RCA VR681HF User manual

USER’S
GUIDE
VR681HF
VIDEO CASSETTE RECORDER

i
Introduction
WARNING
To reduce the risk of
fire or shock hazard,
do not expose this VCR
to rain or moisture.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.
ATTENTION: Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame la plus large de la fiche dans la
borne correspondante de la prise et pousser jusqú au fond.
Do not defeat the safety feature of the plug. The wide blade fits into the wall socket only one way.
If you need an extension cord, make sure it matches the plug of the VCR.
For U.S.A. — Operate VCR only on 120 volts, 60Hz AC power (normal house power).
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void the
user’s authority to operate it.
Please fill out the product registration card and return it immediately. Returning this card
allows us to contact you if needed.
Keep your sales receipt to obtain warranty parts and service and for proof of purchase.
Attach it here and record the serial and model numbers in case you need them. The numbers
are located on the back of the VCR.
Model No.______________________________________________________________________
Serial No. _____________________________________________________________________
Purchase Date: ________________________________________________________________
Dealer/Address/Phone: ________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Important Information
VR681HF
Cautions
Note To Cable TV Installer
Product Registration
This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the National
Electrical Code (Section 54 of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1) which provides
guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground
shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of
cable entry as practical.
WARNING
RISKOFELECTRICSHOCK
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.
This symbol indicates important
instructions accompanying the
product.

1
Introduction
Table of Contents
Important Information
Warnings______________________________ i
Cautions ______________________________ i
Note to Cable TV Installer _______________ i
Product Registration ____________________ i
Hooking Up the VCR
Choosing a Hookup ____________________ 2
Antenna or Cable System Without a
Cable Box _________________________ 3
Cable System With Cable Box to
Unscramble All Channels ___________ 4
Cable System With Cable Box to
Unscramble Pay Channels___________ 5
Connecting Two VCRs for Copying Tapes_ 6
Setting Up the VCR
Startup
Check Accessories With VCR ________ 7
Insert Batteries in Remote ___________ 7
Turn on TV and VCR _______________ 7
Use On-Screen Menu System ________ 8
Select Signal Type__________________ 8
Set the Time and Date ______________ 9
Place Channels in VCR's Memory ____ 9
Add or Remove Channels from
VCR's Memory_________________ 10
Use TV•VCR Button _______________ 10
Set Up Cable Box__________________ 11
Using the Remote Control
Component, VCR, TV, and
StarSight Function Buttons ______ 12-14
Controlling a TV ______________________ 15
Playing a Tape
Operating Instructions_________________ 16
Using the Playback Features
Auto Play Feature_________________ 17
Tracking _________________________ 17
Pause for Stop-Action______________ 17
Slow Motion______________________ 17
Picture Search ____________________ 18
Variable Speed Picture Search and
Frame Advance ________________ 18
Go-To 0:00:00 and STOP ___________ 18
Index Search _____________________ 19
Scan and Play ________________ 19
Skip Search_______________________ 19
Tape Length______________________ 20
Repeat Function __________________ 20
Audio Playback___________________ 20
Closed Captioning ________________ 21
On-Screen Status Displays__________ 21
Recording Features
Recording Speeds _____________________ 22
Pause________________________________ 22
Recording Options______________ 22
Basic Recording_______________________ 23
Watching a TV Channel While VCR
is Recording a Different Channel ____ 23
Timer Recording ___________________ 24-25
Recording Broadcast Stereo TV or SAP___ 26
Recording Audio Only_________________ 27
Using Two VCRs for Copying
and Editing Tapes__________________ 28
StarSight System
Introduction__________________________ 29
Subscribing to StarSight Information_____ 29
Activating StarSight ________________ 31-32
Using the StarSight Features
INFO Button_______________________ 33
Grazing___________________________ 33
Browsing _________________________ 34
Grid Guide________________________ 35
Tuning by Channel_________________ 35
Channel Guide ____________________ 36
Theme Guide______________________ 37
Recording ______________________ 38-40
Selecting and De-selecting Channels__ 41
Changing the Channel Order ________ 41
Scheduling Data Reception __________ 42
What you should do when you move _ 42
Changing Your Cable Box___________ 43
References
PBS Stations _______________________ 44-46
Cable Box Codes ______________________46
Specifications_________________________ 47
Cleaning the VCR _____________________ 47
Location of Controls
Front Panel_______________________ 48
Display Panel_____________________ 49
Back Panel _______________________ 50
Limited Warranty _____________________ 51
Trouble Checks ____________________ 52-55
Index _____________________________ 56-57

2
Hooking Up the VCR
Choosing a Hookup
The hookups on pages 3 through 5 are divided into two hookup types: Basic (A)
and Advanced (B).
The basic hookup shows the backs of TVs that have only an antenna/cable
connection. It is the easier of the two hookups and additional accessories may not
be needed.
The advanced hookup shows the VCR hooked up to a TV with audio and video
jacks using a signal splitter. This connection may improve the picture quality as
well as convenience of operation, and it may require additional accessories.
Answer the questions to choose the hookup for your VCR.
1. How do you receive your TV signals?
Choose one answer from below.
A. Outside antenna – Turn to page 3.
B. Rabbit ears (set-top) and/or bow tie antenna – Turn to page 3.
C. Cable System – Go to question 2.
2. What type of Cable-TV system* do you have?
Choose one answer from below.
A. Cable without a cable box – Turn to page 3.
B. Cable box to unscramble all the channels – Turn to page 4.
C. Cable box to unscramble only pay channels, such as HBO, Showtime,
Cinemax, etc. – Turn to page 5.
*You may need to contact your local cable company for assistance.
Optional Hookup
How to hook up two VCRs for copying tapes?
A. Select a hookup by answering questions 1and 2above.
B. Then modify the connections as shown on page 6.

3
Hooking Up the VCR
Back of VCR
Back of TV
300/75 Ohm
Adapter
OR
From Antenna
or Cable
Cable/
Antenna
OR
VHF
UHF
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
75 to 75/300 Ohm
Separator
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Antenna or Cable System Without a Cable Box
A. Basic hookup.
Use this hookup for a simple connection
which requires fewer accessories.
1. Set the CH 3
5566
4switch on back of VCR
to either channel 3 or 4.
You will tune the TV to this channel and use the
TV•VCR button to watch the VCR.
2. Connect as shown.
This connection may require additional
accessories not provided.
3. Plug in power cords of VCR and TV.
4.
B. Advanced hookup.
Use this hookup for slightly improved
picture quality, Hi-Fi, stereo playback and
more convenient operation — use of
TV•VCR button not required.
1. Connect as shown.
This connection requires additional accessories
not provided.
If your TV is not stereo, you may need a
Y-adapter to hear sound from both channels.
2. Plug in power cords of VCR and TV.
3.
You will tune the TV to its video input to
watch the VCR.
Continue to page 7.
Continue to page 7.
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR
S-VIDEO AUDIO
CABLE /
ANTENNA
L /
MONO
RIGHT
VIDEO
INPUT
INOUT
From Antenna
or Cable
OR
Back of TV
300/75 Ohm
Adapter
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
Audio/Video Cables
Signal
Splitter
A
B

4
Hooking Up the VCR
Cable System With Cable Box to Unscramble All Channels
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR
OUTIN
Cable Box
From Cable
RF Coaxial
Cable
Back of TV
Cable/
Antenna
OR
VHF
UHF
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
75 to 75/300 Ohm
Separator
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR
S-VIDEO AUDIO
CABLE /
ANTENNA
L /
MONO
RIGHT
VIDEO
INPUT
INOUT
Back of TV
Audio/Video Cables
OUTIN
Cable Box
From Cable
RF Coaxial
Cable
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
Signal
Splitter
RF Coaxial
Cable
A. Basic hookup.
Use this hookup for a simple connection
which requires fewer accessories.
1. Set the CH 3
5566
4switch on back of VCR
to either channel 3 or 4.
You will tune the TV to this channel and use the
TV•VCR button to watch the VCR.
2. Connect as shown.
This connection may require additional
accessories not provided.
3. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and
cable box.
4.
B. Advanced hookup.
Use this hookup for slightly improved
picture quality, Hi-Fi, stereo playback and
more convenient operation — use of TV•VCR
button not required.
1. Connect as shown.
This connection requires additional accessories
not provided.
If your TV is not stereo, you may need a
Y-adapter to hear sound from both channels.
2. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and
cable box.
3.
You will tune the TV to its video input to
watch the VCR.
Cable Box Adapter Hookup
Use this adapter if you have a wireless
remote controlled cable box. You can tune
the cable box to the channel you want to
record or watch with the remote. Refer to
step 11, page 11 for setup.
1. Connect the cable box adapter to the OUT
TO CABLE BOX jack on the back of the
VCR.
2. Position adapter on top of the cable box.
Make sure it is properly positioned so the sensor
on the bottom can send signals to the sensor
area of the cable box. You may want to test the
adapter before removing the adhesive for
permanent placement.
Continue to page 7.
Continue to page 7.
A
B
CH 9
Infra-red receiving area
Decoder Box
Infra-red
emitting point
The bottom
of the adapter
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR

5
Hooking Up the VCR
Cable System With Cable Box to Unscramble Pay Channels
(such as HBO, Showtime, Pay-Per-View, etc.)
Back of VCR
OUTIN
Cable Box
From Cable
RF Coaxial
Cable
Back of TV
Cable/
Antenna
OR
VHF
UHF
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
75 to 75/300 Ohm
Separator
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR
S-VIDEO AUDIO
CABLE /
ANTENNA
L /
MONO
RIGHT
VIDEO
INPUT
INOUT
Back of TV
Audio/Video Cables
OUTIN
Cable Box
Signal
Splitter
From Cable
RF Coaxial
Cable
(supplied)
A. Basic hookup.
Use this hookup for a simple connection
which requires fewer accessories.
1. Set the CH 3
5566
4switch on back of VCR
to either channel 3 or 4.
You will tune the TV to this channel and use the
TV•VCR button to watch the VCR.
2. Connect as shown.
This connection may require additional
accessories not provided.
3. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and
cable box.
4.
B. Advanced hookup.
Use this hookup for slightly improved
picture quality, Hi-Fi, stereo playback and
more convenient operation — use of
TV•VCR button not required.
1. Connect as shown.
This connection requires additional accessories
not provided.
If your TV is not stereo, you may need a
Y-adapter to hear sound from both channels.
2. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and
cable box.
3.
You will tune the TV to its video input to
watch the VCR. All pay channels are
viewed through the VCR.
Cable Box Adapter Hookup
Use this adapter if you have a wireless
remote controlled cable box. You can tune
the cable box to the channel you want to
record or watch with the remote. Refer to
step 11, page 11 for setup.
1. Connect the cable box adapter to the OUT
TO CABLE BOX jack on the back of the
VCR.
2. Position adapter on top of the cable box.
Make sure it is properly positioned so the
sensor on the bottom can send signals to the
sensor area of the cable box. You may want to
test the adapter before removing the adhesive
for permanent placement.
Continue to page 7.
Continue to page 7.
A
B
CH 9
Infra-red receiving area
Decoder Box
Infra-red
emitting point
The bottom
of the adapter
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Back of VCR

6
Hooking Up the VCR
Connecting Two VCRs for Copying Tapes
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Playback VCR
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
Recording
VCR
Audio/Video
Cables
RF Coaxial
Cable
or
Use the hookup to the TV
as previously selected on
pages 3, 4, or 5.
From Antenna, Cable
or Cable Box
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT.
CH
3 56 4AUDIO
VIDEO
IN 1
OUT 1
R
L
CABLE BOX
OUT TO
Playback VCR
RF Coaxial Cable
(supplied)
Recording
VCR
Audio/Video
Cables
RF Coaxial
Cable
or
Use the hookup to the TV
as previously selected on
pages 3, 4, or 5.
From Antenna, Cable
or Cable Box
Option A Hookup.
Use this hookup for a simple connection
which requires fewer accessories.
1. Select a hookup from pages 2 through 5
and then modify with this connection.
2. Set the CH 3
5566
4switch on the playback
VCR to either channel 3 or 4.
You will tune the recording VCR to this channel
to receive the signal from the playback VCR.
3. Connect as shown.
This connection may require additional
accessories not provided.
4. Plug in power cords of VCRs and TV.
5.
Option B Hookup.
Use this hookup for slightly improved copy
quality.
1. Select a hookup from pages 2 through 5
and then modify with this connection.
2. Connect as shown.
This connection requires additional accessories
not provided.
If your other VCR is not stereo, you may need a
Y-adapter to copy sound from both channels.
3. Plug in power cords of VCRs and TV.
4.
You will select the LINE (audio/video)
input on the recording VCR to receive the
signal from the playback VCR.
Continue to page 7.
Continue to page 7.
B
A
Caution: The unauthorized recording of
television programs and other materials
may infringe the rights of others.

7
Setting Up the VCR
1. Check accessories with VCR.
Contact your dealer if any items are missing.
2. Insert batteries in remote.
3. Turn on the TV.A. Turn on the TV.
B. If you used one of the basic hookups, tune the TV to
the channel selected with the CH 3
56 4switch on
back of VCR.
If you used one of the advanced hookups, tune the
TV to the TV’s video input. (See TV owner’s manual
for details.)
4. Turn on the VCR.
A. Press VCR POWER on the remote.
The ANTENNA/CABLE SET menu appears
prompting you to set the type of connection you are
using for the VCR.
Remote
(Stock No. 221403)
RECORD
EXIT
VCR
POWER TV
POWER
VCR
EJECT MENU MUTE
SELECT
TV
CHAN
VOL
PROG
GUIDE INFO
LIST
THEME
ENTER
PLAY
STOP
SLOW
DISP
REW
PAUSE
FWD
+
-
DAY CLEAR
SHUTTLE
JOG
REPEAT
SKIP
JOG
PAGE
TRACKING
RF Coaxial Cable
(Stock No. 207417)
2 “AAA” Batteries
Startup
continued on next page
Cable Box Adapter
(Stock No. 221404)
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
Press ENTER to CONFIRM
Type of connection
the VCR is using
Use to SELECT
ANTENNA/CABLE SET

Setting Up the VCR
Startup
8
5. Use the on-screen menu system.
Point and Select is the method you use to move
through the menu system. There are two ways to select
(or change) a menu or feature.
•Using the ARROW Buttons: Press the MENU button
to display the VCR MAIN MENU. Then use the UP or
DOWN ARROW button to point to a menu or item.
Use the LEFT ARROW to move left and the RIGHT
ARROW button to move right on a line. Press
ENTER to select (or change) the item.
•Using the Number Buttons: Press the MENU button
to display the VCR MAIN MENU. Then press the
number button on the remote that corresponds to the
number on the menu to select (or change) an items.
Using the number button allows you to point and
select a menu item at the same time.
Although there are two ways to access the menu
system, only the ARROW buttons are referenced when
explaining the VCR features and operations. The
ARROW buttons are easier to access because the
number buttons are located behind the remote door.
6. Select the signal type.
Before channels can be added into the VCR’s channel
memory, the signal type (ANTENNA, CABLE or CABLE
BOX) must be selected. If the ANTENNA/ CABLE SET
menu did not appear when you first turned on your
VCR, follow these directions.
A. Press MENU to display the MAIN MENU. If this
menu does not appear:
• Make sure TV is tuned to same channel as
CH 3 56 4switch on the back of the VCR or the
TV’s video input (refer to TV’s manual).
• Press SELECT VCR, then press MENU again.
• If you use a basic hookup, check VCR indicator in
display panel – it should be on. Press TV•VCR to
turn it on.
• Check the connections.
B. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight
“Antenna/Cable set,” then press ENTER.
C. Use the RIGHT ARROW to select the signal type.
For Cable Box selection, channel memory is not
available. See step 11 on page 11.
D. Follow the on-screen instructions.
123
456
79
8
0
SHUTTLE
JOG
REPEAT
SKIP
JOG
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
Press ENTER to CONFIRM
Type of connection
the VCR is using
Use to SELECT
ANTENNA/CABLE SET
Buttons on Remote
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup

9
Setting Up the VCR
7. Set the time and date.
The VCR automatically sets the clock, updates to the
current time, and adjusts to daylight savings time every
time the VCR is turned off. Or, you may manually set
the clock.
A. Press MENU to bring up the MAIN MENU.
B. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight “Clock
set/adjust,” then press ENTER.
C. Select AUTO or MANUAL by using the ARROW
buttons.
•AUTO CLOCK SET: Tune the VCR to the PBS
station before turning off the VCR. If you don’t, it
takes longer for the VCR to set the clock. If you
use a cable box, turn on the cable box and tune it
to the PBS station before turning the VCR off. See
“PBS Stations” on pages 44-46.
•MANUAL CLOCK SET: Use the number buttons
to enter the time and date. Enter a “0” before
single digits, such as 0, then 5, then 0, then 7 for a
time of 5:07.
D. Follow the on-screen instructions to manually set
the clock.
8. Place channels in the VCR’s memory.
The VCR automatically scans through all channels in
your area and adds them to the VCR’s memory.
A. Press MENU to bring up the MAIN MENU.
B. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight “Channel
memory set,” then press ENTER.
C. Press PROG to begin adding channels to memory.
Your VCR begins scanning through the channels
and displays only those channels programmed into
the VCR’s memory with a green background.
Startup
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
OR
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
Please wait...
Press EXIT to STOP memorizing
14
2
3
4
5
7
8
9
10
11
11
13
CHANNEL MEMORY
CLOCK SET/ADJUST
Enter present TIME
- - : - -
To correct use
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
CLOCK SET/ADJUST
Clock mode AUTO MANUAL
Use to SELECT
Press ENTER to CONTINUE
AUTO CLOCK SET
The clock is set and
adjusted automatically when
the VCR power is turned OFF
(See User's Guide for listing)
NOTE For best results,
tune VCR to your
nearest PBS station
before turning it OFF
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
Press PROG for AUTO SETTING
2
CHANNEL MEMORY
Press Enter to ADD/DELETE

10
Setting Up the VCR
Startup
9. Add or remove channels from the VCR’s
memory.
After programming the channels into memory, you can
remove channels if some of the channels have weak
signals, or you do not want to watch them. You can also
add channels that were missed or removed.
A. Press MENU on the remote to see the MAIN MENU.
B. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight “Channel
memory set,” then press ENTER.
All channels in memory are displayed with a green
background
C. Highlight a channel with the UP or DOWN ARROW.
When a channel is highlighted, the background
changes color depending on its status:
Green: Channel is in memory.
Yellow: Channel in memory is highlighted.
Pink: Channel to be deleted from memory
is highlighted.
Gray: Channel is deleted from memory.
If you want to add a channel that does not appear
on the Channel Memory screen, then highlight the
channel number in the upper right corner and press
two number buttons. For cable channels over 100,
press 100 and then two number buttons.
D. Press ENTER to add or delete the channel.
10. Use TV•VCR button.
Skip this step if you used one of the advanced
hookups.
When using a basic hookup, the TV•VCR button lets
you switch between the picture coming from the VCR
or the picture from the TV channel. This button lets you
record a program on the VCR while watching another
channel on the TV. Details are on page 23.
A. Press SELECT VCR to set the remote to control the
VCR.
B. Press TV•VCR to see the picture from the VCR.
The VCR indicator lights in the display panel.
C. Press CHANNEL up or down on the VCR or CHAN
on VCR’s remote to change channels on the VCR.
The channel number changes in the display panel.
D. Press TV•VCR to see the TV channels.
The VCR indicator does not light in the display.
Press the SELECT TV button to set remote to
control the TV and change channels using the TV’s
remote.
E. Return the TV to the VCR viewing channel—CH3
or CH4.
F. Press SELECT VCR, then TV•VCR to switch back to
the picture from the VCR.
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
CHANNEL MEMORY
Press PROG for AUTO SETTING
Press Enter to ADD/DELETE
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
98
99

11
Setting Up the VCR
11. Set up Cable Box, if necessary.
The included cable box adapter is used with a wireless
remote controlled cable box. It allows the remote to
tune to a channel you want to watch or record.
A. Make sure the cable box adapter is hooked up if
you have a wireless remote controlled cable box.
Refer to page 4.
B. Press MENU to bring up MAIN MENU.
C. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight
“Antenna/cable set,” then press ENTER.
D. Press the RIGHT ARROW to highlight CABLE BOX.
E. Press two numbers on the remote to enter the
output channel of your cable box (valid numbers
are 01-13). Press 0 before a single-digit number.
F. Enter the code for your cable box brand from the
list below.
If the cable box channel changes to channel 09, then
programming is complete.
G. Follow the on-screen directions to complete setup.
Startup
Brand* Code
Anvision.......................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 ,11
Archer..........................................48, 49, 50
Cablestar......................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Cable View..................................49, 50
Citizen..........................................49, 50
Curtis ...........................................30, 31, 32, 33
Diamond ......................................90, 91
Eagle............................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Eastern.........................................75
GC Brand.....................................49, 50
Gemini.........................................93,94
General Instrument......................17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
Hamlin.........................................84, 85
Hitachi .........................................13, 14, 15
Jerrold..........................................17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
Macom.........................................13, 14, 15
Magnavox....................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Movietime....................................52, 53, 54
NSC .............................................53, 54
Oak...............................................62, 63, 64, 65, 66
Oak Sigma ...................................66
Panasonic.....................................35, 36, 37, 38
Philips..........................................1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Pioneer.........................................81, 82
Brand* Code
Pulser...........................................49, 50
Randtek........................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
RCA.............................................35, 36, 37, 38
Regal............................................77, 78, 79
Rembrandt ...................................52
Samsung.......................................40, 41, 42, 43, 45
Scientific Atlanta.........................30, 31, 32, 33
Sheritech......................................73, 74, 75
SL Mark.......................................40, 41, 42, 43
Sprucer.........................................35, 36, 37, 38
Stargate........................................40, 41, 42, 43, 44
Sylvania.......................................88
Teknika........................................97
Telecaption ..................................98
Teleview ......................................40, 41, 42, 43
Texcan .........................................87,88
TOCOM.......................................56, 57, 58, 59, 60
Toshiba ........................................96
Unika ...........................................46, 47, 48, 49, 50
Universal......................................68, 69, 70, 71
Videoway.....................................25, 26, 27, 28
Viewstar.......................................2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Warner Amex ..............................35
Zenith...........................................25, 26, 27,28
Cable Box Codes for VCR
*The remote may not be able to control every cable box model of the brands listed.
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
Press ENTER to CONFIRM
Type of connection
the VCR is using
Use to SELECT
ANTENNA/CABLE SET
ANTENNA/CABLE SET
The VCR channel when
recording from the cable box
Use numeric keypad
- -
Cable box OUTPUT CHANNEL
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
ANTENNA/CABLE SET
Check VCR Operating Manual
Use numeric keypad
- -
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
Cable box OUTPUT CHANNEL 3
Cable box BRAND CODE
ANTENNA/CABLE SET
TESTING PROCEDURE
Use to ADJUST CODE
Type ANTENNA CABLE CABLE BOX
Cable box OUTPUT CHANNEL
Cable box BRAND CODE
3
9
4
16
4. If not, try with OTHER codes
Press ENTER to COMPLETE
3. If cable box changed to CH
2. Press PROG and WAIT
1. Tune cable box to CH
CABLE BOX SETUP IS COMPLETE
Use the VCR remote control
to change cable box channels
Always leave cable box power
ON for timer recordings

12
Using the Remote Control
Buttons
RECORD
EXIT
VCR
POWER TV
POWER
VCR
EJECT MENU MUTE
SELECT
TV
CHAN
VOL
PROG
GUIDE INFO
LIST
THEME
ENTER
PLAY
STOP
SLOW
DISP
REW
PAUSE
FWD
+
-
DAY CLEAR
SHUTTLE
JOG
REPEAT
SKIP
JOG
PAGE
TRACKING
SELECT TV
Turns on a compatible RCA,
ProScan or GE TV, and sets the
remote to control the TV.
Can also be programmed to
control other TV brands.
See page 15.
SELECT VCR
Turns on a compatible RCA,
ProScan, or GE VCR, and sets
remote to control the VCR.
100
Select a cable channel over 99 by
pressing and holding 100 until 1--
appears on the screen, then press
the other two numbers.
ARROWS
Move through the menus.
Adjust clock setting and timer
recordings.
AUDIO
Selects an audio mode when
playing back Hi-Fi tapes or
recording SAP or stereo programs.
CAPTION
Turns closed captioning on or off.
CHAN s/t
(Channel Up or Down)
Selects next higher or lower
channel in the VCR’s channel
memory.
CLEAR
Resets time counter to 0:00:00.
DISP (Display)
Shows VCR operating displays on
the TV screen.
Displays the time counter, time
remaining, speed and tape
histogram. See page 49.
EJECT
Ejects the tape.
ENTER
Saves the on-screen entries and
moves to the next menu screen.
EXIT
Exits the menu system.
FWD (Fast Forward)
Fast forwards the tape when the
VCR is stopped.
Searches the picture in forward
motion during playback.
INDEX
Displays INDEX SEARCH, SCAN
and PLAY, and Go to 0:00:00 and
STOP search menus.
INPUT
Changes the line input on or off.
L1 or L2 appears in the display
panel and LINE1 or LINE2
appears on the TV screen.
Line input refers to the signal
coming from the component
connected to the audio/video
jacks on the back or front of
the VCR.
Component Buttons
Press one of the buttons to set the remote to operate that component.
VCR Function Buttons
Press SELECT VCR to set remote to control the VCR to use the function
buttons.
The remote control that came packed with your VCR controls your VCR and basic functions of a compatible
RCA, ProScan or GE TV. Also, it can be programmed to control other brands of TV, specifically those listed
on page 15. The remote comes with two mode buttons (SELECT TV and SELECT VCR)that let you switch
between the VCR and TV, and you must always press the specific mode button for the component you
want to control.
The remote is designed with some buttons hidden behind a door to make the remote less complicated. You
will note that some of the buttons appear on the door as well as behind the door, especially those that are
used frequently. The first remote illustration shows the door closed and the second shows the door open.
(View with Door Closed)

13
Using the Remote Control
VCR Function Buttons (continued)
TV Function Buttons
Press the SELECT TV button to set remote to control a compatible TV. Some buttons
may not work with the TV.
Buttons
JOG + / – (Frame Advance)
Lets you view one frame with
each press of the button in the
pause mode.
MENU
Displays the MAIN MENU on the
TV screen.
Removes a menu from the screen.
Numbers (0 through 9)
Select a channel up to 99 by
pressing two numbers.
PAUSE
Pauses action for viewing during
playback.
Pauses recording to prevent
recording of unwanted scenes.
PLAY
Plays a tape.
PROG LIST
Lets you program timer
recordings.
RECORD
Starts VCR recording.
REPEAT
Lets you review the last five
seconds during playback or press
0:00:00 to repeat.
REW (Rewind)
Rewinds the tape when the VCR is
stopped.
Searches the picture in reverse
motion during playback.
SHUTTLE
Used with variable speed picture
search during playback.
SKIP
Lets you advance tape 60 or 120
seconds during playback.
SLOW – / +
Used for slow-motion playback.
SP SLP (Tape Speed)
Selects the recording speed
(SP or SLP).
STOP
Stops the normal functions such as
record, playback, rewind, fast
forward, and pause of the VCR.
TRACKING Up and Down
(Use PAGE s/t)
Lets you manually reduce the
streaks that may appear on the
picture during play or pause.
Reduces picture “jitter” during
stop-action playback.
TV•VCR
Switches the picture signal so
that it either comes from the VCR
or the TV channel. See page 10.
VCR POWER
Turns VCR on or off.
100
Select a cable channel over 99 by
pressing and holding 100 until 1--
appears on the screen. Then press
the other two numbers.
ARROWS
Move through the menus.
Adjust clock setting and timer
recordings.
CHAN s/t
(Channel Up or Down)
Selects next higher or lower
channel in the TV’s channel
memory when remote is set to
control the TV.
CLEAR
Removes menus or status displays
from the screen.
DISP (Display)
Shows the status displays on the
screen.
Removes menus or displays from
the screen.
INPUT
Selects the TV line input.
MUTE
Turns the TV sound on or off.
Numbers (0 through 9 )
Select a channel up to 99 by
pressing two numbers.
SLOW – / +
Used with the TV’s menus to
select and adjust features.
TV POWER
Turns a compatible TV on or off
when remote is set to control TV.
Used with SELECT TV button to
turn on a compatible TV, other
than RCA, when the remote is set
to control that TV.
VOL +/–
( Volume Up and Down)
Raises and lowers sound.

14
Using the Remote Control
StarSight Function Buttons
This section describes the buttons you will use for the StarSight System. See
the “Subscribing to StarSight Information” on pages 29-30.
CHAN s/t
(Channel Up or Down)
Go to the next or previous
channel.
CLEAR
Cancels the current screen or
Pop-up.
Cancels a timer recording.
DAY–/+
Moves back or ahead 24 hours
from the screen time currently
displayed in StarSight Program
Guides. Hold to repeat.
ENTER
Turns to the highlighted channel;
enters selections in StarSight
Setup.
EXIT
Cancels the current screen or Pop-
up or returns you to currently
tuned channel.
GUIDE
Displays the Grid Guide or
Channel Guide.
INFO
Displays StarSight Information in
Pop-up.
LIST
Displays list of single recordings
and series recordings.
MENU
Accesses RCA on-screen menu
and StarSight Setup menu.
Numbers (0 through 9 )
Select channels and enter number
selections in StarSight Setup.
PAGE s/t (Up or Down)
Displays the previous or next
page. Hold to repeat.
RECORD
Starts recording or schedules a
program for recording.
SELECT VCR
Sets the remote to control your
VCR.
SP•SLP (Tape Speed)
Selects the recording speed for a
StarSight recording.
(SP or SLP).
THEME
Displays the Theme Guide’s
program categories.
TV•VCR
Switches the picture signal so
that it either comes from the VCR
or the TV channel. See page 10.
VCR POWER
Turns VCR on or off.
Buttons
VCR
POWER TV
POWER
VCR
EJECT MENU MUTE SELECT
TV
INDEX CAPTION
SP•SLP TV•VCR
AUDIO INPUT
123
456
79
8
0
EXIT
CHAN
VOL
PROG
LIST
THEME
ENTER
100
RECORD
GUIDE INFO
PLAY
STOP
SLOW
DISP
REW
PAUSE
FWD
+
-
DAY CLEAR
SHUTTLE
JOG
REPEAT
SKIP
JOG
PAGE
TRACKING
(View with Door Open)

15
Using the Remote Control
Controlling a TV
This remote can be programmed to control a compatible TV—other manufacturer‘s brands. To program the
remote, use the TV code that corresponds to your TV brand by following the directions.
Program the remote for a TV
Operate the TV After you have set up your remote to control your TV, test the buttons to see
which ones operate your TV.
1. Point the remote at the TV and press TV POWER.
2. Use the “TV Function Buttons” as described on page 13.
1. Turn on the TV.
2. Point the VCR remote at the TV.
3. Press and hold the SELECT TV button, then enter the two number buttons
for your TV code. If the TV changes channels when the CHAN up or down
button is pressed, setup is complete.
4. Release the buttons.
5. Repeat steps 2 – 4 with two other buttons if the first ones do not work.
*The remote may not be able to control every TV model of the brands listed.
Helpful Hint: Notice the difference
between the TV and VCR on-screen
displays. This is one way to tell if the
remote is set to control the VCR or the TV.
Brand * Code
Daewoo . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Emerson . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
GE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01
Goldstar . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06, 08, 18
Hitachi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
JVC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Magnavox . . . . . . . . . . . .04
Mitsubishi . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Brand * Code
Panasonic . . . . . . . . . . . .12
RCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01
Samsung . . . . . . . . . . . . .02, 14, 15
Sanyo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05, 20
Sharp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07, 16, 22
Sony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .03
Toshiba . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09
Zenith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
TV Codes

16
Playing a Tape
Operating Instructions
To play a tape
1. Turn on the TV and tune it to channel 3, 4, or TV’s video input to see the
picture from the VCR.
2. Insert a tape in the VCR.
VCR automatically turns on. The cassette-in indicator lights, the VCR
indicator lights, and the clock changes to counter. The tape automatically
begins playback if the safety tab on the cassette has been removed and the
Auto Play feature is turned on.
3. Press PLAY, if necessary.
The VCR automatically tracks (TRACKING display appears) the tape for a
few seconds, then the sound begins. If you need to adjust tracking
manually, use the TRACKING buttons on the remote.
4. Press STOP.
5. Press REW.
The VCR will automatically rewind the tape if it reaches the end of the tape
during playback. While rewinding, you can press VCR POWER and the
VCR will turn off after rewinding.
6. Press EJECT to eject the tape once it is completely rewound.
PLAY
FWD
REW
STOP
PAUSE
POWER
EJECT
Safety Tab

17
Using the Playback Features
Auto Play Feature
This feature allows the VCR to automatically begin playing a tape that is inserted
with the safety tab removed.
1. Press MENU to see the MAIN MENU on the TV
screen.
2. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight the “VCR
function setup,” then press ENTER.
3. Press the DOWN ARROW to highlight the “Auto
play.”
4. Press the RIGHT or LEFT ARROW to toggle Auto
Play: ON or OFF.
• Select ON to have a tape with the safety tab
removed play automatically.
• Select OFF if you do not want the tape to play
automatically.
Tracking
The VCR automatically adjusts the picture every time a tape is inserted and begins
play. During tracking the sound is delayed for a few seconds. Occasionally, you
may need to manually adjust tracking on a tape recorded on a different VCR or
camcorder. Use the TRACKING buttons on the remote when playing a tape.
Tracking has no effect during recording.
When streaks or snow appear, press TRACKING UP or DOWN for the best possible
picture. Press TRACKING UP or DOWN during stop-action pause to reduce
picture jitter.
Pause for Stop Action
This feature stops the tape in playback or slow motion to allow you to examine the
details of the scene. Stop action works best for tapes recorded in the SP and SLP
speed.
1. Press PAUSE during playback to stop the action.
2. Press TRACKING UP or DOWN to reduce any
jittering of the picture.
3. Press PAUSE or PLAY to return to playback.
The VCR will automatically switch from stop-action
playback to stop after a few minutes.
Slow Motion
You can view the picture in slow motion during play. SLOW – and +allow you to
change the speed. Sound is turned off during slow-motion playback. Slow motion
works best in the SP or SLP speed.
1. Press SLOW + or – to increase or decrease the
speed.
2. Use TRACKING UP or DOWN to remove any
streaks from the picture.
3. Press PLAY to return to playback.
The VCR will automatically switch from slow-
motion playback to stop after a few minutes.
Playing a Tape
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
TRACKING
MAIN MENU
Press ENTER to SELECT
1 Timer recording list
2 Clock set/adjust
3 Antenna/Cable set
4 Channel memory set
5 VCR function setup
6 StarSight setup
VCR FUNCTION
Press ENTER to CHANGE
1
2
3
4
Tape length T120
Tape dubbing mode
Auto play
Segment repeat
- Last 5 seconds
- From counter zero
OFFON
OFF
5s
ON
T160 T180
0

18
Picture Search
You can search a picture during playback by fast forwarding or rewinding the tape.
Sound is turned off during picture search. Picture Search works for tapes recorded
in the SP or SLP speed.
Fast Forward Search
1. Press FWD to search forward at a faster-than-
normal speed. Press FWD again or PLAY to return
to normal playback
2. Press FWD and hold to advance at a higher rate of
speed. Release the button to return to normal
playback
Rewind Search
1. Use REW instead of FF for the same steps described
in “Fast Forward Search.”
Variable Speed Picture Search and Frame
Advance—Using JOG+/– and SHUTTLE Dial
Not only are the FWD and REW buttons used for picture search during playback,
but you can use the SHUTTLE dial for varying speeds, from a pause/still picture to
forward or reverse picture search. The JOG +and –buttons are used for frame
advance—a single frame at a time during pause/still.
Sound is turned off during picture search and frame advance. Tapes recorded in SP
or SLP speed give the best picture.
Variable Speed Picture Search
Press the SHUTTLE RIGHT ARROW to advance
forward or SHUTTLE LEFT ARROW to reverse
playback from a pause/still picture. Each press
changes the speed. Press PLAY to return to normal
playback.
Frame Advance
Press JOG+/– to advance or reverse the picture frame-
by-frame for viewing. Each press advances a frame.
Go to 0:00:00 and STOP
The Go-to feature allows you to return to the 0:00:00 spot on the tape. Sometimes
you may want to watch a specific segment of a tape over and over.
1. Begin playing the tape.
2. Press CLEAR to reset the timer counter to 0:00:00
when you find the spot on the tape you want to
return to.
3. Press INDEX when the tape is playing or stopped.
The “Go to 0:00:00 and STOP” display appears.
4.Press RIGHT or LEFT ARROW to search for 0:00:00.
The VCR automatically rewinds or fast forwards to
the 0:00:00 position and stops.
Using the Playback Features
Playing a Tape
INDEX SEARCH --
Select number
SCAN and PLAY
press FF or REW
Go to 0:00:00 and STOP
press or
Go to 0:00:00 and STOP