RCA VR540 User Manual

Download

Page 1

video cassette recorder

user's guide

VR540

Page 2

Important Information

WARNING

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

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

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

This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product.

risk of electric shock or personal injury.

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

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

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

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

WARNING

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

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

Product Registration

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

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

Model No.

Serial No.

Purchase Date:

VR540

Dealer/Address/Phone:

Page 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

Setting Up the VCR ......................................................... 7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Set the Time and Date ................................................................ 12

VCR Plus+ Channels .......................................................................... 13

VCR Plus+ Worksheet ................................................................ 15

What’s Next—Additional Set-Up Features in the

Preferences Menu.........................................................................16

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option .................................................... 16

Auto Play........................................................................................ 17

Auto TV/VCR ................................................................................ 17

EnergySaverTM............................................................................... 18

Front Panel .................................................................................... 18

Tape Speed ....................................................................................18

VCR Basics ..................................................................... 19

Remote Buttons .................................................................................. 20

Component Buttons ...................................................................20

VCR Function Buttons................................................................20

TV Function Buttons ................................................................... 21

Playing a Tape .......................................................................................22

Automatic Rewind ....................................................................... 23

Tape Eject ...................................................................................... 23

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

Check the Safety Tab ................................................................... 23

Recording ...................................................................... 25

Recording Features ............................................................................26

Express Recording (XPR) ................................................................. 26

Timer Recording ................................................................................. 27

Timer Recording with VCR Plus+ ............................................ 28

Setting Up the Channel List................................................28

Using VCR Plus+ .................................................................... 28

Stopping a Timer Recording ...................................................... 30

Reviewing and Clearing Programs ........................................... 30

Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes ........................... 31

Page 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Programming the Remote............................................ 33

About Programming the Remote ................................................... 34

Programming the Remote to Control a␣ TV ................................. 34

Operate the TV ............................................................................ 34

TV Codes ...................................................................................... 35

Programming the Remote to Control a Digital Satellite

Receiver or Cable Box................................................................36

Operate the Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver ................. 36

Cable Box Codes ......................................................................... 36

Other Features .............................................................. 37

Picture Search Options ..................................................................... 38

Forward and Reverse Search ....................................................38

Slow Motion .................................................................................. 38

Commercial Scan (Search Button)...........................................38

Frame Advance ............................................................................. 39

Index Search..................................................................................39

Zero Search ..................................................................................40

Pro-Tect Plus™ Locking Feature .................................................... 40

Time Counter......................................................................................41

On-Screen Displays ............................................................................ 41

Tracking ................................................................................................. 42

Connections .................................................................. 43

Connecting Your VCR ........................................................................ 44

Jacks and Cables ........................................................................... 44

RF Jacks and Antenna Cables (F-type) .................................... 44

Choosing a VCR Connection .................................................... 45

Advantages of Audio/Video Cable Connections................... 45

TV With RF Jack Only .......................................................................46

TV With Audio/Video Jacks .............................................................. 47

TV with Audio/Video Jacks and Cable Box to

Unscramble Pay Channels Only................................................ 48

Reference ...................................................................... 49

Front Panel ........................................................................................... 50

Display Panel ........................................................................................ 50

Back Panel ............................................................................................ 51

Troubleshooting Tips.......................................................................... 52

Specifications ....................................................................................... 55

Cleaning the VCR................................................................................55

Limited Warranty ................................................................................ 56

Index ...................................................................................................... 57

Page 5

First Things First

Hi, my name is Roger...

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

Read the First Three sections

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

What’s Left?

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

Program the Remote

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

READ ME!

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

➣

Page 6

First Things First

VCR

3 CH. 4

VIDEOAUDIO

IN 1

OUT

IN FROM ANT.

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

Step 1: Unpack What’s in the Box

The following items come packed in the box:

• VCR

• Remote control

• RF antenna cable

STEP 2: Install Batteries In the Remote Control

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

1. Remove the cover of the battery compartment.

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

3. Replace the cover.

STEP 3: Connect your vcr

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

If you have a TV with AUDIO/VIDEO jacks, use these jacks for better picture and sound quality. If you have a stereo TV with left and right Audio/Video jacks, connect the VCR’s AUDIO OUT to the TV’s left audio input. Refer to the Connections section, toward the back of the manual for more details.

STEP 4: PLUG IN THE VCR

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

Page 7

First Things First

STEP 5: TUNe THE TV

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

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

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

STEP 6: turn on the vcr

Press POWER to turn on the VCR.

Step 7: Interactive Setup

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

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

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

1>English 2 Espanol 3 Francais

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

VCR Viewing Channel

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

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

Page 8

First Things First

STEP 8: Access the menus

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

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 5 to display the PREFERENCES menu.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1 2 Auto Play: ON 3 Auto TV/VCR ON 4 EnergySaver: 2:00 5 Front Panel AUTO 6 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

3. Press 2 to switch AUTO PLAY to ON or OFF.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1

2 Auto Play: OFF 3 Auto TV/VCR: OFF

4 EnergySaver: 2:00 5 Front Panel: AUTO 6 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

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

Page 9

Setting Up the VCR

Set-Up Features

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

• Select a language

• Set up VCR channel list (AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH)

• Set up for a cable box

• Set automatic daylight-saving time

• Set the time and date

• Set up VCR Plus+ channels

• Set the REMOTE VCR1/VCR2 feature

• Set the AUTO PLAY feature

• Set the AUTO TV/VCR feature

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

• Set the EnergySaverTM feature

• Set the Front Panel feature

• Set the preferred Tape Speed

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 10

Setting Up the VCR

USING THE MENU to set up features

You can change the setup of the VCR’s features using the menu system. Each feature is explained in this section.

language

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 6 to select and display the LANGUAGE menu.

LANGUAGE

Select a language.

1>English 2 Espanol 3 Francais

Press MENU to contiune

3. Select English, Español (Spanish), or Français (French).

Cable Box Setup

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

On-screen Menus

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

Page 11

Setting Up the VCR

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search 2 Add/Remove Channels 3 Signal Type: CABLE 4 VCR Plus+ Channel List 5 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

3. Press 5 to display CABLE BOX SETUP. Then select one of the three choices.

CABLE BOX SETUP

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

1 ALL channels 2 Only SOME channels 3 Cancel setup

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

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

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to continue

CABLE BOX SETUP

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

Press MENU to continue

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

Cable Box Setup

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

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

CANCEL SETUP: select to cancel.

All Channels

If you do not use a cable box for ALL channels, then you will want to use a channel list (Auto Channel Search).

Page 12

Setting Up the VCR

VCR CHANNELS LIST

Your VCR may come with a channel list preset at the factory. Even though your VCR may come with a list, it’s possible that you may want to add or eliminate some channels depending on whether they are active.

To AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search 2 Add/Remove Channels 3 Signal Type: CABLE 4 VCR Plus+ Channel List 5 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

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

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

What type of signal are you using?

1 Cable TV 2 Antenna 3>Detect Automatically

0 Cancel

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

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

Detect Automatically

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

Auto Channel Search

Use the AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH feature to place all available channels in memory.

If you ever change cable or antenna signals, you may need to AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH again.

Page 13

Setting Up the VCR

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

Now scanning channel 14

Press any key to cancel

The VCR begins scanning for the available channels—this takes about one to two minutes. The lowest channel is tuned once the search is complete. Now, pressing CHANNEL up or down should only select the active channels.

To Change the Signal Type

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

3. Press 3 to change the SIGNAL TYPE between CABLE and ANTENNA.

To ADD or REMOVE Channels

You may want to add or remove channels after you AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH, especially if some of the channels have weak signals or you don’t want to watch them.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

3. Press 2 to display the ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS screen. Use CHANNEL up or down or number buttons to go to the channels you want to remove or add.

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115 is presently ADDED

Press CLEAR to remove Press MENU to exit

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115 is presently REMOVED

Press INFO to add Press MENU to exit

Selecting Channels

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

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

Page 14

Setting Up the VCR

Time and Date

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

Set Daylight-Saving Time

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 3 to display the TIME menu.

TIME

1 Set Time and Date 2 Auto DST: ON

0 Exit

3. Press 2 to turn AUTO DST: ON or OFF.

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

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

Set the Time and Date

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

Spring forward; Fall backward

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

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

Page 15

Setting Up the VCR

2. Press 3 to display the TIME menu.

TIME

1 Set Time and Date 2 Auto DST: ON

0 Exit

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

SET TIME AND DATE

Time --:- (hh:mm)

Date --/--/--

Press MENU to cancel

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

SET TIME AND DATE

Time 12:34 PM

Date 10/24/97 Friday

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to set

VCR PLUS+ CHANNELS

Using VCR Plus+ can make programming timer recordings for cable or off-air antenna easier, but you have to put in a little time right now to set up a channel list. A worksheet and abbreviated codes for typical cable services in the U.S. and Canada are provided on the following pages.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

Time/Date Display

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

VCR Plus+ Channel List

Refer to your local television list for a complete VCR Plus+ channel list for your viewing area or contact your cable company. Using the list may save you some time.

Page 16

Setting Up the VCR

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search 2 Add/Remove Channels 3 Signal Type: CABLE 4 VCR Plus+ Channel List 5 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

3. Press 4 to display the VCR PLUS+ CHANNEL LIST screen.

VCR+ Channel My Channel 5 - 4 - 3 -> -> -> - 2 - 1 --

Use CH+/- to select Press 0-9 to change Press MENU to save

4. Enter the data following the on-screen directions using your worksheet.

VCR+ Channel My Channel 5 46 4 - 3 -> -> -> 23 2 - 1 --

Use CH+/- to select Press 0-9 to change Press MENU to save

Screen is for an example only.

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ Channel

Numbers for Cable TV

(USA List)

35 American Movie Classics

39 Arts &-Entertainment

57 Black Entertainment

54 Bravo

42 Cable News Network

45 Cinemax

98 Cinemax 2

37 The Discovery Channel

53 The Disney Channel

63 Entertainment Television

34 ESPN Sports Network

47 The Family Channel

33 Home Box Office

95 Home Box Office 2

96 Home Box Office 3

51 The Learning Channel

46 Lifetime

58 The Movie Channel

48 Music Television

49 The Nashville Network

38 Nickelodeon

64 Nostalgia Television

99 Quality Value Cable

41 Showtime

97 Showtime 2

59 Sports Channel

52 Turner Network Television

44 USA-Network

62 Video Hits 1

93 Viewer’s Choice 1

94 Viewer’s Choice 2

55 WGN Chicago

43 WTBS Atlanta

60 WWOR-New York

See next page for Canadian List

Page 17

Setting Up the VCR

VCR Plus++ Worksheet

Broadcast or

Cable-TV Station

Name

Hbo 33

ESPN 34

VCR Plus+ Channel

Number**

Channel Number

You Receive the

Station On*

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ Channel

Numbers for Cable TV

(Canadian List)

67 Allarcom Pay Television/

Superchannel

44 Arts & Entertainment

72 Cable News Network-Headline

News

61 Cable News Network

70 Canadian Home Shopping Network

56 Canal Famille

69 Cathay International Television Inc

68 Chinavision Canada Corp

60 Country Music Television

63 Family Channel

62 First Choice

96 First Choice Two

97 First Choice Three

99 First Choice Four

90 House of Commons

91 La Chaine Francaise

51 The Learning Channel

65 MeteoMedia/The Weather Network

48 MuchMusic Network

55 MusiquePlus

52 Nashville Network

73 Newsworld/CBC

53 Le Reseau des Sports

43 The Sports Network

64 Super Ecran

37 Super Ecran B

98 Super Ecran C

66 Telatino Network

46 TV5 Montreal

92 Viewer’s Choice 1

93 Viewer’s Choice 2

94 Viewer’s Choice 3

95 Viewer’s Choice 4

71 Vision TV: Canada’s Faith Network

38 Youth TV, Canada Inc.

*Check your local or cable listing for the channel number you receive this station on.

**Check your local listing for broadcast or VCR Plus+ channel number assigned.

Page 18

Setting Up the VCR

What’s NEXT—Additional SET-UP features in the Preferences menu

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 5 to display the PREFERENCES menu.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1 2 Auto Play: ON 3 Auto TV/VCR ON 4 EnergySaver: 2:00 5 Front Panel AUTO 6 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

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

REMOTE VCR1/VCR2 Option

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

Press 1 to select the REMOTE CONTROL item. Then press the VCR2, VCR2•LD, or DVD•VCR2 button to change.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1 2 Auto Play: ON 3 Auto TV/VCR ON 4 EnergySaver: 2:00 5 Front Panel AUTO 6 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR2 2 Auto Play: OFF 3 Auto TV/VCR OFF 4 EnergySaver: 2:00 5 Front Panel: AUTO 6 Tape Speed: SLP

0 Exit

Page 19

Setting Up the VCR

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

To change the remote setting back to VCR1, display the PREFERENCES menu, press 1, and then press VCR1 on your compatible remote.

AUTO PLAY

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

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

• Select OFF if you do not want a tape with its safety tab removed to start playing automatically.

Auto TV/VCR

This feature controls whether the TV/VCR switch changes automatically to the VCR mode when the VCR is turned on. Press 3 to switch between ON and OFF.

• Select ON if you want the VCR to switch to the VCR mode when the VCR is turned on or a cassette is inserted. This

only applies if you connect the IN FROM ANT. and OUT TO TV jacks of your VCR and TV and watch your VCR on channel 3 or 4 of your TV.

• Select OFF if you want the VCR to remain in the TV mode. This is useful if you watch your VCR on the TV’s video input and you don’t want your antenna/cable signal interrupted by the VCR.

TV/VCR Button

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

VCR mode: VCR indicator in the display panel lights.

TV mode: VCR indicator turns off.

Page 20

Setting Up the VCR

EnergySaver

By default, this VCR automatically turns off after two hours of inactivity. Press 4 to change the time delay, or to disable the feature.

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

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

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

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

Front panel (vcr display)

You can change the brightness level of the fluorescent display panel on the front of the VCR. Press 5 to switch between the options.

• AUTO brightens the display when the VCR is on and dims the display when the VCR is off.

• BRIGHT keeps the display bright.

• DIM keeps the display at a low brightness level.

TAPE SPEED

You can select a preferred tape speed for recording. The speed you select appears in the timer and VCR Plus+ recording menus. The default factory setting is SLP. Press 6 to switch between SP and SLP.

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

• Press the SPEED button on the remote.

• Set the tape speed in the timer or VCR Plus+ recording menu.

When you turn off the VCR, the tape speed reverts to the one you have selected.

Tape Speeds

SP (Standard Play) Gives the best quality recording, but fewer programs can be recorded on the tape. Special effects such as pause, slow motion, picture search, and frame advance work well when you play back tapes recorded in this speed.

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

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

Recording Time

Cassette SP SLP

T-120 2Hr 6Hr

T-160 2Hr 8Hr

40Min

Page 21

VCR BAsICS

learn the basics To get you started

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

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

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

➣

Page 22

CLEAR

INFO

TV•VCR

GO BACK

INPUT

SPEED

TRACKING

SLOW

STOP

PLAY

1 2 3

546

PAUSE

F.ADV

RECORD

FWD

REV

POWER

VCR

SAT

CABLE

CHAN

VOL

MUTE

–

VCR Basics

Remote Buttons

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

Component Buttons

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

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

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

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

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

VCR Function Buttons

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

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

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

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

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

INFO Shows the status displays on the TV screen.

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

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

Page 23

VCR BAsICS

MENU Brings up VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen.

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

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

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

PLAY Plays a tape.

POWER Turns the VCR off.

RECORD Starts VCR recording. Also used for express recording.

REV Rewinds the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches

backward through a tape during playback. Starts slow motion during play-pause and decreases slow-motion speed.

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

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

SPEED Selects a recording speed (SP or SLP).

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

rewind, or fast forward.

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

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

TV Function Buttons

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

CLEAR Removes menus or status displays from the screen.

GO BACK Switches between two channels. Select one channel

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

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

MUTE Reduces volume to minimum level.

TV Buttons

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

Page 24

VCR Basics

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

POWER Turns the TV on and off.

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

features.

VOL Up and Down Raises and lowers sound of TV.

Playing a Tape

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

2. Insert a tape in the VCR.

STOP ¥ EJECT

POWER

VIDEO IN

AUDIO IN

CHANNEL

TRACKING

PLAY ¥ PAUSE

TV ¥ VCR

RECORD FWD

REV

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

• Press FWD or REV to position the tape.

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

• Press PAUSE for stop action.

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

• Press STOP to stop playback.

Pause

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

Automatic Tracking

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

Page 25

VCR BAsICS

Automatic Rewind

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

Tape Eject

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

Recording

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

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

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

3. Press STOP to stop recording.

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

Check the Safety Tab

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

Safety Tab

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

Page 26

Page 27

RECORDING

SEVERAL recording OPTIONS

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

Recording Features:

• Recording (explained in VCR Basics section)

• Express Recording

• Timer Recording

• Timer Recording with VCR Plus+

• Copying and Editing Tapes

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 28

RECORDING

Recording features

There are four ways to record programs:

• Recording lets you press one button to start recording a program. (See VCR Basics section.)

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

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

• Timer Recording with VCR Plus+ lets you program the VCR just by entering a PlusCode number found in some TV guides.

Express Recording (XPR)

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

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

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

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

Rec Ch 36 Record Length 0:00

Press REC to set length

Each time you press the RECORD button, you add 30 minutes to the recording time (up to 4 hours).

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

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

Rec Ch 36 Record Length 1:30

Press REC to set length

Express Recording

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

Page 29

RECORDING

Timer Recording

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display the TIMER RECORDINGS menu.

TIMER RECORDINGS

1 Create a New Program 2 Review Existing Progs. 3 Use VCR Plus+ Code

0 Exit

3. Select 1 to CREATE A NEW PROGRAM.

HOW often should this program record?

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

0 Cancel

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

Program 1 (One time)

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

Press MENU to cancel

5. Enter the data for the program with the number buttons.

The data includes the channel number (press INPUT to select the line input), start time including AM or PM, and end time. The start date is automatically entered based on the VCR clock. Both the date and speed can be changed.

Timer Recording Information

Clock must be set correctly.

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

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

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

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

Tape Speed

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

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

The factory setting for the VCR speed is SLP.

VCR playback is not affected by the preferred tape speed.

Page 30

RECORDING

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

Program 1 (One time)

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

Program 1 has been saved

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

Press MENU to continue

Timer Recording with VCR PluS+

You can use VCR Plus+ to simplify timer programming by entering the TV Show’s PlusCode number fond in most TV and cable listings.

Setting Up the Channel List

If you did not set up the VCR Plus+ channel list, you can do it␣ now.

1. Display the CHANNELS menu from the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Display the VCR PLUS+ CHANNEL LIST menu.

3. Go to Setting Up Your VCR if you need more information on setting up your VCR Plus+ channel list.

Using VCR Plus+

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time

CHANNELS

4 Channels 5 Preferences

1 Auto Channel Search

6 Language

2 Add/Remove Channels 3 Signal Type: CABLE 4 VCR Plus+ Channel List 5 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

VCR+ Channel My Channel

0 Exit

5 46 4 - 3 -> -> -> 23 2 - 1 --

Use CH+/- to select Press 0-9 to change Press MENU to save

0 Exit

2. Press 1 to display the VCR PLUS+ menu.

VCR PLUS+

Enter PlusCode Number (From TV Listing) _

Press MENU to cancel

VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are trademarks of Gemstar Development Corporation.

Page 31

RECORDING

3. Enter the VCR PlusCode number shown in your local television programming guide.

VCR PLUS+

Enter PlusCode Number (From TV listing) 12876

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU when done

4. Press MENU to enter the VCR PlusCode number.

HOW often should this program record?

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

0 Cancel

5. Indicate how often you want the program to be recorded.

Program 1 (One Time)

Channel 03 Cable Start Time 08:00 PM End Time 09:30 PM Start Date 10/24/97 Fri Tape Speed SLP

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to save

6. Change the speed with the SPEED button on the remote or the program end time with the CLEAR button on the remote (if necessary).

Changing the end time comes in handy when you are recording a program such as a sporting event that may exceed the scheduled broadcast time.

7. Press MENU to save the program.

Program 1 (One Time)

Channel 03 Cable Start Time 08:00 PM End Time 09:30 PM Start Date 10/24/97 Fri Tape Speed SLP

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to save

VCR Plus+ Recording

Clock must be set correctly.

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

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

UNRECOGNIZED NUMBER... PLEASE RE-ENTER appears when the VCR does not recognize the PlusCode number.

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

Turn on the cable box and tune it to the channel you want to record before the recording is to begin.

Page 32

RECORDING

Stopping a Timer Recording

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

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

REVIEWING AND CLEARING PROGRAMS

To review programs that you have already set up:

1. Press 2 when the VCR MAIN MENU is displayed to display the TIMER RECORDINGS menu.

TIMER RECORDINGS

1 Create a New Program 2 Review Existing Progs. 3 Use VCR Plus+ Code

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display the REVIEW PROGRAMS screen.

Program 1 (One time)

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

Press CLEAR to erase Press MENU for next prog

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

Page 33

RECORDING

PLAYBACK VCR

CABLE BOX

OR ANTENNA

RECORDING VCR

TO TV

3 CH. 4

IN FROM ANT.

VIDEO

OUT

AUDIO

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

IN 1

3 CH. 4

IN FROM ANT.

VIDEO

OUT

AUDIO

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

IN 1

OUT

Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes

Use one VCR as the playback VCR and the other as the recording␣ VCR.

1. Turn on the TV and VCRs.

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

3. If you connected your VCR using the ANTENNA jacks, tune recording VCR to channel 3 or 4—the one selected on the back of the playback VCR.

If you have connected your VCR using the audio/video jacks, press INPUT on the recording VCR’s remote to select the line input. Select LINE 1 for the jacks on the back of the VCR, or LINE 2 for the jacks on the front.

4. Insert the tape you want to copy into the playback VCR. Insert a blank tape with safety tab in place into the recording␣ VCR.

5. When you reach the point on the tape or program where you want to begin copying, press PLAY•PAUSE and then PLAY•PAUSE again on the playback VCR. You may need to adjust the tracking.

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

7. Press the PLAY•PAUSE buttons on both VCRs at the same time to begin copying the tape.

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

• Press PLAY•PAUSE on recording VCR to stop copying.

• Locate the next segment you want to copy on playback VCR by using FWD, REV, and PLAY•PAUSE, and then press PLAY•PAUSE.

• Press PLAY•PAUSE on both VCRs at the same time to resume copying.

9. Press STOP•EJECT on both VCRs when you are finished.

Caution:

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

Two VCR Connection

Page 34

RECORDING

Page 35

programming the remote

control your other components...

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

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

➣

Connections

Page 36

Programming the Remote

About Programming the Remote

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

Programming the Remote to Control a␣ TV

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

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

1. Turn on the TV.

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

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

4. Enter the code from the code list.

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

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

Operate the TV

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

1. Point the remote at the TV, and press the TV button.

If the TV does not turn on, press the TV button and then press the PWR button.

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

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

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

Page 37

programming the remote

TV Codes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

08,10,12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page 38

Programming the Remote

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Enter the code from the code list.

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

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

Operate the Cable BOX or DIGITAL Satellite Receiver

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

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

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

Cable Box Codes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Satellite Receiver Codes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page 39

OTHER FEATURES

features to enhance VCR operation

• Picture Search Options

• Pro-Tect Plus™ Locking

• Time Counter

• On-Screen Displays

• Tracking

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

➣

Connections

Page 40

OTHER FEATURES

Picture Search Options

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

Forward and REVERSE Search

You can view a tape during play or play pause. Sound is turned off during picture search. Search works best for tapes recorded at the SP or SLP speed.

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

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

SLOW MOTION

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

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

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

3. Use the + and - or FWD and REV buttons to speed up or slow down slow motion playback.

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

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

Commercial Scan (Search Button)

This is useful for skipping commercials or short program segments.

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

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

Insert Tape:

Don’t forget to insert a recorded tape when using the search features.

Page 41

OTHER FEATURES

INDEX SEARCH

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

Press SEARCH to Exit

FRAME ADVANCE

Frame advance lets you view one-stop action frame after another. Frame advance works best for tapes recorded at the SP or SLP speed.

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

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

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

INDEX SEARCH

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

To Search:

1. Press SEARCH on the remote to display the INDEX SEARCH menu on the TV screen.

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

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

4. Press STOP to stop index searching.

Some index marks may be missed by the VCR:

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

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

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

INDEX SEARCH

Searching for index number 12...

Press STOP to cancel

INDEX SEARCH

searching for index marks...

Press STOP to cancel

Page 42

OTHER FEATURES

ZERO Search

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

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

ZERO SEARCH

Current tape counter is 2:17:25

Press REV to go to 0:00:00

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

3. Continue playing the tape.

4. Press STOP.

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

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

7. Press STOP to stop zero searching.

Pro-Tect Plus™ Locking Feature

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

• To Lock: Press and hold either the remote’s POWER or OFF button. SAFE appears in the display when the feature is activated. SAFE will flash if you attempt to turn on the VCR while the feature is on.

Press SEARCH to exit

ZERO SEARCH

Searching for 0:00:00...

Press STOP to cancel

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

Locking Your VCR:

If a timer recording is programmed, make sure your VCR is turned off. Locking your VCR prevents the VCR from being accidentally turned on.

Page 43

OTHER FEATURES

Time Counter

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

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

1. Press INFO twice to display the time counter.

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

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

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

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

ON-SCREEN DISPLAYS

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

0:30:00

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

Stop Ch 05 0:30:00

10/22/98 Mon 01:30PM SLP

On-screen display

0:30:00

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

2. Press INFO again to have only the time counter remain on the␣ screen. The time couter also comes up on the VCR’s front panel display (hours and minutes only).

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

Turning off the VCR also resets the displays.

Timer counter only (does not time out)

Normal display

Page 44

OTHER FEATURES

TRACKING

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

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

Tracking has no effect during recording—only playback.

Page 45

connections

Things to Know Before Connecting Components

Protect Your Components from Power Surges

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

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

Position Cables Correctly to Avoid Audio Hum or Interference

• Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.

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

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

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

Protect Your Components from

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

OTHER FEATURES

➣

Overheating

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

• Do not stack components.

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

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

Connections

Page 46

connections

Connecting Your VCR

Refer to these pages to help you connect your VCR.

Jacks and Cables

RF Jacks and Antenna Cables (F-type)

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

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

Audio/Video Jacks and Cables (RCA-type)

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

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

RF Jack

Audio/Video Jack

Page 47

connections

Choosing a VCR Connection

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

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

• TV with RF Jack only

• TV with audio/video jacks

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

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

Advantages of Audio/Video Cable Connections

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

Page 48

connections

VCR

3 CH. 4

VIDEOAUDIO

IN 1

OUT

IN FROM ANT.

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

TV with rf jack only

This connection assumes:

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

• Your television has only an RF input jack.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

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

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to First Things First, then follow the steps.

Using This Connection

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

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to ON.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape.

2. In necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

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

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

Page 49

connections

TV with audio/Video jacks

This connection assumes:

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

• Your television has audio/video jacks.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

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

• (2) audio/video cables

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to First Things First, then follow the steps.

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel.

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to OFF.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

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

2. Select a different channel on the TV.

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

VCR

VIDEOAUDIO

OUT

IN 1

VIDEO

INPUT 1

S-VIDEO

L/MONO

AUDIO

OUTPUT

L/MONO

INPUT 2

IN FROM ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

CABLE/

ANTENNA

Page 50

connections

VCR

CABLE

CABLE BOX

3 CH. 4

VIDEOAUDIO

IN 1

OUT

IN FROM ANT.

OUT TO TV

VHF/UHF

CABLE/

ANTENNA

INPUT 1

VIDEO

L/MONO

S-VIDEO

AUDIO

OUTPUT

INPUT 2

VIDEO

L/MONO

OUT

TV with audio/Video jacks and Cable box to unscramble pay channels only

This connection assumes:

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

• Your TV has audio/video input jacks.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

• (3) antenna cables

• (2) audio/video cables

• (1) splitter

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

2. Return to First Things First, then follow the steps.

All scrambled channels must be viewed through the VCR.

For Cable Box Setup, select ALL CHANNELS.

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel.

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to OFF.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

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

1. Begin recording a scrambled program through the cable box

2. Select an unscrambled channel on the TV.

using one of the recording options.

Page 51

appendix a: reference

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

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

Finally, this section contains your warranty information.

Page 52

appendix a: reference

Front Panel

TV¥VCR

REV

PLAY ¥ PAUSE

RECORD FWD

POWER

VIDEO IN

STOP ¥ EJECT

AUDIO IN

CHANNEL

TRACKING

Remote Sensor

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

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

LINE 2 A/V Jacks Use these jacks to conveniently connect a camcorder or second VCR to this VCR for

dubbing. Use INPUT to select Video2.

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

POWER Turns the VCR on or off.

RECORD Starts VCR recording. Used for express recording.

Remote Sensor Receives signals from the remote control. Aim the remote at this sensor.

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

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

the tape when the VCR is stopped.

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

Display Panel

VCR

Power Indicator Lights when the VCR is turned on. Flashes during a recording.

Time, Channel Number, Line Input Indicator (L), or Status Displays

Time The current time appears. Only an AM indicator appears with the time. There is no indicator for

PM.

Channel Number or Line Input Indicator The channel number appears when the VCR is tuned to a channel. The line indicator (L) appears when the line input is selected.

TIMER

Page 53

appendix a: reference

Status Indicators Show what the VCR is doing.

• BYE Power off

• EJEC Tape eject

•FF Fast forward

• HI Power on

• PLAY Playback; flashes during play-pause, and search features

• REC Record

• REW Rewind

• SAFE Pro-Tect Plus turned on

• SCH Forward search

• SCH- Reverse search

• STOP A tape is stopped

TIMER Lights during express recording and when VCR is turned off and set for timer

recording. Flashes when timer recording is set and there is no cassette in the VCR.

VCR Indicator (Applies only if the VCR viewing channel is 3 or 4). Press the TV•VCR button to turn on or off.

• VCR indicator on: Picture from VCR.

• VCR indicator off: Picture from TV channel.

Back Panel

IN FROM

VIDEOAUDIO

OUT

IN 1

3 CH. 4 Switch Selects the channel to which you will tune the TV to see the VCR picture if you connect the VCR using one of the basic hookups.

ANT.

VHF/UHF

OUT TO TV

3 CH. 4

AUDIO and VIDEO IN Jacks Receives signals from another component, like a VCR or camcorder, when it is connected to these jacks. Use INPUT on the remote to select Video 1.

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

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

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

Page 54

appendix a: reference

Troubleshooting Tips

No power

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

• Check to make sure your connections are correct.

VCR does not respond to remote

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

• The batteries may need changing.

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

Poor or no picture for normal TV viewing

• Check to make sure the VCR indicator is off.

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

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

Snowy or no picture during playback

• Press TV•VCR to turn VCR indicator on.

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

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

• Check video cable connections between VCR and TV monitor.

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

• Try another tape.

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

Streaks in picture during normal playback

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

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

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

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

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

Page 55

appendix a: reference

Will not record or play

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

• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.

• Check to make sure the tape is not broken.

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

• Check the ProTect Plus™ feature.

Will not record

• Check to make sure the safety tab is intact.

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

Rewind does not operate

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

VCR Plus+ or timer recording not made or wrong program recorded

• Check to make sure the correct VCR Plus+ code is entered.

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

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

• Power interruption. Reset the clock.

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

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

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

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

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

• Check to make sure VCR Plus+ setup was completed correctly.

Internal clock shows incorrect time or date

• Power interruption.

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

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

Time did not adjust for daylight-saving time

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

Page 56

appendix a: reference

VCR makes noise when stopped

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

Will not AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH active channels correctly

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

• Check to make sure the SIGNAL TYPE: CABLE/ANTENNA feature is set correctly.

• If DETECT AUTOMATICALLY was selected for the SIGNAL TYPE in the AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH menu, select either CABLE TV or ANTENNA.

Tape plays back in slow motion

• Press PLAY to return to normal playback.

Cannot select channels over 69

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

Cassette with safety tab removed does not start to play automatically

• Check to make sure the AUTO PLAY ON/OFF feature is set to ON.

TIMER indicator flashes

• Clock is not set.

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

Time counter disappears during searching

• This is normal.

On-screen menus appear in an incorrect language

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

Page 57

appendix a: reference

Specifications

Format: VHS

Record/Playback Video: 4-Head System: Audio: Mono record/playback

Video Signal System: EIA standard: NTSC color

Antenna: 75-ohm external VHF/UHF combined

antenna terminal

Tuner: USA: 181 channels capability*

(125 cable channels)

Canada: 178 channels capability*

(122 cable channels)

Type: AutoProgramming frequency synthesis

Power Requirement: 120V AC, 60 Hz

Power Consumption: 18 watts (standby < 4 watts)

Dimensions: 3.7 inches high (93 mm)

15 inches wide (380 mm)

11.9 inches deep (300 mm)

Weight: 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg)

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

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

*Check your cable company‘s compatibility requirements.

Cleaning the VCR

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

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

Specifications are subject to change.

Page 58

appendix a: reference

Limited Warranty

What your warranty covers:

• Any defect in materials or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• Ninety days for labor charges.

• One year for parts.

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

What we will do:

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

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

How you get service:

• Take your VCR to any Authorized RCA VCR Service Center. To identify your nearest Authorized RCA VCR Service Center, ask your dealer, look in the Yellow Pages, or call 1-800-336-1900.

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

• Pick up your VCR when repairs are completed.

What your warranty does not cover:

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

• Installation and related adjustments.

• Signal reception problems not caused by your VCR.

• Damage from misuse or neglect.

• Cleaning of video/audio heads.

• Batteries.

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

• A VCR purchased or serviced outside the USA.

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

Product Registration:

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

How state law relates to this warranty:

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

If you purchased your VCR outside the United States:

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

Page 59

appendix a: referenceINDEX

3 CH. 4 switch 51

AUDIO/VIDEO jacks 20, 31, 47, 48, 51 Auto channel search 10 Auto play feature 17, 22

Back panel 51

Cable box codes 36 Cable box setup 8 Cables 43, 44 Channel number indicator 50 Channel, viewing 5 Channels, add or remove 11 Channels list, VCR 10 Clearing programs 30 Commercial scan feature 38 Connections 43–48

EnergySaverTM feature 18 Express recording (XPR) 26

Picture search options 38 Power indicator 50 Pro-Tect Plus™ locking feature 40 Programming the remote 33–36

Recording 23, 26–30 Remote 20–21 REMOTE VCR1/VCR2 option 16 Remove or add channels 11 Review programs screen 30 Reviewing programs 30 Rewind, automatic 23

Safety tab 23 Satellite receiver codes 36 Search 38–40 SET TIME and DATE screen 13 Set up language 8 Signal type 11 Slow motion playback 38 Specifications 55 Speeds, recording 18 Status Indicators 51 Stopping a timer recording 30

Frame advance 39 Front panel controls 50

IN FROM ANT. jack 51 Index search feature 39

Jacks, types of 44

Language feature 8 Line input indicator (L), 50 Locking feature 40

Menus, accessing 6

On-screen displays 41 OUT TO TV jack 51

Tab, safety 23 Tape eject 23 Tape, playing a 22 Tape speeds 18 Time and date 12 Time counter 41 Time display 50 TIME menu 12, 13 TIMER indicator 51 Timer recording 27

stopping 30 Tracking 42 TV codes 35 TV, programming the remote 34

VCR channels list 10 VCR Plus+ 13–16, 28–29

ZERO search feature 40

Page 60

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

10330 North Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290

Printed in Japan

TOCOM 15313780

VQTS3428 (A)

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

RCA VR540 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual