WeoCassette
Recorder
Owner’s Manual
Warranty Registration
No other RCA Video Cassette Recorder has the same serial number as yours. It is important that you
record the number and other vital information here, in case your VCR is stolen or in case you need a
complete description for any other reason. You will find the model and serial numbers on the back of the
VCR. You will also find both numbers recorded on your registration form.
Purchase Date
Dealer
_______
Model:
VCR registration is very important so that you can be contacted should there be a safety inspection,
modification, or product recall under applicable laws or regulations or otherwise. The dealer who sold
you the VCR should have registered it and given you a copy of the registration form.
If your dealer did not give you a copy of the registration, contact him promptly and ask for it. You must
be able to show your registration or evidence of purchase date to any RCA Authorized VCR Servicenter
or the RCA Service Company to receive warranty parts and service. We suggest you attach your sales
slip and warranty registration to this booklet and keep them in a safe place for future reference.
This owner’s manual can be used for both VMT390A and VMT390.
Serial Number
Safety Precautions
Your VCR operates on 120 volts, 60 Hz (normal household current) and has a polarized
plug. Because one blade of the plug is wider than the other, the plug fits in the wall
socket only one way. Do not defeat the safety feature of this plug. If you need an exten
sion, use a polarized cord.
Caution: To prevent electric shock do not use the polarized plug on this Video Cassette
Recorder with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the blades can be
fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
Mise en garde: Pour prévenir les chocs électriques, ne pas utiliser la fiche polarisée de
cet appareil avec une rallonge, une prise de courant ou une autre sortie, à moins que
les lames ne puissent être insérées à fond sans qu'aucune partie ne soit laissée à
découvert.
WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this VCR to ram or moisture
-Illustrated below is the label on the back of your Video Cassette Recorder.
CAUTION
Risk Of ELECTRIC SmOCK
DO NOT OPEN
The symbol of a lightning flash within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
/ * \ of electric shock.
An exclamation point within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating
^
and maintenance (service) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover or back. No user-serviceable
parts are inside. If you spill liquid on the VCR disconnect the power cord to prevent possible fire or
shock hazard and consult authorized service personnel. Moisture can damage internal parts. Refer all
service to RCA Authorized Servicenter personnel or the RCA Service Company only.
Caution: Maintain electrical safety. Powerline-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.
Note to Cable TV Installer:
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-22 of the National Electric Code, that pro
vides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be con
nected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical
AA
MISE EN GARDE
RiSOuE OE CHOC fLECrPiOuf
NE PAS OUVRIR
Caution: The unauthorized recording of television programs and other materials may infringe the
rights of others
Using This Manual
Congratulations on your choice of an RCA VCR. You have
selected a high-quality, precision-engineered instrument
designed to give you years of trouble-free video and audio
enjoyment.
To get best performance from your ne\w VCR, it is impor
tant that you carefully read and follow the operating
instructions in this manual in the sequence in which they
are presented.
Should you experience a problem, please follow the
“Things to Check” near the end of this manual. The war
ranty on the back cover describes what RCA will do for
you should your new VCR need service during the war
ranty period. It also tells you how and from whom you
should request service.
Contents
Warranty Registration
Safety Precautions................................ Inside Front Cover
Installation
• Unpacking, Choosing Location
• General Installation Information........................
• Antenna Connections
• Cable-TV Connections
• TV Monitor/Receiver Connections
What Your VCR Will Oo......................................
Video Cassettes..................................................
Basic Operation
• Basic Operating Controls and Displays ..,.
• Inserting and Removing Cassettes...................
• Turning on Your VCR for the First Time ... ........... 11
• Programming Active Channels into Tuner..
• Deleting Channels from the Scan List
• Adding Channels to the Scan List
• Setting Your TV to the VCR Channel
• Setting the VCR/TV Switch...............................
• Simplified Installation Checklist
Remote Control
• Battery Installation
Setting the Clock.................................................
First Recording and Playback
Operating Controls (Detailed)
Special Effects and Features
• Pause During Recording.................................
• Pause for Stop-Action Playback
• Frame Advance...............................................
• Slow Motion
• Picture Search
• Tape Counter..................................................
• Memory Stop
• Tracking Control
Quick-Reference Operating Guides
• Normal TV Viewing
• Recording With TV Off
• Recording and Viewing the Same Program
• Recording and Viewing Different Programs
• Basic Playback ...............................................
• Recording from Another VCR
• Camera Recording..........................................
Express Recording
Programming the Timer
Timer Recording..............................................
Alternate Remote Control Units.....................
Optional Accessories
Cabinet Cleaning.............................................
Things To Check Before You Call for Service
Index (Alphabetical) .......................................
Specifications................................................
Warranty.........................................................
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Inside Front Cover
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Back Cover
Back Cover
2
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25
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27
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29
(£) Copyright 1986, RCA Corporation
RC
in
Installation
Unpacking
When you unpack your new VCR, be sure you have
removed all Ihe accessories and information sheets. We
recommend that you save the packing materials and box
in case you ever need to ship or store your VCR.
The accessories supplied for connecting your antenna,
VCR, and TV set are shown here. The remote control unit
and its batteries are also packed in with the VCR.
5 t1. 300-ohm flat lead-in (twin-lead)
O © ©
© © ©
© © ©
(5^® 0
300/75-Ohm Transformer
(RCA Accessory No. AH018)
Remote Control Batteries
(Size "AA" 1.5 volt)
-----
---------------
-
RCII
Remote Control
Location
• Choose a location that is convenient, but away from
sources of heat such as direct sunlight and heating
units,
• If the VCR is to be installed in an equipment rack or
cabinet with other devices, be sure that there is ade
quate ventilation at the back and around the sides of
the components. The VCR should not be placed on or
directly above a stereo amplifier because of the heat
that rises from the amplifier.
• Choose a flat surface at least as large as the VCR so
that it rests on its mounting feet. It is important that air
can pass through the ventilation holes in the bottom of
the unit to prevent it from overheating. Do not operate
the VCR on a rug or carpet because the pile will
obstruct these holes.
Some TV sets may cause interference in home VCR's. To
avoid interference and get the best performance from
your VCR, follow these guidelines:
• When placing the VCR under a TV, keep at least 18
inches between the bottom of the TV and the top of the
VCR.
• If interference is present when the VCR is used on top
of the TV or at the 18-inch distance below the set, move
the VCR to a position beside the TV.
• If interference continues after all the above, call your
dealer or service representative.
General Installation Information
IMPORTANT
There are two basic steps for connecting your new VCR
to your present TV and antenna(s) or cable-TV. The first
step is to disconnect the antenna(s) or cable-TV from the
TV and reconnect it to the VCR. The second step is to
connect the VCR to the TV. Be sure you do both steps.
Since there are many different types of antennas and
TV’s, there are several ways to make the above connec
tions. Therefore, the instructions have been divided into
two sets, one set for connections to your own antenna(s)
on pages 3 and 4, and another set for connections to a
cable-TV system on pages 5 and 6. If you have a TV monitor/receiver, you may want to make the additional con
nections described on page 7.
The antenna is the "signal receiver" that picks up TV
broadcasts. Some modern antennas receive both VHP
(Very High Frequency) channels 2 through 13, and UHF
(Ultra High Frequency) channels 14 through 83. Some
antennas are designed only for VHF reception and others
are designed only for UHF reception.
TYPICAL OUTDOOR ANTENNA
TYPICAL INDOOR ANTENNA
¥
Signals from your antenna are conducted through flat
"twin-lead" cable, or through round “coaxial" cable.
Cable-TV (CATV) supplies television signals directly by
round cable without the need tor a home antenna. Cable-
TV delivers both VHF and UHF channels and programs
not available from a home antenna. Although Cable-TV
systems vary, most require use of a converter box for TV’s
that are not Cable-TV compatible.
In most situations you will get better picture quality if you
use an outdoor antenna or connect your TV and VCR to a
cable-TV system. If this is not possible, use a good quality
indoor antenna. Your indoor antenna should have sepa
rate leads for VHF and UHF if you are in an area with both
VHF and UHF stations — or you may use separate VHF
and UHF indoor antennas.
Because you usually must reposition an indoor antenna
when you change channels, it seldom is convenient to
use the same indoor antenna tor both TV viewing and
VCR recording, especially if you wish to view one channel
while recording another. For this reason, it is recom
mended that, if you must use an indoor antenna, buy two
and use one for your TV and one for your VCR.
Disconnect Existing Antenna from TV and Connect it to VCR.
■ (Your antenna will probably resemble one of the diagrams on this page.)
1
Antenna Connections
If your existing antenna is connected
to your TV like this:
If your existing antenna is connected
to your TV like this;
B.
Disconnect the antenna from your TV and
connect it to your VCR like this:
Disconnect the antenna from your TV and
connect it to your VCR like this:
If your existing antenna is connected
to your TV like this;
It your existing antenna is connected
to your TV like this:
Disconnect the antenna from your TV and
connect it to your VCR like this:
Disconnect the antenna from your TV and
connect it to your VCR like this:
Antenna Connections (continued)
Connect VCR to back of TV.
(The back of your TV will probably resemble one of the diagrams below.)
If the antenna connection on the back
A
■ of your TV looks like this:
If the antenna connection on the back
B.
of your TV looks like this:
Connect the VCR to your TV like this:
Connect the VCR to your TV like this:
k If the antenna connection on the back
of your TV looks like this:
BACK OF TV
Connect the VCR to your TV like this:
Cable-TV Connections
Your VCR is designed to receive unscrambled cable
channels 2 through 48 plus 98 and 99 without a “con
verter box.” (These channels are sometimes designated 2
through 13, A through W, W-H through W-i-12, and A-2
and A-1.) There are several ways to hook up your VCR
and TV, depending on the type of TV you have, the cable
channels you receive, and whether or not some of the
cable channels must be “unscrambled." One of the five
methods shown on this page and the next will likely fit
your requirements. You may want to change from one
hookup to another, depending on what you want to do
with your VCR.
Note: if you wish to also record one or more local UHF
channels that your Cable-TV system does not offer, first
follow the appropriate cable-TV connection instructions
described below, then connect your UHF antenna to your
VCR as described in the section titled “Antenna
Connections”.
IF YOUR TV IS: AND YOUR CABLE-TV THEN USE
cable-compatible
not
cable-compatible
SYSTEM HAS: DIAGRAM(S):
no scrambled channels
some or all channels
scrambled
no scrambled channels
some or all channels
scrambled
A
D
B or C
D
Q DISCONMECT CABLE TV
FROM CONVERTER
FROM
CABLE
TV
SYSTEM
CONVEFITER I
DISCONNECT ■
FROM I
YOUR * CONNECTIONS
CONVERTER | | I
TO j
-I
NO
UHF
I
CONNECT CABLE TV TO VCR.
FROM
CABLE TV
----------------
SYSTEM
® © ® @
f\
IBACK OF VCR i
When you use this set of connections, keep your TV
tuned to the channel you have been using (usually chan
nel 3 or 4) and use the converter box as you always have
for normal TV viewing and for viewing some other chan
nel while you are recording.
DO NOT CHANGE
CONNECT VCR TO CONVERTER.
ORIGINAL CONNECTION
FROM CONVERTER TO TV
T
OONOT
DISCONNECT
I
I VCR
' COAXIAL 1
RF CABLE '
1
(SUPPLIED!!
r
l>
I
When you want to view the channel you are recording, or
when you play the VCR, tune the “converter box" to the
same channel that you have set the channel switch on the
back of the VCR, either channel 3 or 4. (This is called the
“VCR channel" throughout the operating instructions in
this manual.)__________________________
CONVERTER BOX
I
(Continued on next page)
I...
BACK OF TV
ROUNO
TV JACK
VHF
Cable-TV Connections (Continued)
-c.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------~
---------When you use these connections the A-B switch is used This arrangement will let you use your VCR as a "remoteto select either the converter output or the VCR output. controlled converter box” when you are not recording,
O Disconnect Cable-TV from converter. O Connect splitter to converter. O Connect VCR to A-B switch
O Disconnect TV from converter cable. O Connect splitter to VCR. Q Connect A-B switch to TV.
Q Connect Cable-TV to input of splitter. 0 Connect converter to A-B switch
Use "A” Position of A-B Switch For:
• Viewing any cable-TV channel while you record some other
channel with the vCR.
• Viewing all scrambled channels,
• Viewing cable channels when the VCR is turned oft. (Cable
channels 2 through 13 can also be viewed with the VCR turned
off and the A-B switch set to position “B ")
Use “B" Position of A-B Switch For:
• Playing a recording.
• Viewing a nonscrambled channel at the same time you are
recording it (channel selected with the VCR tuner).
This system requires two “converter boxes" from your charge. All channels must be selected with the converter
cable-TV company, and there may be an additional boxes, both for recording and normal TV viewing.
O Disconnect Cable-TV from converter O Connect splitter to each of the converters. ©Connect VCR to A-B switch.
© Disconnect TV from converter cable. © Connect one converter to A-B switch.
O
Connect A-B switch to TV.
© Connect Cable-TV to input of splitter o Connect other converter to VCR.
Use "A" Position of A-B Switch For:
• Viewing any cable-TV channel while you record some other
channel with the VCR.
• Viewing any cable-TV channel when your VCR is turned off
Note: When you set the A-B switch to "B,” tune your TV to the same channel that you have selected on the back of your VCR (3 or 4)
This is called the “VCR channel" throughout this manual.
Use “B" Position of A-B Switch For:
• Playing a recording.
• Viewing any channel at the same time you are recording it.
Select the channel with the converter that is connected to the
VCR. and tune the VCR to the output channel of the converter
(usually 3 or 4)
___________________
What Your VCR Will Do
Recording Sources
The built-in VHF/UHF/Cable-compatible tuner can tune
in any of the standard broadcast channels and up to 49
Cable-TV channels. Since your VCR has its own tuner,
you can use it to record one program while you watch
another one selected with your TV tuner. Also you can
view and record the same program if you prefer. Your
VCR also has special video and audio input connectors
for recording from a camera or another VCR.
Automatic Tuner Programming
Available channels can be automatically preset into the
tuner for selection with the CHANNEL~UP and CHANNEL-
DOWN buttons. "Automatic Programming" searches
through the channel numbers for broadcast or cable-TV
reception, finds the channels that are available from your
antenna or cable-TV system, and permanently stores
them in the tuner’s memory. Afterwards, you can select
any of these channels with the
buttons on the VCR or the remote control, simply by
pressing the button until the channel number appears in
the display. If you prefer, you can select a channel
number directly with the numbered buttons on the remote
control.
Recording Speeds and Times
You can choose any one of the three standard speeds
when you make a recording. The recording times for vari
ous cassettes and the reason for using each recording
speed are explained on page 9.
Unattended Recording with Remote Programmlng/OnScreen Display
The VCR timer can be preset up to one year in advance to
record up to four different programs. You can record the
same program every week day or on the same day of
every week until you cancel the program. The VCR will
turn on automatically at the time you have selected,
record your program, and turn off automatically.
All programming is done using the infrared remote con
trol. Programming instructions are displayed on your TV
screen, leading you step-by-step through the program
ming sequence.
Express Recording (XPR)
XPR lets you record for up to four hours without program
ming the timer. Simply select the channel and the starting
time (immediately or up to 24 hours delayed start) and
select the length of time you wish to record. The rest is
automatic.
CHANNEL Up and Down
REWIND controls, you can "cue ” to any starting point on
the tape before you begin playback.
Picture Search
The FAST-FORWARD and REWIND buttons can be used
for "Picture Search" when you play a tape. When you
press one of these buttons the playing speed is increased
so that you can quickly locate the picture you want to
view. Normal playing speed resumes and sound is
restored when you release the button. A picture is dis
played when you search a tape recorded at any speed,
but quality is best for tapes recorded at SLP.
Pause - Stop Action - Frame Advance
Pressing the PAUSE button stops the tape’s forward
motion for "stop-action” viewing during playback, or to
eliminate unwanted material when you are recording.
After you have stopped the action during playback, the
FRAME ADVANCE button on the remote control lets you
advance the tape one frame at a time so that you can see
all the motion details. Stop-action and frame advance are
designed for use at the SLP speed. They may be used on
tapes recorded at other speeds, but the picture quality will
not be as good as that at SLP.
Slow Motion
Press SLOW on the remote unit or press PLAY during
playfpause to change from normal playing speed to slow
motion. The PLAY button will restore normal playing
speed. Slow Motion is designed for use at the SLP speed.
It may be used on tapes recorded at other speeds, but the
picture quality will not be as good as that at SLP.
Memory Stop
When the tape counter is displayed instead of time, fast
forward and rewind wilt stop when the counter reads
0000. By resetting the counter to 0000 at the desired point
on the tape, you can stop at this point for repeated view
ing of a certain scene.
Automatic Rewind
Your VCR automatically rewinds and then stops when it
comes to the end of the tape. To avoid accidental erasure
during Unattended Recording and Express Recording,
the VCR stops at the end of the tape but does not rewind.
Power Off from Rewind
You can turn off the power during rewind, and the VCR
will finish rewinding and turn off automatically.
Conventional Playback
Your VCR uses the standard VHS recording system so
that pre-recorded VHS tapes and tapes recorded on
another VHS-type VCR can also be played. Your VCR will
play VHS cassettes recorded at any of the three standard
speeds. It automatically selects the same speed for play
back that was used for recording the cassette. By using
the electronic tape counter and the FAST-FORWARD and
Infrared Remote Control
The remote hand unit may be used instead of the front
panel buttons to control the major functions of the VCR.
The remote control has additional buttons for selecting
any tuner channel by number, setting the clock, program
ming the timer, and operating Slow Motion and Frame
Advance.
VHS HQ Picture Quality
This VCR incorporates VHS HQ (High Quality) circuitry
for improved picture quality. It is fully compatible with
earlier VHS VCRs.
TV Monitor/Receiver Connections
j-Direct Video and Audio Connections——
-----------------------
Connecting the video output and audio output jacks of
your VCR to the corresponding video and audio input
jacks of your TV monitor/receiver may produce a slightly
better picture during playback. These "direct" signal con
nections bypass the TV tuner during playback, thus
reducing the probability of “noise” and other "extra" sig
nals that may degrade picture quality.
FROM HOME VHF ANTENNA
OR CABLE-TV
SYSTEM
TYPICAL
MONITER/
RECEIVER
INPUTS
AH020*
SIGNAL
SPLITTER
TO VHF
ANTENNA
CONNECTIONS
ON TV
UHF
FROM HOME
ANTENNA SYSTEM
(USED ONLY IF YOU
HAVE HOME UHF ANTENNA)
Operating Instructions:
• For normal VHF or cable-TV viewing independent of
VCR, place TV Monitor/Receiver in TUNER operational
mode and select channels with TV Monitor/Receiver
tuner.
• For viewing of channel being recorded, place TV Moni-
tor/Receiver in VIDEO INPUT operational mode. Use
VCR tuner to select channel.
TO UHF ANTENNA
CONNECTIONS ON TV
(USED ONLY IF YOU
HAVE HOME UHF ANTENNA)
•Optional accessory available (rom your RCA dealer
For recording one channel while viewing another, place
TV Monitor/Receiver in TUNER operational mode. Use
VCR tuner to select channel to be recorded. Use TV
Monitor/Receiver tuner to select channel to be viewed.
For playback of recorded program, place TV Monitor/
Receiver in VIDEO INPUT operational mode.
Video Cassettes
RCA recommends that RCA cassettes be used with this
unit. The tape in RCA cassettes is of high-quality formula
tion, intended for use with multi-speed VHS video cas
sette recorders. It has been manufactured to RCA’s
critical specifications for excellent performance with RCA
VCR’s, Use of tape not meeting these specifications could
considerably reduce the performance of your VCR.
Use of poor quality tapes or tapes that have been dam
aged or mishandled can contaminate the VCR heads.
This can cause a snowy picture or a missing picture dur
ing playback. Because RCA has no control over the type
of tape purchased or rented by consumers, head cleaning
is not covered by RCA’s warranty. It Is considered normal
maintenance.
Playing a new RCA tape for approximately 30 minutes
often will clean the VCR heads and improve your picture.
If a snowy picture or missing picture condition persists,
consider the use of a chemical non-abrasive head clean
ing tape (RCA Stock No. AV009). It is available from your
dealer and many electronic supply stores.
Cassette Playing Times and Speeds
The playing times and counter readings below are
approximate. Also, it is assumed the counter is set to 0000
at the start of the tape.
T-60 CASSETTE (VK125)
SPEED SP
Time
1 hour
2 hours
3 hours
SPEED
Time
1 hour 3620 2100 1520
2 hours 6680 (end) 3520 2600
3 hours
4 hours 5680 (end) 4300
5 hours 5000
6 hours
SPEED SP LP SLP
Time
1 hour 3740 2160 1560
2 hours
3 hours
4 hours
5 hours 5400
6 hours
7 hours
8 hours
Counter
Reading
2080 (end)
T-120 CASSETTE (VK2S0)
SP LP SLP
Counter Counter Counter
Reading Reading
T-160 CASSETTE (VK330)
Counter Counter
Reading Reading Readlrtg
6120 3740
LP SLP
Counter
Reading Reading
1120 760
2080(end)
4660
5020 3740
6120 4640
Counter
2080 (end)
Reading
5680(end)
Counter
7420 (end)
1460
3520
2740
6120
6760
Erase Protection
To prevent erasing a recording you want to keep, remove
the safety tab from the back of the cassette as shown in
the illustration. Recording is impossible when this tab is
removed. To record again on a cassette that has the tab
removed, simply cover the hole with vinyl tape.
To prevent erasure,
break off the tab
To record again, cover
the hole with vinyl
tape
Recording Speed
This information will help you decide which tape speed to
use when recording.
• SP: Standard Play uses the most tape. Video recorded
at this speed has the least "picture noise" (snow) in
normal playback. Pre-recorded tapes use SP for this
reason and also because all VHS recorders have this
speed.
• LP: Long Play uses one-half as much tape as SP. This
speed is provided primarily for playing tapes recorded
on older machines that do not have SLP.
• SLP: Super Long Play uses one-third as much tape as
SP, SLP has slightly more "picture noise" than LP in
normal playback (which may not be noticeable). Your
VCR's special effects (search, stop action, slow
motion, and frame advance) ere designed for optimum
performance at the SLP speed.
Cassette Care and Storage
Follow these directions for continued high-quality per
formance from your cassettes.
• When you are finished with a cassette, rewind it and
remove it from the VCR.
• Never attempt to force open the cassette door.
• Store cassettes vertically in their protective boxes at
normal room temperatures. Avoid extreme heat and
humidity. Extreme heat can warp the cassette or cause
the tape to stretch excessively.
• Be especially careful to keep dust from entering the
cassette and the VCR mechanism. All dust is abrasive
and it will cause excessive wear of both the tape and
the VCR’s recording/ptayback heads.
Basic Operation
Basic Operating Controis and Dispiays
Now that you have connected your VCR to your TV and
antenna or cable-TV system, you are ready to turn it on.
You don’t need to know all the details about the controls
and display before you begin using your new VCR, so
only those you will be using immediately are discussed
here. (Additional information about the controls is on
pages 16-17.)
0 POWER: Turns the VCR on and off.
A EJECT: Ejects the cassette from the VCR. The light
^ in the EJECT button is on when a cassette is in
place.
A Cassette Compartment: Push the cassette through
the door to load it.
0 Status Display: JeWs what the VCR is doing: PLA Y for
playback, Search or Slow Motion; REC for record;
REW for rewind; PFfor fast forward; blinking PLAY for
Play/Pause or Frame Advance; biinking REC for
Record/Pause. This area is blank at other times.
0 Time Display: The time and day of the week are nor^ mally shown here. If the clock has stopped you will
see ” in this area.
0 CHANNEL selector buttons and display: ▼ selects
the next lower channel and ▲ selects the next higher
channel. The channel number appears in the display
unit.
inserting and Removing Cassettes--------------------------------
0 PLAY: Starts playback.
0 REWIND: Rewinds the tape when the VCR is
stopped.
0 RECORD: Press RECORD and PLAY at the same
time to begin recording.
0 STOP: Stops whatever the VCR is doing (record,
playback, rewind, or fast forward).
0 TAPE SPEED and Indicators: Press the button to
change recording speed. The lighted indicator tells
the tape speed. (Use "SUP" for normal recording.)
<D TUNER/LINE: Be sure it is set to TUNER for record
ing TV programs. LINE is for recording from a cam
era or another VCR. The LINE tight is off when the
switch is set to TUNER.
0 VCR: Selects the signal source that is fed to the VHF
antenna connection on your TV. When the light
above the button is off, your TV receives signals from
your VHF antenna or from the Cable-TV system.
When the light is on, signals come from the VCR
tuner or the tape that is playing. (This switch is called
the “VCR/TV switch" in this manual to avoid confu
sion with the VCR itself.)
0
CHANNEL PROGRAMMING: Explained on page 11.
To Insert: Turn on the VCR and then
push the cassette through the door
until the VCR mechanism pulls it into
the compartment. The light in the Eject
button turns on when the cassette is in
piace.
10
To Eject; Power must be on to eject the
cassette. Rewind the cassette before
ejecting it. Press EJECT.
To Remove: The cassette wili come
partially out of the compartment so you
can pull it out. Put the cassette in its
box and store it upright.
Basic Operation (continued)
-Turning on Your VCR (or the First Time
When you have finished connecting the cables to your
antenna and TV, plug in the VCR’s power cord and press
POVJER. The light in the STOP button should come on. If it
flashes, too much moisture has collected inside the unit
for it to operate. Leave the VCR turned on until the internal
heat dries it and the light stops flashing. Proceed below
when the light in the STOP button is on and not flashing.
Programming Active Channeis into VCR’s Tuner
The AUTO PROG (Automatic Programming) button
makes it easy and convenient to program TV stations into
the VCR's scan list. The scan list is the list of channels
that your VCR tuner stops on when you press the CHAN
NEL UP or CHANNEL DOWN button. The scan list is
empty, however, until you program active channels as de
scribed below.
Automatic programming is usually a “one-time” proce
dure, but you wilt need to repeat it if you move to a loca
tion that has different channels, or if power is interrupted
for an extended period.
To program active channels:
1. Turn on VCR by pressing POWER button.
2. Set the NORM/CATV switch on the back of the VCR
to the NORM position if your VCR is connected to a
home antenna system. Set the switch to the CATV
position if your VCR is connected to a cable-TV
system.
Note: Your VCR was shipped from the factory with
this switch set to NORM.
-CHANNEL PROGRAMMING -
SELECT/LOCK AUTO PROG ADD ERASE
-------------------------
-----------
—Deleting Channels (rom the Scan List ---------------------------
You may want to have only a few favorite channels in the
scan list so you can select them more quickly with the
CHANNEL A and T buttons. (Use the numbered buttons
on the remote control to select channels you deleted from
the scan list.) Occasionally Automatic Programming may
include a vacant channel in the scan list if there happened
to be some sort of “noise" or “stray signal” on the chan
nel when the tuner was programmed. This procedure
explains how to delete any unwanted channels from the
scan list.
1. Use the CHANNEL A or T button to select the chan
nel that you want to remove from the scan list.
2. Press SELECT LOCK. The channel number will
begin flashing.
3. Press ERASE. The sound will go off, which tells you
that the channel number has been deleted from the
scan list.
4. Press SELECT LOCK again to return the tuner to
normal operation. The tuner will immediately skip to
the next channel in the scan list and the number will
not flash.
5. Repeat the procedure for each channel you want to
delete from the scan list.
Notes:
• Channel numbers flash when the SELECT/LOCK
switch is in SELECT, and the CHANNEL A/V buttons
will select every channel, whether or not it is in the
scan list.
• Channel numbers do not flash when the SELECT/
LOCK switch is in LOCK, and the CHANNEL A/V but
tons will select only those channels that are in the scan
list.
3. Press and release the SELECT LOCK button.
(The channel number will be flashing.)
4. Press and release the AUTO PROG button.
• The tuner will automatically cycle through all avail
able channels in the area and place them in the
scan list. This takes about a minute. The channel
numbers will stop changing when the tuner is fin
ished cycling.
5. Press SELECT LOCK.
(The channel number will stop flashing.) Program
ming is now complete and you can use the CHANNELA/T buttons to select channels.
6. If you want to delete or add individual channels from
the scan list, refer to the instructions at the right.
- Adding Channels to the Scan List
You may have deleted a channel from the scan list and
want to put it back. Occasionally Automatic Programming
may "miss” an active channel because the signal is very
weak or because the channel happened to be “off the air”
when the tuner was programmed. Use this procedure to
put any channel in the scan list.
1. Press SELECT LOCK.
2. Use the CHANNEL or digit (0—9) buttons on the hand
unit to select the channel you want to add to the scan
list. There will be picture but no sound at this time,
and the channel number will flash.
3. Press ADD. The sound will come on to tell you the
channel has been added to the scan list.
4. Press SELECT LOCK. The channel number will stop
flashing to teli you the tuner is in its normal operating
mode.
--------------------------------
11
Basic Operation (continued)
P Setting Your TV to the VCR Channel-----------------------------
The “VCR Channel”is the TV channel you use for viewing
what the VCR is recording or playing, and for viewing the
signal from the VCR tuner when if is stopped. Your TV
must be set to this channel, and the light above the VCR/
TV switch on your VCR must be on.
Selecting the VCR channel is normally a one-time proce
dure, since there is little reason ever to change it. Pro
ceed as follows:
1. Be sure the TUNER/LINE Switch behind the auxiliary
control door Is set to TUNER.
2. Decide whether you want to view your VCR on Chan
nel 3 or Channel 4 of the TV. If one of these channels
is vacant in your area, you should use it. Otherwise,
pick the channel you view less.
3. Set the channel switch on the back of the VCR to
whichever channel you have chosen, and then turn
on your TV and tune it to the same channel. This is
the “VCR channel."
Setting the VCfl/TV Switch--------------------------------------------
1. Push the VCR/TV switch so that the indicator light
above the switch is on. When the light is on, the VCR
is in the “VCR mode" and your TV must be tuned to
the VCR Channel (channel 3 or 4). Your TV will then
display whatever tape the VCR is playing or whatever
channel the VCR is tuned to.
2. Push the VCR/TV switch again so that the indicator
light above the switch is out. When the light is out,
the VCR is in the “TV mode” and your TV will work
like it always did before you connected the VCR.
The VCR/TV switch allows you to record one program
with the VCR while you watch another program on your
TV. To do this, first put the VCR in the "VCR mode” (light
on) and start recording the program. Then press the
VCR/TV switch to the "TV mode" (light out) and tune
your TV to the other channel you want to watch.
Amplified tnstailation Checklist
This simplified checklist will help you quickly determine if
you have completed all the basic installation steps.
[ ] Make sure your VCR is connected properly as
explained on pages 2-7.
[ 1 Press POWER to turn on VCR.
[ J Set NORMICATV switch on the back Of the VCR to
the WORM position if you have a home antenna sys
tem. Set the switch to the CATV position if you have
cable-TV.
[ ] Program active channels into VCR’s scan list (press
SELECT LOCK, then press AUTO PROG, wait about
one minute, arid then press SELECT LOCK again).
[ ] Delete or add individual channels into scan list as
desired. (Detailed instructions on page 11.)
[ ] Select “VCR Channel”.
First set the CH3ICH4 switch on the back of the VCR
to either channel 3 or 4 and then tune your TV to the
same channel, this is called the “VCR Channel”.
[ ] Learn how to use the VCR/TV switch.
• When you press the VCR/TV switch and the indi
cator light above the switch turns on, the VCR is in
the “VCR mode" and your TV must be tuhed to the
VCR Channel (channel 3 or 4). Your TV will then
display on channei 3 or 4 whatever tape the VCR is
playing of whatever channel the VCR is tuned to.
• When the indicator light above the VCR^V switch
is out, the VCR is in the “TV mode” and your TV
will work like it always did before you connected
the VCR.
12
Before you use the remote control unit supplied with your
VCR, install the batteries (instructions below). Most of the
remote’s buttons do the same things as the buttons with
the same names on the front of your VCR, and you can
use whichever one is more convenient at the moment.
The remote control is also used for setting the clock and
programming the timer.
Since the remote control operates the VCR by infrared
light, it is immune to electrical and sound interference.
However, you must aim the remote unit directly at the
VCR. There cannot be any obstructions between them.
Remote Control
Battery Installation
The batteries supplied with your remote control are
packed separately. To install them in the hand unit:
1. Turn the hand unit over and remove the cover ot the
battery compartment.
2. Insert the batteries so that their positive { + ) ends
contact the positive terminals in the battery compart
ment. These are marked (-I-) in the bottom of the
compartment.
3. Replace the cover.
Remote Unit
(Back View)
Replace the batteries when your VCR fails to respond to
the remote control. Replacement batteries are widely
available. Use size “AA” 1.5 volt cells. Alkaline type bat
teries are preferred. Good batteries should last a year or
more in normal service.
Avoid laying the remote control upside down or placing
things on top of it. This could depress the buttons and
discharge the batteries. If you are not going to use the
hand unit for a month or more, it is wise to remove the
batteries to avoid leakage.
--------------------------------------------
Battery
Compartment
Cover
^ PROGRAM: Used for setting the clock and program
ming the timer.
O POWER: Same as the POWER button on the VCR.
O PLAY: Same as the PLAY button on the VCR.
O STOP: Same as the STOP button on the VCR.
O ^LiV: (Frame Advance) Advances the picture from
frame to frame during stop-action viewing. This is
explained on page 17.
O TV VCR: Same as the VCR button on the VCR.
O Number buttons: Select any channel (whether or not
it is in the "Tuner Scan List”) by pressing two but
tons. (Press 0 and then 8 for channel 8). The number
buttons are also used for setting the clock and pro
gramming the timer.
O CHANNEL A and T: Same as the CHANNEL buttons
on the VCR.
O CLEAR: Used for setting the clock and programming
the timer.
^ PAUSE: Same as the PAUSE button on the VCR.
^ RECORD: Same as the RECORD button on the VCR.
(Press both PLAY and RECORD to begin recording.)
0 F. FWD/SEARCH Same as the F, FORWARD/
SEARCH ►► button on the VCR.
^ SLOW: Used to begin Slow-Motion play. Press PLAY
to resume normal playing speed.
0 REWIND/SEARCH Same as the REWIND/
SEARCH button on the VCR.
Note: Selected models o1 RCA color TV receivers and
monilor/receivers feature hand units that will also
remotely control your VCR See page 26 for details.
13
Setting the Clock
Here are some things you should know before you set the clock: -
• When you first plug in your VCR, the clock will read
• The buttons (or setting the clock are on the remote
hand unit.
• While you are setting the clock, the display on the TV
screen will prompt you through the procedure.
• If you press a wrong digit, press CLEAR repeatedly until
the incorrect digit flashes, and then enter the correct
digit.
Turn on your TV and tune it to the VCR Chan
[1]
nel (channel 3 or 4). The VCR Channel is
explained on page 11.
Press PROGRAM on the remote hand unit
This "menu" will appear on the TV.
[2]
The display prompts you to set the time.
• If you enter an illogical time or date (13th month for
• The clock must be set to the correct time before you
• If power is interrupted for an extended period, you will
1 CLOCK SET
7 NOflMAt. PROGRAM
2 DAILY PROGRAM
* WEEKLY PROGRAM
» PROGRAM REVIEW
TO ENO PUSH PROGRAM
TO END PUSH PROGRAM
example) a question mark will appear instead of the
illogical entry. Simply enter the correct digit to replace
the question mark.
can program the timer for unattended recordings or
use Express Recording (XPR)
have to reset the clock and re-enter your programs in
the timer.
Press "1 " to set the clock
Set the time by pressing two digit buttons on
the remote for the current hour and two more
for the minute.
(For example, press 0 2 1 5 for 2:15.)
[4]
The display prompts you to set the date.
[5]
The day of the week will appear when you
have entered all six digits for the date.
14
TO END Push program
Set the date by pressing six digits in order for
the month, day, and year. (For example, press
0 7 0 6 8 6 tor July 6, 1986.)
Always press "0" before single-digit months
and days.
Press PROGRAM to start the clock. (Note that
the display on the VCR will show the correct
time after you press
Press PROGRAM again to return to the pro
gram you were watching.
PROGRAM.
First Recording and Piayback
First Recording and Playback
This page gives the basic steps for recording and play
back. You should practice them until you can do them
without referring to the manual. To save time, we suggest
you record for only two or three minutes.
Making a Recording
^ TURN ON TV.
---------
The first drawing shows how to make a recording and the
second one shows how to play it back and turn off the
VCR. The operating notes at the bottom of the page are
keyed to the step numbers for quick reference if you have
a problem or need more information.
Playing It Back
Operating Notes
Q The channel switch on the back of the VCR and the
channel selector on your TV must be set to the same
channel.
^ If the light in the STOP button flashes, wait until it
lights continuously.
0 Normally record at SLP. Recording speeds are com
pared on page 9.
0
It there is no picture on the TV and no channel num
bers in the display, check that the TUNER/UNE
switch Is set to TUNER. It may be necessary to fine
tune the TV for best picture and sound.
O REC appears in the display when the VCR is
recording.
0
If you don’t want to play back the tape, skip to Step
12 in the second drawing,
0
REW appears in the display during rewind. When
rewinding is finished this display goes off and the
light in the stop button turns on again.
0 PLAY appears in the display when the VCR is
playing.
15
Operating Controls (Detailed Information )
The uses of the controls (or basic operation are on page 10. Now
that you are familiar with the basic procedure for recording a TV
program and playing it back, you are ready to learn the rest of the
control functions.
The controls of your VCR are designed so that:
• Accidentally pressing a wrong button will not damage the VCR
or Ihe cassette.
• Non-essential buttons are disabled during recording to help
you avoid accidental interruptions.
POWER: When the VCR is turned off, the timer is automati
cally turned on if it has been programmed. When the VCR is
turned on, the timer is automatically turned off. Your VCR
will not make a timer recording it it is already turned on at
the time.
The power button operates differently during Timer and
Express recording. Press POWER, STOP, POWER in that
order to stop and turn off the VCR.
The VCR will slop and turn off if you press the POWER but
ton during Recording, Playback, or Fast Forward. If you
press it during rewind, the VCR will continue rewinding until
it is finished and then turn off.
EJECT: The EJECT button will not operate when the VCR is
recording. It will eject the cassette in any other mode of
operation.
XPR: Complete information is on page 22.
o
CHANNEL: Complete information is on page 10.
o
PLAY; The PLAY button is normally used to begin playback
o
when the VCR is slopped. It is also used to switch to slow-
motion operation when the VCR is paused during playback
for slop-action viewing. Slow Motion and Stop Action are
explained on the next page. The
when the VCR is recording.
PAUSE: Pausing during a recording slops the tape so that
o
nothing will be recorded. When you press the PAUSE button
a second lime, recording resumes immediately. Pausing
during playback produces a Slop-Action picture and press
ing it again resumes normal playback. REC or PLAY in the
display unit flashes during a pause. Additional information
about Recording Pause and Stop Action is on the next
page.
REWIND/SEARCH This is the REWIND button when
Ihe VCR is stopped. Once you have pressed it, the VCR will
rewind to the beginning of the tape (or to a counter reading
of 0000) unless you press the STOP button.
This same button becomes SEARCH -A-A when the VCR is
playing. Picture Search is explained on page 17.
The REWIND/SEARCH button is inactive during recording.
F.FWD/SEARCH This is the FAST FORWARD button
when the VCR is stopped. Once you have pressed it, the
tape will continue to “fast forward" until you press the
STOP button. If you do not press the STOP button, the VCR
will "fast forward" to the end of the tape and then automati
cally rewind to the beginning of the tape and stop. Refer to
"Memory Slop" on the page 17 for more information.
16
PLAY button is inactive
Operation of the VCR is automatic whenever this is feasible.
Automatic recording functions (Timer and XPR) will not disturb
normal TV viewing.
If you run out of tape during playback or normal recording, the
VCR rewinds it and stops automatically. It tape runs out during
Timer or Express Recording, the VCR stops without rewinding.
Because of these features, the functions of some control but
tons depend on the condition of the VCR at the time they are
used.
This same button becomes SEARCH ►► when the VCR is
playing. Picture Search is explained on page 17.
The FAST FORWARD button is inactive during recording.
A RECORD: The RECORD button never functions unless you
press PLAY at the same time. Normally you press both but
tons to begin recording when the VCR is slopped. You can
switch directly from Playback to Recording by pressing both
buttons when the VCR is playing.
STOP: The STOP button will stop whatever the VCR is
doing, both Ihe normal functions of Record, Play, Rewind,
and Fast Forward; and the Special-Effects functions
described on the next pages.
^ TAPE SPEED: The Special Effects features of your VCR
(Stop Action, Picture Search, and Slow Motion) work best
on tapes recorded at the lowest tape speed — Super Long
Play or SLP. Since this speed also uses the least tape, it is
generally preferred for all the recording you do.
0
VCR'Complete information is on pages 10 and 12.
^ TUNER/LINE: Selects the program source to be recorded.
The TUNER position Is used for recording from Ihe VCR's
built-in tuner. The LINE position is for recording video and
audio connected to the input jacks on the back of the
recorder. When the switch is in the LINE position, the warn
ing light comes on in the display unit and the channel indi
cator is turned off. Always check that this switch is set to
TUNER when you are going to make a timer recording.
0
COUNTER; Press this button once to turn on the tape
counter and press it again to restore the normal clock dis
play. Refer to "Tape Counter” and "Memory Stop” on the
next page.
^ RESET: Refer to "Tape Counter" and “Memory Stop" on
Ihe next page.
0 TRACKING: Refer to “Tracking Adjustment” on the next
page.
0 SLOW TRACKING: Refer to "Slow Motion " on page 17.
0 CHANNEL PROGRAMMING: See page 11 for complete
details.
0 DISPLA Y RESET: Push Ihe switch within the hole located on
the bottom of VCR if the indication or operation of the
display appears abnormal.
Special Effects and Features
Pause During Recording
Press the PAUSE button when you are recording to prevent
recording short passages of unwanted material. Press the
PAUSE button again when you are ready to resume recording.
Avoid pausing for more than three or four minutes, because the
spinning heads that do the recording are still in contact with the
tape and will eventually wear off the active material. This will
cause streaks or spots in the picture when you play the worn part
of the tape (called dropouts).
Pause for Stop-Action Playback
Press the PAiJSE button during playback to stop the action. This
lets you examine alt the details of the scene, similar to looking at
a single Irame of a movie film. When you are ready to resume
normal playback, press the PAUSE button again.
The following suggestions will help you get the most out of this
feature:
• Your VCR is designed to give the best picture when you use
stop-action on tapes recorded at SLP. It you expect to use
stop-action frequently during playback, a sports event, tor
instance, be sure to record at SLP speed.
• The stop-action picture may tend to jump up and down slightly.
Adjusf the control marked V LOCK on the back of the VCR to
reduce this jitter. Once you have made this adjustment, you
probably won't have to do it again unless you use stop-action
on a tape that was recorded on a different VCR. (A small
amount of vertical jitter is normal.)
• Using stop-action on a single frame of the picture tor a long
time can wear the tape, as explained in "Pause During a
Recording." For this reason you should use STOP instead of
PAUSE to interrupt playback for an extended time. The VCR
will automatically switch from Pause to Stop after five minutes.
Frame Advance
Frame Advance is a special featue that lets you view one Stop-
Action "frame" after another. Press PAUSE to begin stop-action
viewing. Then press F. ADVon the remote control each time you
want to go on to the next "frame" of the scene. Press PAUSE to
resume playback at normal speed.
Slow Motion
If a tape is playing, press SLOW on the remote control to begin
slow-motion viewing. When you are using Stop-Action viewing
(Pause during Play) press PLAY to begin Slow Motion. Sound is
turned off during slow motion.
To return to normal viewing speed, press PLAY.
It is normal to see some streaks and spots in the picture during
slow motion. Use SLOW TRACKING to eliminate them as much
as possible. Turn the control first in one direction and then in the
other until you get the best picture. Notice that the center posi
tion of the control is marked- You should return it to this position
when you are through with the tape.
The VCR will automatically switch from Slow Motion to normal
play after about five minutes.
Picture Search
The buttons for Rewind and Fast Forward become the PictureSearch buttons when you are playing a tape. When you press
SEARCH ►► the VCR plays at a higher speed until you release
the button. When you press SEARCH -d-d the VCR reverses from
the normal direction and plays the tape backward at high speed
until you release the button. The sound is turned off during pic
ture search because it would not be understandable at the high
speed.
Expect to see some streaks in the picture when you are search
ing. The picture will be best tor tapes recorded at SLP speed,
although it can be viewed from tapes recorded at the other
speeds
Tape Counter
If you always reset the tape counter when you insert a tape, you
can note the counter reading at the beginning of each program
you record for future reference. The label kit provided with RCA
tapes can be used to list programs and counter readings.
1. Press COUNTER to display the tape counter in place of the
time.
2. Press RESET to set the counter to 0000.
Note: If is normal for tape to stretch slightly when it passes
through the VCR. For this reason, the counter may not return
exactly to 0000 after rewind, and it is likely to read 9998 or 9999.
This is normal.
Memory Stop
When you press COUNTER to turn on the counter display, you
automatically turn on the "Memory Stop" feature. When the
counter is displayed, the VCR will slop automatically at 0000
whenever you use REWIND or FAST FORWARD. If you are
rewinding, simply press fhe Rewind button again to continue fo
the end of the tape.
If you press FAST FORWARD and the counter never reads 0000
between that point and the end of the tape, the VCR will continue
to the end of the tape, switch to Rewind, and then slop when the
counter reads 0000.
Since you can reset the counter to 0000 at any point on the tape,
Memory Stop is convenient lor finding the beginning of a record
ing, or the beginning of a particular segment you want to repeat
This is the procedure to use when you are going to start record
ing somewhere beyond the start of the tape.
1. Turn on the VCR and press COUNTER to obtain the counter
reading. (Pressing it again returns the clock display).
2. Use EAST FORWARD and STOP to locate the point where
you will begin recording. Then press RESET before you
begin recording.
3. Press STOP when you are finished recording and then
press REWIND. The cassette will rewind to counter reading
0000 and stop.
4. Press PLAY to view the segment you have selected, or press
REWIND to rewind the cassette completely.
Use this procedure during playback to mark a point to be
repeated.
1. When you see the beginning of the part you want to view
several times, use SEARCH -<-4 to locate a point slightly
before the desired scene.
2. Release the SEARCH button fo resume normal playback,
and press RESET just before the desired scene appears.
3. When you have played to the end of the scene in question,
press STOP and then REWIND. The tape will rewind to the
beginning of the scene and slop,
4. Press PLAY to view the scene again.
5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 as many times as you like.
Tracking Adjustment
When you play tapes that were not recorded on the same VCR,
black and white streaks may appear in the picture. Adjust the
TRACKING control, located behind the auxiliary control door, in
either direction to remove them. Return it to its center position
when the tape has finished playing.
17
Quick Reference Guides
formal TV Viewing--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Follow the two steps in the drawing tor normal TV view- are connected to it, switch the TV to Tuner Input” and
ing. To view UHF stations, just tune your TV to the chan- select the channel you want, regardless of what the VCR
nel, regardless of what the VCR is doing. If you have a TV is doing.
Monitor/Receiver and the VCR's audio and video outputs
Recording and Viewing the Same Program
J TURN ON TV.
"^TUNE TV TO VCR CHANNEL {3 OR 4).
SET TO TUNER. PRESS PAUSE TO INTERRUPT RECORDING.
Note: If you want to view another VHF or Cable-TV chan- TV. If you want to vtew a UHF channel after you start renel after you start recording, press the VCR/TV switch so cording, simply tune the TV to the channel,
the light above it goes off. Then select the channel on the
ie
^SELECT CHANNEL.
BOTH PLA/AND RECORD.
STOP WHEN FINISHED.
PRESS IT AGAIN TO RESUME.
Quick Reference Guides (continued)
Recording and Viewing Different Programs
^TURN ON VCR.
Note: If you want to view what is being recorded, press
the VCR/TV switch to turn on the light and then tune your
TV to the VCR channel (3 or 4).
^ SELECT CHANNEL.
PRESS BOTH PLAT AND RECORD.
STOP WHEN FINISHED.
SET TO TUNER. ^ OPERATE TV AS USUAL.
Basic Playback-
TURN ON TV.
Note: The VCR light automatically comes on when you
start playback so you do not need to press the VCR/TV
switch.
19
Recording from Another VCR
To copy (dub) tapes, connect the two VCR’s as shown
below. Use shielded audio/video cables (such as RCA
#AH002 or #AH005).
The connections from the recording VCR to your TV are
the ones you normally use. It is preferable to play the
original tape on the same machine that was used to record
it.
CAUTION: The unauthorized recording of television pro
grams and other materials may infringe the rights of
others.
Operating Notes
Adjust the TRACKING control (Step 12) if streaks appear
in the TV picture. This may happen if the cassette was not
originally recorded on the same VCR that you are using to
play it. After you adjust the tracking, stop both VCR's and
start over with Step 9. .
20
RECORDING. SEE NOTES.
Use the PAUSE button (Step 13) for brief pauses. If you
want to pause for more than three or four minutes, stop
the VCR by pressing STOP. When you are ready to
resume, press both PLAT and RECORD.
Camera Recording
In addition to the camera itself, you will need a Camera
AC Power Supply (RCA Model CPS03 for use with RCA
cameras). Plug the camera cable into the power supply
and then connect the cables from the power supply to the
VCR as the drawing shows. The connections from the
VCR to your TV are the same ones you normally use.
TURN ON TV.
To start recording press PLAY ana RECORD on the VCR.
Use the PAUSE button on the VCR to start and stop
recording. If you want to pause for more than three or
four minutes, stop the VCR by pressing STOP. When
you are ready to resume, press both PLAVand RECORD.
21
Express Recording
Express Recording (XPR) lets you record up to four hours
without programming the timer. It also allows you to start
(or continue) recording immediately or to delay recording
up to 24 hours. When the recording is finished, the VCR
will turn off automatically.
Note: Although you do not have to program the timer, the
clock must be set before you can Express Record.
IMMEDIATE START-----------------------------------------------------
If you want the VCR to start recording immediately or to
continue a recording you’ve already started, follow the
simplified instructions at the right labeled “Immediate
Start".
DELAYED START
If you want the VCR to delay recording, follow the sim
plified instructions at the right labeled “Delayed Start”.
Only two buttons are used to Express Record:
__________
XPR START LENGTH
U) O
-Detailed Instructions-
INSERT CASSETTE.
REWIND IF NECESSARY
Simplified Instructions
-Immediate Start-
1, Press LENGTH twice.
2. Press LENGTH to select desired recording time
{0:30 (30 minutes) to 4:00 (4 hours)).
-----------------
1. Press START (Clock wit) skip to next haif-houi).
2. Keep pressing START until desired start time
appears in display.
3. Press LENGTH to select desired recording time
[0:30 (30 minutes) to 4:00 (4 hours)].
4. Press POWER to tdm off VCR.
Press LENGTR until the display shows 0:00.
• Press lE/VCT/t tmtO display shows 0:00.
■ ,■ v.\.
♦ ; Press POIVE/? and then STOP within ten seconds.
SELECT CHANNEL \ O " RECORDING
—Delayed Start-
.................................
——To cental Delayed-Start XPR-——
(Before Recording Begins)
-To Slop XPR-
PRESS START FOR DELAYED XPR.
Omit for Immediate Start
\ (See note below).
\ ” (See note below)
—
Note lor Step O ----------------------------------------------------------
• The first time you press the START button, XPR will
appear in the display and the clock will skip to the next
half-hour. Examples: If you press the button at 9:35 AM
the clock will skip to 10:00 AM; if you press it at 8:15 PM
the clock will skip to 8:30 PM.
• Each additional time you press START, the clock will
advance another 30 minutes. The time that is displayed
is the time when the recording will start.
• After you have set the starting time, you must set
LENGTH within 8 seconds. Otherwise, XPR will disap
pear and the clock will return to the actual time. Then
you must reset the start time.
22
SET TO TUNER.
TURN LIGHT ON TO VIEW WHILE RECORDING.
Note for Step o
• Press the LENGTH button at least twice. The lirst
keypress only starts the XPR recording; it does not
advance the recording length.
• Increase the recording time by pressing the LENGTH
button additional times. The clock display shows the
amount of recording time you have set. [from 0:30 (30
minutes) to 4:00 (4 hours)]
• The lime remaining is constantly displayed during XPR.
You can extend the time whenever you want by press
ing LENGTH.
• When the recording time has expired, the VCR turns off
and the clock display returns to current time.
------------------------
The programmable clock/timer permits unattended
recording of up to tour different TV programs. The timer is
actually a small computer which will turn on the VCR at
the time you select, record for a selected length of time,
and then turn off the VCR ... all automatically without you
being there.
-You can program the timer to do the following:-------------------------
Record a program on a single day up to one year away.
[NORMAL PROGRAM]
Record a program at the same time Monday thru Fri
day. [DAILY PROGRAM]
Record a program on one certain day of every week.
[WEEKLY PROGRAM]
-Things to know before you start:-
You can program the timer up to one year before the
TV program is to be recorded.
You can correct an error in the program any time
before the last step by pressing CLEAR repeatedly until
the digit to be corrected is flashing. Then enter the cor
rect digit and continue the programming sequence.
I Turn on the TV and tune it to the VCR channel
[i] (channel 3 or 4) so you'll be able to see the
programming display on the TV screen.
Make sure the VCR's clock is set to the
correct time. The timer cannot record at the
right time if the clock is set incorrectly. Reset
the clock if necessary.
Press PROGRAM on the remote hand unit.
The programming “menu" appears on the TV
screen.
Sitnpllfed Programming Instnicfions
f TO SELECT MODE >
Push NUM6ER SHOWN \
1 CLOCK SET !
2 NORMAL PROGRAM I
3 daily program
4 WEEKLY PROGRAM
5 PROGRAM REVIEW )
^0 END PUSH PHOGRA^'
Programming the Timer
1. Turn on VCR and Tune your TV to the VCR channel
(channel 3 or 4),
2. Press PROGRAM on remote hand unit,
3. Watch the display on the TV screen—it wUI prompt
you through the rest of the programming exercise.
4. Turn off the VCR.
Press "2" to enter a Normal Program, "3” to
enter a Daily Program, or “4" to enter a
Weekly Program.
I The display will prompt you to select a
[2] Program Number.
Four program numbers are available and you
can enter different programming instructions
in each one. AH four program numbers will be
flashing because none of them have been
used. If the timer has been programmed, the
number that was used will stay on instead of
flashing. You must clear a program number
before Ihe same number can be used again.
See “Clearing a Timer Program” on the next
page.
[3]
The display will prompt you to select a
channel number.
[4]
The display will prompt you to enter the
recording start time.
< NORMAL PROGRAM Y
PROGRAM 1 234 \
SELECT PROG NUMBER
NORMAL PROGRAM \
PROGRAM 1
CH • • I
TO END PUSH PROGRAM !
r NORMAL PROGRAM
I PROGRAM 1
i' CH 04
I TIME ON
I
. TO END PUSH PROGRAM
Press a digit from 1 to 4 on the remote to
select the program number you want to
program.
Press two digits for the channel to be
recorded, (for example, press 0 4 for channel
4).
Press tour digits, two for the hour and two
more for the minute. For example, press
0 6 0 0 for 6:00. (Always press "0” before a
single-digit hour or minute.)
23
Programming the Timer (continued)
NORMAL PriOGRAM
[5]
The display will prompt you to select either
AM or PM.
PROGRAM 1
CH 0Л
TIME ON 06 00
AM 1 PM 2
TO END PUSH PROGRAM
Press "I" for AM or "2" for PM.
[63
The display will prompt you to select the stop
ping time.
[7]
The display will prompt you to select either
AM or PM.
[8] The display will show ‘'START DATE" followed
■ by the current date and day.
If you want to start recording on the current
day, skip to Step 9.
[9]
Press PROGRAM to enter your program and
return to the original display. Additional pro
grams may be entered by repeating steps 2-9.
f NORMAL PROGRAM
/ PROGRAM 1 '
' Ch 04 I
TIME ON 06 00 PM I
: TIME OFF • I
TO END PUSH PROGRAM
NORMAL PROGRAM^^
program 1 \
CH C4 I
TIME ON 06 00 PM I
TIME OfP 08:D5 I
PM“2
, TO END PUSH PROGRAM .
^ NORMAL PROGRAM '
PROGRAM 1
Ch 04
TIME ON 06 (X) PM
TIME OFF 06:05 PM
START DATE 07nflfB6
SAT
, TO END PUSH PROGRAM ,
' TO SELECT MODE '
PUSH NUM8E R SHOWN
1 CLOCK SET
2 NORMAL PROGRAM
3 DAILY PROGRAM
4 WEEKLY PROGRAM
5 PROGRAM REVIEW
, TO END PUSH PROGRAM /
Press four digits, two for the hour and two
more for the minute. For example, press
0 8 0 5 for 8:05. (Always press “0" before a
single-digit hour or minute.)
Press “1’’ for AM or “2" for PM.
If you want to start recording on a future date,
press four digits (two for the month and two
for the day). Press “0” first for a single-digit
month or day. For example, press 0 8 0 5 to
begin recording on August 5.
The year and day of the week are displayed
automatically when you finish.
If you have no other programs to enter, press
PROGRAM again.
[10]
Turn off the VCR.
Checking the Timer Programs
--------------------------------
Programs can be checked whenever the VCR is
recording.
1.
Press PROGRAM on the remote hand unit to display
the programming menu.
Press 5 (Program Review).
The TV screen will display for ten seconds the infor
mation you entered for the lowest program number.
Then the display changes to the next higher program
number, and so on until all program information has
been displayed.
3.
Press 5 again if you want to view the next program
information without waiting ten seconds.
4.
When you are finished, press PROGRAM to erase
the on-screen display.
24
not
Clearing a Timer Program--------------------------------------------
1. Press PROGRAM on the remote hand unit to display
the programming menu.
2. Press 5 (Program Review).
The TV screen wilt display for ten seconds the infor
mation you entered for the lowest program number.
Then the display changes to the next higher program
number, and so on until all program information has
been displayed.
3. Press 5 again if you want to view the next program
information without waiting ten seconds.
4. Press CLEAR when the program information you
want to clear is displayed.
5. Press PROGRAM to erase the on-screen display.
Notes:
• Normal timer programs clear automatically when the
recording is finished, but daily and weekly programs
remain in the timer indefinitely.
• All programs are erased if power is interrupted for
more than approximately ten minutes.
Timer Recording
The information on this page tells you how to set up your
VCR for Timer Recording after you have programmed the
timer. (The programming instructions are on pages 23
24.) When you have finished programming the timer, fol
low the steps in the drawing to prepare for timer record
ing. We suggest that you make one or more short timer
A PROGRAM THE TiMER.
recordings for practice so you won't be disappointed later
on.
If you have a Daily or Weekly program in the VCR timer,
you should check the steps in the drawing sometime
before the recording time to be sure that your VCR is
ready to record.
Timer Recording Checkiist
Before your VCR timer can record a TV broadcast, all the
conditions listed here must be fulfilled. They are pre
sented as a checklist you can use until you are familiar
with your VCR.
[ ] Cassette inserted in the VCR. (“TIMER" flashes if
not.)
[ ] Cassette has its safety tab in place. (It not, the cas
sette is ejected.) (See page 9.)
[ ] Cassette length and recording speed are adequate
for program(s) to be recorded.
[ ] Cassette rewound to beginning or to desired place on
tape.
[ ] Tuner/Line switch set to TUNER.
[ ] Clock set to correct time and date.
{ ] Timer has been programmed. (‘‘PROG ’ will be
displayed.)
[ ] Power has been turned off. ("TIMER" appears only if
the timer is programmed and the VCR is off.)
Programming Reminders
• The timer light will flash if you have programmed the
VCR but forgotten to insert a cassette.
• The VCR will automatically eject the cassette after you
have programmed the timer and turned off the VCR if
the cassette has its satety tab removed. This is to
remind you to put in a new cassette or cover the satety
tab. (See page 9.)
TV Viewing During a Timer Recording
When the VCR turns on automatically to make a timer
recording, it does not disturb whatever program you may
be watching at the time. Press the VC/?/TV switch to turn
on the VCR light if you want to monitor the recording.
Stopping a Timer Recording While in Progress
Press POWER and then press STOP within 10 seconds.
(Press POWER once more to turn off the VCR). This
erases a Normal program from the timer’s memory, but a
Daily or Weekly program will record on the next sched
uled day.
25
Alternate Remote Control Units
Selected models of RCA color TV receivers and monitor/
receivers feature infrared hand units that will also re
motely control your VCR. Only the buttons that are used
for controlling your VCR are described here. These but
tons have generally the same functions as the ones with
the same names on the front panel of the VCR, but there
are some differences.
• Any VCR tuner channel may be selected by pressing
two of the Digit buttons on the hand unit. Press 0 first to
select tuner channels 1 through 9.
Turns on VCR.
Press to record.-
Press to piay.-
Same as PROGRAM
on VCR’s hand unit.
Press to rewind
when VCR is stopped
or reverse scan when in Play.
Press for fast forward
when VCR is stopped
or forward scan when in Play.
Press to search backward
when VCR is playing.
Same as CLEAR
on VCR's hand unit.
Press to search forwardi
when VCR is playing.!
h
[ )l[;iTAL 1,1 JWMANl.1 i;s Ntt M
H iSl ED
FD R H
»««■»III--“'»r-t-
HIH [I
HEPtAT
PAGE AUPtOa
□ EHZhgrrr
SEEK I
□ [¡D
-------------
• Separate buttons turn the VCR on and off.
• Simply press the Record button to record. It is not nec
essary to press the Play button at the same time.
Note: When you use CHANNEL UP or DOWN on fhe Digi
tal Command Center hand unit, the VCR uses its infernal
scan list of channels, not the scan list that you program
med into the hand unit for controlling the TV.
nCA
-IMCIIonY
111". 0.
E S B
□ a, □
■s—m
VOL TRACK,
J3
__
OiSPUT Off
□ '&■
. m.
&
Same as Numbers buttons
on VCR’s hand unit.
, Same as "Stop” on front panel.
, Same as “Pause” on front panel.
Same as "F.ADV” on the VCR's
hand unit.
Select next higher or lower
channel in VCR's scan list.
Same as "SLOW” on the VCR's
hand unit.
Turns power off.
Press to switch antenna between
TV and VCR. (Same as
1
TV/VCR Switch on VCR)
Turns on VCR.
Same as Numbers buttons
on VCR’s hand unit.
Same as "Pause"I
on front panel, r
Press to record. -
Press to search backward |_
when VCR is playing
Same as CLEAR on
VCR’S hand unit.
Press to rewind
Same as PROGRAM
on VCR’S hand unit.
IS I
it. I
□â S'
ËI © [1L£
QEEEHII}
RCil
Turns off power.
Select next higher or lower channel
in VCR's scan list.
Same as “Stop ' on front panel.
Press to play.
Press to search forward when VCR
is playing.
Press tor fast forward when VCR
s
is stopped. Press for forward search
when VCR is playing.
I
Press to switch antenna between
TV and VCR
(
26
Optional Accessories
Several accessories are available that will enable you to ex
pand your home video system. You may also find some of
these items helpful when installing your VCR. A few accesso
ries are pictured here to brief ly fam i liarize you with the d ifferent
types that are available. Although RCA Part Numbers are
listed for your convenience, other accessory brands are com
patible with your RCA video system. Accessories are avails ble through most electronic supply stores and RCA video
dealers.
----------
Video Cameras and Camcorders
------------------
See your RCA dealer for complete details on the wide
selection of Color Video Cameras and Camcorders
{combination camera/recorder) that is available for use
with your new VCR,
CABLES
Cable designed for use with VCRs, Video Cameras,
or any other equipment requiring 75-ohm "F"-type
interconnecting cables.
AH037 - 3 ft; AHOOe - 9 ft;
AH007 - 6 ft; AH(X)9 - 16 ft
3' general-purpose coaxial cable for use in audio
and video applications. It is fitted with RCA
phono-type connectors and is used with VCRs,
Monitors, and other related audio and video
equipment.
Provides quick-connect application ol 75-ohm
AH004 receivers, and other electronic devices.
"F"-type cable. Used with VCRs, Video Cameras TV
AH047
SWITCHES
This is an economy two-posilion 75-ohm coaxial
switch which performs the same (unctiohs outlined
AH028
AH041
tor the AH041 switch, shown below.
This is a 2-positlon 75-phm coaxial switch (some
times referred to as an A-B switch) used for
switchirtg a single signal source to two separate
output devices, such as a cabte-TV input to a TV
set or VCR.
SPLITTER /COMBINER
Used as a splitter to divide a signal from a single
75*ohm source so that it may be ted to two separate
devices. For example, a single 75-ohm antenna
lead-in signal split to feed two TV receivers. Wheir
used as a combiner, signals from two sources are
fed through two inputs to a single output
-HEAD CLEANING CASSETTE-
The AV009W head-cleaning kit uses a special
cleaning cassette which you insert in the VCR just
as you would a standard tape cassette.
---------------------------
A 5' shielded audio/video cable specifically designed
lor video and audio use with video cameras and
VCR equipment
A twin-jacketed dual-conductor audio cable used for
connection of stereo speakers to stereo video
RV016 with RCA phono-plugs at each end.
instruments. It is two color-coded and is equipped
27
Specifications
Format
Record/Playback System: 3-Head: 2 video record/
Video Signal:
Antenna 75-ohm external VHF antenna
Tuner
Type
Broadcast Channels:
VMS
playback beads, 1
special effects head
EIA standard: NTSC color
terminal
30D-ohm external UHF
antenna
Auto-programming frequency
synthesis, 119 channels
VHF 2 - 13, UHF 14-83
RCA Limited Warranty
Video Cassette Recorder
What does your warranty cover:
• Any defect in material or workmanship.
For how long after purchase:
• Ninety days for labor charges.
• One year for parts.
The warranty period for rental VCR’s begins with the
first rental.
What will RCA do:
• Pay any RCA Authorized Servicenter the labor
charges to repair your VCR.
• Provide new or, at out option, rebuilt replacement
parts for the RCA Authorized VCR Servicenter to
make the repairs.
Cable-TV Channels: Midband A-1 and A-2
Power Requirements
Power Consumption
Weight 15.9 lbs.
Dimensions
Midband A through I (14 - 22)
Superband J through W (23 - 36)
Hyperband W-(-1 through W + 12
(37 - 46)
120V AC, 60Hz
32 watts
3-7/8" High
17-1/8" Wide
12-9/16 " Deep
Note: Specifications subject to change without notice.
What does your warranty nof cover:
• Transportalibrt to and from the Servicenter.
• Customer instruction. Your Owner's Manual provides
information regarding operating instructions and
user controls. For additional information ask your
dealer.
Installation and set-up service adjustments.
Signal reception problems caused by external an
tenna or cable systems.
Damage from misuse or neglect.
Cleaning of video/audio heads, which is normal
maintenance.
• VCR’s which have been modified or incorporated into
other products.
• VCR’s purchased or serviced outside the USA.
How do you get service:
• Take your VCR to any RCA Authorized VCR Servicenter or to the RCA Service Company. For their
names and locations, ask your dealer or RCA Distrib
utor, or look in the Yellow Pages.
• Show the service technician your Warranty Registra
tion or evidence of purchase date.
• Pick up your VCR when repairs are completed.
Si un livret d’instructions en français n’est pas inclus avec
votre appareil, vous pouvez en obtenir un (INDIQUER LE
NUMÉRO DE MODÈLE VOTRE NOM ET VOTRE AD
RESSE) en vous addressant à;
RCA Inc.
Service des données techniques
5575 av. Royalmount
Ville Mont-Royal, Quebec, Canada
H4P 1 J8
RCA Corporation
Consumer Electronics Division
600 N Sherman Dr, PO Box 1976
RCil
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
How does state law relate to this warranty:
• This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
may also have other rights which vary from state to
stale.
What if you purchased your VCR in Canada:
• Refer to the Canadian Warranty.
Trademark(s)® Registered
Marcafs) Registradajs)
Part Number 2622 432-1
Printed in Japan
E72118
4649574
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