VCR User’s Guide We bring good things to life.
Important Information WARNING CAUTION To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture. RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN. 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 "dangerous voltage" inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury.
Introduction Key Features Overview Your VCR is equipped with features that will add to your recording experience. The following information summarizes a few of these features. Chapter 3 provides more information about the rest of the VCR’s features and how to use them. ON OFF TV REVERSE PLAY RECORD STOP VCR FORWARD CHAN SEARC VOL VOL INFO MUTE GO BACK CH AN CLEAR 1 MENU SPEED 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 I T 0 TRACKING V•VC R T NPU Unified Remote Control PAUSE F.
Introduction EnergySaver Description: Set the VCR to turn off automatically after one, two, or three hours of inactivity. Requirements: Set the EnergySaver preferences. Rec Ch 36 Record Length 1:30 Express Recording (XPR) Description: Allows the VCR to record for a preset amount of time without having to set up a timer recording.
Table of Contents Key Features Overview ........................................................................................... 1 Connections & Setup .............................................................................................. 5 Things to Consider Before Connecting Components ............................................. 6 Cable Considerations ................................................................................................ 6 Choose Your Connection ......................
Table of Contents Using the Remote Control .................................................................................. 25 Using the Remote Control to Control Components .............................................. 26 Buttons of the Remote Control ........................................................................ 26 Using the INPUT Button ............................................................................. 27 Using the VCR’s Features ...................................................
Chapter 1 Connections & Setup Chapter Overview: • Things to Consider Before Connecting • Choosing Your Connection • Making Connections • Navigating On-Screen Menus • Completing the QuickSet™ Guide • Basic Recording 5
Connections & Setup Things to Consider Before Connecting Components Protect Components From Power Surges • Connect all components before plugging any power cords into the wall outlet. • Always turn off the TV and other components before you connect or disconnect any cables. Position Cables to Avoid Audio Hum or Interference • Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.
Connections & Setup Using the RF Coaxial Cable to Connect the VCR to a TV The RF coaxial cable supplied with your VCR will be the cable used for the basic connections represented in this chapter. RF Coaxial Cable Notes: To hear stereo sound, you will need to purchase Audio/Video (A/V) cables (not provided) to connect the VCR to the TV. For details about this advanced setup, see the instructions on page 56.
Connections & Setup TV (back panel) VIDEO AUDIO R L / MONO IN L TV OUT CABLE/ ANTENNA S-VIDEO 1 VCR VCR ANT. IN AUDIO R L OUT RF OUT IN CH. VIDEO 3 2 4 From Cable or Antenna TV + VCR Note: Your television back panel may not look exactly like the model shown here. Need Some Help? If you prefer, we can provide you with the name of an Authorized Service Representative who will visit your home for a fee to install your electronic entertainment system and to instruct you in its operation.
Connections & Setup TV VIDEO AUDIO R L / MONO IN L OUT CABLE/ ANTENNA S-VIDEO VCR TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver Note: Your television and satellite receiver back panel may not look exactly like the models shown here. 1. Connect the VCR to the TV Connect one end of the supplied RF coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on the back of the VCR and the other end to the TV’s Antenna IN jack. 2.
Connections & Setup CABLE/ ANTENNA TV + VCR + Cable Box Note: Your television and cable box back panel may not look exactly like the models shown here. Need Some Help? If you prefer, we can provide you with the name of an Authorized Service Representative who will visit your home for a fee to install your electronic entertainment system and to instruct you in its operation. For details about this service, call 1-888-206-3359. 1.
Connections & Setup Set the VCR’s CH 3/4 Switch The CH 3/4 switch on back of the VCR determines what channel the TV must be tuned to see the VCR’s image. Choose whichever channel is not used locally in your area. Note: If you connected components using A/V jacks and cables, the VCR’s signal must be viewed using the TV’s Video Line Input.
Connections & Setup Using the Remote Control to Navigate On-screen Menus The technical term is “Navigation” – how you move through the on-screen menus. Choosing a menu item is the same for all on-screen displays; press the corresponding number button on the remote control select the desired item. Note: Selecting a menu item can take you to another menu, activate a choice, or activate a data entry field (such as the hour field in the Set Time menu). Select a language. Seleccione un idioma.
Connections & Setup VCR Basics Once your initial settings are complete, you can begin using your VCR. In order to begin, you must first understand some basic concepts.
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Chapter 2 Using the VCR’s Menu System Chapter Overview: • Setting Up the VCR’s Preferences • Using On-Screen Menus • Cable Box Setup • Setting Time and Date • Setting VCR Preferences 15
Using On-Screen Menus Using On-Screen Menus to Set Up Features You set up many of the VCR’s features by using the menu system as discussed in the previous chapter. Each feature that appears in the QuickSet Guide is explained in this section as well as a few other features you should set up to get the most out of your VCR. Note: Not all the VCR screens are shown in this manual when explaining the features. Language Selecting your preferred language determines how the on-screen displays will appear.
Using On-Screen Menus CABLE BOX SETUP On what channel does the VCR receive signals from the cable box? (usually 3, 4, or Video) 4. If ALL Channels is selected, enter the output channel of the cable box (usually 03 or 04), or if Audio/Video (A/V) jacks connect the VCR to the TV, press the INPUT button on the VCR’s remote control. 5. Once you complete the setup, the VCR confirms that the VCR will now receive all signals on the designated channel.
Using On-Screen Menus Changing the Signal Type This feature is useful if your cable signal goes out; it allows you to switch to a regular antenna for alternate television reception. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 VCR MAIN MENU Timer Recordings Time Channels Setup Preferences Audio Language 1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU. 2. Press 3 to display the CHANNELS menu. 3. Press 3 to change Signal Type: Cable or Antenna. When finished, press 0 to exit back to the MAIN MENU and 0 again to exit to normal viewing.
Using On-Screen Menus Time and Date Your VCR gives you two ways to set the time and date; manually or by using the Auto Clock Set feature. Using Auto Clock Set enables the time to be updated each time the VCR is turned off by using time and date information carried in certain broadcast signals. Auto Clock Set Feature The Auto Clock Set feature is set to ON by default at the factory. In the ON setting, the VCR looks for a channel carrying time data and updates the clock automatically.
Using On-Screen Menus Setting Daylight-Saving Time 1 2 3 4 TIME Set Time and Date Auto Clock Set: ON Set Time Zone Set Daylight Savings 1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU. 2. Press 2 to display the TIME menu. 3. Press 4 to display the SET DAYLIGHT SAVINGS menu. 4. Select one of the options. Time Data was found on channel 20. 0 Exit SET DAYLIGHT SAVING Notes: DST stands for Daylight–Saving Time.
Using On-Screen Menus 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 PREFERENCES Remote Control: Auto Play: Auto TV/VCR: EnergySaver: Front Panel: Tape Speed: Set Auto Repeat VCR1 ON ON 2:00 BRIGHT SLP 0 Exit The PREFERENCES menu allows changes to be made to a variety of VCR features. Additional Set Up Features in the Preferences Menu Note: The features described on the following pages are all accessed through the PREFERENCES menu. To Access the PREFERENCES menu: 1. Press MENU to display the VCR MAIN MENU. 2.
Using On-Screen Menus Auto TV/VCR To control whether the TV/VCR setting changes automatically to the VCR mode when the VCR is turned on, use the Auto TV/VCR setting. To Access Auto TV/VCR: 1. In the PREFERENCES menu, press 3 repeatedly to toggle between Auto TV/ VCR: ON and OFF. Note: Pressing TV•VCR on the remote control will still switch between the VCR and TV modes. When in VCR mode, VCR is displayed on the front panel. The VCR indicator turns off when in TV mode.
Using On-Screen Menus Tape Speed Note: Tape Speeds SP (Standard Play) Gives the best quality recording, but fewer programs can be recorded on the tape. SLP (Super Long Play) Gives three times the recording time of tapes recorded in SP mode. Recording Times Cassette SP SLP T-120 2 Hr 6 Hr T-160 2 Hr/40 Min 8 Hr You can choose a preferred tape speed for recording; either Standard Play (SP) or Super Long Play (SLP). The speed selected appears in the VCR’s display panel and in timer recording menus.
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Chapter 3 Using the Remote Control Chapter Overview: • Using the Remote Control to Control Components • Buttons on the Remote Control • Using the INPUT Button 25
Using the Remote Control Using the Remote Control to Control Components Your VCR’s remote control is capable of controlling more than just your VCR. If you have compatible RCA, GE, or Proscan TV, you may be able to control it without any additional steps.
Using the Remote Control MENU Displays the VCR’s Main Menu. This is the first step when accessing any on-screen menu such as Language, Preferences, Timer Recordings, etc. MUTE Lowers the TV volume to its minimum level. Press the MUTE button again to restore the TV’s volume to it previous level. Turns the power of the active device (either the TV or VCR) on or off. ON•OFF PAUSE Pauses playback in VCR mode. PLAY Starts playback when in VCR mode. Pressing PLAY while in Pause mode will also start playback.
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Chapter 4 Using the VCR’s Features Chapter Overview: • Recording • Express Recording (XPR) • Timer Recordings • Copying and Editing Tapes 29
VCR Features Recording Features Your VCR provides many ways to capture programming: 1. Recording lets you press one button to record a program. 2. Express Recording (XPR) allows recording to start while a program is being watched. This feature automatically stops recording after a designated period of time. 3. Timer Recording program the VCR for a daily, weekly, or a one-time recording which will automatically start and stop at the times you set.
VCR Features Timer Recording You can program up to eight different broadcasts to be recorded. Notes on Timer Recordings- In order for a Timer Recording to work: • The VCR’s clock must be set correctly. • Insert a tape with its safety tab in place and enough tape to record the program. • The output of your cable box appears in the Channel item of the timer recording menu if you’ve set up the VCR for a cable box for all channels.
VCR Features Stopping a Timer Recording To Stop or Cancel a Timer Recording in Progress (even an Express Recording): Press and hold the STOP button for several seconds until STOP appears on screen and/or on the VCR front panel. Reviewing and Clearing Programs To Review Programs: Program 1 (One time) Channel Start Time End Time Start Date Tape Speed 1. With the VCR MAIN MENU displayed, press 2 to choose TIMER RECORDINGS. 2. Press 2 to display the Review Existing Progs. screen. 3.
VCR Features Copying and Editing Tapes Using Two VCRs CABLE BOX or ANTENNA IN Use one VCR as the playback VCR and the other as the recording VCR. OUT PLAYBACK VCR 1. Turn on the TV and VCRs. 2. Tune the TV to its VCR viewing channel (either 3, 4, or video line input). 3. If you connected your VCR using the RF coaxial cable jacks, tune the recording VCR to channel 03 or 04 (whichever is selected on the playback VCR’s CH. 3/4 switch on the back panel). ANT.
VCR Features Commercial Scan This is useful for skipping commercials or short program segments. 1. Press SEARCH once during playback to advance the tape approximately 30 seconds of recorded material. 2. Each press of the SEARCH button adds an additional 30 seconds up to five minutes. Slow Motion You can view a tape during play or play-pause mode using slow motion. 1. In pause mode, press the FORWARD button (FWD on the VCR) or the REVERSE button (REV on the VCR) to start slow-motion playback. 2.
VCR Features Index Search The VCR has a VHS Index Search System that automatically records an index mark 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 at on the tape. To Search: INDEX SEARCH 1. Press STOP. 2. Press SEARCH on the remote to display the INDEX SEARCH menu on the TV screen. 3.
VCR Features GO-TO SEARCH Current tape counter is 2:17:25 Press REV or FWD to go to -:--:00 Press SEARCH to exit Go-To Search The Go-To Search feature enables the VCR to quickly locate a counter reading anywhere on the tape. When the VCR locates the counter reading, it will begin playback. 1. Press the STOP button. 2. Press the SEARCH button on the remote control until the GO-TO SEARCH menu appears on the screen. 3.
VCR Features Hours Minutes 0:30:00 Seconds Time Counter The time counter shows the actual time used in recording or playing back a tape. The time counter helps locate the beginning or end of recorded events. It resets to 0:00:00 whenever a tape is ejected from the VCR. For example, if you record a 30-minute program at the beginning of a tape, rewind it, and then want to go to the end of the first program to start another recording: 1 Stop Ch 05 0:30:00 1.
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Chapter 5 Other Information Chapter Overview: • Troubleshooting • Front, Rear, and Display Panel Diagram • Specifications • Care and Cleaning • Warranty Information • Finding the TV’s Video Line Input • Advanced Connection Diagram • Glossary • Index 39
Other Information Troubleshooting Most problems with your VCR are addressed in this Troubleshooting section. If you ever have any problems with the VCR’s general, playback, or recording abilities, refer to this section first. General Problems No power • Check to make sure the VCR is plugged into a working outlet. • Check to make sure connections between devices are correct and snug.
Other Information The incorrect time or date is shown • A power interruption may have occurred and Automatic Clock Set was not turned on or did not work properly. Check the time zone and Daylight-Saving settings in the TIME menu. • Make sure the VCR or cable box is tuned to the time data channel (check with your service provider for information about time data). • Auto Clock Set is not supported in all areas or by digital satellite receivers. Set the time and date manually unsing the TIME menu.
Other Information Streaks appear in the picture during normal playback • Press one of the remote control’s TRACKING buttons to adjust for the best picture. • Make sure the tape used is in good condition and not worn out. Tapes play back in slow motion • Press the PLAY button to return to normal playback mode. A tape with its safety tab removed doesn’t start to play automatically • Make sure the Auto Play feature is set to ON in the PREFERENCES menu.
Other Information Recording Problems The VCR will not record • Make sure there is a tape in the VCR. • Try ejecting, then reinserting the tape. • Check to make sure the tape is not damaged or broken. • Make sure the VCR is not in Pause mode. Press the remote control’s PAUSE or PLAY button to return to normal playback.
Other Information Front A/V Jacks Front Panel Front A/V Jacks Receives signals from another component like a VCR or camcorder when it is connected to these jacks. Use INPUT to select L2 to see a signal using these jacks. CHANNEL TRACKING Up ( )/Down ( ) Selects next higher or lower channel in the VCR’s channel memory. Adjusts tracking when a tape is playing. Used for program express and moving through menu system. FWD Forwards the tape when the VCR is in stop mode.
Other Information REC VCR AM Display Panel Clock/Counter Displays current time, time counter, tape speed, or channel numbers when switching channels. FUNCTION DISPLAYS: dn & Ld (Down and Load) Front panel display alternates between these two words when time data is being downloaded. REC (Recording indicator) recording is paused. The VCR is recording.
Other Information AUDIO ANT. IN R L OUT RF OUT IN CH. VIDEO 3 4 Back Panel ANT. IN jack RF cables. Receives a signal from an antenna or cable system when the VCR is attached with AUDIO (R /L) and VIDEO Input Jacks Receives signals from another component, such as a VCR or camcorder, when connected to these jacks. Use the INPUT button on the VCR or remote control to select the video line input (L1) and record from these jacks.
Other Information Specifications Format: VHS Record/Playback System: Video: 4-head Audio: VHS 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) Type: AutoProgramming frequency synthesis Power Requirement: 120V AC, 60 Hz Power Consumption: 17 watts (standby < 3 watts) Dimensions: 3.
Other Information GE VCR WARRANTY What your warranty covers: • Any defect in materials or workmanship. For how long after your purchase: • 90 days for labor charges. • One year for parts. The warranty period for rental units begins with the first rental or 45 days from date of shipment to the rental firm, whichever comes first. What we will do: • Pay any Authorized GE VCR Service Center the labor charges to repair your VCR.
Other Information Finding the TV’s Video Line Input TV Button ON OFF TV REVERSE PLAY RECORD STOP VCR FORWARD PAUSE CHAN INFO You need to tune your TV to the Video Line Input if you are using the VCR’s Audio/Video (A/V) OUT jacks to connect to the TV’s A/V input jacks. You must select the TV’s Video Line Input before you can see or hear the VCR’s signal. The Video Line Input for TVs varies by brand and model.
Other Information Advanced Connection TV + VCR + Satellite Receiver Cables: A/V and RF Coaxial Note: Your satellite receiver and television back panels may not look exactly like the models shown here. This connection can also be used for a cable box. 1. Connect the VCR to the TV TV A. Connect one end of the supplied RF coaxial cable to the RF OUT jack on the back of the VCR and the other end to the TV’s Antenna input jack. AUDIO VIDEO R L / MONO IN L OUT CABLE/ ANTENNA S-VIDEO B.
Other Information Glossary A/V Jacks & Cables Commonly called “RCA-type” cables. Improves picture and sound quality over RF Coaxial cables. A/V cables are required for stereo audio. EnergySaver Automatically turns the VCR off after a user-defined period of inactivity. Express Recording (XPR) A method of timer recording which tapes for a set period of time using 30-minute increments. Pro-Tect Plus™ Allows the VCR to be disabled so that the front panel and remote control buttons don’t work.
Index A ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS screen 18 ANTENNA button 22 Arrow buttons 44 AUDIO IN jacks 50 Audio/Video (A/V) jacks 17, 44, 46 Auto channel search 17 Auto clock feature 19 Auto play feature 13, 21 Auto TV/VCR feature 22 Automatic rewind 13 Automatic tracking 13, 36 B Back panel jacks 46 Basic connections 8 Basic recording 13 Batteries- remote control 11 Broadcast stereo 32 D N Date and time setting 19 Design specifications 47 Display panel 45 Displays, on screen 37 Number buttons 20, 26 E EJECT button
Index S Safety tab 13, 21 SAP, recording 32 Search forward 33 reverse 33 SEARCH button 35 searching tapes Commercial Scan 34 Set up auto play feature 21 auto TV/VCR feature 22 cable box 16 language feature 16 PREFERENCES menu 21 tape speed feature 23 time and date 19 using menu system 16 Signal type changing 18 Slow motion 34 Specifications 47 Speed SLP 23 SP 23 SPEED button 13, 23, 30 STOP button 13, 27, 30, 32, 44 Timer recording 31 stopping 32 TIMER RECORDINGS menu 31, 32 Tracking 36 TRACKING buttons 1
Please do not send any products to the Indianapolis address listed in this manual or on the carton. This will only add delays in service for your product. Thomson multimedia Inc. 10330 North Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46290 ©2001 Thomson multimedia Inc.
