| Programming
a VCR is a notoriously complicated task. Each brand of VCR
is different, and a few brands are easier to program than
others. Here are general guidelines for setting any VCR.
STEP 1: Read the instructions thoroughly.
If you have lost the manual, contact the VCR manufacturer
to order a new one. You may be charged a small fee.
STEP 2: Make sure your TV and VCR are connected
properly to each other and to your cable system or antenna.
STEP 3: Keep in mind that if you have a cable
box, you may need to set the VCR to channel 3 and then select
the desired channel on the cable box. If you don't have a
cable box but instead hook up your cable directly to the VCR,
you may need to set the TV to channel 3 and the VCR to the
channel you want to record.
STEP 4: You'll need to provide antenna reception
for the VCR if you don't have cable. Usually the VCR and TV
can share an antenna, but you may need a separate antenna
for the VCR.
STEP 5: Check that the date and time (including
the AM/PM setting) are set correctly on the VCR before you
program it.
STEP 6: Put a blank tape into the VCR. If
you are reusing an old tape, wind it back to the beginning
and check that the erasure-prevention tab is still present.
If it's been broken off, you can't record.
STEP 7: Schedule recording to start and end
a few minutes before and after the show, just in case your
VCR's clock is a few minutes off. If it's a sports event that
might run into overtime, program even more time at the end.
* Many VCRs require the use of a remote control
for programming. If you've lost yours and a univer-sal remote
won't work, contact the VCR manufacturer or search the Web
for sites that specialize in replacing remote controls. Be
ready to provide the VCR make and model number.
* Breathe a sigh of relief if you have a newer VCR with VCR
Plus. With this feature, you punch in a numeric code for the
program you wish to record. The code, which is included in
most TV listings in newspapers and magazines, allows the VCR
to automatically record the desired program.
* Keep abreast of evolving technology. There are personal
television services that let you record programs directly
from the TV without using a VCR at all.
What
is Videotape ? | Audio
& Video Tape Preservation |
Video
Tape Conversion to NTSC or PAL or SECAM | Save
a Videocassette |
How
to Get a Digital Video Recorder | How
to Buy a VCR | How
to Videotape Sports Action |
Transfer
Audio From a Videotape to a Computer | Transfer
Audio From a Videotape to a Cassette |
Transfer
Video Onto the Computer | How
to Program a VCR | Video
Tape Formats |
Video
Tape Time Comparisons | Tape
& VCR Tips | Camcorder
& Recording Techniques
|
