Sony SAT-B2, SAT-A2 User Manual

Digital Satellite

Receiver

3-856-591-21(1)

Operating Instructions

BEFORE USING YOUR DSS SYSTEM

You must activate your programming service by calling your program providers:

DIRECTV® 1-800-347-3288 USSB 1-800-204-8772

For more information, see page 25.

SAT-A2 MODEL ONLY

RF ANTENNA: The DSS receiver is shipped with IR reception enabled and RF reception disabled. To use the RF feature (and the antenna), you must change the factory setting (IR ONLY) to the RF setting (RF ONLY) using the on-screen displays, as described in this manual.

SAT-A2 SAT-B2

WARNING

Owner’s Record

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of significant magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Note to the CATV Installer

This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

Note to the DSS® Satellite Dish Installer

This reminder is provided to call the DSS satellite dish installer’s attention to Article 810 and in particular Article 810-15 of the NEC, which covers proper installation and grounding of television receiving equipment, as well as to Article 820-40 of the NEC, which specifies that the satellite dish cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

Telephone Line Interruption

Periodically, information on your DirecTicket and Pay-Per-View selections is sent, free of charge, via your telephone line to an 800 number. During the time the information is being forwarded, you cannot use your telephone and you will hear static noise for approximately 30 seconds. If you would like to use your telephone while the information is being sent, you can interrupt the sending of this information at any time by temporarily unplugging the phone line to the receiver.

The model and serial numbers are located on the back of the receiver. The number for the access card is on the front of the card and on the carton label. Record these numbers in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you need to call your sales or service representative regarding this product.

Model Number: ___________________________________________

Serial Number:_____________________________________________

Access Card Number:_______________________________________

Customer Support

For DSS Programming

For subscription information, or to resolve problems related to DSS programming, call:

DIRECTV® at 1-800-DIRECTV (347-3288) or USSB at 1-800-204-USSB (8772).

For DSS Hardware and Installation

To arrange for the installation of your DSS system, call the dealer from whom you purchased your system.

For general information, or to resolve problems related to the operation of your satellite receiver or antenna, please contact your Sony brand DSS dealer. If your dealer or installer is unable to answer your questions, call the Sony Digital Satellite System Information Center at 1-800-838-7669.

Trademark and Copyrights

Express Navigator is a trademark of Sony Corporation. DIRECTV and DSS are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics. USSB and USSB Entertainment Plus are official service marks of the United States Satellite Broadcasting Company, Inc. HBO is a registered trademark of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. Showtime is a service mark of Showtime. MTV: Music Television is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc. Comedy Central is a registered trademark of Comedy Partners.

Macrovision Information

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology is granted by Macrovision for home and other limited DSS IRD pay-per-view uses only. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Note on Recording Programming

Programming may be taped for home viewing only. All other taping is expressly prohibited. Some programming may not be taped. An additional taping fee may be applied. Call your program providers for details.

StarSight Licensed

The manufacture and sale of the television schedule feature of this product was licensed under one or more of the following patents of StarSight Telecast, Inc.: U.S. Patent Nos. 4,706,121; 4,977,455; 5,151,789; and 5,353,121; with use rights reserved.

Network Broadcasting Information

ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS networks are available from DIRECTV. Some restrictions apply.

Contents

Chapter 1

Introducing the DSS System

4 DSS Features 5 Package Contents 6 Inserting Batteries into the Remote Control

Chapter 2

Using Basic Functions

7 Remote Control for Model SAT-A2 8 Remote Control for Model SAT-B2 9 Using a Program Guide 10 Using the Station Index

Chapter 3

Connecting Your System

11 Overview 12 TV Only 14 TV and VCR 16 Hi-Fi TV, Hi-Fi VCR, Audio Receiver

(SAT-A2 Only)

18 Home Entertainment System

(Hi-Fi TV, Hi-Fi VCR, Audio/Video Receiver)

20 Connecting the VCR Mouse 21 Connecting Digital Audio Components

(SAT-A2 Only)

22 Setting Up the RF Antenna (SAT-A2 Only) 23 Setting Up Your DSS System

Chapter 4

Using the System Features

24 Overview 25 Before You Get Started ... 26 Using the On-Screen Displays:

Highlight and Select

27 Displaying the Program Guide 28 Features of the Program Guide 29 Moving Through the Program Guide 31 Selecting a Program from the Guide 32 Selecting a Program List 33 Selecting a Different Program Guide or List 36 Using the Station Index 38 Setting Up the Timer 40 Using the Favorite Station Guides 43 Displaying the Program Banner 44 Using the DISPLAY Feature

Chapter 5

Using the Options Menu

45 Overview 46 Displaying the Options Menu 47 Checking and Cancelling PPV Purchases 48 Setting Display Options 51 Using the Jump Loop Feature 52 Setting Locks and Limits 57 Setting Up a List of Custom Stations 59 Selecting Alternate Audio 61 Reading Your Messages 63 Selecting Data Services

Chapter 6

Using the Setup Menu

65 Overview 66 Displaying the Setup Menu 67 Setting Up the Satellite Antenna 68 Replacing Your Access Card 70 Setting the Aspect Ratio 71 Setting Up the Remote Control 75 Running a System Test 76 Displaying Help, Tips, and Shortcuts

Appendix

Other Information

78 Location and Function of Controls 81 Using the Remote Control 85 Programming the Remote Control 87 Using the Learn Function (SAT-A2 Only) 88 Troubleshooting 91 Precautions 92 FCC Regulations and Information 93 Limited Warranty 94 Specifications 95 Index

Contents 3

Chapter 1

Introducing the DSS System

Welcome to the Sony brand DSS (Digital Satellite System), the ultimate digital entertainment experience. Read this chapter for an overview of the features of the system and to check the carton contents of the DSS receiver.

DSS Features

Here are just a few benefits of the DSS system that you'll enjoy:

Excellent Performance

Superior, digital-quality video that rivals the performance of laserdisc players.

Crisp digital-quality audio that will enhance your TV or home theater experience.

Premium Entertainment

Choose from a variety of program packages available through your

program providers, DIRECTV® and USSB

Convenience and Ease-of-Use

Order premium pay-per-view (PPV) movies. PPV programs start as often as every 30 minutes, so you can watch programs when you want to see them.

Sony’s Express Navigator on-screen display system guides you through all the system features and functions.

Select from a variety of program guides that are sorted by program categories, including Sports, Movies, News, and more.

The Timer feature, when used with Sony’s VCR Mouse, allows you to easily automate the recording of DSS programs.

Customizable

Create a Custom Program Guide and up to five of your own Favorite Station Guides for stations you watch most often.

Change the color palette, transparency, and station ordering of the program guides. Use the DISPLAY button to toggle among different sizes of on-screen displays.

Set up a passcode, which lets you choose spending limits and control viewing of programs by rating and station.

4 Chapter 1: Introducing the DSS System

Package Contents

Check to make sure you’ve received the following items in the DSS receiver’s carton:

* RF Antenna and S-Video cable not included with SAT-B2. SAT-A1 includes RM-Y130 remote control shown above; SAT-B2 includes RM-Y129 remote control shown on page 8.

The access card comes already inserted into the DSS receiver. If you are missing items, contact the dealer from whom you purchased

the DSS receiver.

Note

Keep the original carton and packing materials to safely transport the system in the future.

Chapter 1: Introducing the DSS System 5

Inserting Batteries into the Remote Control

Before you can use the remote control, you must first insert the supplied batteries. If you want to use this remote control to operate other video components, such as a TV or cable box, you must also program the remote as described in the Appendix on page 85.

To install the batteries:

1 Push and slide open the battery compartment.

SAT-A2 Remote Control:

SAT-B2 Remote Control:

2 Insert two size AA batteries (supplied). Be sure to line up the + and

– on the batteries with the + and – on the battery compartment.

Notes on Batteries

When the batteries become weak, the Function button indicator blinks. If the remote control does not operate properly, the batteries might be worn out. When replacing batteries, replace both of them with new ones, and do not mix different types of batteries together.

When you remove the batteries — to replace them, for example — any codes you’ve set may be erased. If this happens, you must reprogram the remote. See “Programming the Remote Control” on page 85 for details.

6 Chapter 1: Introducing the DSS System

frutiger bol

Chapter 2

Using Basic Functions

You can start watching programs using just a few buttons on the remote control. Here’s an overview of the buttons you’ll use most often.

Remote Control for Model SAT-A2

DSS POWER Button

Turns the DSS receiver on and off.

FUNCTION Buttons

Selects the component (DSS, TV, CABLE) that you want to operate. These buttons flash to indicate which component the remote control is set to operate. To control your TV or cable box, you must first program the remote control, as described on page 85.

GUIDE Button

Brings up the Custom Guide.

0–9 and ENTER Buttons

Pressing the 0–9 buttons and then the ENTER button selects a station number directly.

Joystick/ Button

Moving the joystick up, down, left, right, and diagonally scrolls through the program guides. Pressing the button selects the program that’s highlighted. When a program guide is not displayed, pressing the button brings up the Station Index.

CH/PAGE Buttons

Changes the channel. When a program guide is displayed, pressing the CH/PAGE buttons pages through the guide.

See Also

Pages 9–10 for a quick start to using the program guide and the Station Index.

Chapter 4 for procedures for using the main system features. Page 84 for a complete description of the buttons on the remote.

8 Chapter 2: Using Basic Functions

Using a Program Guide

The program guide displays the programming that’s available from your program providers.

1 Press the GUIDE button to bring up the Custom Guide.

CUSTOM GUIDE WED OCT 5 8:45 PM

2 Move the highlight to the name of the program you want.

First Knight 8:00 PM 10:00 PM PG-13

Act. Adv. 1995 Richard Gere, Sean Connery, Julia Ormond. Thrilling romance results when rogue knight Lancelot becomes torn between his loyalty to King Arthur and his love for Queen Guinevere (CC, ST) (A, V)

8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PMWED

BoxingSHO2987 MTV 989 COM990 It’s Gary Shan...Tracy Ullman USSB999 DTV 100 Direct Ticket Previews DTV 102 DTV 105

USSB Programming Highlights

First Knight

The Alamo

Most Wanted ...MTV’s Best of the 90’s

Jefferson in Par...Johnny Mnemonic

Moving Around In a Program Guide

You can also change the look of the program guide by pressing the DISPLAY button. See “Using the DISPLAY Feature” on page 44.

In program guides, you can select station call letters/numbers to display a description of the station.

You’ll hear the audio and see the video (in the background) of each program as they are highlighted.

The table below lists the various ways in which you can move around in the guide.

3 Press the button to select the highlighted program.

To Do This ... Use This Button

Go to other stations in the guide one station at a time

Go to other time slots in the guide one program at a time

Go to other stations in the guide one “page” at a time

Go to a station directly

SAT-A2: Move the joystick up and down

SAT-B2: Press the and buttons SAT-A2: Move the joystick left and

right to move one time slot at a time.

SAT-B2: Both Models: Or press the GUIDE

button to “page” to future time slots. Press the PAGE (CH+) and

PAGE (CH-) buttons

Press the 0-9 buttons and press ENTER

(to specify the station number)

Press the and buttons

Return to the last station you were watching

Press the EXIT button

Chapter 2: Using Basic Functions 9

Using the Station Index

The Station Index lets you select a program from a grid of station logos and call letters.

Note

Before you can bring up the Station Index, you must first clear the program guide from your TV screen. Pressing EXIT removes all on-screen displays. Also, you may need to change to another station if a message appears, which requests that you press the button to purchase the program, etc.

1 Press the button to bring up the Station Index.

Your Station Index may not look exactly like this. The stations displayed depend on the programming you’ve ordered.

2 Move the highlight to the station you want.

STATION INDEX Sports Center

206

216 220 222 224 225 226 227

229 230 232 233 235 236 240

207 208 209 211 212 215

DISC TLC

Moving Around In the Station Index

You can also change the look of the Station Index by pressing the DISPLAY button. See “Using the DISPLAY Feature” on page 44.

The program title is displayed at the top of the Station Index. Also, you’ll hear the audio and see the video (in the background) of each program, as they are highlighted.

The table below lists the various ways in which you can move around in the Station Index.

3 Press the button to tune to the program that’s highlighted.

To Do This ... Use This Button

Go to other stations in the guide, one station at a time

Go to other stations in the Station Index, one “page” at a time

Go to a station directly

Return to the last station you were watching

SAT-A2: Move the joystick in any direction

SAT-B2: Press the

buttons

Press the PAGE (CH+) and

PAGE (CH-) buttons

Press the 0-9 buttons and press

ENTER (to specify the station number)

Press the EXIT button

10 Chapter 2: Using Basic Functions

Chapter 3

Connecting Your System

Read this chapter to set up your DSS receiver for the first time, or to add or remove audio or video components connected to your system.

Overview

You can connect the DSS receiver in a variety of configurations. The answers to the following questions will determine how you hook up and operate your DSS receiver. For example:

Do you have cable TV or a broadcast (terrestrial) TV antenna? What type of connectors do your TV and VCR have: S-VIDEO,

A/V (RCA-type), or RF coaxial? Do you plan to integrate your DSS receiver with your audio or

video system?

General Recommendations

Detailed hookup instructions are provided on the pages that follow. For optimum audio and video performance, follow these general recommendations as much as possible when hooking up your components:

If you have an audio or audio/video system, consider integrating the DSS receiver into a home entertainment configuration to take advantage of your hi-fi system’s audio capabilities.

If your TV has an S-VIDEO jack, use it to connect your TV to the DSS receiver. An S-Video connection provides a better picture than RCA-type video or RF connections.

If your TV does not have an S-VIDEO jack, use your TV’s A/V connectors to connect your components. An A/V connection provides a better picture and audio when compared to an RF connection.

If you have other Sony components that include CONTROL-S jacks, you can connect these components via their CONTROL-S jacks in order to pass remote control signals between the DSS receiver and these components. This allows you to hide components behind cabinet doors.

If you have a Sony TV that has the S-Link feature, you can connect it to the DSS receiver’s S-LINK connector to simplify the operation of your system. Using S-Link, when you turn on the DSS receiver with the TV’s remote control, it automatically turns on the TV and switches the video input to DSS. When you press the SYSTEM OFF button on the TV’s remote control, it turns off both the TV and the DSS receiver. (See your TV manual for more details.)

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 11

TV Only

TV With RF Connector Only

Some TVs label this jack RF IN, instead of VHF/UHF IN.

Refer to the illustration below (SAT-A2 receiver is pictured).

1 Connect the RG-6 cable from the satellite antenna’s LNB to the DSS

receiver’s SATELLITE IN jack.

2 Connect the DSS receiver’s VHF(SAT)/UHF OUT jack to the TV’s

VHF/UHF IN jack.

Note

A VHF/UHF connection does not provide stereo sound. To receive stereo sound, you must use an A/V connection (described on page 13).

3 Connect one end of the telephone line cord to the DSS receiver’s

TEL LINE jack. Connect the other end to your home’s modular telephone outlet.

4 Connect one end of the AC power cord to the DSS receiver’s AC IN

jack. Connect the plug end to an AC outlet.

1 2 3 4

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

Optional Connections

If you have a cable input, cable box, or a terrestrial TV antenna, connect it to the DSS receiver’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

To connect the DSS receiver to your audio system, use audio cables to connect the DSS receiver to your audio receiver’s AUDIO IN jacks.

12 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

TV With A/V Connectors

Refer to the illustration below (SAT-A2 receiver is pictured).

1 Connect the RG-6 cable from the satellite antenna’s LNB to the DSS

receiver’s SATELLITE IN jack.

If your TV has only one AUDIO IN jack, connect the lower (mono) AUDIO L jack on the DSS receiver to the TV’s AUDIO IN jack.

1 2 3 4

2 Connect the DSS receiver’s A/V jacks to the TV’s A/V IN jacks. 3 Connect one end of the telephone line cord to the DSS receiver’s

TEL LINE jack. Connect the other end to your home’s modular telephone outlet.

4 Connect one end of the AC power cord to the DSS receiver’s AC IN

jack. Connect the plug end to an AC outlet.

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

Some TVs label this jack RF IN, instead of VHF/UHF IN.

Optional Connections

If you have a cable input, cable box, or a terrestrial TV antenna, connect it to the TV’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

Best Connection: If your TV has an S-VIDEO jack, use an S-VIDEO cable to connect the DSS receiver’s S-VIDEO jack to the TV’s SVIDEO IN jack. This provides the best picture quality. Then use audio cables to connect one set of the DSS receiver’s audio jacks to the TV’s AUDIO IN jacks.

To connect the DSS receiver to your audio system, use audio cables to connect the DSS receiver to your audio receiver’s AUDIO IN jacks.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 13

TV and VCR

Refer to the illustration on the opposite page (SAT-A2 receiver is pictured).

1 Connect the RG-6 cable from the satellite antenna’s LNB to the DSS

receiver’s SATELLITE IN jack.

2 Complete one of the following to connect the DSS receiver:

Better Connection: Connect the DSS receiver’s A/V jacks to the A/V IN jacks on the TV and VCR. If your VCR has only one AUDIO IN jack (monoaural VCR), connect it to the lower (mono) AUDIO L jack on the DSS receiver.

Some VCRs and TVs label this jack RF IN, instead of VHF/UHF IN.

Good Connection: Connect the DSS receiver’s VHF(SAT)/UHF

OUT jack to the VCR’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

3 Complete one of the following to connect the VCR to the TV:

Better Connection: If both your TV and VCR have A/V jacks, connect the VCR’s A/V OUT jacks to the TV’s A/V IN jacks.

Good Connection: If your TV or VCR has only an RF jack, connect the VCR’s VHF/UHF OUT jack to the TV’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

4 Connect one end of the telephone line cord to the DSS receiver’s

TEL LINE jack. Connect the other end to your home’s modular telephone outlet.

5 Connect one end of the AC power cord to the DSS receiver’s AC IN

jack. Connect the plug end to an AC outlet.

Optional Connections

If you have a cable input, cable box, or a terrestrial TV antenna, connect it to the TV or VCR’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

Best Connection: If your TV has an S-VIDEO jack, use an S-VIDEO cable to connect the DSS receiver’s S-VIDEO jack to the TV’s S-VIDEO IN jack. This provides the best picture quality. Then use audio cables to connect one set of the DSS receiver’s audio jacks to the TV’s AUDIO IN jacks.

To connect the DSS receiver to your audio system, use audio cables to connect the DSS receiver to your audio receiver’s AUDIO IN jacks.

If you are using the VCR Mouse, see page 20 for setup instructions.

Note

If the screen appears fuzzy, the program you are watching may be protected by Macrovision. Turn the VCR off to improve the picture quality.

14 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

1 2

2 4

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 15

Hi-Fi TV, Hi-Fi VCR, Audio Receiver (SAT-A2 Only)

Refer to the illustration on the opposite page.

1 Connect the RG-6 cable from the satellite antenna’s LNB to the DSS

receiver’s SATELLITE IN jack.

2 Connect the DSS receiver’s audio OUT jacks to the audio receiver’s

audio IN jacks.

3 Connect the DSS receiver’s AV jacks to the A/V IN jacks on the TV. 4 Complete one of the following to connect the DSS receiver to the

VCR:

Better Connection: Connect the DSS receiver’s A/V jacks to the A/V IN jacks on the VCR.

Some VCRs and TVs label this jack RF IN, instead of VHF/UHF IN.

Good Connection: Connect the DSS receiver’s VHF(SAT)/UHF

OUT jack to the VCR’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

5 Complete one of the following to connect the VCR to the TV:

Better Connection: If both your TV and VCR have A/V jacks, connect the VCR’s A/V OUT jacks to the TV’s A/V IN jacks.

Good Connection: If your TV or VCR has only an RF jack, connect the VCR’s VHF/UHF OUT jack to the TV’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

6 Connect one end of the telephone line cord to the DSS receiver’s

TEL LINE jack. Connect the other end to your home’s modular telephone outlet.

7 Connect one end of the AC power cord to the DSS receiver’s AC IN

jack. Connect the plug end to an AC outlet.

Optional Connections

If you have a cable input, cable box, or a terrestrial TV antenna, connect it the VCR’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

If you are using the VCR Mouse, see page 20 for setup instructions.

Note

If the screen appears fuzzy, the program you are watching may be protected by Macrovision. Turn the VCR off to improve the picture quality.

16 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

4 6

Note

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 17

Home Entertainment System (Hi-Fi TV, Hi-Fi VCR, Audio/Video Receiver)

Refer to the illustration on the opposite page (SAT-A2 receiver is pictured).

1 Connect the RG-6 cable from the satellite antenna’s LNB to the DSS

receiver’s SATELLITE IN jack.

2 Connect the DSS receiver’s A/V jacks to the VCR and A/V

receiver’s A/V IN jacks.

3 Connect the VCR’s A/V OUT jacks to one set of the A/V receiver’s

A/V IN jacks.

4 Connect the A/V receiver’s MONITOR OUT jack to the TV’s

VIDEO IN jack.

5 Connect one end of the telephone line cord to the DSS receiver’s

TEL LINE jack. Connect the other end to your home’s modular telephone outlet.

6 Connect one end of the AC power cord to the DSS receiver’s AC IN

jack. Connect the plug end to an AC outlet.

Some VCRs label this jack RF IN, instead of VHF/UHF IN.

Optional Connections

If you have a cable input, cable box, or a terrestrial TV antenna, connect it to the VCR’s VHF/UHF IN jack.

Best Connection: If your A/V receiver has an S-VIDEO jack, use an S-VIDEO cable to connect the DSS receiver’s S-VIDEO jack to the A/V receiver’s S-VIDEO IN jack. Then connect an S-VIDEO cable from the A/V receiver to the TV’s S-VIDEO IN jack. This provides the best picture quality. Then use audio cables to connect one set of the DSS receiver’s audio jacks to the A/V receiver’s AUDIO IN jacks.

If you are using the VCR Mouse, see page 20 for setup instructions.

Note

If the screen appears fuzzy, the program you are watching may be protected by Macrovision. Turn the VCR off to improve the picture quality.

In this configuration, the A/V receiver must be turned on in order to pass the video signals through to your TV.

18 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

1 2 6

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 19

Connecting the VCR Mouse

SAT-A2 receiver is pictured, but connections are identical for SAT-B2.

The VCR Mouse works with the DSS receiver’s Timer function to automatically start and stop the recording function of your VCR.

1 Connect the VCR Mouse to the DSS receiver’s VCR MOUSE/

CONTROL S OUT jack. Then place the VCR Mouse on top of and slightly overhanging the front the VCR Mouse directly above the VCR’s IR receiving area.

of the VCR. For best results, place

2 Find the three-digit code number for your VCR in the table below.

If more than one code number is listed, use the number listed first to complete step 3.

Manufacturer Code Manufacturer Code Manufacturer Code

Sony* 301, 302, 303 Hitachi 304, 305 Samsung 313, 321, 322 Bell & Howell 343 JVC 314 Scott 312 Daewoo 341 Magnavox 308, 309, 310 Sharp 327, 328 Emerson 316, 317, 318, 319, 320 Mitsubishi 323, 324, 325, 326 Shintom 315 Fisher 330, 333, 334, 335 NEC 336, 337 Symphonic 338 General Electric 304, 329 Panasonic 306, 307 Teknica 338, 342 Go-Video 339, 340 Philips 310 Toshiba 311 Goldstar 332 RCA 305 Zenith 331

*Code 301 is the default code for Sony VHS VCRs; for Sony 8mm VCRs, use code 302; for Sony Beta, ED VCRs, use code 303.

3 Using the buttons on the VCR Mouse: 1) Press the SET button,

2) Enter the three-digit code number, 3) Press the ENTER button.

If the VCR Mouse doesn’t seem to be working correctly, first check that the VCR Mouse is positioned directly above the VCR’s IR receiving area. If it’s still not working, try this procedure again using the other codes listed for your VCR. For more troubleshooting information, see page 90.

4 To check that the code is correct, press the 1 button on the VCR

Mouse. If the VCR turns on and off each time you press 1, the code number is correct.

To use the VCR Mouse:

1) Set the DSS Timer (page 38), 2) Turn on the VCR and set the VCR’s line input to the DSS receiver, 3) Insert a tape, 4) Turn off the VCR.

20 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

Connecting Digital Audio Components (SAT-A2 Only)

The digital audio output connector allows you to connect a digital audio component that has a digital optical audio input connector, such as a MiniDisc (MD) or digital audio tape (DAT) recorder.

Note

The digital audio component must have a digital input frequency of 48 kHz Check your component’s instruction manual to determine the digital input frequency of your component.

To connect a digital audio component:

Connect the DSS receiver’s DIGITAL OUT connector to the audio component’s digital audio input connector, using the component’s digital optical cable.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 21

Setting Up the RF Antenna (SAT-A2 Only)

The RF (radio frequency) antenna enables the remote control to operate the DSS receiver even if the receiver is located in another room or is placed behind a cabinet door. In other words, with the RF feature, the remote control does not require a direct line-of-sight to the front panel of the DSS receiver.

Note

You must set up the RF antenna if you plan on using the RF feature.

To set up the RF antenna:

1 Connect the RF antenna to the DSS receiver’s RF REMOTE jack.

Do not place the RF antenna directly on top of the DSS receiver or any other metal object. For best results, place the RF antenna in a visible location.

2 Place the RF antenna at least one foot away from the DSS receiver. 3 Use the on-screen displays to set up the DSS receiver to accept RF

transmission (RF ONLY). See “Setting Up the Remote Control” on page 71 for details.

The DSS receiver is shipped with IR transmission enabled and RF transmission disabled. To use the RF feature, you must first change the factory setting (IR ONLY) to the RF setting (RF ONLY) using the on-screen displays, as described on page 71.

The operating range of the DSS remote control is about 100 ft. This may decrease due to ambient radio wave conditions, your room’s walls, weak batteries, etc.

Optional Setup

The RF antenna can be mounted to a wall using the enclosed screws or by using two pieces of double-sided tape (supplied).

22 Chapter 3: Connecting Your System

Setting Up Your DSS System

Viewing Satellite Programs

Viewing Cable or Off-Air Programs

Recording Satellite Programs While Watching Cable or Off-Air Programs

1 Turn on the TV, and then set the TV’s line input to the DSS receiver.

(For example, set the TV to channel 3 or 4, if you used an RF connection; or set to VIDEO1, etc., if you used an A/V connection.)

2 Turn on the VCR and A/V receiver, if you connected these

components. Then set their output switches accordingly.

3 Turn on the DSS receiver and select a station.

The following instructions apply only if you connected your cable TV or terrestrial antenna to your DSS receiver.

1 Turn off your DSS receiver, or press the TV/DSS button to set the

DSS receiver to TV mode.

2 Turn on the TV and then:

If you have a cable box, turn it on and then tune the TV to the output channel of your cable box, usually channel 3 or 4.

If you do not have a cable box, just tune your TV to the station you want to watch.

The following instructions apply only if you connected your cable TV or terrestrial antenna to your DSS receiver.

1 Turn on the TV and then:

If you have a cable box, turn it on and then tune the TV to the output channel of your cable box, usually channel 3 or 4.

If you do not have a cable box, tune your TV to the station you want to watch.

2 Turn on the DSS receiver, and tune to the program you want to

record. Then set the VCR to line input or channel 3 or 4, and start recording, according to your VCR’s instruction manual.

3 Press the TV/DSS button to set the DSS receiver to TV.

The DSS receiver’s signal is sent to the VCR, while the off-air signal is sent to your TV for you to watch.

Note

For information on using the DSS receiver’s automatic timer, see “Setting Up the Timer” on page 38.

You cannot record one satellite program while watching another satellite program (unless you have a second DSS receiver).

If the screen appears fuzzy, the program you are watching may be protected by Macrovision. Turn the VCR off to improve the picture quality.

Chapter 3: Connecting Your System 23

Chapter 4

Using the System Features

Read this chapter to learn how to use system features including the Master program guide, Station Index, Favorite Station Guide, and the ordering of pay-per-view programs.

Overview

This chapter provides detailed instructions for using the main features of your DSS receiver. Topics include:

Checking to make sure your system is completely set up and ready to be used (page 25).

Using Highlight and Select, the simple, two-step process for operating the on-screen displays (page 26).

Displaying and navigating through the program guide (page 27). Selecting subscription and pay-per-view programs from the

program guides (page 31). Using the program list (page 32). Selecting other program guides that are sorted by category and

subcategory (page 33). Using the Station Index (page 36). Setting the Timer (page 38). Using the five Favorite Station Guides (page 40). Displaying the Program Banner (page 43). Using the DISPLAY feature (page 44).

24 Chapter 4: Using the System Features

Before You Get Started ...

Make sure you (or your DSS system installer) have completed the following procedures before you start using your DSS receiver:

1 Install the satellite antenna, as described in the Satellite Antenna

Installation Manual.

Note

Make certain that you (or your DSS system installer) have optimized the signal strength. If the signal is not optimized, you may experience losses in audio or video, especially during rain, snow, or other conditions that tend to degrade signal performance. See the Satellite Antenna Installation Manual for details on pointing the dish and optimizing the antenna’s signal strength.

2 Connect the satellite antenna to your DSS receiver. Then connect

the receiver to your television and telephone line. (See Chapter 3.)

Note

Your phone line must be connected to the DSS receiver in order for you to purchase a pay-per-view program with the DSS remote control.

3 Make sure the access card is inserted into the DSS receiver. The

receiver comes with the card already inserted. (See page 68 for details on inserting the access card.)

If Your System Is Not Completely Installed ...

4 Call your program providers (DIRECTV and USSB) to activate

your service. You’ll need to provide information, including the model and serial numbers of your DSS receiver and the access card number.

DIRECTV® 1-800-DIRECTV (347-3288) USSB 1-800-204-USSB (8772)

See the manual that came with the satellite antenna and Chapter 3 of this manual for complete installation instructions. Or, see your DSS dealer to arrange for a professional installation or the purchase of the Sony-brand DSS Installation Kit.

Chapter 4: Using the System Features 25

Using the On-Screen Displays: Highlight and Select

highlight

All of the features and functions of the DSS receiver can be operated using a simple, two-step process: Highlight and Select. These two steps are explained below.

Step 1: Highlight

To highlight, move the joystick (SAT-A2) or press the arrow buttons (SAT-B2) on the remote to move the on-screen to the

item that you want to select.

Step 2: Select

After you’ve highlighted the item that you want, select it by pressing the button.

Example: Highlight and Select

1 In the sample menu that follows, moving the joystick up (SAT-A2)

or pressing the button (SAT-B2) moves the highlight from ITEM 5...

Shortcut

(SAT-A2 Only) In many of the on-screen displays you can move the joystick in eight directions: left, right, up, down, and diagonally (up left, up right, down left, and down right).

SAMPLE MENU

ITEM 1

ITEM 4

ITEM 7 ITEM 8

... to ITEM 2.

SAMPLE MENU

ITEM 1

ITEM 4

ITEM 7

ITEM 2

ITEM 5

ITEM 2

ITEM 5

ITEM 8

ITEM 3

ITEM 6

ITEM 9

ITEM 3

ITEM 6

ITEM 9

2 Pressing the button selects ITEM 2.

You can apply this basic operation of highlighting and selecting to perform any of the system’s functions.

26 Chapter 4: Using the System Features

Displaying the Program Guide

You can select programs using the CH+ and CH- buttons, or you can enter the station number directly using the 0-9 buttons. However, because DSS offers you such a variety of programming choices, you’ll get the most out of the system by using one of the on-screen program guides to find the programs you want to watch.

To display the Master Guide:

Press the MENU button to bring up the Main Menu. Then highlight and select MASTER GUIDE from the menu.

Shortcut

You can select menu items directly by pressing the corresponding number button. For example, press 2 to select the Master Guide from the Main Menu.

MAIN MENU

MASTER GUIDE

EXIT

TIMER SETUP

SELECT LIST

MOVIES LIST

SETUP MENU

SELECT GUIDE

MOVIES GUIDE

OPTIONS MENU

Note

To bring up the Custom Guide, press the GUIDE button on the remote control. See “Setting Up a List of Custom Stations” on page 57 for details.

Features of the program guide are discussed in more detail on the following pages.

Chapter 4: Using the System Features 27

Features of the Program Guide

Jefferson in Par...Johnny Mnemoni

When you select a guide from the Main Menu or press the GUIDE button on the remote, a program guide appears, similar to the following:

Program Guide Title

Program

Description

Schedule Grid

MASTER GUIDE WED OCT 5 8:45 PM

First Knight 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM PG-13

8:00 PM 8:30 PM 9:00 PMWED

BoxingSHO2987

MTV 989

The Alamo

Most Wanted ...MTV’s Best of the 90’s COM 990 It’s Gary Shan...Tracy Ullman USSB999 DTV 100 DTV 102 DTV 105

USSB Programming Highlights Direct Ticket Previews

First Knight

Program guides, such as the Master Guide shown above, feature a variety of elements, including:

Program guide title, such as Master Guide, Custom Guide, Movie Guide, Sports Guide, etc.

Current day of the week, date and time. Station logo (when available) and program description of the

currently highlighted station.

Day, Date, Time

Station logo

Page Indicator

Schedule grid, which includes:

Station names, numbers, and program titles. These appear in ascending numerical order from top to bottom (unless you have changed the listing to alphabetical order. See “Setting the Station Order” on page 49 for details).

Time slots. These appear left to right, with the current time’s programming in the leftmost position.

Page indicator. This shows you approximately which page you’re on, relative to all the pages in the guide. The size of the indicator is proportional to the overall size of the entire program guide.

28 Chapter 4: Using the System Features

Moving Through the Program Guide

The on-screen program guides are displayed only one page at a time. Because the program guide usually contains many pages, you need to move through the guide to see more of the programs contained in the guide. You can move by scrolling, paging, and direct station tuning.

Scrolling

Paging Vertically Through the Stations

Paging Through Later Program Start Times

To scroll, use the remote control to move the highlight one position at a time. You can scroll to different stations or time slots.

To move to other stations in the guide one station at a time:

SAT-A2: Move the joystick up or down. SAT-B2: Press the up or down arrow buttons.

To move to other time slots in the guide:

SAT-A2: Move the joystick left or right. SAT-B2: Press the left or right arrow buttons.

To page, use the PAGE buttons to move through the guide one page at a time. This allows you to move through the guide more quickly than scrolling.

To page through the guide:

Press the PAGE or PAGE buttons. The PAGE button pages in the up direction. The PAGE button

pages in the down direction.

To display future time slots in the guide:

Press the GUIDE button.

Pressing the GUIDE button repeatedly cycles through all the available time slots in the guide as they are made available by your program providers (for example, THU 3:00 PM, THU 10:00 PM, FRI 3:00 AM, etc.).

Direct Station Tuning

Note

To select a future program guide directly, press the MENU button and then select SELECT GUIDE/TIME. See page 33 for details.

To move to a station directly:

Press the 0-9 buttons to specify the station number. Press the ENTER button to change the station more quickly.

Chapter 4: Using the System Features 29

+ 67 hidden pages