How to Program a VCR

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.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• VCR Manuals
• TV-VCR Connecting Cables
• VCRs
• Blank Videocassettes
• Televisions

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.
2. Make sure your TV and VCR are connected properly to each other and to your cable system or antenna.
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.
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.
5. Check that the date and time (including the AM/PM setting) are set correctly on the VCR before you program it.
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.
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.

Tips & Warnings

• 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.

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