VGN550 VCR User’s Guide We bring good things to life.
Introduction Important Information WARNING To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not expose this VCR to rain or moisture. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. WARNING RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN This symbol indicates Òdangerous voltageÓ inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury.
Introduction Table of Contents Important Information Warnings______________________________ i Cautions ______________________________ 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 Only Pay Channels______ 5 Connecting Two VCRs for Copying Tapes_ 6 Setting Up the VCR Startup Check Accessories With VCR ________
Hooking Up the VCR Choosing a Hookup The hookups on pages 3 through 7 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 and additional accessories may not be needed. The Advanced hookup shows the VCR hooked up to a monitor/receiver (TV with audio and video jacks). This type of connection may improve the picture quality as well as convenience of operation.
Hooking Up the VCR Antenna or Cable System Without a Cable Box A. Basic hookup. A Use this hookup for a simple connection which requires fewer accessories. From Antenna or Cable 300/75 Ohm Adapter 1. Connect as shown. Back of VCR ANTENNA This connection may require additional accessories not provided. RIGHT L/MONO IN IN OR OUT 2. Plug in power cords of VCR and TV. OUT RIGHT L/MONO AUDIO VIDEO 3. Continue to page 7. RF Coaxial Cable (supplied) Tune the TV to channel 3 to view the VCR.
Hooking Up the VCR Cable System With Cable Box to Unscramble All Channels A. Basic hookup. Use this hookup for a simple connection which requires fewer accessories. A From Cable Back of VCR 1. Connect as shown. ANTENNA Cable Box This connection may require additional accessories not provided. IN RF Coaxial Cable OUT RIGHT L/MONO IN IN OUT OUT RIGHT L/MONO VIDEO AUDIO 2. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and cable box. 3. Continue to page 7.
Hooking Up the VCR Cable System With Cable Box to Unscramble Only Pay Channels (such as HBO, Showtime, Pay-Per-View, etc.) A. Basic hookup. Use this hookup for a simple connection which requires fewer accessories. A From Cable Back of VCR 1. Connect as shown. Cable Box This connection may require additional accessories not provided. IN RF Coaxial Cable ANTENNA RIGHT L/MONO OUT IN IN OUT 2. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and cable box. OUT RIGHT L/MONO AUDIO VIDEO 3. Continue to page 7.
Hooking Up the VCR Connecting Two VCRs for Copying Tapes Option A hookup. A Use this hookup for a simple connection which requires fewer accessories. From Antenna, Cable or Cable Box Playback VCR ANTENNA 1. Select a hookup from pages 2 through 5 and then modify with this connection. RIGHT L/MONO IN IN OUT 2. Set the VCR output channel to either channel 3 or 4. See page 8 for details.
Setting Up the VCR Startup 1. Check accessories with VCR. Contact your dealer if any items are missing. VCR1 SAT•CABLE T V ER POW VCR2•LD AUX REW PLAY REC STOP DISPLAY CHAN FF SEARCH CHAN PREV CH MUTE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 G U M EN SPEED O SHUT TV•VCR * PR EDIT TLE JOG 9 0 INPUT CLEAR RF Coaxial Cable (Stock No. 221407) 2 “AAA” Batteries VOL VOL PAUSE – SLOW + 3TRACKING4 OR Power Cord (Stock No. 221408) Remote (Stock No. 221405) 2. Power Cord (Stock No.
Setting Up the VCR Startup 4. Turn on the TV. A. Turn on the TV. B. If you used one of the basic hookups, tune the TV to channel 3. If you used one of the advanced hookups, tune the TV to the TVÕs video input. (See TV ownerÕs manual for details.) 5. Turn on the VCR. Press VCR1 on the remote. 6. Select the VCR’s output channel. A. Press VCR1 on the remote. VCR MAIN MENU B. Press MENU•PROG on the remote to see the VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. C. Press 4 to display the PREFERENCES menu. D.
Setting Up the VCR Startup 7. Select the language/Escoge una lengua. This feature lets you select English or Spanish as the language for your on-screen menus. A. Press MENU•PROG on remote to see VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. B. Press 5 to display the LANGUAGE menu. ¥ Press 1 to display the menus in English. ¥ Press 2 to to display the menus in Spanish. VCR MAIN MENU 1 2 3 4 5 Timer Recordings Set Clock Channels Preferences Language LANGUAGE/IDIOMA Select a language. Escoge una lengua.
Setting Up the VCR Startup 9. Add or remove channels from the VCR’s memory. VCR MAIN MENU You may want to add or remove channels if some of the channels are not active, have weak signals, or you do not want to watch them. A. Press VCR1 on the remote. B. Press MENU•PROG on the remote to see the VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. C. Press 3 to display the CHANNELS menu. D. Press 2 to display the ADD/REMOVE CHANNELS menu. E. Follow the directions on the screen. F.
Setting Up the VCR Startup 11. Set the time and date. When you first turn on the VCR, Ð Ð : Ð Ð appears in the clock area of the VCRÕs display panel. VCR SLP A. Press MENU•PROG on remote to see VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. B. Press 2 to display SET CLOCK. C. Enter the time and date with the number buttons on the remote. ¥ Press 0 before single-digit numbers. Example: press 0, then 5, then 0, then 7 for a time of 5:07. Press 1 for AM or 2 for PM.
Using the Remote Control Buttons Component Buttons Press one of the buttons to set the remote to operate that component. VCR1 SAT•CABLE T V ER POW VCR2•LD AUX PLAY REC STOP DISPLAY CHAN FF PAUSE VOL MUTE CHAN 1 3 5 6 7 8 9 0 TV•VCR G U EN O M SPEED * PR SHUT EDIT TLE – SLOW + SAT•CABLE Turns on a compatible RCA cable box or digital satellite system receiver. (See page 16.) VCR1 Turns on a compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan VCR and sets remote to control the VCR.
Using the Remote Control Buttons VCR Function Buttons (continued) PAUSE Pauses action for viewing during playback. Pauses recording to prevent recording of unwanted scenes. PLAY Plays a tape. POWER Turns off VCR when remote is set to control the VCR. PREV CH (Previous Channel) Switches between two channels. Select one channel and then use the number buttons to select another. Press PREV CH to switch between the two channels. REC Starts VCR recording. Used for one touch recording. (See page 29.
Using the Remote Control Controlling a VCR The VCRÕs remote controls two compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan VCRs with the VCR1 and VCR2•LD buttons. Most compatible VCRs automatically respond to VCR1 without being programmed. If you own two compatible VCRs, test them to see if VCR1 turns on both VCRs. If it does, then you may want to program this VCR to respond to the VCR2•LD button on the remote. Program the VCR for Remote Control Set the Remote Control feature of the VCR to the VCR1 or VCR2•LD position.
Using the Remote Control Controlling a TV The VCRÔs remote is preprogrammed to control the basic functions of a compatible GE, RCA, or ProScan TV. The remote can also be set up to control other manufacturerÔs brands. To program the remote, enter remote code numbers that correspond to your brand. Program the Remote for a TV 1. Turn on the TV. 2. Point the VCR remote at the TV. 3. Hold the TV button and press two number buttons to enter the code for your brand.
Using the Remote Control Controlling a Cable Box or a Digital Satellite System Receiver The SAT•CABLE button on the VCRÕs remote is preprogrammed to control either a compatible RCA cable box or GE or RCA digital satellite system receiver. If your cable box is another manufacturerÕs brand and has its own remote, you will probably be able to program the VCRÕs remote to control your cable box. To program the VCRÕs remote, enter the code that corresponds to your brand. Program the Remote 1.
Using the Remote Control Controlling an Auxiliary RCA Component The remote that came packed with your VCR is also capable of controlling one compatible RCA audio component, such as an AM/FM radio, CD player, tape player, or phonograph. The remote must be programmed for the specific component it is to control. To program the remote, use the code that corresponds to your component. Program the Remote for an Auxiliary Component 1. Turn on the component. 2. Point the VCRÕs remote at the component. 3.
Playing a Tape Operating Instructions Video Playback Mode You can select the type of playback for tapes recorded in NTSC. VCR MAIN MENU 1. Press MENU•PROG on the remote to see the VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. 2. Press 4 to display the PREFERENCES menu. 1 2 3 4 3. Press 4 to select NTSC or PAL playback. ¥ Select Play NTSC as: PAL to have an NTSC tape play back in PAL.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features Tape Playback: HI-FI/LINEAR/MIX Feature The VCR records the same audio on both the Hi-Fi and linear tracks on the tape. The Hi-Fi sound is recorded on separate left and right stereo channels. Monaural sound is recorded on the linear track. To enjoy Hi-Fi sound, connect your VCR to a stereo television or amplifier/receiver using the audio/video jacks. The Tape Playback: HI-FI/LINEAR/MIX feature lets you select which audio you play back. To Select Playback Sound 1.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features Pause for Stop Action This feature stops the tape in action and allows 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. STILL appears in the VCRÕs display panel. 2. Press TRACKING up or down to reduce any jittering of the picture. 3. Press PAUSE or PLAY to return to playback.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features Picture Search You can search a picture during playback by fast forwarding or rewinding the tape. The picture is best for tapes recorded in the SP or SLP speed. Sound is turned off during picture search. Also, during picture search in the LP speed, the color is turned off. Fast Forward Search 1. Press FF on the remote or FWD on the VCR to search forward at a faster-than-normal speed. 2. Press FF on the remote, FWD on the VCR, or PLAY to return to playback.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features DISPLAY Button 1. Press DISPLAY on the remote to display the status of the VCR, channel number, time counter, date, time, and tape speed on the TV screen. The time will appear in the display panel. STOP CH 05 Press DISPLAY Status Displays Will Time Out 11/18/95 Sat 01:30AM SLP The time and date must be set before they are displayed. If you do not press DISPLAY again, these displays will time out. 2.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features Index Search The VCR has a ÒVHS Index Search SystemÓ that automatically records an index mark on the tape every time you stop and then start a new recording. During playback you can locate the program you want to play by the number of index marks. The VCR will automatically locate the index number you select. The VCR will search forward or reverse from the location you are on the tape. 1. Insert the prerecorded tape and press STOP. 2.
Playing a Tape Using the Playback Features Zero Search The zero search feature allows you to quickly return to a counter reading of 0:00:00 at any spot on the tape. This is convenient when you want to watch a segment of the tape several times. 1. Insert the prerecorded tape and press STOP. 2. Press DISPLAY twice to display only the time counter on the TV screen. 3. Locate the point on the tape that you want to return to quickly. 4. Press CLEAR to reset the time counter to 0:00:00. 5.
Recording a Program Types of Recordings Your VCR provides different types of recording. These types are explained in the following sections: Basic Recording Ð Operating Instructions Recording While You're Away Timer Recording One Touch Recording Recording Broadcast Stereo TV or SAP (Second Audio Program) Recording Audio Only Using Two VCRs for Copying Tapes Using the Recording Features Recording Speeds Press SPEED on the remote to select a recording speed (SP, LP, or SLP).
Recording a Program Basic Recording – Operating Instructions To Make a Recording Turn on the TV and tune it to the VCR viewing channel, either 3, 4, or TVÕs video input channel. 1. Insert a tape with safety tab in place. The cassette-in indicator lights in the VCRÕs display panel. 2. Press VCR1 (VCR2•LD) to set remote to control the VCR. 3. If using one of the basic hookups, make sure the VCR indicator appears in the VCRÕs display panel. If not, press TV•VCR to turn it on. 4.
Recording a Program Recording While You’re Away (Timer Recording) The timer program feature lets you program the VCR to record up to eight different programs within a one year period. Before setting the timer, make sure that: ¥ The clock is set correctly. ¥ A tape with safety tab has been inserted with enough tape to record the programs. ¥ The remote is set to control the VCR Ñ using VCR1 (VCR2•LD).
Recording a Program Recording While You’re Away (Timer Recording) Select Cable Box (or Satellite Receiver) Channel If you receive all channels from a cable box (or satellite receiver) and complete Cable Box Setup, the VCR will automatically enter the output channel of your cable box (or satellite receiver) as the channel to be recorded in the TIMER RECORDINGS menu. 1. Press MENU•PROG to display the VCR MAIN MENU on the TV screen. 2. Press 3 to select CHANNELS menu. 3.
Recording a Program One Touch Recording One touch recording lets you record up to four hours without using the timer program feature. The VCR will turn off automatically at the end of the recording. RECORD VCR SLP H M Display showing 30 minutes remaining for Operating Instructions 1. Turn on the VCR. 2. Insert a tape with safety tab in place. 3. Select the channel you want to record. 4. Select the desired recording speed using SPEED on the remote. 5.
Recording a Program Recording Broadcast Stereo TV or SAP (Second Audio Program) Some TV programs are broadcast with stereo audio or a second audio language (SAP). The Reception: STEREO/MONO/SAP feature lets you select the type of audio you want to record. To Record Stereo Broadcast TV or SAP Turn on the TV and tune it to the VCR viewing channel, either 3, 4, or TVÕs video input. 1. Insert a tape with safety tab in place. 2.
Recording a Program Recording Audio Only You can record audio only from another audio source connected to the AUDIO IN (R and L/MONO) jacks on the VCR. To Record Audio Only 1. Press INPUT to select L1 to record from the jacks on the back of the VCR or L2 to record from the jacks on the front of the VCR. The VCR will record audio from the audio equipment connected to the AUDIO IN jacks. 2. Use SPEED to select the recording speed.
Recording a Program Using Two VCRs for Copying and Editing Tapes Operating Instructions (Refer to hookup on page 6.) Use this VCR as the playback VCR and the other VCR as the recording VCR. If you have two compatible VCRs, use the AutoEdit feature described below. Caution: The unauthorized recording of television programs and other materials may infringe the rights of others. 1. Turn on the TV and VCRs. 2. Tune TV to the VCR viewing channel, either 3, 4, or TVÕs video input. 3.
References Location of Controls Front Panel Tape Compartment Remote Sensor CHANNEL/TRACKING (Up or Down) Selects next higher or lower channel in the VCRÕs channel memory. Adjusts tracking when a tape is playing. RECORD Starts VCR recording. Used for one touch recording. EJECT Press when the VCR is stopped to eject the cassette. Remote Sensor Receives signals from the remote control. Aim the remote at this sensor with no objects between them.
References Location of Controls Back Panel ANTENNA RIGHT L/MONO IN IN OUT OUT RIGHT L/MONO AUDIO VIDEO ANTENNA IN Connector Receives the signal from an antenna or cable system that is attached to this connector. ANTENNA OUT Connector Passes signal to TV using the coaxial cable supplied. VIDEO and AUDIO (RIGHT and L/MONO) IN Jacks Receives signals from another component, like a VCR or camcorder, when it is connected to these jacks.
References Location of Controls Display Panel (continued) Tape Speed Indicator Cassette-In Indicator HIFI VCR SLP SAP Indicator Channel Number or Line Indicator STEREO AM Status Indicators Time or Time Counter Cassette-In Indicator ( ) Lights when a tape is in the VCR. Channel Number, L1, or L2 The channel number or line indicator (L1 or L2) is displayed. Select L1 to record from the jacks on the back of the VCR or L2 to record from the jacks on the front of the VCR.
References Trouble Checks Sometimes problems can be easily solved by checking a few basic things. Check below before you call for help or take your VCR to an Authorized GE VCR Service Center. Trouble Here's what to try: No power ¥ Plug VCR into an operating outlet. ¥ Check connections. Clock shows incorrect time or date ¥ Power interruption. Clock area in display panel will show - -:- -. ¥ Clock was not set accurately (check AM/PM and date). ¥ Time counter display appears in display panel.
References Trouble Here's what to try: Time counter not working ¥ The time counter does not advance during unrecorded portions of tape. When an unrecorded segment of tape is encountered, the time counter will hold its count until recorded material is detected again. ¥ A minus (Ð) will appear in front of the time if you rewind the tape farther back than a counter reading of 0:00:00. Will not record or play ¥ No cassette in VCR. ¥ Eject and re-insert cassette. ¥ Broken tape Ñ try another cassette.
References Specifications Format: VHS Record/Playback System: Video: 4-Head Audio: 2 Hi-Fi record/playback system Video Signal System: PAL N Recording and Playback NTSC Playback Antenna: 75-ohm external VHF/UHF combined antenna terminal Tuner: USA: Type: AutoProgramming frequency synthesis Power Requirement: 100-240V AC (+/Ð 10%), 50-60 Hz Power Consumption: 22 watts (7 watts for standby) Dimensions: 3.5 inches high (90 mm) 15.43 inches wide (392 mm) 12.1 inches deep (309.
References Index Accessories, Included ............................................7 Antenna.....................................................2-3 Add or Remove Channels from Memory.........10 Audio/Video Jacks...............................2,3-6 ADD/REMOVE CHANNEL Menu.......................10 Cable TV ................................................2,3-5 Antenna Connections .........................................2,3 Two VCRs ....................................................
References Index (continued) Location of Controls Reception: MONO/SAP/STEREO Feature ..30,31 VCR Back Panel.........................................34 Recording VCR Display Panel ..............................34-35 Audio Only ................................................31 VCR Front Panel .......................................33 Basic ............................................................26 LP Speed................................................................25 Broadcast Stereo TV...
References Index (continued) SLOW + and Ð Buttons...................................13,20 VCR Indicator ........................................10,18,26,35 Slow Motion..........................................................20 VCR MAIN MENU SLOW + and – Indicators..........................20,21,35 ..................8,9,10,11,14,18,19,27-28,30,31,34 SLP Speed..............................................................25 VCR, Cleaning ......................................................
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