RCA VR615HF User Manual

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video cassette recorder

user's guide

VR615HF

Page 2

Important Information

WARNING

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.

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

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

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

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

WARNING

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

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

Product Registration

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

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

Model No. VR615HF Serial No. Purchase Date: Dealer/Address/Phone:

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

Setting up the VCR ......................................................... 7

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

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

VCR Channels List.........................................................................9

To Auto Channel Search........................................................ 9

To Change the Signal Type...................................................10

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

Time and Date..............................................................................11

Set Daylight-Saving Time......................................................11

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

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

What’s Next--Additional Set-Up Features

in the PREFERENCES Menu ......................................................15

Remote VCR1/VCR2 Option ....................................................15

Auto Play........................................................................................16

Auto TV/VCR................................................................................16

VCR Basics ..................................................................... 17

Remote Buttons..................................................................................18

Component Buttons ...................................................................18

VCR Function Buttons................................................................18

TV Function Buttons...................................................................19

Playing a Tape .......................................................................................20

Automatic Rewind..............................................................................20

Tape Eject .............................................................................................21

Recording .............................................................................................21

Check the Safety Tab...................................................................21

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

Recording Features ............................................................................24

Express Recording.......................................................................24

Timer Recording..........................................................................25

Timer Recording with VCR Plus+............................................26

Stopping a Timer Recording ......................................................28

Reviewing and Clearing Programs ...........................................28

Recording Broadcast Stereo TV or SAP

(Second Audio Program)......................................................28

Recording Audio Only ................................................................29

Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes....................30

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Programming the Remote............................................ 31

To Control a TV..................................................................................32

Other Features .............................................................. 35

Picture Search Options.....................................................................36

Forward and Reverse Search ....................................................36

Slow Motion..................................................................................36

Commercial Scan (SEARCH Button)......................................36

Frame Advance.............................................................................37

Index Search..................................................................................37

Go-To Search................................................................................38

Tracking.................................................................................................38

Time Counter......................................................................................38

On-Screen Displays............................................................................39

Audio Set-Up Features......................................................................40

Reception.......................................................................................40

Tape Playback................................................................................41

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

Things to Know Before Connecting Components.....................43

Connecting Y our VCR ........................................................................44

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

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

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

Don’t Forget About the TV/VCR Feature ..............................45

TV with RF Jack Only .................................................................46

TV with Audio/Video Jacks ........................................................47

TV with Audio/Video Jacks and Cable Box to

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

Appendix A: Reference ................................................ 49

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

Display Panel........................................................................................51

Back Panel ............................................................................................52

T roubleshooting Tips..........................................................................53

Specifications .......................................................................................56

Cleaning the VCR................................................................................56

Limited Warranty................................................................................57

Index.............................................................................. 58

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First Things First

Hi, my name is SUSAN...

and I wrote this User’s Guide. It’s my job to see that you ha ve a rewarding user man ual experience. And, I think you’ll be pleased with the features that can be accessed through the on-screen menus.

Read the First Three sections

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

What’s Left?

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

OTHER FEATURES

➣

Connections

READ ME!

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

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First Things First

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

L L

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

VCR

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

Step 1: Unpack What’s in the Box

The following items come packed in the box:

• VCR

• Power cord

• Remote control

• RF coaxial cable

STEP 2: Install Batteries In the Remote Control

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

1. Remove the cover of the battery compartment.

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

3. Replace the cover.

STEP 3: Connect your vcr

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

If you have a TV with AUDIO/VIDEO jacks, use these jacks for a better connection. In order to hear stereo and hi-fi sound, the audio/video jacks must be used. Refer to the Connections section, toward the back of the manual.

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First Things First

STEP 4: PLUG IN THE VCR

Insert the small end of the power cord into the back of the VCR. Match the wide blade of the plug on the other end of the cord with the wide slot in the AC outlet. Be sure to insert the plugs completely.

STEP 5: TUNe THE TV

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

• If you connect your VCR using the ANTENNA connectors with RF coaxial cable, set the 3CH4 switch to channel 3 or channel 4--the channel you want to use on your TV.

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

1st

2nd

STEP 6: turn on the vcr

The first time you connect your VCR and turn it on, a menu screen appears. This is the beginning of the On-Screen Guide which helps you to set up specific features of the VCR. If you choose not to use this Guide, you can set up each feature individually.

Go to the next step to understand how to move through and change items in the menu system.

STEP 7: Access the menus

The MENU and number buttons let you access, select, and change menu items. For example, to change the Auto Play setting, you would do the following:

VCR Viewing Channel

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

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

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First Things First

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 5 to display the PREFERENCES menu.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1

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

0 Exit

3. Press 2 to switch Auto Play to ON or OFF.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1

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

0 Exit

See Additional Set-Up Features for detailed information about the Auto Play feature.

STEP 8: SET UP THE VCR

Once you understand how to move around through the menus, go to the next section to set up your VCR.

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Setting Up the VCR

Additional Set-up features

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

• Select a Language

• Set up VCR channel list (Auto Channel Search)

• Set Automatic Daylight-Saving time

• Set up VCR Plus+ channels

• Set the Time and Date

• Set the Remote VCR1/VCR2 feature

• Set the Auto Play feature

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 10

Setting Up the VCR

USING THE MENU to set up features

You can set up features by using the menu system. The features are explained in this section.

If a menu does not appear:

• Make sure TV is tuned to the same channel as the 3CH4 switch or TV’s video line input.

• Make sure VCR indicator is on in the VCR display if you connected your VCR using the IN FROM ANTENNA and OUT TO TELEVISION jacks.

• Check your connections.

language

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

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

LANGUAGE Select a language. 1>English

2 Français 3 Español

Press MENU to continue

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

On-Screen Menus

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

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Setting Up the VCR

VCR CHANNELS LIST

If you use a cable box for all channels, this step is not necessary. Your VCR may come with a channel list preset at the factory. Even though your VCR may come with a list, it’s possible that you may want to add or eliminate some channels depending on whether they are active.

To Auto Channel Search

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS 1 Auto Channel Search

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

0 Exit

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

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH What type of signal

are you using? 1 Cable TV

2 Antenna 3 Detect Automatically

0 Cancel

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Setting Up the VCR

4. Select one of the three AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH options. Choices one and two are self-explanatory. If you choose

Detect Automatically, the VCR automatically detects which signal system you have attached to your VCR.

AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH

Now scanning channel 14

Press any key to cancel

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

To Change the Signal Type

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS 1 Auto Channel Search

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

0 Exit

3. Press 3 to change the Signal Type between CABLE and ANTENNA.

Detect Automatically

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

Auto Channel Search

Use the Auto Channel Search feature to place all available channels in memory.

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

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Setting Up the VCR

To ADD or REMOVE Channels

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

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

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115 is presently ADDED

Press CLEAR to remove Press MENU to exit

ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS

Channel 115 is presently REMOVED

Press INFO to add Press MENU to exit

Time and Date

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

Set Daylight-Saving Time

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 3 to display the TIME menu.

TIME 1 Set Time and Date

2 Auto DST : ON

0 Exit

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

Selecting Channels

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

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

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Setting Up the VCR

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

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

Set the Time and Date

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 3 to display the TIME menu.

TIME 1 Set Time and Date

2 Auto DST : ON

0 Exit

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

SET TIME AND DATE Time --:--

(hh:mm) Date --/--/--

Press MENU to cancel

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

SET TIME AND DATE Time 12:34 PM

Date 11/18/97 Tuesday

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to set

Time/Date Display

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

Spring forward; Fall backward

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

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

Page 15

Setting Up the VCR

VCR PLUS+ CHANNELS

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 4 to display the CHANNELS menu.

CHANNELS 1 Auto Channel Search

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

0 Exit

3. Press 4 to display the VCR Plus+ Channel List menu.

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

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

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

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

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

Screen is for an example only.

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ Channel

Numbers for Cable TV

(USA List)

35 American Movie Classics 39 Arts &-Entertainment 57 Black Entertainment 54 Bravo 42 Cable News Network 45 Cinemax 98 Cinemax 2 37 The Discovery Channel 53 The Disney Channel 63 Entertainment T elevision 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 T elevision 49 The Nashville Network 38 Nickelodeon 64 Nostalgia T elevision 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 Y ork

See next page for Canadian List

VCR Plus+ Channel List

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

Page 16

Setting Up the VCR

VCR Plus+ Worksheet

Broadcast or

Cable-TV Station

Name

Hbo 33 ESPN 34

VCR Plus+ Channel

Number**

Channel Number

You Receive the

Station On*

Two-Digit VCR Plus+ Channel

Numbers for Cable TV

(Canadian List)

67 Allarcom Pay Television/

Superchannel 44 Arts & Entertainment 72 Cable News Network-Headline

News 61 Cable News Network 70 Canadian Home Shopping Network 56 Canal Famille 69 Cathay International Television Inc 68 Chinavision Canada Corp 60 Country Music Television 63 Family Channel 62 First Choice 96 First Choice Two 97 First Choice Three 99 First Choice Four 90 House of Commons 91 La Chaine Francaise 51 The Learning Channel 65 MeteoMedia/The W eather Network 48 MuchMusic Network 55 MusiquePlus 52 Nashville Network 73 Newsworld/CBC 53 Le Reseau des Sports 43 The Sports Network 64 Super Ecran 37 Super Ecran B 98 Super Ecran C 66 Telatino Network 46 TV5 Montreal 92 Viewer’s Choice 1 93 Viewer’s Choice 2 94 Viewer’s Choice 3 95 Viewer’s Choice 4 71 Vision TV: Canada’s Faith Network 38 Youth TV, Canada Inc.

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

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

Page 17

Setting Up the VCR

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

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 5 to display the PREFERENCES menu.

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR1

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

0 Exit

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

REMOTE VCR1/VCR2 Option

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

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

PREFERENCES <PRESS VCR2 TO CHANGE>

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

0 Exit

PREFERENCES 1 Remote Control: VCR2

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

0 Exit

Remote Control Option

Changing the Remote Control option to VCR2 disables the remote that came with your VCR.

Page 18

Setting Up the VCR

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

Use your compatible remote to change the remote setting back to VCR1. Display the PREFERENCES menu, press 1 on the compatible remote, and then press VCR on the VCR’s remote.

AUTO PLAY

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

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

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

Auto TV/VCR

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

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

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

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

Auto TV/VCR

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

VCR mode: VCR indicator in the display panel lights.

TV mode: VCR indicator turns off.

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VCR BAsICS

learn the basics To get you started

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

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

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

➣

Page 20

VCR BAsICS

Remote Buttons

The remote control is capable of controlling your VCR and many brands of televisions. If you have an RCA, ProScan, or GE TV, you may be able to control it without having to program the remote.

Component Buttons

OFF

REVERSE PLAY FORWARD

VCR

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

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

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

VCR Function Buttons

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

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

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

FORWARD Fast forwards the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches forward through a tape during playback. Starts slowmotion playback when tape is paused and increases speed of slow-motion playback

RECORD

INFO

MUTE

CLEAR MENU

1 4 7

TRACKING



STOP PAUSE

GO BACK

SPEED

3 6 9

•

F.ADV

GO BACK Switches between two channels. Select one channel and then select another using the number buttons. Press GO BACK to switch between the two channels. In menu mode, press to go back to previous menu.

INFO Shows the status displays on the TV screen. INPUT Selects between the line input and the VCR’s tuner. Line

input refers to the signal coming from the component connected to the audio/video input jacks on the back of the VCR.

MENU Brings up VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. Used to select a menu item or exit a menu.

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VCR BAsICS

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

OFF Turns off the VCR when the remote is set to control the VCR. Turns off other components if remote is programmed.

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

PLAY Plays a tape. RECORD Starts VCR recording. Also used for express recording. REVERSE Rewinds the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches

backward through a tape during playback. Starts slow-motion playback when tape is paused and decreases speed of slowmotion playback.

SEARCH Displays Index, and Go-To Search menus on TV screen when VCR is stopped. Advances the tape 60 or 120 seconds of recorded material during playback.

SPEED Selects a recording speed (SP, LP, or SLP). STOP Stops the current VCR function such as record, playback,

rewind, or fast forward. TRACKING Up or Down Lets you manually reduce the streaks

that may appear on the picture during play, slow motion, or pause. Reduces picture “jitter” during stop-action playback.

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

TV Function Buttons

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

CLEAR Removes menus or status displays from the screen. GO BACK Switches between two channels. Select one channel

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

INFO Shows the TV’s status displays on the TV screen. MUTE Reduces volume to minimum level.

TV Buttons

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

Page 22

VCR BAsICS

OFF Turns the TV off. VOL Up and Down Raises and lowers sound of TV.

Playing a Tape

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

2. Insert a tape in the VCR.

POWER

EJECT

PAUSE

RECORD

PLAY

REVERSE

FORWARD

STOP

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

• Press FORWARD or REVERSE to position the tape.

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

• Press PAUSE for stop action.

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

• Press STOP to stop playback.

Automatic Rewind

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

Pause

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

Automatic Tracking

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

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VCR BAsICS

Tape Eject

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

Recording

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

1. Set the tape speed by pressing the SPEED button on the remote (see margin note for information about tape speed settings).

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

3. Press STOP to stop recording. If you just want to pause the recording for a short time (like

during a commercial), press PAUSE instead of STOP.

Check the Safety Tab

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

Safety Tab

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

Tape Speeds

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

LP (Long Play) Gives twice the recording time of tapes recorded in LP. If you plan on using special effects during playback, LP is not recommended.

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

Recording Time Cassette SP LP SLP T-120 2Hr 3Hr 6Hr T-160 2Hr 5 Hr 8Hr

40Min 20 Min

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Page 25

RECORDING

SEVERAL recording FEATURES

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

Recording Features:

• Recording (explained in VCR Basics section)

• Express Recording

• Timer Recording

• Timer Recording with VCR Plus+

• Broadcast Stereo or Second Audio Program (SAP)

• Audio Only Recording

• Copying and Editing Tapes

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 26

RECORDING

Recording features

There are four ways to record programs:

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

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

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

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

Express Recording

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

1. Set the tape speed by pressing the SPEED button on the remote.

2. Press the RECORD button to begin recording.

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

RECORD LENGTH 0:00 CH 13

Press REC to set length

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

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

RECORD LENGTH 2:00 CH 13

Press REC to set length

Express Recording

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

To stop an express recording, press and hold STOP on the remote for a few seconds.

Page 27

RECORDING

Timer Recording

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

1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU.

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display the TIMER RECORDINGS menu.

TIMER RECORDINGS 1 Create a New Program

2 Review Existing Progs. 3 Use VCR Plus+ Code

0 Exit

3. Select 1 to Create a New Program.

How often should this program record?

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

0 Cancel

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

Program 1 (One Time)

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

Press MENU to cancel

5. Enter the data for the program with the number buttons. The data includes the channel number (press INPUT to select

the line input), start time including AM or PM, and end time. The start date is automatically entered based on the VCR clock. Both the date and speed can be changed.

Timer Recording Information

Clock must be set correctly. Insert a tape with the safety tab in

place and enough tape to record the program.

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

TIMER appears in the display when you turn off the VCR and a timer recording has been set. TAPE flashes if there is no tape in the VCR.

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

Page 28

RECORDING

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

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

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

Program 1 (One Time) Channel 03 Cable

Start Time 08:00 PM End Time 09:30 PM Start Date 10/24/97 FRI Tape Speed SLP 1=SP 2=LP 3=SLP Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to save

Program 1 has been saved Remember to insert a

recordable tape and turn the VCR off before the program start time.

Press MENU to continue

Timer Recording with VCR PluS+

You can use VCR Plus+ to simplify timer programming if you have cable TV and don’t receive all channels through a cable box or if you get your TV signal off-air.

Setting Up the Channel List

If you did not set up the VCR Plus+ Channel List, you can do it now.

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

2. Display the VCR Plus+ Channel List menu.

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

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

CHANNELS

6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

1 Auto Channel Search 2 Add/Remove Channels

0 Exit

3 Signal Type: CABLE 4 VCR Plus+ Channel List

Using VCR Plus+

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

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

VCR PLUS+ Enter PlusCode number

(from TV listing)

Press MENU to cancel

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

0 Exit

This VCR is equipped with ShowSaver

Memory Protection where timer programs are kept in permanent memory and will not be cleared during power outages.

Page 29

RECORDING

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

VCR PLUS+ Enter PlusCode Number

(from TV listing) 12876

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU when done

4. Press MENU to enter the VCR PlusCode number.

How often should this program record?

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

0 Cancel

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

Program 1 (One Time) Channel 03 CABLE

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

Press CLEAR to correct Press MENU to save

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

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

7. Press MENU to save the program.

Program 1 has been saved Remember to insert a

recordable tape and turn the VCR off before the program start time.

Press MENU to continue

VCR Plus+ Recording

Clock must be set correctly. Insert a tape with the safety tab in

place and enough tape to record the program.

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

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

TIMER appears in the display when you turn off the VCR and a timer recording has been set. TAPE flashes if there is no tape in the VCR.

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

Page 30

RECORDING

Stopping a Timer Recording

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

• Press and hold the STOP button.

REVIEWING AND CLEARING PROGRAMS

To review programs that you have already set up:

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

TIMER RECORDINGS 1 Create a New Program

2 Review Existing Progs. 3 Use VCR Plus+ Code

0 Exit

2. Press 2 to display the Review Existing Progs. screen.

Program 1 (One Time) Channel 104 CABLE

Start Time 12:00 AM End Time 01:30 AM Start Date 10/24/97 Fri Tape Speed SLP

Press CLEAR to delete Press MENU for next prog

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

Recording Broadcast Stereo TV or SAP (Second Audio Program)

Some TV programs are broadcast with stereo audio or SAP (Second Audio Program).

1. Turn on the TV and tune it to the VCR viewing channel (either 3, 4, or TV’s video input).

2. Insert a tape with safety tab in place.

Page 31

RECORDING

3. If your VCR viewing channel is 3 or 4, make sure the VCR indicator appears in the VCR’s display panel. If not, press TV•VCR to turn it on.

4. Use the SPEED button on the remote to select a recording speed.

5. Select the channel or line input to be recorded.

6. Set the Reception: STEREO/MONO/SAP feature for the type of audio you want to record. See Other Features section.

AUDIO 1 Reception: STEREO

2 Tape Playback: HI-FI

0 Exit

7. Press RECORD to start recording.

8. Press STOP when you are finished.

Recording Audio Only

You can record audio only from another audio source connected to the AUDIO IN (MONO L and R) jacks on the back of the VCR.

1. Press the INPUT button on the remote to select the line input. “L1” will appear in the display.

The VCR will record audio from the audio equipment connected to the AUDIO IN jacks.

2. Use SPEED on the remote to select the recording speed.

3. Start audio source playing and press RECORD to begin recording.

4. Press STOP when you are finished.

Audio Connection

MONO

L L

IN OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

OUT

VCR

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

3 4

TELEVISION

Playing Back Audio Only

To get stereo sound, connect the AUDIO OUT jacks of the VCR to the appropriate input on your amplifier or receiver. Do not use the phono input. Refer to your amplifier or receiver user’s guide.

LEFT

RIGHT

PHONO TUNER TAPE

AMPLIFIER / RECEIVER

OUT IN

AUX

Page 32

RECORDING

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

L L

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

L L

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

PLAYBACK VCR

CABLE BOX

OR ANTENNA

RECORDING VCR

TO TV

IN OUT

Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes

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

1. Turn on the TV and VCRs.

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

3. If you connected your VCR using the IN FROM ANTENNA and OUT TO TELEVISION jacks, tune the recording VCR to channel 3 or 4--the one selected on the back of the playback VCR.

If you have connected your VCR using the audio/video jacks, press INPUT on the recording VCR’s remote to select the line input. “L1” appears in the display.

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

5. 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.

Caution

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

Two VCR Connection

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 PAUSE on recording VCR to pause copying.

• Locate the next segment you want to copy on playback VCR by using FORWARD, REVERSE, and PLAY and then press

PAUSE.

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

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

Page 33

programming the remote

control your other components...

The remote can be programmed to control a television.

It is programmed to control an RCA, GE, or ProScan TV. Other manufacturer’s brands need to be programmed.

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

➣

Connections

Page 34

Programming the Remote

About Programming the Remote

The remote can be programmed to control other brands of remote controllable TVs. It is already programmed to operate most RCA, ProScan, and GE TVs.

Programming the Remote to Control aTV

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

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

1. Turn on the TV.

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

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

4. Enter the two-digit code from the code list.

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

6. If the TV does not respond, repeat these steps using the next code in the list.

Operate the TV

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

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

press the OFF button.

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

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

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

Page 35

programming the remote

TV Codes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

08,10,12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page 36

Page 37

OTHER FEATURES

features to enhance VCR operation

• Picture Search Options

• Tracking

• Time Counter

• On-Screen Displays

• Audio Reception

• Audio T ape Playback

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 38

OTHER FEATURES

Picture Search Options

The most basic way to search during playback is using the FORWARD and REVERSE buttons. 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. Search works best for tapes recorded at the SP or SLP speed.

1. Press FOR WARD to sear ch forward or REVERSE to sear ch in reverse.

2. Press FOR WARD or REVERSE a gain or press PLAY to return to normal playback.

SLOW MOTION

You can view a tape in slow motion from the play-pause mode. Slow motion works best for tapes recorded at the SP or SLP speed.

1. Press FOR WARD or REVERSE to begin slo w-motion pla yback when tape is paused.

2. Press FOR WARD to incr ease or REVERSE to decr ease the speed of slow motion.

3. Use TRACKING up or down to remove any streaks from the picture.

4. Press PLA Y to return to normal playback. The VCR switches automatically from slow-motion playback to

stop after a few minutes.

Commercial Scan (Search Button)

This is useful for skipping commercials or short program segments.

• Press SEARCH once during playback to advance the tape approximately 60 seconds of recorded material.

• Press SEARCH twice during playback to advance the tape approximately 120 seconds of recorded material.

Insert Tape

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

Page 39

OTHER FEATURES

INDEX SEARCH

Enter Index Number 01

Press REV or FWD Press SEARCH to exit

FRAME ADVANCE

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

1. Press PAUSE to “freeze” the action.

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

3. Press PAUSE or PLA Y 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 ST OP.

2. Press SEARCH on the remote until the INDEX SEARCH menu appears on the TV screen.

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

4. Press FOR WARD on the remote to search f orward or REVERSE on the remote 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.

Some index marks may be missed by the VCR:

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

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

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

Page 40

OTHER FEATURES

Go-To Search

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

1. Press ST OP.

2. Press SEARCH on the remote until the GO-TO SEARCH menu appears on the screen.

3. Press number buttons to enter the hour(s) and/or minutes of the counter reading you want the VCR to “go to”. Press CLEAR on the r emote to correct an entry .

4. Press FOR WARD to sear ch forward or REVERSE to sear ch in reverse.

5. Press ST OP to stop Go-T o searching.

GO-TO SEARCH Current tape counter is

2:17:25 Press REV or FWD

to go to 0:00:00 Press SEARCH to exit

TRACKING

Y our VCR has automatic tracking which r emoves the streaks or snow from the picture. Automatic tracking is activated when you insert a tape or turn on the VCR. Occasionally you may need to manually adjust tracking, especially if the tape was recorded on a different VCR. J ust use the TRA CKING buttons to r emove the str eaks or snow. You can also use tracking when you pause a tape to reduce jittering of the picture.

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

Tracking has no effect during recor ding--only playback.

Time Counter

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

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

Page 41

OTHER FEATURES

1. Press INFO twice on the remote to display the time counter.

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

3. Press FOR WARD to forward the ta pe until the time counter reads 0:30:00.

4. Press ST OP. This is the approximate end of the pr o gram. (You may want to press PLAY to verify.) Now, you can begin recording at this spot.

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

ON-SCREEN DISPLAYS

The INFO button sho ws the status of the VCR (ST OP, PLAY , RECORD , etc.), channel number, time counter, date, time, and tape speed on the TV screen. The date and time must be set before they can be displayed.

1. Press INFO to see the on-screen displays. The time appears in the display.

2. Press INFO again to have only the time counter remain on the screen. The time counter will appear instead of the time in the display.

Hours Minutes

Seconds

Stop CH 05 0:30:00

11/18/97 Tue 01:30PM SLP

Normal display (times out)

0:30:00

3. Press INFO again to have no displays appear on the TV screen. The time counter will r emain in the display. This is useful for dubbing tapes.

4. Press INFO again to return to the normal display mode. The time will appear in the display.

Turning off the VCR also r esets the displays.

Time counter only (does not time out)

No displays will appear (useful for dubbing tapes)

Page 42

OTHER FEATURES

Audio Set-Up Features

The audio set-up features enhance your tape playback and recordings. The features in this section are accessed through the AUDIO men u and are shown in the displays below.

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

VCR MAIN MENU 1 VCR Plus+ 2 Timer Recordings 3 Time 4 Channels 5 Preferences 6 Language/Langue/Idioma 7 Audio

0 Exit

2. Press 7 to display the AUDIO menu.

AUDIO 1 Reception: STEREO

2 Tape Playback: HI-FI

0 Exit

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

Reception

Some TV programs are broadcast with stereo audio or a second audio program (SAP) which offers a second language. The Reception feature lets you select the type of audio you want to record. Press 1 to switch between Reception: STEREO, MONO, and SAP.

• Select STEREO for normal or stereo broadcast TV recording. STEREO indicator lights when the station you are tuned to is broadcasting stereo.

• Select MONO if the stereo signal is weak and the sound is too noisy.

Page 43

OTHER FEATURES

• Select SAP to record a second audio program instead of the normal audio on both the hi-fi and linear tracks. The SAP indicator ( ) lights in the display when SAP is selected.

Tape Playback

The VCR records the same audio on both the Hi-Fi and linear tracks on the tape. Hi-Fi sound is recorded on separate left and right stereo channels. Monaural sound is recorded on the linear track. Press 2 to switch between Tape Playback: HI-FI, LINEAR, and MIX.

To enjoy Hi-Fi sound, connect your VCR to a ster eo television or amplifier/receiver using the audio/video jacks. The Tape Playback feature lets you select which audio you play back.

• Select HI-FI to play back sound recorded on the Hi-Fi track and for normal use. The HIFI indicator lights when you playback hi-fi.

• Select LINEAR to play back the sound recorded on the linear monaural track, such as a second audio program, (SAP) or a dubbed voice-over.

• Select MIX to play back the sound recorded on both the linear track and the Hi-Fi track, sound-on-sound.

Page 44

Page 45

connections

Things to Know Before Connecting Components

Protect Your Components from Power Surges

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

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

Position Cables Correctly to Avoid Audio Hum or Interference

• Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.

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

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

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

First things first

➣

Setting Up the VCR

➣

VCR Basics

➣

recording

➣

PROGRAMMING THE

REMOTE

➣

Protect Your Components from Overheating

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

• Do not stack components.

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

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

OTHER FEATURES

Connections

➣

Page 46

connections

Connecting Your VCR

Refer to these pages to help you connect your VCR.

Jacks and Cables

RF Jacks and Coaxial Cables (F-type)

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

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

RF Jack

Audio/Video Jacks and Cables (RCA-type)

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

These jacks must be used for stereo sound. The VCR audio/video jacks are color coded (yellow for video, red for right audio, and white for left audio). If your TV has only one input for audio (mono), you may need a Y-adapter to hear sound from both channels.

Audio/Video Jack

Page 47

connections

Choosing a VCR Connection

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

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

• TV with RF jack only

• TV with audio/video jacks

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

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

Advantages of Audio/Video Cable Connections

Using a simple coaxial cable connection gives you good picture quality. If your television has audio/video jacks, I highly recommend using them to get even better picture quality and to hear stereo sound when recording and playing back videotapes. These connections give you more convenient operation by not having to share the TV’s antenna signal.

Don’t Forget about the TV/VCR Feature

The TV/VCR switch controls whether the picture signal is coming from the VCR or the TV.

You can change the setting manually by using the TV•VCR button on the remote or you can set the Auto TV/VCR feature to ON when using only RF ANTENNA connections and OFF when using the AUDIO/VIDEO output jacks--so your TV signal is not interrupted when the VCR is turned on.

Page 48

connections

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

VCR

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

TV with rf jack only

This connection assumes:

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

• Your television has only an RF input jack.

This connection provides:

• Mono sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

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

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

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

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to channel 3 or 4 whichever one you selected with the 3CH4 switch on the back of the VCR.

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to ON.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape.

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

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

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

Page 49

connections

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

VCR

CABLE/

ANTENNA

CABLE, CABLE BOX, OR ANTENNA

INPUT 1

VIDEO

L/MONO

S-VIDEO

AUDIO

OUTPUT

INPUT 2

VIDEO

L/MONO

TV with Audio/Video Jacks

This connection assumes:

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

• Your television has audio/video jacks.

This connection provides:

• Stereo sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

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

• (3) audio/video cables

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

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

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel. Use of TV•VCR button is not required.

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to OFF.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape.

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

To record one program and watch another:

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

2. Select a different channel on the TV.

Page 50

connections

VCR

CABLE

CABLE BOX

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

MONO

OUT

IN OUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

CABLE/

ANTENNA

INPUT 1

VIDEO

L/MONO

S-VIDEO

AUDIO

OUTPUT

INPUT 2

VIDEO

L/MONO

IN OUT

TV with Audio/Video Jacks and Cable Box to Unscramble Pay Channels Only

This connection assumes:

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

• Your TV has audio/video input jacks.

This connection provides:

• Stereo sound playback from VCR.

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

To use this connection, you must have:

• (3) coaxial cables

• (3) audio/video cables

• (1) splitter

All scrambled channels must be viewed through the VCR.

To connect:

1. Connect cables as shown.

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

Using This Connection

Tune your TV to its video input channel. Use of TV•VCR button is not required.

Auto TV/VCR Setting:

• Set the Auto TV/VCR feature to OFF.

To play a tape:

1. Insert a tape

2. If necessary, press PLAY.

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

1. Begin recording a scrambled or unscrambled program

2. Select an unscrambled channel on the TV.

through the cable box using one of the recording features.

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appendix a: reference

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

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

Finally, this section contains your warranty information.

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appendix a: reference

Front Panel

POWER

EJECT

INPUT

TV • VCR

CHANNEL

TRACKING

PLAY

STOP

PAUSE

RECORD

Remote Sensor

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

EJECT Ejects the tape when the VCR is stopped. FORWARD Forwards the tape when the VCR is stopped.

Searches the picture forward during playback. Starts slow-motion playback when in play-pause and increases speed of slow-motion playback.

PAUSE P auses action for viewing during playback. Pauses recording to prevent recording of unwanted scenes.

REVERSE

FORWARD

PLAY Plays a tape. POWER Turns the VCR on or off. RECORD Starts VCR recording. Used for express recording. Remote Sensor Receives signals from the remote control. Aim

the remote at this sensor. REVERSE Rewinds the tape when the VCR is stopped. Searches

the picture in reverse during playback. Starts slow-motion playback when in play-pause and decreases speed of slow-motion playback.

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

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

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appendix a: reference

Display Panel

HIFI

Channel Number or Line Input Indicator (L1) The channel number or line indicator (L1) appears. Select L1 to record from the audio/video jacks on the back of the VCR.

HIFI Indicator Lights during playback when Tape Playback: HIFI/LINEAR/MIX feature is set to HI-FI.

SAP Indicator ( ) Lights when Reception: STEREO/MONO/SAP f eature set to SAP.

T ape Speed Indicators (SP, LP, or SLP) Press SPEED on the remote to change the recording speed.

Time or Time Counter Time or time counter a ppears. Press INFO to change.

Status Indicators Show what the VCR is doing.

• BYE and HELLO Turned off and on

• EJECT Ejecting tape

• F--FWD Fast forward

• PLAY Playback

• REC and REC P Record and record pause

• REW Rewind

• SRCH + and SRCH – Forward and reverse search

• SLOW + Slow motion

• STILL Frame advance and play-pause

• STOP A tape is stopped

• TIMER Timer recording set

• TAPE Flashes when timer is set and no tape in VCR

• X--REC Express recording in progress

VCR

SLP

STEREO

STEREO Indicator Lights when station you are tuned to is broadcasting stereo.

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

• VCR indicator on: Picture from VCR.

• VCR indicator off: Picture from TV channel.

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appendix a: reference

Back Panel

MONO

IN OUT

AUDIO

VIDEO

OUT

3 4

FROM

ANTENNA

OUT

TELEVISION

3CH4 Switch Selects the channel to which you will tune the TV to see the VCR picture if you connect the VCR using one of the basic hookups.

AUDIO (R and L MONO) and VIDEO IN Jacks Receives signals from another component, like a VCR or camcor der, when it is connected to these jacks. Use INPUT on the remote to select L1.

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

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

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

Page 55

appendix a: reference

Troubleshooting Tips

No power

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

• Check to make sure your connections are correct.

VCR does not respond to remote

• Press VCR to set remote to control the VCR.

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

• The batteries may need changing.

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

• Remove batteries and hold number button 1 for at least 60 seconds to drain the microprocessor inside the remote. Release number 1 and replace the batteries.

• Remove all batteries for approximately 12 hours. Then replace batteries.

Remote no longer controls an RCA, ProScan, or GE TV

• Press TV to set remote to control a compatible TV.

• Check to make sure the remote is programmed to control an RCA, ProScan, or GE TV.

Remote no longer controls a compatible TV

• Press TV to set remote to control the compatible TV.

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

• The batteries may need changing.

• Reprogram remote after batteries have been changed.

• Remove batteries and hold number button 1 for at least 60 seconds to drain the microprocessor inside the remote. Release number 1, replace the batteries, and (if necessary) reprogram the remote.

• Remove all batteries for approximately 12 hours. Then replace batteries and (if necessary) reprogram the remote.

Poor or no picture for normal TV viewing

• Check to make sure the VCR indicator is off.

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

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

Snowy or no picture during playback

• Press TV•VCR to turn VCR indicator on.

• Check TV channel selected (3 or 4) to make sure it matches the channel selected with 3CH4 switch on back of VCR.

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

• Check video cable connections between VCR and TV monitor.

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

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appendix a: reference

• Try another tape.

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

Streaks in picture during normal playback

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

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

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

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

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

Will not record or play

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

• Try ejecting and reinserting the cassette.

• Check to make sure the tape is not broken.

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

Will not record

• Check to make sure the safety tab is intact.

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

Rewind does not operate

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

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

• Check to make sure the correct VCR PlusCode is entered.

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

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

• Power interruption. Reset the clock.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clock shows incorrect time or date

• Power interruption.

Page 57

appendix a: reference

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

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

VCR makes noise when stopped

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

Will not Auto Channel Search active channels correctly

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

• Check to make sure the Signal Type: CABLE/ANTENNA feature is set correctly.

• If Detect Automatically was selected for the Signal Type in the Auto Channel Search menu, try using either CABLE TV or ANTENNA instead.

Tape plays back in slow motion

• Press PLAY to return to normal playback.

Cannot select channels over 69

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

Cassette with safety tab removed does not start to play automatically

• Check to make sure the Auto Play ON/OFF feature is set to ON.

TAPE flashes in display

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

Time counter disappears during searching

• This is normal.

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

• Check Language feature.

No stereo sound during playback

• Check to make sure the Playback: HI-FI/LINEAR/MIX feature is set to HI-FI to hear stereo sound during playback.

• Must use the AUDIO/VIDEO jacks on the back of the VCR to hear stereo sound.

Stereo audio too noisy

• Stereo signal is weak. Set Reception: STEREO/MONO/SAP feature to MONO.

• Press one of the TRACKING up or down buttons to minimize the noise.

Page 58

appendix a: reference

Specifications

Format: VHS Record/Playback Video: 4-head

System: Audio: 2 Hi-Fi 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)

T ype: AutoProgramming frequency synthesis Power Requirement: 120V AC, 60 Hz Power Consumption: 22 watts Dimensions: 3.6 inches high (90 mm)

15.5 inches wide (393 mm)

12.6 inches deep (318 mm)

Weight: 9.5 pounds (4.3 kg) Storage Temperature - 22˚F to +149˚F

Range: (-30˚C to +65˚C) Operating +41˚F to +104˚F

Temperature Range: (+5˚C to +40˚C)

*Check your cable company‘s compatibility requirements.

Cleaning the VCR

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

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

Specifications are subject to change.

Page 59

appendix a: reference

Limited Warranty

What your warranty covers:

• Any defect in material or workmanship.

For how long after your purchase:

• Ninety days for labor charges.

• One year for parts.

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

What we will do:

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

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

• Show the service technician your evidence of purchase date.

• 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.

• Remote control batteries.

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

• A VCR purchased or serviced outside the USA.

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

Product Registration:

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

How state law relates to this warranty:

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

If you purchased your VCR outside the United States:

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

Page 60

appendix a: referenceINDEX

3 CH. 4 switch 46

Accessing menus 5 Add or remove channels 11 ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS screen 11 Audio

playback type 40

selecting 40 AUDIO and VIDEO jacks 5, 45, 52 Audio features, set up 40 AUDIO IN jacks 29 AUDIO menu 40 Auto channel search 9 AUTO CHANNEL SEARCH menu 10 AUTO DST: ON or OFF feature 11 Auto play feature 16, 20 Auto TV/VCR feature 16, 45, 46, 47, 48 Automatic rewind 20 Automatic tracking 20

Channels list, VCR 9 CHANNELS menu 10, 11, 13, 26 Choosing a VCR connection 45 Cleaning the VCR 56 CLEAR button 18, 27, 28, 37, 38, 39 Clearing programs 28 Commercial scan feature 36 Connections 43

audio/video cable 45 choosing 45 TV with audio/video jacks 47 TV with audio/video jacks and cable box to un-

scramble pay channels only 48 TV with RF jack only 46 two VCRs 30

Contents 1 Controls

back panel 52 front panel 50

Copying and editing tapes 30

Back panel 52 Basic recording 21 Basics, learn the 17 Batteries

installing in the remote 4

Cables 44 Cables, positioning 43 Cables, types of 44 CHAN buttons 18, 32 CHANNEL button 50 Channel number 51 Channel number indicator 51 Channel, viewing 5 Channels, add or remove 11

Displays

on-screen 39, 51

EJECT button 21, 50 Eject, tape 21 Express recording 24

F.ADV button 18, 19, 37 First setup 3 First things first 3 FORWARD button 18, 20, 30, 36, 37, 38, 39, 50 Frame advance 37 Front panel controls 50

Page 61

Index

GO BACK button 18, 19 Go-to search 38

HIFI indicator 41, 51

Important information 2 IN FROM ANTENNA jack 52 Index search feature 37 INDEX SEARCH menu 37 INFO button 18, 19, 39 INPUT button 18, 25, 29, 30

Jacks, types of 44

OFF button 18, 19, 20, 32 On-screen displays 39 OUT TO TELEVISION jack 52 Overheating 43

PAUSE button 19, 20, 21, 30, 37, 38, 50 Picture search options 36 PLAY button 19, 20, 36, 37, 46, 47, 48, 50 Playing a tape 20 POWER button 50 Power cord, attach 5 Power surges 43 PREFERENCES menu 15, 16 Problem solving 53 Programming the remote 31

to operate TVs 32

PROGRAMS OVERLAP message 27

Language feature 8 LANGUAGE menu 9 Limited warranty 57 Line input indicator 51

MENU button

5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 26, 27, 28, 40 Menus, accessing 5 MUTE button 19

Number buttons 12, 19, 20

Reception: STEREO/MONO/SAP feature 29, 40 RECORD button 19, 21, 24, 29, 30, 50 Recording

basic 21 copying and editing tapes 30 express 24 SAP 28 speeds 21 timer 25

Remote

buttons 18 component buttons 18 installing batteries 4 sensor 50 TV function buttons 19 VCR function buttons 18–20

Page 62

Index

Remote Control VCR1/VCR2 option 15 Remove or add channels 11 REVERSE button 19, 20, 30, 36, 37, 38, 50 Review programs screen 28 Reviewing programs 28 Rewind, automatic 20

Safety tab 21 SAP indicator 51 SAP, recording 28 Search

commercial scan 36 forward 36 frame advance 37 go-to 38 index 37 reverse 36

slow motion 36 SEARCH button 19, 36, 37, 38 Sensor, remote 50 SET TIME AND DATE screen 12 Set up

first 3

language 8

VCR 7 Signal type

selecting 10 Signal type, changing 10 Slow motion playback 36 Solving problems 53 Specifications 56 Speed

LP 21

SLP 21

SP 21 SPEED button 19, 21, 24, 29 Speeds, recording 21 Status indicators 51 STEREO indicator 40, 51

STOP button 19, 20, 21, 24, 28, 29, 30, 37, 38, 39 Stopping a timer recording 28

Tab, safety 21 Table of contents 1 Tape eject 21 Tape Playback: HIFI, LINEAR and MIX 41 Tape, playing a 20 Tape speed indicators 51 Tape speeds 21 Time and date

set 12

set daylight-saving 11 Time counter 38 TIME menu 11, 12 TIMER indicator 27, 51 Timer recording 25

stopping 28 TIMER RECORDINGS menu 25, 28 Tips, troubleshooting 53 TRACKING button 20 TRACKING buttons 19, 36, 38 Tracking feature 38 Troubleshooting tips 53 TV button 18, 32 TV codes 33 TV, programming the remote to control 32 TV•VCR button 16, 19, 29, 45, 46, 50

VCR

cleaning 56 VCR button 18 VCR channels list 9 VCR indicator 29, 51 VCR MAIN MENU

9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 25, 26, 28, 40

Page 63

Index

VCR Plus+

channel list 26 PlusCode number 27 setting up channels 13 using 26

worksheet for channels 15 VCR PLUS+ CHANNEL LIST menu 13, 26 VCR PLUS+ Channels

setting up 13 VCR Plus+ menu 26 VCR, setting up 7 Viewing channel 5 VOL buttons 20

Warranty, limited 57

Page 64

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

10330 North Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290

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TOCOM 1522620A

RCA VR615HF User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual