system installer’s attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC in USA (and to the
Canadian Electrical Code in Canada) that 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.

Location of Controls

Remote Control Buttons
VCR
--------------------
See pages 28, 29.

POWER

-------------------------------
See pages 12,18,19, 27, 28, 29
VCR/TV ----------------------------------------­See pages 12, 17, 23, 29.
PLAY
---------------
See pages 16, 21,29. SELECT UP
See pages 12-15,18,19, 22, 25-27, 30
-----------------------------
----------
------------- TV
See pages 28, 29.

DSS/CABLE

See pages 26, 29.
------------------------------ INPUT See pages 17, 23, 29.

FAST FORWARD/SEARCH

See pages 16, 20, 21, 29.
See pages 12-15,18,19, 22, 25-27,30.
SET
REWIND/SEARCH See pages 16, 20, 21.29.

SET/BACKSPACE

See pages 13,14,18,19, 26.
ACTION-----------------------------------------­See pages 13-15, 22, 25, 26, 30,

PAUSE

--------------------------------
See pages 16,17, 23, 29.
NUMBERED KEYS See pages 14,17, 20, 27-29.

DISPLAY/ENTER

See pages 15, 17, 22, 29.

INDEX

-----------------
See pages 20, 21.

SPEED

---------------
See pages 17, 29.
COUNTER RESET See pages 22,29.
----------------
Front View of the VCR
------------------------------------------------ STOP See pages 14, 16, 17, 19,21,29.
See pages 12-15,18,19, 22, 25-27, 30.
See pages 18, 19, 27.
--------------­See pages 16, 29.
---------------------- ADD/DELETE
CHANNEL UP/DOWN
(TRACKING UP/DOWN)
See pages 12-14,16,17, 23, 29.
ZERO SEARCH/
1 MINUTE SKIP
See pages 22, 29.
SELECT DOWN

PROGRAM

— RECORD/TIME

See pages 17,29.

SLOW

See pages 14,19, 26, 27.

VOLUME UP/DOWN

See page 29.

_ , PLAY

Cassette Com^rtment Seepages See pages 16, 17, 23. .|g 2‘| 23 29
STOP/EJECT \ REWIND/SEARCH Seepages \ See pages 16,19,20,21,29.
16 17,19,21,23,29. \ \ FAST FORWARD/
POWER
See pages
12, 18, 19, 27, 29.
CHANNEL UP/DOWN TRACKING/V-LOCK See pages 12,16,17, 23, 29

^ ^ SEARCH

REMOTE SENSOR
Multi Function Display
See pages 11,16-19, 23, 27.
VCR/TV Selector See pages 12,17, 23, 29.
See pages 16, 19, 20,
21,29.
RECORD/TIME See pages 17, 19, 23,29, 30.
10
Multi Function Display
Power Indicator
Lights when power is on.
VCR Indicator
Lights when the VCR/TV
selector is set to VCR.
Timer indicator
Lights when the VCR is set for a
Tinner Recording, or when a length
is set for a normal recording (OTR). Flashes when a Timer Recording is
set, but a tape has not been
inserted into the VCR.
Clock/ Status/ Channel/ Speed Display
Displays the current time. Briefly displays VCR status when a function button is pressed. Briefly displays the channel number, or “L” when a channel or line input is selected. Briefly displays the recording speed when SPEED is pressed.
Rear View of the VCR
AC Power Plug
While plugged into an AC outlet, the VCR consumes 4.1 W of electrical power in OFF condition.
Video Output Connector
See pages 9, 23.'
Video Input Connector
See pages 23, 24.
11
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