3-861-573-11 (1) Video Cassette Recorder Operating Instructions Owner’s record The model and serial numbers are located at the rear of the unit. Record these numbers in the spaces provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. Serial No.
WARNING 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 sufficient 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.
Table of contents 4 5 Step 1: Unpacking Step 2: Setting up the remote commander 8 Step 3: Hookups 32 Selecting a language Basic Operations 53 55 59 61 Playing a tape Recording TV programs Locating a channel by station ID Recording TV programs using VCR Plus+ 64 Setting the timer manually Additional Operations 67 Playing/searching at various speeds 70 Searching for a selected point on the tape 72 Skip-searching automatically 73 Creating a favorite channel list with station IDs 75 Recording TV programs u
Getting Started Step 1 Unpacking Check that you have received the following items with the VCR: 4 • Remote commander • Cable Mouse (cable box controller) • Size AA (R6) batteries • 75-ohm coaxial cable with F-type connectors • Audio/video cable (3-phono, 1-mini to 3-phono, 1-mini) • Jack cover • Monaural cable (1-mini to 1-mini) • SmartFile labels Getting Started
Step 2 Setting up the remote commander Getting Started Inserting the batteries Insert two size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and – on the batteries to the diagram inside the battery compartment. Insert the negative (–) end first, then push in and down until the positive (+) end clicks into position. Using the remote commander Remote sensor You can use this remote commander to operate this VCR and a Sony TV or AV receiver.
Step 2: Setting up the remote commander (continued) Setting the COMMAND MODE switch To remotely control the VCR with the remote commander, set COMMAND MODE on the remote commander to the same position as that on the VCR. Usually set to VTR 3.
Code numbers of controllable TVs If more than one code number is listed, try entering them one at a time until you find the one that works with your TV.
Step 3 Hookups Selecting the best hookup option There are many ways in which your VCR can be hooked up. To hook up your VCR so that it works best for you, first scan through the table below. Then use the accompanying diagrams and procedures on the following pages to set up your VCR. If you have Use Refer to TV that has audio/video inputs Audio/video (A/V) hookup, then follow one of the hookups below.
Audio/video (A/V) hookup Pages 9 and 10 If your TV has the S-Link* (A/V bus control) function, hook up your VCR using the connection shown on page 10. Your TV will automatically switch to the A/V inputs for your VCR when you play back or operate menu on the VCR. Getting Started If your TV has audio/video (A/V) input jacks, you will get a better picture and sound if you hook up your VCR using these connections.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) C Use this hookup if your TV has the S-Link function VCR Stereo receiver TV AUDIO VIDEO LINE-1 IN S-LINK LINE OUT AUX IN IN VIDEO AUDIO OUT AUDIO S-LINK Audio cable (not supplied) Audio/video cable (supplied) Note • To play a tape in stereo, you must use the A/V connection. A/V hookup: VCR setup After you’ve connected your TV and completed antenna or cable hookup, use the following procedure to set up the VCR. Set AUTO ANT SEL to OFF and press the cursor stick (OK).
Hookup 1 Pages 11 to 13 Using cable box control What you can do with this hookup • Record any channel using the VCR’s cable box control feature to select channels on the cable box Getting Started Recommended use You should use this hookup if you have a cable box, especially if your cable system scrambles all or most channels. This hookup allows the VCR’s cable box control feature to control the channel on the cable box, simplifying the recording process.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 1: VCR setup 1 2 3 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. RF UNIT CH3 CH4 EASY SET UP Turn on your cable box. Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears.
6 Select your cable box output channel and press the cursor stick (OK). CABLE BOX SET UP CABLE BOX CONTROL CABLE MOUSE ON OFF BOX CODE NO. 0 18 BOX OUTPUT CH CH3 SET UP / SET UP i s d o n e . Normal display Hookup 1: VCR Plus+ channel setup 1 Press MENU and select SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS. 2 Push the cursor stick to ?// to select AUTO and press the cursor stick (OK).
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Pages 14 to 16 Hookup 2 No cable box, or incompatible cable box with only a few scrambled channels Recommended use Use this hookup if you do not have a cable box. Also use this hookup if your cable company cannot supply a cable box that is compatible with the VCR’s cable box control feature, and your cable system scrambles only a few channels.
Hookup 2: VCR setup 1 RF UNIT CH3 CH4 Getting Started 2 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. EASY SET UP Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears. Change the on-screen display language to Spanish (ESPAÑOL) or French (FRANÇAIS) if desired, and press the cursor stick (OK).
Step 3: Hookups (continued) 6 The AUTO PRESET starts. SET UP AUTO PRESET TUNER PRESET SET UP SET UP i s d o n e PROCESS I NG / P l e a s e wa i t . Normal display Hookup 2: VCR Plus+ channel setup 1 Press MENU and select SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS. 2 Push the cursor stick to ?// to select AUTO and press the cursor stick (OK).
Pages 17 to 19 Hookup 3 Antenna hookup A Use this hookup if you’re using: • VHF/UHF antenna (you get channels 2–13 and channels 14 and higher) • UHF-only antenna (you get channels 14 and higher) • Separate VHF and UHF antennas Getting Started Make the following connections if you’re using an antenna (if you don’t have cable TV). Rear of TV or VCR VHF/UHF A Match the type of connector on your TV: A, B, or C.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 3: VCR setup 1 2 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. RF UNIT CH3 CH4 EASY SET UP Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears. Change the on-screen display language to Spanish (ESPAÑOL) or French (FRANÇAIS) if desired, and press the cursor stick (OK).
6 The AUTO PRESET starts. SET UP AUTO PRESET SET UP TUNER PRESET SET UP i s d o n e PROCESS I NG / Normal display Hookup 3: VCR Plus+ channel setup 1 Press MENU and select SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS. 2 Push the cursor stick to ?// to select AUTO and press the cursor stick (OK). MENU TIMER SET / CHECK TUNER PRESET CLOCK SET LANGUAGE SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS CABLE BOX CONTROL ADVANCED OPTIONS SMART FILE EDIT SMART CHANNEL MAPPING AUTO 3 Press POWER to turn off the VCR. Getting Started .
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 4 Pages 20 to 23 Hookup 4 Incompatible cable box with many scrambledPages 19 to 21 channels Recommended use Use this hookup if your cable company cannot supply a cable box that is compatible with the VCR’s cable box control feature, and your cable system scrambles all or most channels.
Hookup 4: VCR setup 1 RF UNIT CH3 CH4 Getting Started 2 3 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. EASY SET UP Turn on your cable box. Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) 6 The AUTO PRESET starts. SET UP AUTO PRESET TUNER PRESET SET UP SET UP i s d o n e PROCESS I NG / P l e a s e wa i t . Normal display Hookup 4: VCR Plus+ channel setup 1 Find the VCR Plus+ Channel Line-up Chart in your program guide. For details, see page 48. 2 Enter all the channels you want to record and the cable box output channel (usually 2, 3, or 4). For details, see page 51. 1 Press MENU and select SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS.
Automatic clock setting To use the Auto Clock Set feature with this hookup, you need to manually select a channel that carries a time signal: Tune the cable box to a channel that carries a time signal. 3 Turn off the VCR. It automatically sets the clock and adjusts for Daylight Saving Time by picking up the time signal. Select AUTO in the CLOCK SET menu to turn on the Auto Clock Set feature.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 5 Pages 24 to 26 DSS (Digital Satellite System) receiver Recommended use Use this hookup if you have a DSS receiver. It allows the VCR’s cable box control feature to control the channel on the DSS receiver, simplifying the recording process. A list of compatible DSS receivers is on page 41. DSS (Digital Satellite System) is a satellite broadcast that provides superior digital-quality video and crisp digital-quality audio.
Hookup 5: VCR setup 1 RF UNIT CH3 CH4 Getting Started 2 3 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. EASY SET UP Turn on your DSS receiver. Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) 5 Enter your DSS receiver code number and push the cursor stick to .. For details, see page 39. CABLE BOX SET UP CABLE BOX CONTROL CABLE MOUSE ON OFF BOX CODE NO. – –– BOX OUTPUT CH CH3 En t e r y o u r CABLE BOX Cod e No. u s i n g 0 – 9 k e y s Re f e r t o t h e Ope r a t i n g Ma nu a l f o r t h e Cod e 6 Set your DSS receiver output channel (BOX OUTPUT CH) to LINE and press the cursor stick (OK). CABLE BOX SET UP CABLE BOX CONTROL CABLE MOUSE ON OFF BOX CODE NO.
Hookup 6 Pages 27 to 31 Incompatible cable box with only a few scrambled channels, using an A/B switch What you can do with this hookup • Record any unscrambled channel by selecting the channel directly on the VCR (the A/B switch is set to A) • Record any scrambled channel by selecting the channel on the cable box (the A/B switch is set to B) Getting Started Recommended use By using an A/B switch (not supplied), this hookup allows you to record both scrambled and unscrambled channels conveniently.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 6: VCR setup 1 2 3 Set the RF UNIT switch to CH 3 or CH 4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel. For details, see page 105. If you made A/V connections (from page 9), you can skip this step. RF UNIT CH3 CH4 EASY SET UP Set the A/B switch to “A.” Press EASY SET UP on the VCR. 1 The LANGUAGE menu appears.
5 The TUNER PRESET menu appears. Set ANTENNA/CABLE to CABLE and press the cursor stick (OK). For details, see page 44. TUNER PRESET SET UP ANTENNA / CABLE CABLE ANT 6 The AUTO PRESET starts. SET UP AUTO PRESET TUNER PRESET SET UP SET UP i s d o n e PROCESS I NG / Getting Started Use t o s e l ec t Th e n p u s h OK Pu s h EASY SET UP t o q u i t P l e a s e wa i t . Normal display 4 Preset the cable box output channel (usually 2, 3, or 4). For details, see page 46.
Step 3: Hookups (continued) Hookup 6: VCR Plus+ channel setup 1 Press MENU and select SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS. 2 Push the cursor stick to ?// to select AUTO and press the cursor stick (OK). MENU TIMER SET / CHECK TUNER PRESET CLOCK SET LANGUAGE SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS CABLE BOX CONTROL ADVANCED OPTIONS SMART FILE EDIT SMART CHANNEL MAPPING AUTO 3 Press POWER to turn off the VCR.
3 Push the cursor stick to ?// to select MANUAL. SMART CHANNEL MAPPING AUTO MANUAL 4 Enter the program guide channel, then the cable box output channel. SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS GUIDE CH TV CH 25 – 3 Pu s h 0 – 9 k e y s t o s e t p r o g r a m GUIDE CH 5 Press the cursor stick (OK). Getting Started Use t o s e l ec t Th e n p u s h OK Pu s h MENU t o q u i t O r , p u s h OK t o s e e VCR Plus+ CHANNEL LIST 6 Press MENU.
Selecting a language You can change the on-screen display language. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 MENU Cursor stick >/. OK 1 • MENU • CURSOR Press MENU, then push the cursor stick to >/. to move the cursor to LANGUAGE and press the cursor stick (OK). When using the EASY SET UP procedure, skip this step. LANGUAGE ENGLISH ESPAÑOL FRANÇAIS t o s e l ec t an Use i t e m, t h e n p u s h OK PUSH OK 2 • CURSOR PUSH OK 32 Getting Started Push the cursor stick to >/.
Setting the clock Some TV and cable channels transmit time signals with their broadcasts. Your VCR can pick up this time signal to automatically set the clock. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 MENU The Auto Clock Set feature works only if a channel in your area is broadcasting a time signal. If broadcasters in your area are not yet sending time signals, set the time manually (page 37). Getting Started Using the Auto Clock Set feature Cursor stick >/.
Setting the clock (continued) 3 • CURSOR Push the cursor stick to ?// to select YES, then press the cursor stick (OK). PUSH OK 4 To activate the Auto Clock Set function, turn off the VCR. The VCR automatically sets the clock by searching for a channel that carries a time signal and sets your time zone and Daylight Saving Time (if applicable). If your clock is set to the wrong time zone or Daylight Saving Time, you can adjust these settings without turning off the Auto Clock Set feature (page 35).
If the clock is not activated 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Number buttons 0 Getting Started 1 Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 Follow steps 1 and 2 in “Using the Auto Clock Set feature.” AUTO CLOCK SET FULL AUTO YES NO The AUTO CLOCK SET menu is displayed. Use t o s e l ec t Pu s h MENU t o q u i t 2 • CURSOR PUSH OK Push the cursor stick to ?// to select NO for FULL AUTO.
Setting the clock (continued) 3 • CURSOR PUSH OK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 Push the cursor stick to >/. to highlight the item you want to set, then push the cursor stick to ?// to make the setting. AUTO CLOCK SET FULL AUTO CLOCK SET CH TIME ZONE DAYLIGHT SAVING YES NO 123 EASTERN ON • For CLOCK SET CH Use t o s e l ec t Leave the setting to “– –” to have the VCR automatically search for a channel Pu s h MENU t o q u i t that carries a time signal.
Using Manual Clock Set 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 MENU Getting Started 1 Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 • MENU • CURSOR Press MENU, then push the cursor stick to >/. to move the cursor to CLOCK SET and press the cursor stick (OK). When using the EASY SET UP procedure, skip this step. CLOCK SET AUTO MANUAL Use t o s e l ec t Th e n p u s h OK Pu s h MENU t o q u i t PUSH OK 2 • CURSOR Push the cursor stick to ?// to select MANUAL, then press the cursor stick (OK).
Setting the clock (continued) 4 • CURSOR Push the cursor stick to / to highlight the day and push the cursor stick to >/. to set the day. CLOCK SET 1 1 / 1 6 / 1 9 9 8 MON t o s e l ec t Use c u r r e n t DAY PUSH OK 5 • CURSOR Th e n, p u s h YEAR Set the year, hour and minutes in the same way as the day. The day of the week is set automatically. PUSH OK 6 • CURSOR PUSH OK 38 Getting Started t o set Press the cursor stick (OK) to start the clock.
Setting up cable box control 1 2 3 4 5 6 Number buttons 7 8 9 Your VCR includes a cable box control 0 feature that allows the VCR to control most brands of cable boxes/DSS receivers via the Cable Mouse. With cable box control, the VCR controls channels on the cable box/DSS receiver for timer recording. You can also use the VCR’s remote commander to change channels on the cable box/DSS receiver whenever the cable box/DSS receiver is turned on even if the VCR is turned off.
Setting up cable box control (continued) 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 • CURSOR Press the number buttons to enter the cable box/DSS receiver code number, then push the cursor stick to .. Find your cable box/DSS receiver code number from the chart below. CABLE BOX CONTROL CABLE MOUSE BOX CODE NO. BOX OUTPUT CH ON OFF 1 23 CH3 Use t o s e l e c t CABLE BOX CH.
Code numbers Cable box brand Code numbers Macom 044 STS 167 Magnavox 038, 043, 080 Sylvania 012 Memorex 011 T-Cable Teletext 116 Movie Time 089, 167, 214 Tandy 269 Northcoast 325 Tatung 108 Novaplex 629 Teknica 157 NSC 074, 081, 167, 214 TeleCaption 232 Oak 018, 030, 259 Teleservice 292 Panasonic 032, 118 Texscan 012, 107 Paragon 011 TFC 321 Philips 036, 038, 039, 040, 041, 042, 071, 301 Timeless 429 Tocom 023, 024 Toshiba 011 Tudi 297 TV86 074 TV COM
Setting up cable box control (continued) To ensure correct operation • Place the Cable Mouse so that it hangs out over the cable box/DSS receiver front. • Do not place the cable box/DSS receiver on top of the VCR. • Position the cable box/DSS receiver away from the VCR. • Point the remote commander at the VCR, not at the cable box/DSS receiver. Side view 1 4 7 2 3 5 6 8 9 0 : Signal flow To check the cable box control setting 1 Press CH +/– on the remote commander.
Getting Started If you cannot get your VCR to control the cable box/DSS receiver • Check that the Cable Mouse is connected to the CABLE BOX CONTROL jack on the VCR. • Check the position of the Cable Mouse. • Place the cable box/DSS receiver and VCR away from each other. Do not place the cable box/DSS receiver on top of the VCR. • Try the setup again making sure to use the correct control code. If the cable box still does not respond, try the other codes that are listed.
Presetting channels (Skip this section if you are using cable box/DSS receiver control feature.) This VCR is capable of receiving VHF channels 2 to 13, UHF channels 14 to 69 and unscrambled CATV channels 1 to 125. First, we recommend that you preset the receivable channels in your area using automatic presetting. Then, if there are any unwanted channels, disable them manually. If you have decided which channels you wish to preset, set them directly using manual presetting.
2 • CURSOR • To preset cable TV channels: Push the cursor stick to ?// to set ANTENNA/CABLE to CABLE. • CURSOR • To preset VHF and UHF channels: PUSH OK • CURSOR PUSH OK CABLE ERASE OFF t o s e l ec t an Use i t e m, t h e n p u s h Push the cursor stick to ?// to set ANTENNA/CABLE to ANT.
Presetting channels (continued) Presetting/disabling channels manually 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Number buttons, ENTER CH +/– 0 MENU Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 Press MENU and select TUNER PRESET, then press the cursor stick (OK). • MENU • CURSOR TUNER PRESET ANTENNA / CABLE ANT AUTO PRESET MANUAL SET ADD AFT ON FINE TUNING CH2 CABLE ERASE OFF S e l e c t CH w i t h 0 – 9 . Pu s h ENTER.
If the picture is not clear 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Number buttons, ENTER Getting Started Normally, the Auto Fine Tuning (AFT) function automatically tunes in channels clearly. If, however, the picture of a channel is not clear, you can also use the manual tuning function. 0 MENU Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 • MENU Press MENU and select TUNER PRESET, then press the cursor stick (OK).
Setting up VCR Plus+ To find the guide channel numbers, look at the “Channel Line-up Chart” in the program guide for your area that features VCR PlusCodes. It usually looks like the example to the right. 48 Getting Started 5:30 14 MOVIE Musical (2hrs.) 33044 2 SPORT Golf (1hr. 25min.) 42060 CNN WS 9974 6:30 2 3 4 DRAMA Comedy (2hrs.) 17390 5 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (1hr. 15min.
Setting up VCR Plus+ automatically (Smart Channel Mapping) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 MENU Getting Started The VCR can automatically set the guide channels in your area from ZIP/POSTAL CODE you entered in EASY SET UP. The VCR receives the program information signal and renews the data everyday after you complete the following procedure. POWER Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 2 Set up the VCR using the EASY SET UP function. • MENU • CURSOR Press MENU, then push the cursor stick to >/.
Setting up VCR Plus+ (continued) 4 • POWER Press POWER to turn off the VCR. The VCR sets the program guide channels from 0:00 am to 5:00 am while the VCR is turned off. (It takes about 1 hour to complete channel mapping.
Setting up VCR Plus+ manually 1 • MENU • CURSOR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Number buttons, ENTER 0 Press MENU, then push the cursor stick to >/. to move the cursor to SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS and press the cursor stick (OK). MENU Getting Started To set the guide channels manually, use the Channel Line-up Chart to check that the guide channel numbers match the TV channel your VCR receives.
Setting up VCR Plus+ (continued) 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 • If you made Hookup 1, 2, or 3: Enter the actual number on your TV (and VCR) and press ENTER. SET VCR Plus+ CHANNELS GUIDE CH TV CH 33 – 5 Pu s h 0 – 9 k e y s y o u r TV CH 0 to se t Th e n p u s h ENTER • If you made Hookup 4: Enter the cable output channel (usually 2, 3, or 4) and press ENTER. • If you made Hookup 6: Enter the actual number on your TV (and VCR) for an unscrambled channel and press ENTER.
Basic Operations Playing a tape You can play back both VHS and S-VHS tapes on this VCR. However, you cannot obtain the original resolution quality of S-VHS (simplified playback). 6 EJECT COUNTER RESET DISPLAY SMART CUE ) FF · PLAY p STOP 1 2 Basic Operations P PAUSE 0 REW Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. Insert a tape. The VCR turns on and starts playing automatically if you insert a tape with its safety tab removed. 3 PLAY Press · PLAY.
Playing a tape (continued) Additional tasks To Press Stop play p STOP Pause play P PAUSE Resume play after pause P PAUSE or · PLAY Fast-forward the tape ) FF during stop Rewind the tape 0 REW during stop Eject the tape 6 EJECT To skip playback You can skip a portion of playback you don‘t want to watch such as a commercial and restart playback by pressing a single button. 1 Press SMART CUE during playback of the scene you want to skip. The VCR starts searching.
Recording TV programs SP/EP INPUT SELECT TV/VIDEO DISPLAY CH +/– COUNTER/ REMAIN r REC Shuttle ring 1 Basic Operations p STOP Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. To record from a cable box, turn it on. 2 Insert a tape with its safety tab in place.
Recording TV programs (continued) 3 INPUT SELECT Press INPUT SELECT until a channel number appears in the display window. EP VIDEO APC VTR 3 4 Press CH +/– to select the channel you want to record. •CH EP VIDEO APC VTR 3 5 SP / EP Press SP/EP to select the tape speed, SP or EP. EP (Extra Play) provides recording time three times as long as SP (Standard Play), however, SP produces better picture quality. SP VIDEO APC VTR 3 6 REC Press r REC to start recording.
To check the remaining tape length Press DISPLAY. The white bar indicates the approximate length of tape remaining. With the display on, press COUNTER/REMAIN to check the remaining time. Each time you press COUNTER/REMAIN, the time counter and the remaining time appear alternately. The remaining time with the indicator also appears in the display window.
Recording TV programs (continued) Tips • To select a channel, you can use the number buttons on the remote commander. Enter the channel number, then press ENTER. • You can select a video source form the LINE-1 IN or LINE-2 IN jacks using INPUT SELECT. • The display appears on the TV screen indicating information about the tape, but the information won’t be recorded on the tape. • If you don’t want to watch TV while recording, you can turn off the TV. When using a cable box, make sure to leave it on.
Locating a channel by station ID You can select the TV program from the station ID. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CH +/– 0 ENTER Basic Operations 1 Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. To record from a cable box, turn it on. 2 • ENTER Press ENTER. The station ID appears on the TV screen.
Locating a channel by station ID (continued) 3 • CH 4 • ENTER Press CH +/– to select the station ID you want. 3 9 10 12 13 15 19 22 43 45 E! MTV WGN ABC HBO CBS HBO2 22 TNT ESPN Press ENTER. Note • If the TV channel has no station ID, the channel number appears on the TV screen.
Recording TV programs using VCR Plus+ Just enter the program’s PlusCode listed in the TV program guide. The date, times and channel number of that program are set automatically. You can preset up to eight programs at a time. POWER VCR Plus+ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CLEAR 0 Number buttons SET Cursor stick ?// p STOP Basic Operations Before you start… • Check that the VCR clock is set to the correct time. • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. When using a cable box, turn it on.
Recording TV programs using VCR Plus+ (continued) 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 7 0 Press the number buttons to enter the program’s PlusCode. If you make a mistake, press CLEAR and re-enter the correct number. VCR Plus+ P l u sCo d e 53 29 2 –– – SP / EP EP Us e keys f o r : ONCE DA I L Y WEEKLY T o c o n f i r m : SET T o c a n c e l : CLEAR 3 SP / EP Press SP/EP to select the tape speed, SP or EP.
To use the VCR after setting the timer To use the VCR before a timer recording begins, just press POWER. The indicator turns off and the VCR switches on. Remember to press POWER to reset the VCR in timer recording standby after using the VCR. You can also do the following tasks while the VCR is recording: • • • • Reset the counter. Display tape information on the TV screen. Check the timer settings. Watch another TV program.
Setting the timer manually If VCR Plus+ is not available in your area, follow the instructions below to set the timer to record programs. Before you start… • Check that the VCR clock is set to the correct time. • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. When using a cable box, turn it on. • Insert a tape with its safety tab in place. Make sure the tape is longer than the total recording time.
2 Set the date, start and stop times, channel number and tape speed: • CURSOR PUSH OK 1 Push the cursor stick to / to highlight each item in turn. 2 Push the cursor stick to ./> to set each item. To correct a setting, push the cursor stick to ? to return to that setting and reset. Channel number When you set the channel number, the station ID appears on the TV screen. You can set it while checking the station ID. To record the same program every day or the same day every week, push the cursor stick to .
Setting the timer manually (continued) Daily/weekly recording In step 2 above, push the cursor stick to . to select the recording pattern. Each time you push the cursor stick to ., the indication changes as shown below. Push the cursor stick to > to change the indication in reverse order. the current date n SUN-SAT n MON-SAT n MON-FRI n EVERY SAT ..... n EVERY MON n EVERY SUN n 1 month later n (date counts down) n the current date Tips • To set the channel, you can also use the CH +/– or number buttons.
Additional Operations Playing/searching at various speeds TAPE RETURN COUNTER RESET & SLOW +/– ×2 ) FF JOG 0 REW · PLAY ) FF 0 REW · PLAY p STOP JOG Shuttle ring Shuttle ring Playback options Operation View the picture during fastforward or rewind During fast-forward, hold ) FF down. During rewind, hold 0 REW down. Search forward Press ) FF during playback. Search backward Press 0 REW during playback. Play at twice the normal speed Press × 2 during playback.
Playing/searching at various speeds (continued) Playback options Operation Replay a scene During playback, first press COUNTER RESET when you come to a scene you want to replay later. When you are ready to replay the scene, press p STOP. Then press TAPE RETURN and · PLAY in quick succession. Rewind and start play During stop, hold 0 REW on the VCR, and press · PLAY on the VCR. Using the shuttle ring With the shuttle ring, you can operate a variety of playback options.
To use the shuttle ring in jog mode Use this mode for frame-by-frame playback. Press JOG to enter jog mode. The JOG button lights up. If you change to jog mode during any playback mode, the playback pauses so you can see a still picture. Each change in the shuttle ring position shifts the picture one frame. To shift frames in reverse, turn the shuttle ring counterclockwise. The frame shift speed depends on the speed you turn the shuttle ring. To resume normal playback, press JOG again.
Searching for a selected point on the tape You can easily find a specific point by moving the pointer on the TV screen. The VCR fast-forwards or rewinds to the point you indicate and starts playback automatically. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 DISPLAY 0 Cursor stick ?// 1 Press DISPLAY repeatedly until the bar indication appears on the TV screen. A cursor ( ) indicating the current position of the tape appears on the bar indication.
Notes • The figure on the bar indication represents the total time length of the inserted tape as shown below. The total time length may not be displayed correctly for: – tapes other than T-60, T-120, or T-160 – tapes recorded in more than one tape speed mode. Tape type Total time length SP LP EP T-60 or shorter 60 120 180 from T-80 to T-140 120 240 360 T-160 or longer 160 320 480 • If you move the pointer (+) on the bar indication during search, the VCR searches for the new reset point.
Skip-searching automatically You can spot check a whole tape quickly. At intervals, the VCR skips playback while searching forward or backward. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 ) FF 0 REW Press ) FF (or 0 REW) for more than two seconds during stop. “SKIP” appears on the TV screen. SKIP The VCR searches forward (or backward) for about two minutes on the counter, then fastforwards (or rewinds) for about ten minutes on the counter.
Creating a favorite channel list with station IDs You can create your favorite channel list of the TV channels with station IDs. You can store up to 10 channels with station IDs and select the channel from your favorite channel list. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CH +/– 0 SET Cursor stick >/./?// Creating your favorite channel list 1 Press SET. The FAVORITE CH screen appears on the TV screen. 2 Press CH +/– to select the station ID you want to replace. You can also use the cursor stick >/. instead.
Creating a favorite channel list with station IDs (continued) Selecting a channel from your favorite channel list 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CH +/– 0 ENTER SET Cursor stick >/. OK 1 Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. To choose a channel from a cable box, turn the cable box on. 2 Press SET. The selected station ID Your FAVORITE CH screen appears on the TV screen.
Recording TV programs using the quick timer After starting recording in the normal way, you can have the VCR stop recording automatically after a specified duration. 1 QUICK TIMER While recording, press QUICK TIMER once. The indicator appears in the display window. EP VIDEO APC VTR 3 2 Press QUICK TIMER repeatedly to set the duration. Each press advances the time in increments of 30 minutes.
Checking/ changing/ canceling timer settings POWER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Before you start… • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. CLEAR 0 MENU Cursor stick >/./?// OK 1 2 Press POWER to turn on the VCR. Press MENU and select TIMER SET/CHECK: • If you want to change a setting, go on to the next step. • If you do not need to change the settings, press the cursor stick (OK), then turn off the VCR to return to recording standby.
When the timer settings overlap The program that starts first has priority and the second program starts recording only after the first program has finished. If the programs start at the same time, the program listed first in the menu has priority.
Recording stereo and bilingual programs Recording stereo programs This VCR automatically receives and records stereo programs. When a stereo program is received, the STEREO indicator lights up. If there is noise in the stereo program, set AUTO STEREO in the ADVANCED OPTIONS menu to OFF. The sound will be recorded in monaural (on both hi-fi and normal audio tracks) but with less noise. For details, see page 82. Recording bilingual programs Normally, this VCR records only the main sound.
How sound is recorded on a video tape The VCR records sound onto two separate tracks. Hi-fi audio is recorded onto the main track along with the picture. Monaural sound is recorded onto the normal audio track along the edge of the tape. Monaural sound Normal audio track Hi-fi audio track (main track) Stereo sound (left/right channels) Notes • To play a tape in stereo, you must use the A/V connections.
Searching using the index function The VCR marks the tape with an index signal at the point where each recording begins. Use these signals as references to find a specific recording. The VCR can search up to 99 index signals ahead of or behind the current position. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 =/+ INDEX SEARCH 1 2 Insert an indexed tape into the VCR. Press =/+ INDEX SEARCH repeatedly to specify how many index signals ahead or behind you want to search: • To search ahead, press + INDEX SEARCH.
Adjusting the picture Adjusting the tracking Although the VCR automatically adjusts the tracking when playing a tape (the indicator flashes in the display window, then goes off), distortion may occur if the tape was recorded in poor condition. In this case, manually adjust the tracking. Press the TRACKING +/– buttons to display the tracking meter. The distortion should disappear as you press one of the two buttons (the indicator lights up).
Changing menu options 1 2 Press MENU and select ADVANCED OPTIONS. Push the cursor stick to >/. to select the option to change, then push the cursor stick to ?// to change the setting. The ADVANCED OPTIONS menu has 2 pages. To select page 2, push the cursor stick to . repeatedly until page 2 appears. To select page 1, push the cursor stick to > repeatedly until page 1 appears. 3 Press the cursor stick (OK) to return to the original screen.
Menu option Set this option to APC ON to switch on the APC (Adaptive Picture Control) function and improve picture quality, OFF to switch off APC. DIMMER ON to make the display window dim, OFF to make it brighter. AUTO TAPE SPEED ON to change the timer recording tape speed automatically to the EP mode when the remaining tape becomes shorter than the recording time, OFF to keep the tape speed.
Editing with another VCR How to hook up to record on this VCR This VCR (Recorder) TV LINE-2 IN Other VCR (Player) LINE OUT : Signal flow VMC-810 audio/video cable (not supplied) How to hook up to a stereo system Connect LINE-2 IN AUDIO on this VCR to the audio output jacks on the stereo system, using the RK-C510KS audio cable (not supplied). If the other VCR has a CONTROL S OUT jack for synchronized editing Hook up to record on the other VCR, then connect the VCRs via the CONTROL S jacks.
Operation (when recording on this VCR) P PAUSE Before you start editing • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. • Press INPUT SELECT to display “L2” or “L1” in the display window. • Press SP/EP to select the tape speed, SP or EP. r REC 1 Insert a source tape with its safety tab removed into the other (playback) VCR. Search for the point to start playback and set it to playback pause. 2 Insert a tape with its safety tab in place into this (recording) VCR.
SmartFile function About the SmartFile function SmartFile* allows you to view the contents of your video tape (recording date, channel, etc.) on the TV screen. It is no longer necessary to rewind, fast-forward, or play back a tape to find out what is recorded. You can also locate and start playback of a specific program, or find the position from which you want to start recording by using this list. Program data is stored in the memory of the SmartFile label attached to the tape.
Labelling a recorded program and tape (page 95) You can attach an electronic “label” to the video tape and it’s programs on the SmartFile list. Labelling the recorded programs enables you to find a program easily when you want to play it back. Also, once you label a program which you set to record regularly (i.e. everyday, same day of a week, etc.), the VCR recognizes the label and will automatically label all future recordings of the same program.
Recording using the SmartFile function To use the SmartFile function, attach the SmartFile label to the spine of the cassette tape. If you record a program on a tape with a SmartFile label, program data, such as the date and channel, is automatically stored in the memory of the SmartFile label. Attaching the SmartFile label to the cassette tape To use the SmartFile function, attach the supplied SmartFile label to the cassette tape. Remove any stains or dirt from the surface of the spine of the tape.
Recording a program on the SmartFile tape When recording a program on the SmartFile tape, no matter what method 1 2 3 you use to record the program (normal recording, VCR Plus+ recording, etc.), 4 5 6 program data (date, channel, recording 7 8 9 start time, etc.) is stored in the memory 0 of the SmartFile label. The SmartFile label can contain up to 12 programs’ data. When the number of the stored programs goes over 12, the oldest program data is erased from the SmartFile list.
Recording using the SmartFile function (continued) To check the information of a recorded program Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears. The recording day of the week, start time, channel, date, station ID, recording time, and tape speed appear on the list. The longest space which doesn’t have any program data (Blank Time space) appears as “BLANK TIME.” Initial and latest dates of use for this SmartFile tape Channel Day of the week 8/10/98~8/10/98 BLANK TIME MON 2 : 3 0 PM CH 8 X YZ p.
Recording after locating the Blank Time space The SmartFile function identifies not only the largest amount of available blank space, but also recorded material that doesn’t have corresponding program data stored in the SmartFile label. The longest available recording space (including programs that are not stored on the SmartFile label) is referred to as “Blank Time space.” You can locate the beginning of the Blank Time space for recording.
Recording using the SmartFile function (continued) 3 Press SP/EP to select the tape speed, SP or EP. The BLANK TIME changes according to the selected tape speed. Select a tape speed that matches the length of the program you want to record. 4 8/10/98~8/16/98 BLANK TIME SUN 6 : 3 0 PM CH 1 6 THU 8 : 0 0 PM CH 12 MON 2 : 3 0 PM CH 8 START Press the cursor stick (OK). The VCR goes to the beginning of the Blank Time space and stops. SEARCHING START 5 p.
Selecting and playing a program You can automatically locate and start playback of a program recorded on the SmartFile tape. Select a program in the SmartFile search list. The SmartFile search list can contain up to 12 programs. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 SMARTFILE Cursor stick >/. OK Before you start… • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. 1 Insert a SmartFile tape. The VCR turns on, the SMARTFILE indicator lights up, and the SmartFile search list automatically appears on the TV screen.
Checking the contents of a tape SmartFile sensor You can display the program data list of a SmartFile tape on the TV screen. It is not necessary to insert the tape into the CURSOR . VCR. This feature allows you to quickly find a specific program or to find a tape with enough recording space. The SmartFile check list can contain up to 12 programs. Before you start… • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. 1 Hold the label side of the SmartFile tape close to the SmartFile sensor.
Labelling a recorded program and tape You can electronically “label” a program and select a category, such as SPECIAL or MOVIE, for a recorded program in the SmartFile list. You can also label a tape. Up to 18 characters can be input for a program and tape label. Tape title Program label Favorites BLANK TIME Rock Box MUSIC p.1 5H 30M 8 / 10 0 H 3 0 M EP EP Category START END Labelling a recorded program and selecting a category Before you start... • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
Labelling a recorded program and tape (continued) 3 Press MENU and select SMART FILE EDIT. The SMART FILE EDIT menu appears. SMART FILE EDIT 8/10/98~8/16/98 SUN 6 : 3 0 PM CH 1 6 THU 8 : 0 0 PM CH MON 2 : 3 0 PM CH SELECT : CATEGORY : 4 Push the cursor stick to >/. to select a program. SMART FILE EDIT 8/10/98~8/16/98 SUN 6 : 3 0 PM CH 1 6 THU 8 : 0 0 PM CH MON 2 : 3 0 PM CH SELECT : CATEGORY : 5 Push the cursor stick to /. The cursor moves to the program label input position.
7 Press the cursor stick (OK). SMART FILE EDIT 8/10/98~8/16/98 SUN 6 : 3 0 PM CH 1 6 Nick & Matt MON 2 : 3 0 PM CH SELECT : 8 Push the cursor stick to >/. to select a category. Each time you push the cursor stick to ., the category changes as shown below.
Labelling a recorded program and tape (continued) Labelling a tape Before you start... • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CLEAR 0 SMARTFILE MENU Cursor stick >/.// OK 1 Insert a SmartFile tape. The VCR turns on, the SMARTFILE indicator lights up, and the SmartFile search list automatically appears on the TV screen. 2 8/10/98~8/16/98 BLANK TIME Someday DRAMA Nick & Matt COMEDY Rock Box MUSIC START p.
6 Label the tape. 1 Push the cursor stick to >/. to select a character. Each time you push the cursor stick to ., the character changes as shown below. SMART FILE EDIT F Someday DRAMA Nick & Matt COMEDY Rock Box MUSIC SELECT : BACK : NEXT : p.1 8 / 16 0 H 3 0 M SP 8 / 13 0 H 5 0 M SP 8 / 10 0 H 3 0 M EP CONFIRM : OK A n B n … n Z n symbol n 0 n 1n… 9nanbn…nzn (blank space) If you make a mistake, press CLEAR. 2 To set the next character, push the cursor stick to /. The cursor moves to the next position.
Protecting a recorded program You can protect a recorded program using the SmartFile function from accidental over-recording or erasure. When you start recording from a position prior to the protected program, the recording stops automatically before the protected program. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 SMARTFILE Before you start… • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. 1 Insert a SmartFile tape.
To unlock the protected program Push the cursor stick to ? in step 4 above. The you can record over this program. indicator disappears and Tips • When you start recording from a position prior to the protected program, the recording automatically stops no more than about three minutes in SP mode and about eight minutes in EP mode before the beginning of the protected program.
Erasing the data of an unwanted program You can erase an unwanted program from the SmartFile list. When you erase a program from the list, that portion of tape is subject to Blank Time space priority. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CLEAR DISPLAY 0 SMARTFILE Before you start… • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. 1 Insert a SmartFile tape. The VCR turns on, the SMARTFILE indicator lights up, and the SmartFile search list automatically appears on the TV screen. Cursor stick >/.
Storing program data from the DSS receiver (Program Data Download) If you connect a DSS receiver equipped with the Program Data Download function and use the timer recording of the DSS receiver, the program and category name transmitted from the DSS are stored on the SmartFile tape.
Storing program data from the DSS receiver (Program Data Download) (continued) Setting up the DSS receiver You have to set the VCR brand number on the DSS receiver. For example, select “99” in the VCR SELECT menu to use a Sony VCR with the SmartFile function. For details, refer to the instruction manual of your DSS receiver. Storing program data on the SmartFile tape When you record a DSS program using the DSS receiver’s timer, the program and category name are automatically stored on the SmartFile tape.
Additional Information General setup information Setting the RF unit When connecting the VCR to the TV using only the antenna cable, you must set the RF UNIT switch on the rear of the VCR so that the TV can receive the correct signal from the VCR. TV RF UNIT CH3 CH4 POWER CHANNEL +/– POWER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 TV/VIDEO 0 1 Set the RF UNIT switch on the rear of the VCR to CH3 or CH4, whichever channel is not used in your area. If both are used, set the switch to either channel.
General setup information (continued) Attaching the external antenna connector 300-ohm twin lead cable When using a 300-ohm twin lead cable for VHF/UHF antenna, use the EAC-32 antenna connector (not supplied) to connect the antenna to the VCR. 1 2 3 EAC-32 Antenna connector (not supplied) Loosen the screws on the antenna connector. Wind the twin leads around the screws on the antenna connector. Retighten the screws.
Troubleshooting Symptom Remedy The POWER switch does not function. • Connect the AC power cord securely. • Make sure the VCR is not locked. To unlock, hold POWER down on the VCR until H indicator disappears. The power is turned on but the VCR does not operate. • Moisture condensation occurs. Turn the power off, unplug the AC power cord and leave the VCR to dry for over an hour. The clock has stopped and “–:– –” lights in the display window.
Symptom Remedy A TV program does not appear on the TV screen. • Make sure the TV is set to the channel for the VCR. If you are using a monitor, set it to video input. TV reception is poor. • Adjust the TV antenna. The tape starts playing as soon as it is inserted. • The safety tab has been removed. To record on this tape, cover the tab hole. The tape is ejected when you press r REC. • Check that the safety tab has not been removed. Nothing happens when you press r REC.
Others Symptom Remedy A tape cannot be inserted. • Check that a tape isn’t already in the tape compartment. The remote commander does not function. • Make sure you are pointing the remote commander at the remote sensor on the VCR. • Replace all the batteries in the remote commander with new ones if they are weak. • If you are not using S-Link, make sure that both miniplugs are unconnected. • The command mode of the remote commander is different from the one of the VCR.
Specifications System Timer section Format VHS NTSC standard Video recording system Rotary head helical scanning FM system Video heads Double azimuth four heads Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Tape speed SP: 33.35 mm/s (1 3/8 inches/s) EP: 11.11 mm/s (7/16 inches/s) LP: 16.67 mm/s (11/16 inches/s), playback only Maximum recording/playback time 8 hrs. in EP mode (with T-160 tape) Fast-forward and rewind time Approx. 3 min.
Index to parts and controls Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for details.
Index to parts and controls (continued) Display window STEREO SAP SPEP LP VIDEO APC BLANK VTR 123 1 Timer indicator (62) 8 BLANK indicator (91) 2 Child Lock indicator (63) 9 Tracking indicator (81) 3 STEREO indicator (78) 0 Line/channel indicator (56, 85) 4 SAP (Second Audio Program) indicator (78) !¡ Time counter/clock (54) 5 Tape speed indicator (56) 6 VIDEO indicator (57, 105) 7 APC (Adaptive Picture Control) indicator (81) 112 Additional Information !™ Command mode indicator (6) !£ Remai
Rear panel 1 AC power cord (8) 2 S LINK (CONTROL S IN) jack (10, 84) 3 CABLE BOX CONTROL (CONTROL S OUT) jack (11, 24) 4 LINE-1 IN AUDIO L/R/VIDEO jacks (24, 84, 103) 5 CPD (Control and Program Data) IN jack (103) 6 VHF/UHF IN connector (11, 14, 17, 20, 24, 27) 7 VHF/UHF OUT connector (11, 14, 17, 20, 24, 27) 8 RF (Radio Frequency) UNIT switch (105) 9 LINE OUT AUDIO L/R/VIDEO jacks (9) continued Additional Information 113
Index to parts and controls (continued) Remote commander 1 6 EJECT button (54) 2 Number buttons (46, 51) 3 SET button (62, 73) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 4 ENTER button (46, 51) 5 SMARTFILE button (89, 100) 6 r REC (record) button (56) 7 =/+ INDEX SEARCH buttons (80) 8 0 REW (rewind) button (54, 67) 9 ) FF (fast forward) button (54, 67) 0 · PLAY button (53) !¡ p STOP button (54) !™ Shuttle ring (57, 68) 114 Additional Information
!£ TV / VIDEO switch (5) !¢ COMMAND MODE switch (6) !∞ POWER switch (6, 62, 65, 105) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 !§ VCR Plus+ button (61) !¶ TV/VIDEO button (57, 105) !• CLEAR button (62, 76) !ª DISPLAY button (54, 70) @º CH (channel) +/– buttons (56) @¡ VOL (volume) +/– buttons (6) @™ MENU button (32) @£ Cursor stick (32, 91) >/.
Index to parts and controls (continued) Remote commander, with top cover opened 1 SP (Standard Play)/EP (Extra Play) button (56) 2 TAPE RETURN button (68) 3 AUDIO MONITOR button (78) 4 COUNTER RESET button (54) 5 QUICK TIMER button (75) 6 & SLOW +/– buttons (67) 7 × 2 button (67) 8 INPUT SELECT button (56, 58, 85) 9 TV/VIDEO button (57, 105) 0 COUNTER/REMAIN button (57) !¡ CLEAR button (62, 76) !™ DISPLAY button (54, 70) !£ CH (channel) +/– buttons (56) !¢ VOL (volume) +/– buttons (6) !∞ Receiver operation
Index A, B E, F, G S Accessories supplied 4 Adjusting picture 81 tracking 81 AFT (Auto Fine Tuning) 47 Antenna hookup 17 APC (Adaptive Picture Control) 81 Audio track 79 Audio/video (A/V) hookup 9 Auto Clock Set feature 33 Auto Tape Speed 83 Easy Set Up 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, 28 Editing 84 EP mode 56 Safety tab 57 SAP (Second Audio Program) 78 Searching at various speeds 67 for a selected point 70 skip-search 72 S-Link 10, 84 SmartFile 86 checking the contents of a tape 94 erasing the data of an unwanted
Q uick reference to using the VCR Hookup 1 To play a tape 1 Set the TV to channel 3 or 4 (or to video input, if you made A/V connections.) 2 Insert a tape and press · PLAY. To record a program 1 Turn on the cable box. 2 Press VCR Plus+ on the remote commander. 3 Enter the program’s PlusCode number. 4 Select ONCE, DAILY, or WEEKLY, then press SET. 5 Insert a tape. 6 Press POWER to turn off the VCR. 7 Leave the cable box on.