Sharp VC-H998U User manual

VIDEO CASSETTE RECORDER
OPERATION MANUAL
Please read this operation manual carefully
before using the VCR.
MODEL
VC-H998U
General
Information Setting Up Basic
Operations Special
Functions Helpful
Hints
Recording
EZ SET UP
It’s as easy as 1 2 3 4 5
1. Connect Cable to VCR.
2. Plug into AC Power Outlet.
3. Wait until completion of auto tuner channel
setting and auto clock setting, and then press
POWER.
4. Press MENU on the Remote Control, select
Channels, and press SET.
5. Select Channel Preset and press SET, then
choose:
(AIR) outdoor antenna or (CATV) Cable
System.

This video cassette recorder (VCR) uses “ONLY” cassette
tapes, NTSC video signals (standard in US), and 120 V AC, 60 Hz
(standard US household current).
For future reference, record the model and serial number (located
on the rear of the VCR) in the space provided.
Model No.:—————————
Serial No.:—————————
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
This symbol warns the user of
uninsulated voltage within the
unit that can cause dangerous
electric shocks.
“WARNING—FCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes or
modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer
could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.”
Note to CATV system installer:
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Article 820-40 of the National
Electrical Code that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground
shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
WARNING OF DEW FORMATION
Whenever your VCR is moved from a cold to a warm environment, it is important that you plug the unit in, turn
the power on and allow it to sit for about 2 hours before attempting to play a tape. This period will allow any dew
formation to evaporate. Failure to do so may result in tape and/or video head damage.
After the 2 hour evaporation period, you may witness a “snowy” picture for the first few minutes of VCR
operation. This picture noise will disappear shortly thereafter.
WARNING—Keep your VCR away from electrical and magnetic appliances which could impair performance.
Be sure to position your VCR away from your TV or video monitor by at least 8(.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER. NO USER-
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.
This symbol alerts the user that
there are important operating
and maintenance instructions in
the literature accompanying this
unit.

CONTENTS
General Information
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS AND
PRECAUTIONS.................................................... 4
Features ................................................................. 6
Accessories ........................................................... 6
Major Components of Your VCR ......................... 7
Remote Control ..................................................... 8
•Inserting the Batteries
Using the Universal Remote Control................... 9
•How to set the Universal Remote Control code
•How to operate the VCR, TV, Cable Box or
Digital Satellite Receiver
Recording a TV Program ...................................... 30
•To Watch Another TV Program While
Recording
•Cassette Erase Protection
•Recording Speeds
•Recording Hi-Fi Stereo Sound
•Recording MTS (Multi-channel TV Sound)
Broadcasts
•Monitor Output When Receiving a SAP
Broadcast
Simple Recording Timer....................................... 32
•Changing the Contents of the Simple
Recording Timer
•Cancelling the Simple Recording Timer
Timer Recording with VCR Plus+ System .......... 33
Timer Recording
(without VCR Plus+ System) ............................. 35
•Confirming Timer Programs
•Cancelling Timer Programs
Recording
Connecting the VCR ............................................. 10
•After the Connection
•Setting the 3 ↔4 Output Channel Selector
•Selecting the Video Channel on Your TV
•Tape Dubbing
•Auto VIEWCAM Dubbing
EZ Set Up (With Auto Clock Setting)................... 12
Setting the Language............................................ 13
Setting the Clock................................................... 13
•Auto Clock Setting
•Manual Clock Setting
•Automatic Daylight Saving–Time (D.S.T.)
Adjustment
Setting the Channels ............................................ 16
•Adding Channel Memory/Erasing Channel
Memory
Cable Box Set-up Function .................................. 18
Digital Satellite Receiver Set-up Function .......... 20
Menu Screen.......................................................... 24
OSD (On Screen Display) ..................................... 24
•How to Display Indicators
Mode Selection...................................................... 25
Setting up
Playback................................................................. 26
•Inserting a Video Cassette
•Playback
•Built-in Shuttle Control System
Fast Forward and Rewind
Video Search
•TURBOWIND (360 2 Rewind Speed) to Fast
Forward and Rewind
•Video Search
•Slow Motion Playback
•Still Picture and Frame Advance
•Automatic Tracking Control System
•Blue Screen Noise Elimination
•Quick Start with Full Loading Mechanism
•Full Automatic Playback
•Automatic Head Cleaning System
•Audio Output Mode
Basic Operations
Remote Pager ........................................................ 38
Sharp Super Picture.............................................. 38
Recorded Section Auto Repeat ........................... 38
DPSS (Digital Program Search System) ............. 39
Skip Search............................................................ 39
Instant Replay........................................................ 39
Auto Zero Back...................................................... 40
Tamper Proof......................................................... 40
Special Functions
Specifications........................................................ 41
Pre–Service Call Checklist ................................... 42
Service Information............................................... 42
Cable TV Connections .......................................... 43
Quick Operation Guide for Spanish/Guía de
operación rápida en español ............................. 45
LIMITED WARRANTY............................................ 48
Helpful Hints

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS AND PRECAUTIONS
CAUTION
READ THE SAFETY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS before operating your VCR.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS AND HEED ALL WARNINGS on your VCR and in this manual.
INSTALLATION
1. Operate only from a power source indicated on your VCR or in this manual. If you are
unsure of your power supply, ask your local power company.
2. As a safety feature, your VCR is equipped with either a 2-wire polarized plug (one
plug blade bigger than the other) or a 3-wire grounded plug (a third pin for
grounding). The 2-wire polarized plug will fit only one way into the power outlet. The
3-wire grounded plug will fit only into a grounding-type power outlet.
If the plug does not fit, ask your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not
modify the plug. To do so will void the safety feature.
3. Protect and route power cords so they will not be stepped on or pinched by anything
placed on or against them. Be especially careful at plug-ins, convenience
receptacles, or cord exit points from the VCR. Frayed power cords or damaged plugs
are hazardous. Have them replaced by a qualified service technician.
Overloaded wall outlets and extension cords may cause fire or electrical shock
hazards.
4. Do not cover or block ventilation holes in the VCR cabinet. Doing so may damage the
VCR or cassette, or cause fire.
Do not place your VCR on a soft surface which could block ventilation holes on the
bottom. Avoid enclosed installations such as bookshelves or racks unless ventilation
is adequate.
5. Avoid excessive humidity, sudden temperature changes, or temperature extremes.
Dew may form inside your VCR or on the cassette.
6. To avoid costly damage or injury, place your VCR flat on a solid, stable surface free
from vibrations; do not place any heavy objects on top of it. Use only a cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer; follow all instructions
regarding their use exactly.
7. An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops,
excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination
to overturn.
OPERATION/CLEANING
1. Keep your VCR away from electrical and magnetic appliances which could impair
performance. Be sure to position your VCR away from your TV or video monitor by at
least 8(.
2. Keep your VCR away from wet locations such as bathtubs, sinks, laundries, wet
basements, and swimming pools.
3. Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer to avoid fire, shock or other
hazards.
4. If your VCR has been exposed to rain, moisture or strong impact, unplug it and have
it inspected by a qualified service technician before resuming use.
5. Unplug your VCR and disconnect it from the antenna and/or cable system during a
lightning storm or an extended period of discontinued use.
6. Unplug your VCR before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use
cleaning fluids or aerosols which could enter the unit and cause damage, fire, or
electrical shock. These substances may also mar the finish of your VCR.
7. Never open or remove covers or make any adjustments not described in this manual.
Attempting to do so could expose you to dangerous electrical shock or other hazards.
It may also cause serious damage to your VCR.
2
3
4
6
7
6
5
1

2. An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light
or power circuits, or where it can come into contact with power lines or circuits. When installing an outside
antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from coming into contact with power lines or circuits;
contact with them might be fatal.
SERVICE
1. Do not attempt to service this VCR yourself. Instead, unplug it and contact a qualified service technician. (See
LIMITED WARRANTY at the end of this manual.)
2. Be sure the service technician uses authorized replacement parts or their equivalents. Unauthorized parts
may cause fire, electrical shock, or other hazards.
3. Following any service or repair, be sure the service technician performs safety checks to certify that your VCR
is in safe operating order.
OTHERS
1. It is the intent of Sharp that this product be used in full compliance with the copyright laws of the United States
and that prior permission be obtained from copyright owners whenever necessary.
2. Normally, your VCR does not require head cleaning. However, the heads may become clogged when an old
or damaged tape is used. If the playback picture becomes blurred, the heads may need cleaning. Head
cleaning should be performed by a qualified technician. Contact the nearest Sharp Factory Service Center or
Authorized Service Station. Do not use a cleaning tape unless it is new and of high quality. Excessive use of
cleaning tapes may also damage the heads.
8
8. Keep liquids and foreign objects away from your VCR. Never operate your VCR if
any liquid or foreign object has entered it. Electrical shorts could result and possibly
cause fire or shock hazards. Unplug your VCR immediately and have it inspected by
a qualified service technician.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS AND PRECAUTIONS
OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING AND POWER LINES
1. If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to your VCR, be sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded, thus providing some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of
the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No.70-1984, provides information regarding proper grounding of the
mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding
conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the
grounding electrode. See diagram below.
EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA
GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE
NEC—NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
ANTENNA LEAD-IN
WIRE
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE
UNIT
(NEC SECTION
810–20)
GROUNDING
CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION
810–21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)
GROUND CLAMP
General
Information

Features
Common Features
• Hi-Fi Stereo Sound
• Built-in MTS (Multi-channel TV Sound) Decoder
— Lets you record stereo or SAP (Separate Audio
Program) broadcasts.
• *The VCR Plus+ Programming System/Cable Box
Channel Control Function/Digital Satellite Re-
ceiver Control Function
• TURBOWIND — 360 2 Rewind Speed to Fast
forward and Rewind.
• EZ Set Up — VCR tuner channels and clock are
automatically set for both Air and Cable channels.
• Double-Azimuth 4-Heads
•19µClear Picture System (in EP mode) — For
enhanced picture quality in EP (Extended Play)
mode.
• Auto VIEWCAM Dubbing function
•System for Better Resolution and Color Re-
production
• Multi-Language (English/Spanish/French) OSD
(On Screen Display) with Menu Screen Guidance
— On-screen setting and recording instructions.
• 181-channel PLL Quartz Synthesized Random
Access Tuner with Automatic Channel Setting
• Quick Start with Full Loading Mechanism
• 1-Year, 8-Event Programmable Timer
• Simple Recording Timer
• Universal Remote Control
— Operates the VCR and basic functions of various
TVs, Cable Boxes, and some Digital Satellite Re-
ceivers.
— Remote Pager function
• Sharp Super Picture — Enhances picture quality
during playback.
• Field-Still/Variable Slow/Frame Advance
• Real-Time Counter — Displays accurate tape time.
• Automatic Daylight Saving–Time (D.S.T.) Ad-
justment — Automatically adjusts VCR clock to
daylight saving–time.
• Blue Screen Noise Elimination
• Auto Tracking Control System — Automatically
adjusts tracking during playback.
• Digital Program Search System (DPSS) — Quickly
locates the beginning of a specific recording.
• Skip Search — Quickly operates a forward video
search in 30 second intervals, then resumes play-
back.
• Instant Replay — Quickly operates a reverse video
search in 20 second intervals, then resumes
playback.
• Auto Zero Back — Quickly finds “0:00.00” point
and stops there.
• Recorded Section Auto Repeat — Continually
plays back a recorded section of the tape.
• Full Automatic Playback
• Tamper Proof — Prevents accidental change of the
operation mode.
• Up to 8 Hours of Recording and Playback (with
T-160 cassette)
• Built-in Shuttle Control System — Rewind and
fast-forward with a single control.
• Built-in Front AV Jacks — For easy connection of
audio/video equipment such as the Sharp Viewcam.
• Automatic Head Cleaning System — Cleans the VCR
video heads each time you insert and eject a tape.
* VCR Plus+ C3 and PlusCode are trademarks of Gem-
star Development Corporation. The VCR Plus+ system
is manufactured under license from Gemstar Develop-
ment Corporation.
Be sure that the
following
accessories are
all included with
your VCR.
Accessories
AA batteries for
the remote
control unit
Round coaxial cable
(75 Ohm, 1 m [3-1/4 ft.])
QCNW-0262AJZZ
or
QCNW-0298AJZZ
Remote control unit

Major Components ofYour VCR
[Rear]
•The display will return to the original mode (counter or clock display) 3 seconds after the
VCR enters the operation mode.
3 ↔4 OUTPUT CHANNEL selector (see Setting the 3 ↔4 Output Channel Selector)
Connection terminals (see Tape Dubbing)
Connection terminals (see Connecting the VCR and Cable TV Connections)

Remote Control
Inserting the Batteries
Make sure that the batteries have been properly installed first. Fit three batteries type
“AA”. If the remote control stops working, fit new batteries.
Ensure the batteries are fitted correctly, matching the polarities (j/k) indicated in the
remote control.
• The operating life of the batteries will shorten if the Remote Pager function is frequently
used.
• After changing the batteries in the remote control, the code settings for the TV, cable box
and Digital Satellite Receiver must be re-entered.
•Do not subject the remote control to shock, water or excessive humidity.
•The remote control may not function if the VCR sensor is in direct sunlight or any other strong light.
•Incorrect use of batteries may cause them to leak or burst. Read the battery warnings and use the batteries properly.
•Do not mix old and new batteries, or mix brands in use.
•Remove the batteries if the remote control will not be operated for an extended period of time.
•If the remote control does not function properly when new batteries are installed, remove the batteries and wait 5 minutes
before re-installing them.

EMERSON
FISHER
FUNAI
GE
GOLDSTAR
HITACHI
JVC
MAGNAVOX
MITSUBISHI
PANASONIC
RCA
SAMSUNG
SANYO
SHARP
SONY
TOSHIBA
ZENITH
18
16
05
06, 08
17
14
15
08
10
13
12, 20
06, 08
19
16
01
02
09
11
04
07
–
100
100
100
–
100
100
100
–
–
–
100
–
100
100
–
100/ENT.
100
ENT.
100/ENT.
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TECHNOL ACE 03 –
X
X
X
–
–
X
X
–
X
X
X
–
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
–
XX
X
X
X
Using the Universal Remote Control
How to set the Universal Remote Control code
The Universal Remote Control can operate the basic functions of 20 different types of TVs, 18 different types of
Cable Boxes and 2 different types of Digital Satellite Receivers.
To enter the Universal Remote Control code for your TV, Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver, follow the in-
structions below.
There may be some TVs, Cable Boxes or Digital Satellite Receivers that cannot be operated with this
remote control. Use the original remote control in that case.
For Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver Setting
Setting the Manufacturer’s Code Directly
!Press CABLE/SAT. and CH ∂on the remote
control simultaneously.
@Enter the 2-digit manufacturer’s code with the
numbered buttons (Ex. 02 4“0”, “2”) on the
remote control within 10 seconds after releasing
CABLE/SAT. and CH ∂.
• Refer to the code list for the buttons which work with each
brand.
• SAT. stands for Digital Satellite Receiver.
There is no guarantee that the universal remote control will func-
tion with yourTV, cable box or digital satellite receiver.
For TV Setting
Setting the Manufacturer’s Code Directly
!Press TV and CH ∂on the remote control
simultaneously.
@Enter the 2-digit manufacturer’s code with the
numbered buttons (Ex. 02 4“0”, “2”) on the
remote control within 10 seconds after releasing
TV and CH ∂.
•Refer to the code list for the buttons which work with each
brand.
How to operate the VCR, TV, Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver
To operate the VCR, TV, Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver, first press VCR,TV or CABLE/SAT. to switch to
the desired mode.
•If the batteries in the remote control are changed, the code settings must be re-entered.
•Some brands have more than one remote code listed, due to changes in the remote codes. In such cases, try more than
one code to find the code that operates your TV, Cable Box or Digital Satellite Receiver.
* Only for RCA (SAT.)
POWER ON–CABLE/SAT. button
POWER OFF–POWER button
01, 04, 05, 06, 07
02, 03, 08
16
13
14
18
15
13
14
19
17
09, 10, 11
20
12
ENT.
–
ENT.
–
ENT.
–
ENT.
–
ENT.
–
–
–
ENT.
ENT.
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
JERROLD
OAK
PANASONIC
PHILIPS
PIONEER
RCA
*RCA (SAT.)
REGAL
SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA
SONY (SAT.)
ZENITH

Setting the 3 ↔4 Output Channel Selector
The 3 ↔4 OUTPUT CHANNEL selector changes the VCR OUTPUT to standard
TV broadcasting signals. Both your TV and VCR must be set to the same
channel (i.e. TV on channel 3 and VCR OUTPUT CHANNEL selector on 3).
Your VCR is set to channel 3 at the factory, so your TV should be tuned to
channel 3 as well. If channel 3 is an active broadcast channel in your area, set
the VCR 3 ↔4 OUTPUT CHANNEL selector to 4 and tune your TV to channel 4.
Connecting theVCR
Each type of antenna and TV system requires a different method of connection. If you have cable TV (CATV),
see page 43 for Cable TV connection.
To determine the correct type of connection, first check the type of antenna and TV terminal in use.
Make the connections as shown below.
•Consult your SHARP Dealer or Service Center for the type of adaptor, separator, transformer or combiner that might be
required.
After the Connection
Plug in the power cords of the VCR and TV. Then go to the following Setting Up section.
ANT/CABLE
Antenna type
CombinedVHF/UHF
antenna cable
VCR Rear
SeparateVHF/UHF
antenna cable
Type ofTVTerminal
UHF
VHF
VHF
UHF
U/V IN
UHF VHF
or
or
VHF/UHF antenna
cable or adaptor
UHF flat twin-lead
antenna cable Supplied
coaxial
cable
(separator, not
supplied)
(combiner, not
supplied)
VHF coaxial
antenna cable
Connect the flat twin-lead cable to a
transformer (300 Ohm to 75 Ohm,
not supplied)
U/V IN
UHF VHF
VHF MATCHING BOX
75Ω300Ω
Connect the round
coaxial cable to a
transformer
(75 Ohm to 300 Ohm, not
supplied)
(separator, not
supplied)
VHF
UHF
3 ↔4 OUTPUT CHANNEL
selector
Rear of Your VCR
Selecting theVideo Channel onYourTV
To view the output of your VCR on your TV, you must select the video channel (3 or 4) on your TV that
corresponds with the output channel set above.