RCA VR556 User Manual

VCR

User’s Guide

Changing Entertainment. Again.

VR556

Important Information

WARNING

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

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN.

This symbol indicates
"dangerous voltage" inside
the product that presents a
risk of electric shock or
personal injury.

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

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.

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.

Caution: To prevent 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.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately. Returning the 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 VCR.

Model No._______________________________________________________________________________________

Serial No. _______________________________________________________________________________________

Purchase Date:___________________________________________________________________________________

Dealer/Address/Phone: ___________________________________________________________________________

i

VR556

Introduction

Introduction

Key Features Overview

Your VCR is equipped with features that will add to your recording experience. The following
information summarizes a few of these features. Chapter 3 provides more information about the rest
of the VCR’s features and how to use them.

VCR Plus+® SILVER System

The VCR Plus+ system allows for simple timer recording programming by using
a single PlusCode® programming number found in most TV program listings.
The VCR Plus+ SILVER system simplifies timer recordings by automatically
setting up and updating the VCR’s clock and channel list for you.

Requirements: Make sure that VCR Plus+ SILVER system is active, that Auto
Channel Search and time set features are correct.

ON•OFF

TV

REVERSE

RECORD

INFO

MUTE

CLEAR MENU

1

4

7

VCR

PLAY FORWARD

STOP PAUSE

A

H

N

SEARCH

C

V

O

L

O

L

V

GO BACK

C

N

H

A

SPEED

3

2

5

6

9

8

U

V

C

P

•

T

R

N

V

I

T

0

F.ADV

TRACKING

Unified Remote Control

Description: The VCR’s remote control can operate most brands of TVs with a
few programming steps. This remote control can operate most RCA, GE, and
Proscan TVs without any programming at all.

Requirements: Point the remote control at the active component to see if it can
be operated. Program the remote if necessary following the steps in this manual.

Rec Ch 36
Record Length 1:30

Express Recording (XPR)

Description: XPR quickly records the remaining portion of a program already
in progress. XPR is a great way to capture the end of a sporting event that has
run into overtime or a live broadcast that runs long.

Requirements: Repeatedly press the Record button on the VCR front panel or

Press REC to set length

TIMER RECORDINGS

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

remote control to set the desired duration of time to record.

Timer Recordings

Description: Your VCR allows you to program up to eight different future
broadcasts to be recorded. You can catch a one-time, daily, or weekly broadcast
to record.

Requirements: The VCR’s clock must be set correctly. A tape with its safety tab

0 Exit

in place and enough tape to record a program must be inserted into the VCR.
For a cable box or satellite receiver, turn it on and tune it to the channel you
want to record before the recording is to begin.

VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are registered trademarks of the Gemstar Development Corporation.
The VCR Plus+ system is manufactured under the license from Gemstar Development Corporation.

1

Introduction

ShowSaver™ Memory Protection

Description: Set timer programs are stored indefinitely using the VCR’s permanent memory.
This way, you’ll never have to worry about losing your programs due to an extended power
outage.

Requirements: Store a daily or weekly timer program in the VCR’s memory.

Pro-Tect Plus™ Locking

Description: Locks the VCR so that buttons on the front panel and remote control won’t
operate the VCR. This feature protects timer programs from frustrating accidents such as being
left on at the time of recording.

Requirements: Lock the VCR by pressing and holding the POWER button on the remote
control for six seconds. The front panel display will blink for several seconds. The VCR unlocks
by pressing and holding the POWER button on the remote control, again for six seconds. The
front panel display will blink again and release the lock on the system.

SQPB S-VHS Quasi Playback

Description: Your VCR will be able to play back tapes recorded in S-VHS or
S-VHS-ET mode (in VHS quality).

Requirements: Insert a tape recorded in S-VHS or S-VHS-ET mode and pressing the PLAY
button on the remote control or PLAY•PAUSE on the VCR.

2

Table of Contents

Product Registration

Introduction

Key Features Overview ......................................................................................................... 1

Connections & Setup

Things to Consider Before Connecting Components .......................................................... 6

Cable Considerations ............................................................................................................6

Choose Your Connection ...................................................................................................... 7

Using the RF Coaxial Cable to Connect the VCR to a TV .............................................. 7

TV + VCR .......................................................................................................................... 8

TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver ......................................................................................... 9

Set the VCR’s CH 3/4 Switch ................................................................................................ 11

Plug in the VCR .................................................................................................................... 11

Put Batteries in the Remote Control .................................................................................. 11

Turn on the TV and VCR...................................................................................................... 11

Tune the TV.......................................................................................................................... 11

Using the Remote Control to Navigate On-Screen Menus ............................................... 12

Complete the QuickSet Guide ...................................................................................... 12

Accessing Menus ........................................................................................................... 12

VCR Basics ............................................................................................................................ 13

Playing a Tape ............................................................................................................... 13

Automatic Rewind ........................................................................................................ 13

Tape Eject ......................................................................................................................13

Recording ............................................................................................................................. 13

Check the Safety Tab .................................................................................................... 13

............................................................................................................................ 1

............................................................................................................. i

........................................................................................................... 5

Using the VCR’s Menu System

Using On-Screen Menus to Set Up Features ...................................................................... 16

Language ....................................................................................................................... 16

Cable Box Setup ............................................................................................................ 16

VCR Channels List.......................................................................................................... 17

Auto Channel Searching ....................................................................................... 17

Changing the Signal Type ..................................................................................... 18

Adding or Removing Channels ............................................................................. 18

Time and Date............................................................................................................... 19

Auto Clock Set Feature.......................................................................................... 19

To Turn Auto Clock Set ON .............................................................................. 19

Setting the Time Zone ..................................................................................... 19

Setting Daylight-Saving Time .......................................................................... 20

Setting Time and Date Manually .......................................................................... 20

Additional Set Up Features in the Preferences Menu ....................................................... 20

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option .......................................................................................... 21

Auto Play .......................................................................................................................21

Auto TV/VCR.................................................................................................................. 21

EnergySaver................................................................................................................... 22

Front Panel Brightness (VCR Display) .......................................................................... 22

Tape Speed .................................................................................................................... 22

Set Auto Repeat ............................................................................................................ 23

....................................................................................... 15

3

Table of Contents

Using the Remote Control

Using the Remote Control .................................................................................................. 26

Buttons of the Remote Control ................................................................................... 26

Using the INPUT Button ........................................................................................ 27

Operating a TV with the VCR’s Remote Control ............................................................... 28

Do You Need to Program the Remote? ....................................................................... 28

Programming the Remote Control ....................................................................... 28

Operating the TV ................................................................................................... 28

Using the VCR’s Features

Recording Features ............................................................................................................. 32

Express Recording (XPR) ............................................................................................... 32

Timer Recording............................................................................................................ 33

Stopping a Timer Recording ................................................................................. 33

Reviewing and Clearing Programs ....................................................................... 33

VCR Plus+ SILVER System .............................................................................................. 34

Turning ON or OFF the Auto VCR Plus+ download ............................................. 34

Mapping VCR Plus+ Channels Manually .............................................................. 35

VCR Plus+ System Worksheet .......................................................................... 37

Copying and Editing Tapes Using Two VCRs ............................................................... 38

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

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

Slow Motion .................................................................................................................. 39

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

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

Go-To Search ................................................................................................................. 40

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

Tracking................................................................................................................................ 41

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

On-Screen Displays ..............................................................................................................42

............................................................................................... 25

.................................................................................................. 31

Other Information

Troubleshooting Tips........................................................................................................... 44

General VCR Problems .................................................................................................. 44

Recording Problems ...................................................................................................... 45

Playback Problems ........................................................................................................ 45

Specifications ....................................................................................................................... 47

Cleaning the VCR ................................................................................................................47

Front Panel .......................................................................................................................... 48

Display Panel ....................................................................................................................... 49

Back Panel ............................................................................................................................ 50

RCA VCR Limited Warranty................................................................................................. 51

How to Find Your TV’s Video Input Channel ..................................................................... 52

Advanced Connection ......................................................................................................... 53

TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver ....................................................................................... 53

Glossary ................................................................................................................................ 54

Index .................................................................................................................................... 55

.............................................................................................................. 43

4

Chapter 1

Connections & Setup

Chapter Overview:

• Things to Consider Before Connecting

• Cable Considerations

• Making the Connection

• Navigating On-Screen Menus

• Completing the QuickSet™ Guide

• Basic Recording

Changing Entertainment. Again.

5

Connections & Setup

Things to Consider Before Connecting Components

Protect 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 to Avoid Audio Hum or Interference

• Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.

• Place any Audio/Video (A/V) cables to the side(s) of the TV’s back panel instead of straight
down the back after connecting components.

• Try not to coil any twin-lead cables and keep them away from all A/V cables as much as
possible.

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

Protect Components From Overheating

• Never block ventilation slots in any component. Arrange the components so that air can
circulate freely.

• Do not stack components.

• Allow adequate ventilation when placing components in a stand.

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

Cable Considerations

The RF coaxial cable supplied with your VCR carries both sound and picture information. This is
the cable used in all connection diagrams in this chapter.

If your TV has A/V input jacks, you should use A/V cables (not supplied) to connect the VCR to
the TV. A/V cables provide better picture and sound quality than an RF coaxial cable. If you
would like to hook up your VCR using A/V cables, refer to the Advanced Connection information
on page 53 in the Other Information chapter of the manual.

6 Chapter 1

Connections & Setup

Using the RF Coaxial Cable to Connect the VCR to a TV

The picture on the next page shows the RF coaxial cable supplied with your VCR.
This will be the cable used for the basic connections represented in this
chapter.

RF Coaxial Cable

Choose Your Connection

There are several ways to hook up your VCR depending on the components connected.
Please use the following chart to determine which connection is best for you and proceed
to the appropriate page.

Notes: To hear stereo sound, you will need to purchase Audio/Video (A/V)
cables (not provided) and connect the VCR to the TV. A/V jacks and cables
also provide a superior image and sound quality. For details about using
this advanced setup, see the instructions on page 53.

Using A/V jacks to connect the VCR to the TV requires tuning to the TV’s
Video Line Input to see the VCR’s picture. For more information about
finding your TV’s Video Line Input, see page 52.

Components

Connection Go To
Title

TV + VCR page 8

TV

VCR

TV + VCR +
Satellite Receiver page 9

TV

VCR

Satellite

TV + VCR +
Cable Box page 10

TV

VCR

Cable Box

Chapter 1 7

Connections & Setup

TV (back panel)

TV

VCR

VCR

VIDEO

AUDIO

L / MONO

R

IN

L

OUT

S-VIDEO

CABLE/
ANTENNA

1

AUDIO

ANT. IN

OUT IN

VIDEO

CH

3 4

RF OUT

2

TV + VCR

Note: Your television back panel may not look exactly like the model
shown here.

1. Connect the VCR to the TV

Connect one end of the supplied RF coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on
the back of the VCR and the other end to the TV’s Antenna input jack.

2. Connect the antenna/cable feed to the VCR

Connect the satellite, cable, or antenna RF coaxial cable to the ANT. IN jack
on the back of the VCR.

NOTE: Flip the CH 3/4 switch on the back of the VCR to the channel that is

not used in your area. This will be the channel that the TV must be tuned
to in order to see the VCR’s picture.

Go To Page 11

From Cable
or Antenna

8 Chapter 1

TV

TV

VCR

VIDEO

Connections & Setup

AUDIO

L / MONO

R

IN

L

OUT

S-VIDEO

CABLE/
ANTENNA

VCR

Satellite

CH

3 4

ANT. IN

RF OUT

AUDIO

OUT IN

VIDEO

2

SATELLITE
RECEIVER

IN FROM ANT

VIDEO

OUT

R

L

S-VIDEO

OUT TO TV

SATELLITE

3

From Cable
or TV Antenna

TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver

Note: Your television and satellite receiver back panel may not look
exactly like the models shown here.

1. Connect the VCR to the TV

CH3
CH4

IN

4

From
Satellite

1

Connect one end of the supplied RF coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on
the back of the VCR and the other end to the TV’s Antenna input jack.

2. Connect satellite receiver to the VCR

Connect an RF coaxial cable to the antenna output jack on the satellite
receiver and to the ANT. IN jack on the back of the VCR.

3. Connect the antenna to your satellite receiver

If necessary, connect an antenna or cable box RF coaxial cable to the
antenna input jack on the satellite receiver.

4. Connect the satellite feed to the satellite receiver

Connect the satellite receiver’s RF coaxial cable feed to the satellite input
jack on the satellite receiver.

Go To Page 11

Chapter 1 9

Connections & Setup

TV

TV

VCR

VCR

VIDEO

AUDIO

L / MONO

R

IN

L

OUT

S-VIDEO

CABLE/
ANTENNA

1

CH

3 4

ANT. IN

RF OUT

AUDIO

OUT IN

VIDEO

Cable Box

TV + VCR + Cable Box

1. Connect the VCR to the TV

2. Connect the cable box to the VCR

2

CABLE BOX

IN FROM ANT

VIDEO

OUT

R

L

OUT TO TV

3

From Cable Feed

Note: Your television and cable box back panel may not look exactly like
the models shown here.

Connect one end of the supplied RF coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on
the back of the VCR and the other end to the TV’s Antenna input jack.

Connect one end of an RF coaxial cable to the cable box’s antenna output
jack and the other end to the ANT. IN jack on the VCR.

CH3
CH4

3. Connect the cable feed to your cable box

Connect an RF coaxial cable feed to the antenna input jack on the cable
box.

Go To Page 11

10 Chapter 1

Connections & Setup

Set the VCR’s CH 3/4 Switch

The CH 3/4 switch on back of the VCR determines what channel the TV must be tuned to see
the VCR’s image. Choose whichever channel is not used locally in your area.

Note: If you connected components using A/V jacks and cables, the VCR’s signal must be
viewed using the TV’s Video Line Input. To find the Video Line Input, refer to the manual
that came with the TV or see How to Find Your TV’s Video Line Input on page 52 in the
Other Information section of this manual.

Plug in the VCR

Your VCR’s power cord has a plastic band strung through the blades. Remove the plastic band
before plugging the cord into the power outlet. To remove the band, cut with a pair of

scissors and pull it free of the blades. Once the plastic is removed, match the wide blade of the
power cord to the wide slot in the AC outlet. Be sure to insert the plug completely.

Put Batteries in the Remote Control

1. Remove the battery compartment cover on the remote control.

2. Insert new batteries matching the polarities (+ and –) on the batteries with
the diagram in the battery compartment.

3. Put the battery compartment cover back on the remote.

Turn on the TV and VCR

Turn on the TV and press the VCR button on the remote control to turn it on.

Note: If you have an RCA, GE, or Proscan TV, your VCR’s remote control
may be able to operate it without being programmed. Press the TV button
on the remote control and then the ON•OFF button. If neither one turns on
the TV, see Using the Remote Control starting on page 25 for details about
programming the remote control to operate other brands of TVs.

Tune the TV

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

• If you connect your VCR using RF coaxial cable only, turn the TV to
channel 3 or 4 (whichever was set on the CH 3/4 switch).

• If you connected the VCR using A/V jacks and cables, select the TV’s video
line input. For more information see How to Find the TV’s Video Line Input
on page 52 in the Other Information section of this manual.

Chapter 1 11

Connections & Setup

Using the Remote Control to Navigate On-Screen Menus

The technical term is “Navigation” – how you move through the on-screen menus. The theory is
the same for all the menu screens; use the corresponding number button on the remote control
select it.

To choose an on-screen item, press the remote control’s corresponding number button.

Note: Selecting a menu item can take you to another menu, activate a choice, or activate a
data entry field (such as the hour field in the Set Time menu).

Complete the QuickSet Guide

The menu system in your VCR allows you to customize your preferences as
well as use all the VCR’s features. To help you use the VCR as quickly as
possible, there is an initial QuickSet Guide that walks you through several
important setup steps at one time.

The first time you turn on the VCR, you will be able to set up available

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

1 English
2 Español
3 Français

channels, time and date information, and more. The first menu you will see
asks which language you prefer to have the on-screen menus appear in.

Note: With numbered menu choices, you can also press the corresponding
number button on the remote control to automatically select it. In the case
of the language menu, press 1 for English, 2 for Español (Spanish), or 3 for
Français (French).

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

0 Exit

All of the VCR’s menus are
accessed through the Main
Menu. Press the remote
control’s MENU button to
start.

The remaining menus throughout the setup will appear in the language chosen.
Just follow the step-by-step procedures until the QuickSet Guide is complete.

Accessing Menus

The series of preferences that are set in the QuickSet Guide can also be
handled individually using the VCR’s on-screen menu system. There are other
settings not covered in the initial setup that are also handled using the on­screen menus.

For example, if you decide to run the QuickSet Guide again, you can access the
Setup menu by pressing the remote control’s MENU button. Once the Main Menu
is displayed, press the 5 button to choose Setup. From there, you can start the
QuickSet Guide from the beginning.

All on-screen menus are accessed the same way, starting in the Main Menu
which is displayed by pressing the remote control’s MENU button.

Note: See chapter two, Using On-Screen Menus, for details about changing
the VCR’s individual settings.

12 Chapter 1

Connections & Setup

VCR Basics

Once your initial settings are complete, you can begin using your VCR. In order to begin, you
must first understand some basic concepts.

Playing a Tape

1. Tune the TV to your VCR viewing channel (03, 04, or the video line input).

2. Insert a tape in the VCR.

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

.

Automatic Tracking

The VCR has automatic tracking
which adjusts the picture when
playing back a tape recorded on
another VCR. To adjust tracking
manually, use the TRACKING -/+
buttons on the remote control.

• Press FWD or REV (FORWARD or REVERSE on the remote control) to cue

the tape at the desired starting position.

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

• Press PAUSE for stop action.

• Press TRACKING up or down (TRACKING + or – on the remote

control) to remove any streaks from the picture, if necessary.

• Press STOP to stop playback.

Automatic Rewind

The VCR automatically rewinds the tape if it reaches the end of the tape during
playback. While rewinding, you can press the ON•OFF button and the VCR will
turn off after finishing. If the tape has no safety tab, it will be ejected.

Safety Tab

Tape Eject

Press the EJECT button on the VCR when stopped to eject the tape. You can also
press and hold the remote control’s STOP button for three seconds.

Recording

To Capture Programming with Basic Recording Methods:

1. Set the tape speed by pressing the SPEED button on the remote control
(see Recording Speed on page 22 for information about recording speeds).

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

3. Press the STOP button to halt 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, make sure there is a tape in the VCR
with its safety tab in place. You cannot record on a tape with its safety tab
removed. If the safety tab is removed and you want to record, simply cover the
hole with adhesive tape.

Chapter 1 13

This page left blank intentionally

Using the VCR’s Menu System

Chapter Overview:

• Setting Up the VCR’s Preferences

• Using On-Screen Menus

• Cable Box Setup

Chapter 2

• Setting Time and Date

• Setting VCR Preferences

Changing Entertainment. Again.

15

Using On-Screen Menus

Using On-Screen Menus to Set Up Features

You set up many of the VCR’s features by using the menu system as discussed in the previous
section. Each feature that appears in the QuickSet Guide is explained in this section as well as a
few other features you should set up to get the most out of your VCR.

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

Language

Selecting your preferred language determines how the on-screen displays will
appear. To change the language:

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press the 7 button to select LANGUAGE.

LANGUAGE

Select a language.

1 English
2 Español
3 Français

Press MENU to continue

Is Something Missing?

These instructions will not show
all of the step-by-step on-screen
menus. Make sure to follow the
instructions completely to get
to the menus being discussed.

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

Cable Box Setup

This set up applies only when all channels are received through a cable box. In
this case, the VCR will automatically enter the channel used to view cable box
programming. Your VCR will use this channel for all future timer recordings.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search
2 Add/Remove Channels
3 Signal Type: CABLE
4 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

3. Press 5 to display the CABLE BOX SETUP menu.

16 Chapter 2

Using On-Screen Menus

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

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

--

Enter 01-13 or INPUT
Press MENU to cancel

4. Select one of the three choices. If “ALL Channels” is selected, enter the
output channel of the cable box (usually 03 or 04), or if A/V jacks connect
the VCR to the TV, press the INPUT button on the VCR’s remote control.

5. Once you complete the setup, the VCR confirms that it will now receive all
signals on the designated channel.

VCR Channels List

Your VCR may come with a list of channels preset at the factory. Even though it
may come with such a list, you may want to add or delete certain channels.

Note: If you use a cable box to view all channels, this step is not necessary.

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

What type of signal
are you using?

1 Cable TV
2 Antenna
3 Detect Automatically

0 Cancel

Auto Channel Searching

Note: Use Auto Channel Search to place all available channels in memory.

If you ever change cable or antenna signals, you may need to run the Auto
Channel Search feature again.

1. Press the MENU button to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to select CHANNELS.

3. Press 1 to select AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH.

4. Select one of the three options:

Cable TV searches for cable stations.

Antenna searches for local broadcast stations.

Detect Automatically decides which input to use for you.

Notes: With Detect Automatically, a strong cable or antenna signal in your
area may cause channels to be detected inaccurately. If this should happen,
manually select the input signal for the system you have.

The VCR begins scanning for channels available in the area (taking about
one-to-two minutes). When scanning is complete, the VCR tunes to the
lowest channel available. After completing Auto Channel Search, pressing
the remote control’s CHAN + or - buttons should only select active
channels.

Chapter 2 17

Using On-Screen Menus

Changing the Signal Type

This feature is useful if your cable signal goes out; it allows you to switch to a
regular antenna for alternate television reception.

1. Press the MENU button to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press the 4 button to choose CHANNELS.

CHANNELS

1 Auto Channel Search
2 Add/Remove Channels
3 Signal Type: CABLE
4 Cable Box Setup

0 Exit

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115
is presently ADDED

3. Press 3 to choose between Signal Type: Cable and Antenna. When
finished, press 0 to exit back to the Main Menu and 0 again to exit to
normal viewing.

Adding or Removing Channels

You might want to add or remove channels after using Auto Channel Search,
especially if there are weak signals or channels with content you don’t care for.

1. Press the MENU button to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to choose CHANNELS.

3. Press 2 to choose ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS. To go to the channel you
want to add or remove, use the remote control’s CHANNEL + or – buttons
or enter a specific channel number using the number buttons.

Once the desired channel is displayed, the on-screen menu will tell you if
the channel is currently in the VCR’s viewing list. Press the CLEAR button to
remove a channel from the available channels list or press the INFO button
to add it.

Press CLEAR to remove
Press MENU to exit

4. Once finished adding/deleting channels, press the MENU button to exit out
of the menus.

Note: To view active channels, use the remote control’s CHANNEL + and -
buttons. You can also access channels not available in the active channel
list by using the remote control’s number buttons to enter the specific
channel number.

18 Chapter 2

Using On-Screen Menus

Time and Date

Your VCR gives you two ways to set the time and date; manually or by using the Auto Clock Set
feature. Using Auto Clock Set enables the time to be updated each time the VCR is turned off by
using time and date information carried in certain broadcast signals.

Auto Clock Set Feature

The Auto Clock Set feature is set to ON by default at the factory. In the ON setting, the VCR
looks for a channel carrying time data and updates the clock automatically. In order for Auto
Clock Set to work properly though, certain steps must first be completed such as Auto Channel
Search, setting the time zone, and setting the Daylight-Saving feature.

Notes: Auto Clock Set is available only in limited areas.

You must set available channels, time zone, and Daylight-Saving settings for Auto Clock Set
to work.

When using Auto Clock Set with a cable box, the VCR will not reset the clock after a power
outage unless the cable box is tuned to the channel carrying time data.

If the time does not automatically set after trying for ten minutes, manually set the time
and date information using the TIME menu (see the next page for information on manually
setting time and date information).

TIME
1 Set Time and Date
2 Auto Clock Set: ON
3 Set Time Zone
4 Set Daylight Saving

Time Data was found
on channel 20.

0 Exit

SET TIME ZONE
What is your Time Zone?
1 Eastern
2 Central
3 Mountain
4 Pacific
5 Alaska
6 Hawaii
7 Automatic
Press MENU to continue

To Turn Auto Clock Set ON

Note: make sure that available channels, time zone, and Daylight-Saving
features are set before turning on Auto Clock Set.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to choose TIME.

3. Press the 2 button repeatedly to toggle between Auto Clock Set ON and OFF.

Setting the Time Zone

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to choose TIME.

3. Press 3 to chose SET TIME ZONE.

4. Select your time zone by pressing the corresponding number button.

If you select Automatic for your time zone, the VCR sets the clock using the
first time information it finds. If the time set is not correct, select another
time zone or set the time and date through the menu system.

Chapter 2 19

Using On-Screen Menus

Setting Daylight-Saving Time

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to choose TIME.

3. Press 4 to choose SET DAYLIGHT SAVING.

SET DAYLIGHT SAVING

Does your area observe
Daylight Saving Time
from April to October?

1 Yes, DST is observed
2 No
3>Automatic
Press MENU to continue

Displaying Time and Date

Pressing the INFO button on
the remote control or VCR
displays the time and date on
screen temporarily.

SET TIME AND DATE

Time --:-­ (hh:mm)

Date --/--/--

4. Select the appropriate option.

Notes: DST stands for Daylight–Saving Time.

If you choose Automatic for the time zone, the VCR sets the clock using any
DST information broadcast in the channel’s signal.

Setting Time and Date Manually

If Auto Clock Set was unsuccessful, set the time and date manually in the TIME
menu. Auto Clock Set is automatically turned off when time and date
information is set this way.

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 3 to choose TIME.

3. Press 1 to choose SET TIME AND DATE.

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

Press MENU to cancel

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

0 Exit

The PREFERENCES menu
allows changes to be made
to a variety of different VCR
features.

Additional Set Up Features in the Preferences Menu

Note: The features described on the following pages are all accessed
through the PREFERENCES menu.

To Access the PREFERENCES menu:

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 6 to select PREFERENCES.

You are now ready to select an item from the PREFERENCES menu to set up.

20 Chapter 2

Using On-Screen Menus

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option

Some universal remote controls have buttons labeled VCR1 and VCR2. These remotes can operate
up to two VCRs. If you have a universal remote control with this ability, your RCA VCR can be
controlled with either the VCR1 or VCR2 button. See the documentation that came with your
universal remote control for details about programming it to control your RCA VCR.

In the Preferences menu, press 1 to select the Remote Control feature. Then press the VCR2 button
on your universal remote control to change the setting.

The VCR will only respond to the universal remote control’s VCR2 button. To change the remote
control setting back to VCR1, display the PREFERENCES menu, press 1, and then press the VCR1
button on the universal remote control.

Note: Remember you must press VCR1 or VCR2 on a universal remote control (not included)

—whichever is selected in the menu—before the remote will operate the VCR.

Auto Play

With Auto Play turned ON (the factory default setting), the VCR automatically starts playback
when you insert a tape with its safety tab removed.

To Access Auto Play:

1. In the PREFERENCES menu, press 2 repeatedly to switch between Auto Play: ON and OFF.

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

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

Auto TV/VCR

To control whether the VCR’s TV/VCR setting changes automatically to VCR-viewing mode
when turned on, use the Auto TV/VCR setting.

To Access Auto TV/VCR:

1. In the PREFERENCES menu, press 3 to repeatedly to toggle between Auto TV/VCR: ON and
OFF.

Note: Pressing the TV•VCR button on the remote control will switch between VCR and TV-
viewing modes. When in VCR-viewing mode, VCR is displayed on the front panel. The VCR
indicator turns off when in TV-viewing mode.

• Select ON to switch VCR-viewing mode on automatically when the power is turned on.

The VCR must be connected to the TV using the supplied RF coaxial cable.

• Select OFF to remain in the TV-viewing mode when the VCR is initially turned on.

Leaving Auto TV/VCR off is useful if you use A/V cables to connect the VCR to the TV
and you watch the VCR’s picture using the TV’s video line input. This way, the antenna/
cable signal will not be interrupted by the VCR.

Chapter 2 21

Using On-Screen Menus

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

0 Exit

The PREFERENCES menu
allows changes to be made
to a variety of different VCR
features.

EnergySaver

By default, the VCR automatically turns off after two hours of inactivity. This can
be changed in the PREFERENCES menu by pressing the 4 button repeatedly to
change the time delay or to disable the feature altogether.

• Select OFF and the VCR will stay on until you shut it off.

• Select 1:00, 2:00, or 3:00 and the VCR will turn off after one, two, or three
hours of inactivity.

Thirty seconds before automatically shutting off, the VCR displays an on-screen
message reading, The VCR will turn off in 30 seconds. Press any key to cancel.
Pressing any remote control or VCR front panel button will halt the countdown.

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

Front Panel Brightness (VCR Display)

You can change the brightness level of the VCR’s front panel display. In the
PREFERENCES menu, press the 5 button repeatedly to toggle between options:

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

• BRIGHT keeps the display bright whether the VCR is on or off.

Recording Speeds

SP (Standard Play)
Gives the best quality recording,
but fewer programs can be
recorded on the tape.

SLP (Super Long Play)
Gives three times the recording
time of tapes recorded in SP
mode.

Recording Times

Cassette SP SLP

T-120 2 Hr 6 Hr

T-160 2 Hr/40 Min 8 Hr

• DIM keeps the display at a low brightness level whether the VCR is on or
off.

Tape Speed

You can choose a preferred tape speed for recording; either Standard Play (SP)
or Super Long Play (SLP). The speed selected appears in the VCR’s display panel
and in timer and VCR Plus+ recording menus.

To Select a Preferred Tape Speed:

• In the PREFERENCES menu, press the 6 button repeatedly to switch between
SP and SLP settings.

Note: For an explanation of recording speeds, see the note to the left.

To Override the Preferred Tape Speed:

• Press the SPEED button on the remote control.

• 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
as the default.

22 Chapter 2

Using On-Screen Menus

AUTO REPEAT

Set the length of time
you want the tape to
play in a repeating loop

Loop from 0:00 to
(h:mm)
Press CLEAR to turn off
Press MENU to exit

-:--

Set Auto Repeat

A tape can be set to play the same segment over and over in a repeating loop
with the Set Auto Repeat feature. Set Auto Repeat uses the VCR’s memory
counter to determine the duration of the loop.

In the PREFERENCES menu, press the 7 button to choose Set Auto Repeat. The
Set Auto Repeat menu will ask for a loop end time to be specified:

• The CLEAR button will erase all three numbers entered and move the cursor
back to the first position (hours).

• The Press CLEAR to turn off message will appear only after the first number
has been entered into the end time.

• Auto Repeat is set back to -:-- by resetting the dialog box, ejecting a tape,
powering off the VCR, power interruption, or by recording start.

When a duration time has been set:

• The VCR will automatically switch to rewind if the counter meets or goes
past the set Auto Repeat duration.

• The VCR will automatically switch to playback during rewind if the counter
equals or is less than 0:00.

• The Auto Repeat may be adjusted by setting the counter to 00:00. This can
be done by pressing the CLEAR button while the tape counter is on screen
or on the front panel display.

• The counter will not reset while rewinding in an Auto Repeat loop.

Chapter 2 23

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Chapter 3

Using the Remote Control

Chapter Overview:

• Buttons on the Remote Control

• Programming the Remote Control to Operate Other TVs

• Using a Programmed Remote Control

Changing Entertainment. Again.

25

Using the Remote Control

Using the Remote Control

The remote control is capable of controlling more than just your VCR. If you have
compatible RCA, GE, or Proscan TV, you may be able to control it without having
to program the remote. If you have another brand of TV, your VCR’s remote
control may be able to operate it once it has been programmed. This chapter
offers details about programming the remote control and operating TVs.

ON•OFF

REVERSE

RECORD

INFO

L

O

V

MUTE

CLEAR MENU

1

4

7

2

5

8

U

P

T

N

I

0

TRACKING

TV

VCR

PLAY FORWARD

STOP PAUSE

A

H

N

C

C

SEARCH

V

O

L

GO BACK

N

H

A

SPEED

3

6

9

V

C

•

R

V

T

F.A DV

In order for the VCR’s remote control to operate a desired TV, you must first
press the TV button on the remote control. To control the VCR, press the VCR
button on the remote control. Pressing any remote control button will affect
either the VCR or the TV, depending on which is the active device the remote
control is set to operate.

Buttons of the Remote Control

0-9 (Number buttons) Enter channel numbers, time settings, and on-screen
display menu choices directly using the remote control.

To enter a two-digit channel, press the two digits. To enter a three-digit channel,
press and hold the first digit for two seconds until two dashes appear to the right
of the number, then add the second two. Example: to tune to channel 123, press
and hold the 1 button for two seconds, then, when the dashes appear (--) press 2,
then press 3.

CHAN (up and down) buttons Scan up or down through the VCR’s stored
channels. Press once to change the channel up or down; press and hold to
continue changing channels.

CLEAR Removes any menu or information display from the screen and returns
the display view to normal. This button also resets the counter to 00:00 when the
counter is displayed on-screen.

FORWARD Advances the tape in the VCR forward. In Play mode, the FORWARD
button starts forward playback. In Stop mode, the FORWARD button starts fast­forwarding.

F. ADV (Frame Advance) Advances the tape one frame at a time during play­pause mode.

GO BACK Depending on which component the remote control is set to operate,
this button returns the TV or VCR to the previously viewed channel.

INFO Shows the VCR’s status displays on the TV screen. Press the INFO button
once to display the day, date, time, and tape counter. Press the INFO button a
second time to display just the tape counter. Press the INFO button a third time to
clear the displays.

26 Chapter 3

Using the Remote Control

INPUT Selects between the video line inputs and the VCR’s tuner. Video line input refers to
the signal coming from another component (such as a camcorder) connected to the A/V input
jacks on the back or front of the VCR. L1 designates the rear A/V jacks and L2 denotes the front
jacks.

MENU Displays the VCR MAIN MENU. This is the first step when accessing any on-screen
menu such as LANGUAGE, PREFERENCES, TIMER RECORDINGS, etc.

MUTE Lowers the TV volume to its minimum level. Press the MUTE button again to restore
the TV’s volume to its previous level.

ON•OFF Turns the power of the active device (either the TV or VCR) on or off.

PAUSE Pauses playback in VCR mode.

PLAY Starts tape playback in VCR mode.

RECORD Starts and stops recording in VCR mode.

REVERSE Rewinds a tape. In Playback mode, pressing and holding REVERSE starts reverse

playback. In Stop mode, pressing REVERSE fast-rewinds.

SEARCH Displays Index and Go-To Search menus on-screen. Press this button once to display
the Index Search menu and a second time to display the Go-To Search menu.

SPEED Overrides the set recording speed (either SP or SLP).

STOP Stops the active function of the VCR including tape playback, rewinding, and fast-

forwarding. Pressing the STOP button for several seconds also ejects an inserted tape.

TRACKING up and down Allows the manual reduction of streaks which may appear on the
picture during regular or slow-motion playback. Reduces picture “jitter” during play-pause
mode.

TV Puts the remote control in TV-operating mode. This button will automatically turn on most
RCA, GE, and Proscan TVs.

TV/VCR Toggles the VCR between TV and VCR-viewing modes.

VCR Puts the remote control in VCR-operating mode.

VOL (up and down) buttons Decreases or increases the TV volume.

Using the INPUT Button

Use the INPUT button to toggle through the available video line input sources (L1, L2, and
regular broadcasting signals) and regular broadcast signals. Video line input allows you to view
the image from a connected device (like a camcorder) through the VCR.

1. Press the remote control’s VCR button to place the remote control in VCR-controlling mode.
Make sure that the VCR is turned ON.

2. Press the remote control’s INPUT button to tune to the video line input source. L1
represents the rear A/V jacks and L2 represents the front A/V jacks.

3. Press the INPUT button again to tune back to the broadcast signal you were previously
watching through the VCR.

Chapter 3 27

Using the Remote Control

Operating a TV with the VCR’s Remote Control

The unified remote control that came with your VCR can be programmed to operate most brands
of remote-controllable TVs and should already control most RCA, GE, and Proscan models without
programming.

Do You Need to Program the Remote?

To determine whether the remote control needs to be programmed to operate your TV, turn the TV
on, point the remote control at it, then press the remote control’s TV button (this puts the remote
control into TV operating mode and should automatically turn on most RCA, GE, and Proscan TVs).
Press the remote control’s ON•OFF button to see if the TV responds to the command. If not, the
remote control needs to be programmed to control that model TV.

Programming the Remote Control

To program your remote control, you must use the code list on the next page to look up the brand
name of your TV and the code(s) that brand uses.

Notes: This remote control may not operate all models of the brands that are shown in the
code list.

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

1. Turn on the TV.

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

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

4. Enter the code from the code list.

5. Release the TV button, then press the CHAN up or down button. If the TV responds to the
remote control’s command, the remote is programmed.

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

Operating the TV

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

1. Point the remote control at the TV, and press the TV button. If the TV does not turn on, press the
TV button and then press the ON •OFF button.

2. You may want to experiment to see which buttons operate your TV. Try pressing buttons, such
as VOL and MUTE. See the button descriptions in this chapter for details about what each
remote control button does.

28 Chapter 2

Using the Remote Control

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

Chapter 2 29

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Chapter 4

Using the VCR’s Features

Chapter Overview:

• Recording

• Express Recording (XPR)

• Timer Recordings

• Using the VCR Plus+ SILVER System

• Copying and Editing Tapes

Changing Entertainment. Again.

31

VCR Features

Recording Features

Your VCR provides many ways to capture programming:

1. Recording lets you press one button to record a program.

2. Express Recording (XPR) allows recording to start while a program is being watched.
This feature automatically stops recording after a designated period of time.

3. Timer Recording program the VCR for a daily, weekly, or one-time recording which will
automatically start and stop at the times you set.

4. Timer Recording with VCR Plus+ System program the VCR by entering a PlusCode
programming number found in most TV program listings.

Express Recording (XPR)

Use XPR to quickly record the remaining portion of a program being watched. XPR is a great
way to capture the end of a sporting event that has run into overtime or a live broadcast that
runs long.

XPR works in 30-minute increments. You can capture the last 30, 60, 90, etc. minutes of
programming (providing on tape length), up to four hours total.

Rec Ch 36
Record Length 0:00

Rec Ch 36
Record Length 1:30

Press REC to set length

Press REC to set length

To Activate XPR:

1. If necessary, turn on the VCR and tune it to the channel with the desired
programming.

2. If necessary, insert a tape with its safety tab in place into the VCR. Make
sure it is cued to record at the proper starting point.

Note: To override the preferred tape speed setting, press the SPEED button
on the remote control repeatedly to toggle between SP and SLP choices.

3. Press the RECORD button on the remote control or VCR front panel to start
recording.

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

• Each press of the RECORD button adds 30 minutes of recording time.

• The VCR automatically turns off after recording for the set time.

• To stop an XPR recording, press and hold the STOP button on the

remote control or VCR front panel for several seconds until STOP
appears on the VCR on-screen display.

32 Chapter 4

VCR Features

Timer Recording

You can program up to eight different broadcasts to be recorded.

TIMER RECORDINGS

1 Create a New Program
2 Review Existing Progs.

How often should this
program record?

0 Exit

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

Program 1 has been saved

0 Cancel

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

Remember to leave your
cable box on.

Notes– In order for a timer recording to work:

• The VCR’s clock must be set correctly.

• Insert a tape with its safety tab in place and enough tape to record

the program.

• The output of your cable box appears in the channel item of the Timer

Recording menu (if you’ve set up the VCR for a cable box for all

channels).

• PROGRAMS OVERLAP appears if two programs whose times overlap

are entered.

appears in the display when you turn off the VCR and a timer

•

recording has been set. flashes if there is no tape in the VCR.

• For a cable box or satellite receiver, turn it on and tune it to the

channel you want to record before the recording is to begin.

To Set Up to as Many as Eight Timer Recording Programs:

1. Press the MENU button to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press the 2 button to choose TIMER RECORDINGS.

3. Press the 1 button to select Create a New Program.

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

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

The data includes the channel number (press INPUT to select the video line
input if using A/V jacks to connect the VCR to the TV), and start and end
times (including AM or PM). The start date is automatically entered based
on the VCR clock. Both the recording date and speed can be changed.

6. Review the information to make sure it is correct.

7. Press the MENU button to save.

Stopping a Timer Recording

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

Press and hold the STOP button for several seconds until STOP appears on
screen.

Program 1 (One time)

Channel 104 Cable
Start Time 12:00 AM
End Time 01:30 AM
Start Date 11/16/00 Thu
Tape Speed SLP

Press CLEAR to erase
Press MENU for next prog

Chapter 4 33

Reviewing and Clearing Programs

To review programs that you have already set up:

1. Press the 2 button when the VCR MAIN MENU is on-screen to choose
TIMER RECORDINGS.

2. Press the 2 button to choose Review Existing Progs.

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

VCR Features

VCR Plus+ SILVER System

The VCR Plus+ SILVER system makes VCR set up easier by setting and updating the clock and
channel list for you automatically. During the first-time QuickSet Guide setup, the VCR prompts
you to enter your zip code. Soon after, the VCR clock will set itself and your VCR Plus+ system
channel list will be input for you.

Time, date, and VCR Plus+ system information are downloaded from participating TV stations
over your antenna or cable system. Time and date information are updated each time the VCR is
turned off (and after every power interruption). So, when your TV stations or cable company
update their lineups, your VCR will get the most current channel list automatically, freeing you
from having to manually change the channel list yourself.

If your VCR Plus+ SILVER system fails to download the proper information for any reason, you
can always manually map the channels. You can also turn off AUTO VCR Plus+ if you keep
getting prompts about multiple cable services by pressing the 2 button in the VCR Plus+ SETUP
menu.

VCR PLUS+ SETUP

Last automatic setup
was unsuccessful.
Would you like to:

1 Try again
2 Finish setup manually
3 Cancel the auto setup

VCR PLUS+ SETUP

1 Set channel lists
2 Auto VCR Plus+: ON

VCR Plus+ data was not
found.

Turning ON or OFF the Auto VCR Plus+ download

If the automatic VCR Plus+ download continuously fails for any reason, you will
see the prompt to the left.

If you decide to turn off Auto VCR Plus+ all together, you can do this by:

1. Press the MENU button on the remote control to access the VCR MAIN

MENU.

2. Press 4 to access the CHANNELS menu.

3. Press 4 to access the VCR Plus+ Setup menu.

4. Pressing 1 will take you to a screen to manually map VCR Plus+ channels.
Pressing 2 will toggle between Auto VCR Plus+: ON and OFF.

Make sure this feature is turned off if you continually get fail to download
prompts and map the channels manually.

34 Chapter 4

VCR Features

Mapping VCR Plus+ Channels Manually

Using the VCR Plus+ SILVER system can make taping timer recordings for cable or
off-air antenna easier. If your VCR Plus+ SILVER system setup failed during the
QuickSet, then you will need to map the channels for your local service manually. A
worksheet and abbreviated codes for typical cable services in the U.S. and Canada
are provided.

1. Press the MENU button to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press the 4 button to choose CHANNELS.

3. Press the 4 button to choose VCR Plus+ Setup.

VCR PLUS+ SETUP

1 Set channel lists
2 Auto VCR Plus+: ON

VCR Plus+ data was not
found.

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

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

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 shown is for an example only.)

4. Press 1 to display the Set Channel Lists menu.

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

Chapter 4 35

VCR Features

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ System

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

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ System

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.

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

36 Chapter 4

VCR Plus+ System Worksheet

VCR Features

Broadcast or

Cable-TV

Station Name

VCR Plus+ System

Channel Number**

HBO 33

ESPN 34

Channel Number

You Receive the

Station On*

*Check your local or cable listings for the channel number you receive this station on.
**Check your local listings for broadcast or VCR Plus+ channel number assigned.

Chapter 4 37

VCR Features

Copying and Editing Tapes Using Two VCRs

Caution:

The unauthorized recording of
satellite broadcasts, television
programs, or other copyrighted
materials may infringe the rights
of others.

CABLE BOX or ANTENNA

IN

OUT

PLAYBACK
VCR

AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO

RECORDING
VCR

AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO

ANT. IN

IN

RF OUT

CH

3 4

ANT. IN

IN

RF OUT

CH

3 4

TO TV

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 03, 04, or the video line
input).

3. If you connected the VCR using the RF coaxial cable jacks, tune the
recording VCR to channel 03 or 04 (whichever is selected on the playback
VCR’s CH. 3/4 switch on the back panel).

If you have connected your VCR using the A/V jacks, press the INPUT
button on the recording VCR’s remote control to select the video line input.
Select L1 for the jacks on the back of the VCR or L2 if using the jacks on
the front.

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

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

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

7. Press the 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 the PAUSE button on the recording VCR to pause copying.

• Locate the next segment you want to copy on the playback VCR by

using the FWD, REV, and PLAY buttons, and then cue using the PAUSE
button.

• Press the PAUSE button on both VCRs at the same time to resume

copying.

9. Press the STOP button on both VCRs when finished.

Insert Tape:

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

Picture Search Options

The most basic way to search during playback is using the FORWARD or
REVERSE buttons (FWD and REV on the VCR). This section contains several
other options available for searching a tape.

Forward and Reverse Search

You can search a tape during playback. Sound is turned off during picture
search.

1. Press the FORWARD button (FWD on the VCR) to search forward or the
REVERSE button (REV on the VCR) to search backward.

2. Press the FORWARD (FWD), REVERSE (REV), or PLAY button to return to
normal playback.

38 Chapter 4

VCR Features

Slow Motion

You can view a tape during play or play-pause mode using slow motion.

1. In pause mode, press the FORWARD or REVERSE button to start slow-motion playback.

2. Press the FORWARD button to increase search speed or the REVERSE button to decrease
search speed.

3. Use the TRACKING + or – buttons to remove any streaks from the picture.

4. Press the PLAY button to return to normal playback.

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

Frame Advance

Frame Advance lets you view stop-action one frame after another during playback.

To Start Frame Advance:

1. Press the PAUSE button on the remote (PLAY/PAUSE on the VCR) to freeze the action.

2. Press F. ADV on the remote control each time you want to view the next frame of the scene.

3. Press the PAUSE or PLAY button on the remote control (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 STOP.

INDEX SEARCH

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

Press SEARCH to exit

INDEX SEARCH

Searching for
index number 12...

2. Press SEARCH on the remote to display the INDEX SEARCH screen on the
TV screen.

3. If you want to search through 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.

Press STOP to cancel

Continues on the Next Page

Chapter 4 39

VCR Features

INDEX SEARCH

Searching for
index marks...

Press STOP to cancel

GO-TO SEARCH

Current tape counter is
2:17:25

Press REV or FWD
to go to -:--:00

Press SEARCH to exit

4. Press FORWARD (FWD) to search forward or REVERSE (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.

5. Press STOP to stop Index Searching.

Notes: Certain index marks may be missed by the VCR including:

• Marks too close to the current location of the tape.

• Marks at the beginning of a recording lasting five minutes or less.

• Index marks that start at the beginning of the tape.

Go-To Search

The Go-To Search feature enables the VCR to quickly locate a counter reading
anywhere on the tape. When the VCR locates the counter reading, it will begin
playback.

1. Press the STOP button.

2. Repeatedly press the SEARCH button on the remote control until the
GO-TO SEARCH menu appears on the screen.

3. Use the number buttons to enter the hour and/or minute of the counter
reading you want the VCR to go to. If necessary, press the CLEAR button on
the remote control to correct an entry.

4. Press the FORWARD button to search ahead or the REVERSE button to
search behind.

5. Press the STOP button to end a Go-To Search.

Pro-Tect Plus™ Locking Feature

To protect set timer recordings and disable the VCR for use, the unit can be
locked so that the buttons on the front panel or remote control don’t work.

• To Lock: Press and hold either the remote control’s ON•OFF or VCR
button until the front panel display flashes.

• To Unlock: Press and hold either the remote control’s ON•OFF or VCR
button until the front panel display flashes for several seconds. Unlocking is
the only way to turn on and use the VCR.

40 Chapter 4

VCR Features

Tracking

Your VCR has automatic tracking which removes streaks and “noise” 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. Use the
TRACKING –/+ buttons to remove streaks and noise. You can also use tracking when pausing a
tape to reduce the noise of the stilled picture.

When manually adjusting the picture, automatic tracking is turned off. To turn automatic tracking
back on, eject the tape and reinsert it.

Tracking has no effect when recording– only during playback.

Time Counter

The time counter shows the actual time used in recording or playing back a
tape. The time counter helps locate the beginning or end of recorded events. It
resets to 0:00:00 whenever a tape is ejected from the VCR.

For example, if you record a 30–minute program at the beginning of a tape,

Hours

0:30:00

Minutes

Seconds

rewind it, and then want to go to the end of the first program to start another
recording:

1. Press the INFO button twice to display only the time counter.

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

3. Press the FORWARD button (FWD on the VCR) to advance a tape until the
time counter reads 0:30:00.

4. Press STOP. This is the approximate end of a 30-minute program (you may
want to press PLAY to verify). When the tape is cued correctly, you can
begin recording.

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

Chapter 4 41

VCR Features

1

Stop Ch 05 0:30:00

11/18/00 Sat 01:30PM SLP

On-screen display (times out)

2

0:30:00

Time counter only (does not
time out)

On-Screen Displays

The INFO button displays the status of the VCR (Stop, Play Record, etc.) as well
as the channel number, time counter position, date, time, and tape speed on the
TV screen.

Note: The date and time must be set before they can be displayed.

1. Press the INFO button to show the on-screen displays. The current time is
displayed in the VCR’s front panel.

2. Press INFO again to have only the time counter remain on the screen. The
time counter is also displayed in the VCR’s front panel.

3. Press INFO again to have no displays appear on the TV screen.

4. Press INFO again to return to the normal display. The current time is
displayed in the VCR’s display panel.

Note: Turning off the VCR also resets the displays.

3

No displays will appear
(useful for dubbing)

42 Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Other Information

Chapter Overview:

• Troubleshooting

• Specifications

• Care and Cleaning

• Front, Rear, and Display Panel Diagram

• Warranty Information

• Finding the TV’s Video Line Input

• Glossary

• Index

Changing Entertainment. Again.

43

Other Information

Troubleshooting Tips

In this section, you will find answers to common recording, playback, and general VCR questions. Consulting
with this section first when there is problem may help you answer common questions.

General VCR Problems

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.

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.

Rewind does not operate

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

Clock shows incorrect time or date

• Power interruption.

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

• Check Daylight-Saving setting. Clock may have adjusted for daylight-saving.

• Time did not adjust for Daylight-Saving time

• Check to make sure daylight-saving feature is set correctly.

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.

Cannot select channels over 69

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

Timer ( ) indicator flashes

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

On-screen menus appear in English, French, or Spanish

• Check LANGUAGE feature.

44 Chapter 5

Other Information

Recording Problems

Will not record

• 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 to return to normal playback.

• Check the Pro-Tect Plus™ feature.

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

• Check to make sure the correct PlusCode programming number is entered.

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

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

• 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.

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.

Playback Problems

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 CH. 3/4 switch on the
back of the VCR.

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

• Check video cable connections between VCR and TV monitor.

• Check to make sure the TV monitor is set to Video Input
(see “How to Find Your TV’s Video Input Channel” in this section of the manual for detailed information).

• 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.

Chapter 5 45

Other Information

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.

• The time counter disappears during search; this is normal.

Will not 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 to return to normal
playback.

• Check the Pro-Tect Plus™ feature.

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,
try using either CABLE TV or ANTENNA instead.

• May not be necessary if using a cable box for all channels. Contact your local cable company for
more information.

Tape plays back in slow motion

• Press PLAY to return to normal playback.

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.

Time counter disappears during searching

• This is normal.

46 Chapter 5

Specifications

Format: VHS

Record/Playback Video: 4-head
System: Audio: VHS Mono record/playback system

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: 17 watts (standby < 3 watts)

Dimensions: 3.64 inches high (91 mm)

14.4 inches wide (360 mm)

9.56 inches deep (239 mm)

Other Information

Weight: 6.4 pounds (2.9 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 VCR and all connected
components.

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.

Chapter 5 47

Other Information

.

Front Panel

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

FWD Fast-forwards the tape when the VCR is in stop mode. Searches the picture forward during
playback. Starts slow motion playback during play-pause mode and increases slow-motion speed.

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

POWER Turns the VCR on or off.

RECORD Starts VCR recording. Used for Express Recording.

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

playback. Starts slow motion during play-pause and decreases slow-motion speed.

STOP•EJECT A single press of this button stops normal VCR functions such as record, playback,
rewind, fast-forward, or pause. If pressed a second time, this button ejects the loaded tape.

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

48 Chapter 5

Other Information

VCR

AM

Display Panel

Clock/Counter Displays current time, time counter, tape speed, or channel numbers when switching
channels.

FUNCTION DISPLAYS:

dn & Ld (Down and Load) Front panel display alternates between these two words when time data is

being downloaded.

REC (Recording indicator) The VCR is recording. REC flashes on the front panel display when a recording is
paused.

(Timer indicator) Displayed when an Express Recording (XPR) or timer recording is under way or when
the VCR is set for a timer recording and the power is turned OFF. TIMER flashes on the VCR front panel when a
timer recording is set and no tape is inserted in the VCR.

VCR indicator Indicates that the VCR is in VCR-display mode. Press the TV•VCR button to toggle between VCR and TV viewing modes.

• VCR indicator is ON when the picture displayed is from the VCR’s tuner.

• VCR indicator is OFF when the picture displayed is from the TV’s tuner.

Chapter 5 49

Other Information

CH

3 4

ANT. IN

RF OUT

AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO

IN

Back Panel

ANT. IN jack Receives an antenna or cable system signal when the VCR is attached using RF
coaxial cables.

AUDIO and VIDEO IN jacks Receives signals from another component (such as a VCR or
camcorder) when connected to these jacks. Use the INPUT button on the VCR or remote control to
select the video line input (L1) and record from these jacks.

AUDIO and VIDEO OUT jacks Sends signals from the VCR to another component (like a TV or
VCR), when connected to these jacks.

CH. 3/4 switch Determines the channel which the TV must be tuned to in order to see the
VCR’s picture. Not used when connecting the VCR to the TV using Audio/Video cables.

RF OUT jack Passes the VCR’s signal to the TV using the supplied RF coaxial cable.

50 Chapter 5

Other Information

RCA VCR Limited Warranty

What your warranty covers:

• Any defect in materials or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• 90 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 of 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 U.S.A.

• Acts of nature, 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 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 unit outside the United States:

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

Service calls which do not involve defective materials or workmanship are not covered by
this warranty. Costs of such service calls are the sole responsibility of the purchaser.

Chapter 5 51

Other Information

TV Button

How to Find the TV’s Video
Line Input

You need to tune your TV to the video line input if you are using the
VCR’s Audio/Video (A/V) OUT jacks to connect to the TV’s A/V input
jacks. You must select the TV’s video line input before you can see the
VCR’s menus, the cable/antenna reception, and the content that’s on a
tape.

INPUT
Button

ON•OFF

REVERSE

RECORD

INFO

L

O

V

MUTE

CLEAR MENU

1

4

7

2

5

8

U

P

T

N

I

0

TRACKING

TV

VCR

PLAY FORWARD

STOP PAUSE

A

H

N

C

C

SEARCH

V

O

L

GO BACK

N

H

A

SPEED

3

6

9

V

C

•

R

V

T

F.A DV

The video line input for TVs varies by brand and model. Below are some
steps to try to find your TV’s video line input:

• If your TV brand is RCA, GE, or Proscan, press the TV button on the
VCR’s remote control, then press the INPUT button.

• If you have another brand of TV, see the chapter Using the Remote
Control to see if the VCR’s remote can be programmed to control your
TV. If so, once completed, follow the step above.

If those options do not work, try the following ideas. You might access the
video line input by:

• Pressing a button on the TV’s remote control (see the table below).

• Selecting a specific channel from the TV’s on-screen menu system (see
the table below).

• Tuning directly to the video line input by selecting a specific channel
number (see the table below)

• Going through all available channels by pressing the channel up or
down buttons on the TV or its remote control.

Common Video Line Input scenarios:

Video Input Channel Variations

Button/Switch Button on the Channel
on the TV TV Remote Number

VIDEO VID 1 00
SIGNAL LINE 90
VID 1 VID 91
VID 2 VIDEO 92
S-VID S-VID 93
S-VIDEO INPUT VID 1

S-VIDEO VID 2
SOURCE
AUX

52 Chapter 5

Other Information

Advanced Connection

TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver

– Cables: A/V and RF Coaxial

Note: Your satellite receiver and television back panels may not look exactly like the models
shown here. This connection can also be used for a cable box.

1. Connect the VCR to the TV

A. Connect one end of the supplied RF

coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on
the back of the VCR and the other end
to the TV’s antenna input jack.

B. Connect the A/V cables. Connect an

audio cable to the VCR’s Audio OUT
jack and the other end to the TV’s
corresponding audio input jack (if your
TV has more than one audio input jack,
use the L channel jack to make the
connection). Connect one end of the
video cable to the VCR’s VIDEO OUT
jack, and the other end to the TV’s
video input jack.

2. Connect the satellite receiver to the
VCR

A. Connect one end of a second RF

coaxial cable (not included) to the
VCR’s ANT. IN jack. Connect the other
end to the satellite receiver’s antenna
output jack.

B. Connect the A/V cables. Connect an

audio cable to the VCR’s Audio IN jack
and the other end to the satellite
receiver’s audio output jack (if your
satellite receiver has more than one
audio out jack, use the L channel jack
to make the connection). Connect one
end of the video cable to the VCR’s
VIDEO IN jack, and the other end to
the receiver’s video output jack.

TV

VCR

Satellite

TV

VCR

SATELLITE
RECEIVER

VIDEO

OUT

VIDEO

L

R

1B

R

AUDIO

2B

S-VIDEO

L / MONO

L

AUDIO

OUT

VIDEO

IN FROM ANT

OUT TO TV

IN

OUT

S-VIDEO

IN

CABLE/
ANTENNA

ANT. IN

RF OUT

CH

3 4

2A

SA TELLITE

IN

3

From Cable
or TV Antenna

1A

CH3
CH4

4

From
Satellite

3. Connect a TV antenna or cable feed to the satellite receiver

If you have cable or a standard TV antenna, connect its RF coaxial cable (not included) to the
antenna input jack on the satellite receiver.

4. Connect the satellite antenna’s cable to the satellite receiver

Connect the satellite antenna’s RF coaxial cable feed (not included) to the receiver’s satellite
input jack.

Chapter 5 53

Other Information

Glossary

A/V Jacks & Cables Commonly called “RCA-type” cables. Improves
picture and sound quality over RF Coaxial cables.

EnergySaver Automatically turns the VCR off after a user-defined
period of inactivity.

Express Recording (XPR) A method of timer recording which tapes
for a set period of time using 30-minute increments.

Pro-Tect Plus™ Allows the VCR to be disabled so that the front panel
and remote control buttons don’t work. Useful for protecting timer
recordings.

QuickSet Guide An first-time use, interactive, menu-based system that
walks you through several setup steps in a series of questions. The
QuickSet Guide is also available in the VCR’s Main Menu.

VCR Channels List The active list of channels available to the VCR
using the CHANNEL +/- buttons.

XPR See Express Recording above.

54 Chapter 5

Index

Index

A

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS screen

18
AUDIO IN jacks 53
Audio/Video (A/V) jacks 17, 50
Auto channel search 17
Auto clock feature 19
Auto play feature 13, 21
Auto TV/VCR feature 21
Automatic rewind 13
Automatic tracking 13, 41

B

Back panel jacks 50
Basic

connections 8
Basic recording 13
Batteries for the remote 11

E

EJECT button 13
EnergySaver feature 22
Express Recording (XPR) 1, 32

F

F. ADV button 39
FORWARD button

13, 26, 38, 40, 41
Frame advance 39
Front panel controls 48
FWD button 38, 40, 41, 48

G

GO BACK button 26

I

O

ON•OFF button 40
On-screen displays 42
Overheating 6

P

PAUSE button 13, 27, 38, 39
Picture search options 38
PLAY button 13, 27, 38
PLAY/PAUSE button 39
POWER button 13
Power surges 6
PREFERENCES menu 20
Pro-Tect Plus locking feature 40

Q

QuickSet guide 16

C

Cable box setup 16
Cables

positioning 6
CHANNEL buttons 17, 26, 48
Channels, adding/removing 18
CHANNELS menu 16, 18, 35
CLEAR button 26, 39, 41
Clock display 49
Connections 8
Controls

back panel 50

front panel 48
Copying and editing tapes 38

D

Date and time setting 19
Design specifications 47
Display panel 49
Displays, on screen 42

Index search 39
Indicators in display panel 49
INFO button 41
INPUT button 33, 38, 52

L

L1 indicator 38
L2 indicator 38
LANGUAGE menu 16
Locking feature 40

M

MENU button 16, 33, 35
MUTE button 27

N

Number buttons 20, 26

R

REC display 49
RECORD button 13, 32, 48
Recording

basic 13
copying and editing tapes 38
Express (XPR) 1, 32
speeds 22, 24

timer 33
Remote, batteries 11
Removing/adding channels 18
REV button 38, 48
REVERSE button 13, 27, 38, 40
Reviewing timer programs 33
Rewind, automatic 13

S

Safety tab 13, 21
Search

forward 38

reverse 38

Chapter 5 55

Index

SEARCH button 39
Set up

auto play feature 21
auto TV/VCR feature 21
cable box 16
Daylight-saving 20
front panel 22
language feature 16
PREFERENCES menu 20
tape speed feature 22
time and date 19
time zone 19
using menu system 16

Signal type

changing 18

selecting 18
Slow motion 39
Specifications 47
Speed

SLP 22

SP 22
SPEED button 13, 22, 32
Speeds, recording 22
STOP button 13, 27, 32, 38, 48

TRACKING buttons

13, 27, 39, 41, 48
Troubleshooting 44
TV button 27, 52
TV•VCR button 21
TV’s video input channel 52

V

VCR

connecting 8
VCR indicator 49
VCR MAIN MENU 16, 19, 33
VCR Plus+ System

channel list (Canada) 36

channel worksheet 37
VCR viewing channel 11, 13
VOL+ button 27
VOL- button 27

T

Tab, safety 13
Tape eject 13
Tape speeds 22
Time and date 19
Time counter 41
TIME menu 19
Time setting

Daylight-saving 20
set time zone 19

Timer programs

clearing 33
reviewing 33

Timer recording 33

stopping 33
Tips, troubleshooting 44
Tracking 41

56 Chapter 5

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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.

Thomson multimedia Inc.

10330 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290

©2001 Thomson multimedia Inc.
Trademark(s)® Registered
Marca(s) Registrada(s)

Printed in Korea

TOCOM 1570823B