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Hitachi VT-M294A Owner's Manual

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
HITACHI
Video Deck
VT-M294A
Owner's Manual
Your Complete Guide
to Videocassette Viewing
and Recording
Using these quality features:
n n n n
Automatic tape head cleaning
n n n n
Up to 8 delayed recording programs
n n n n
Auto Tracking for improved picture in playback
n n n n
Frequency synthesizer quartz tuner
n n n n
Illuminated remote control for use with your VCR and TV
n n n n
On-screen programming guide
n n n n
Auto clock set feature
n n n n
VCR Plus+* for easy timed recording
* VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are trademarks of Gemstar Development Corp. VCR Plus+ system is
manufactured under license from Gemstar Development Corporation.
HITACHI HOME
ELECTRONICS
(AMERICA), INC.
3890 Steve Reynolds Blvd., 3219 Koapaka Street
Norcross, GA 30093
Tel. 404-279-5600
QR12373 © Hitachi, Ltd. 1995
1
VHS
HITACHI SALES
CORPORATION
OF HAWAII, INC.
Honolulu, HI 96819
Tel. 808-836-3621
HITACHI (HSC)
CANADA INC.
3300 Trans Canada Hwy.
Pointe Claire, Quebec
H9R1B1, CANADA
Tel. 514-697-9150
Printed in Malaysia

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  • Page 1 Auto clock set feature n n n n VCR Plus+* for easy timed recording * VCR Plus+ and PlusCode are trademarks of Gemstar Development Corp. VCR Plus+ system is manufactured under license from Gemstar Development Corporation. HITACHI HOME ELECTRONICS (AMERICA), INC.

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    3 Hook up the Audio/Video Signal ... 14 4 Hook up the RF Signal ... 15 5 Attach the TV and VCR to the Power Supply ... 18 6 Install Batteries in the Remote Control ... 18 7 Set the RF or Video Channel Switch ... 18 Getting Started (Controls) ...
  • Page 3 If the VCR Doesn't Work Right... 60 Don't Attempt Repairs Yourself ... 61 Technical Specifications... 61 Care and Servicing (Problems) ... 62 Often Encountered Problems ... 62 Hitachi Service Hotline... 64 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) ... 66 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (Front) CANADA ONLY... 68...
  • Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) ... 71...

  • Page 5: For Your Safety

    FOR YOUR SAFETY POWER SUPPLY: AC 120V, 60 Hz ONLY. The POWER switch turns the VCR on and off, leaving the clock/timer unaffected. If the unit is to be left unattended for a long period, it is recommended that the unit be completely switched off and unplugged.
  • Page 6 FOR YOUR SAFETY WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT. Caution to user: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

  • Page 7: Read This First

    Read This First Read This First Thank you for buying a Hitachi product. You've chosen the best VCR for you, and we want to help you make the most of your purchase. Please take time to become familiar with this manual and how it is set up. Keep it handy for future reference, too.

  • Page 8: Important Safeguards

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS In addition to the careful attention devoted to quality standards in the manufacture of your video product, safety is a major factor in the design of every instrument. But, safety is your responsibility too. This page lists important information that will help to assure your enjoyment and proper use of a Video Cassette Recorder and accessory equipment.
  • Page 9 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS power supply to your home, consult your video dealer or local power company. For video products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions. 6 Overloading -- Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
  • Page 10 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS This will help avoid any potential hazard from electric shock or fire. If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel. 10 Water and Moisture -- Do not use this video product near water -- for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like.
  • Page 11 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 4 Cleaning -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. 15 Object and Liquid Entry -- Never push objects of any kind into this video product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
  • Page 12 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions. a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged b. If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the video product. c. If the video product has been exposed to rain or water. d.

  • Page 13: Getting Started

    Be sure your chosen location allows for proper ventilation, stability, and protection from heat and moisture (see Important Safeguards). Place the VCR near your TV but not on top of it. For convenience in using the remote control, locate them no more than three feet apart.

  • Page 14: Hook Up The Audio/Video Signal

    Any other devices you want to include in the system (stereo, second VCR, etc.) We will guide you through the process. But first, turn the TV and the VCR around so you are looking at their backs. Note the various input and output receptacles, their shapes, and how they are labeled.

  • Page 15: Hook Up The Rf Signal

    Getting Started TV. If your TV has stereo AUDIO jacks, connect the AUDIO OUT jack on the VCR to the one labeled MONO on the TV. If one is not labeled MONO, you may need a Y-adapter to hear sound on both channels.
  • Page 16 1. Remove the antenna line from the back of your TV if it is already connected there, or take it from where it comes in on the wall. 2. Considering the three pictures below, determine which adapter you will need to hook it into your VCR. If you have Single 300 ohm flat wire...
  • Page 17 This connection will work only if you have a strong, clear picture on the TV, indicating a strong signal. Connect the antenna to the adapter, and use the cable extension to go from the adapter to the VCR. Use the supplied 75 ohm cable to connect the VCR to the Now continue with the hookup: 1.

  • Page 18: Attach The Tv And Vcr To The Power Supply

    4. You need to select the appropriate channel. Turn the power on to both the TV and the VCR, and look for a switch on the back of the VCR. Set the switch to 3 or 4, whichever is not a commercial channel in your area.
  • Page 19 Your basic hookup is now complete. When you're ready to try hooking up a second VCR or a video camera for a complete home entertainment system, see Advanced Operations. Now turn the TV and VCR back around facing you and begin your quick tour of the controls (page 15).

  • Page 20: Getting Started (Controls)

    Most of the time, you'll be directing the VCR from the remote control, but there are some controls on the VCR that will come in handy too.

  • Page 21: Remote Control Buttons

    Getting Started (Controls) Try pressing the remote control's buttons one at a time. As you press, one of the three device buttons lights up--VCR, TV or CAM. This helps you keep track of which device you are controlling at the moment.

  • Page 22: When The Remote Doesn't Work Right

    POWER on the remote control. The VCR will shut off, but the TV will stay on. If you are recording on the VCR but want to watch a different channel on the TV, press the VCR/TV button to switch back and forth between the TV channel and the recording channel.

  • Page 23: Display Indicators

    Meet Your On-Screen Guide Your Hitachi VCR has as a special feature called the Easy Guide System. This feature guides you through simple setup and programming tasks right on the TV screen. With the TV and VCR turned on, press GUIDE on the remote control. You will see this...
  • Page 24 Getting Started (Controls) You may view all the on-screen instructions in English, French or Spanish. When you first set up your VCR, it will be set to English. Press number 8 or 9 for the other language options. Now, you will do most of your programming and setup by pressing numbers on the remote control which correspond to options presented in this and other on-screen menus.

  • Page 25: Getting Started (Initial Setup)

    VCR. If you receive all channels from the cable box, you need to set item 1 and item 7 the first time you set your VCR (See page 47). The rest of the items can be set later as needed.

  • Page 26: Setting The Clock

    You'll need to set the clock when first hooking up your VCR, and any time the power goes out more than 1 hour. When you first plug in the VCR or after a power outage, the clock display will read "--:-- ".
  • Page 27 When the VCR is hooked up via an antenna or cable (no cable box): 1. Press POWER to turn the VCR power off. When the VCR is turned off, press POWER to turn the power on, then press it again to turn the power off.
  • Page 28 4. The screen shown in step 3 above changes to a TV picture and the time appears in the VCR's display. It may take about five minutes for auto clock setting. If the clock is not set after about five minutes have elapsed, press GUIDE then set the clock manually (See page 25).
  • Page 29 If the SETUP VCR PLUS message continues flashing, set VCR Plus+ channels referring to the procedure in "Matching Broadcast CH numbers to VCR Plus+ channels" on page 46. You may set the VCR Plus+ channels after you are familiar with your VCR. Tips: The item to be changed will blink on the screen as you go.

  • Page 30: More About Channel Selections

    STOP to delete it or press PLAY to add it. Channel Caption (Station Identifier) When your VCR is receiving a channel caption signal that is being transmitted by a local broadcasting station together with a TV program, a station identifier is displayed on the...

  • Page 31: Getting Started (Videotapes)

    T-160 160 min. You may have noticed that there is also an LP speed. You Hitachi VCR does not record at this speed, but it can play cassettes that were recorded in LP mode. No special setting is required for playback.

  • Page 32: Loading And Ejecting

    When you load a videocassette into the VCR, there is only one right way! Most tapes show you the way with a little arrow on the top side which should go in first. Push the videocassette gently into the slot on the front of the VCR. You will feel the VCR take it in.

  • Page 33: Basic Operations

    Practice starting and stopping a video you've rented--play it through, see how it automatically rewinds. Get a blank tape and try recording a TV show. Then you'll know how to use the VCR when you need to--or where in the manual to find the instructions you forgot. Let's go!

  • Page 34: Rewinding The Tape

    Manual Rewind Press STOP and REW. The VCR rewinds the tape all the way to the beginning, then stops. Press STOP/EJECT on the VCR to release the tape.

  • Page 35: Special Playback Effects

    After 5 minutes in PAUSE mode, the VCR automatically switches to STOP mode to protect the tape. If noise bars appear on the TV screen during PAUSE mode, first set the VCR to SLOW mode and then press the 1 or 4 button on the remote control to minimize the noise bars.

  • Page 36: To Find Specific Sections On A Tape

    Basic Operations If noise bars appear on the TV screen during SLOW/STILL mode, first set the VCR to SLOW mode and then press the 1 or 4 button on the remote control to minimize the noise bars. The noise bars are then eliminated automatically in the STILL mode.
  • Page 37 You create an INDEX mark every time you press the REC button while recording. For more on how this gets recorded, see the section on Recording a Program (page 36). This VCR's indexing system is based on the VHS Index Search System (VISS). The...
  • Page 38 When you find the program you want and press PLAY, the VCR returns to PLAY mode. To stop the index search before an index mark is reached, press STOP. If there are no index marks on the tape, the VCR will just rewind to the beginning or fast forward to the end.

  • Page 39: Basic Operations (Recording)

    An indicator on the VCR's display shows which speed is active. 4. Set the VCR to the channel you want to record from. Use the up and down CHANNEL buttons to flip through the channels, or use the number buttons to go directly to the channel you want.

  • Page 40: Using The Instant Recording Timer (Irt)

    To view what you are recording, press VCR/TV so that the VCR is selected--the VCR indicator will light up on the VCR's display. You'll want to do this the first few times anyway to be sure you're recording what you think you are.

  • Page 41: Setting The Vcr To Record Later

    DAILY Records a show at the same time every day of the week, Monday through Friday. WEEKLY Records a show at the same day and time every week. Your VCR can record up to 8 programs at different days and times, or up to 8 programs on the same day. Before You Begin...
  • Page 42 Let's say you were interviewed today by a local TV reporter. You're eager to see yourself on the evening news tonight. The news comes on channel 8 at 6 0'clock--but you've got a meeting scheduled during that time. Luckily you just purchased this Hitachi VCR.

  • Page 43: Reviewing What You Have Programmed

    If using a cable box the VCR can control, turn on the cable box before the time the recording is to begin. If using a cable box the VCR cannot control, turn on the cable box and tune it to the channel you want to record before the time the recording is to begin.
  • Page 44 Basic Operations (Recording) were programmed. If the shows are all scheduled to start at 7 AM, the VCR starts with the first program at 7 AM, and switches to what remains of the second program when the first program is done recording, and so on.

  • Page 45: Basic Operations (Vcr Plus + Recording)

    Here's a sample page from TV Guide showing PlusCodes next to each program. To get ready to record with VCR Plus+ you need to assign your local broadcast and cable channels to the VCR Plus+ channel codes already stored in your VCR's memory.
  • Page 46 5. Now you're ready to assign your local channels to VCR Plus+ channels in the VCR's memory. The way you do this depends on how your VCR is hooked up to the incoming RF signal. Decide which hookup you have from the diagrams below, and follow the setup instructions for your type of hookup.
  • Page 47 VCR Plus+ numbers. Cable (No Cable Box) This is the channel setup to use if your VCR is hooked up directly to cable without a cable box. Compare your local TV channel listing to your cable company's channel directory to find channels that need to be assigned to the VCR Plus+ codes.
  • Page 48 SET tells the VCR how to record or to view programs from the cable box. If your cable box can be controlled by a remote, the VCR may be able to tune it to the channel you want to record or view. Before you begin, you need to know the output channel for your cable box.
  • Page 49 9. Enter your cable box type from the chart below by pressing two numbers. 10. Press GUIDE to enter your cable box type. The VCR will change the cable box from channel 02 to channel 09 when you enter the correct code for your cable box.

  • Page 50: Using Vcr Plus+ To Record A Program

    Basic Operations (VCR Plus + Recording) entries. If none of the codes work, press GUIDE several times to quit. The VCR will not control your cable box. However, the output channel of the cable box has been set. Turn on the cable box and leave it tuned to the channel you want to record some time before the recording is to begin.
  • Page 51 If using a cable box the VCR can control, turn on the cable box before the time the recording is to begin. If using a cable box the VCR cannot control, turn on the cable box and tune it to the channel you want to record before the time the recording is to begin.
  • Page 52 Basic Operations (VCR Plus + Recording) VCR. Caution on the VCR Plus+ recording After entering a VCR Plus + number, check the information displayed with the "PROGRAM REVIEW", if there is (are) any unnecessary program(s), please cancel or correct it (them).

  • Page 53: Advanced Operations

    Once you have programmed the remote, you won't have to do it again until you change the batteries. This Hitachi remote control can be used with your TV as well as the VCR, as long as your TV comes with a remote control. This feature comes in handy--you don't have to juggle two remotes.

  • Page 54: Controlling The Tv

    Sharp 2 DISPLAY Controlling the TV Once programmed, the VCR's remote control is ready to control the TV. First press TV to change to the TV function mode, then press the button of the TV function that you want. For example, press TV and the CHANNEL up arrow, and the TV station will change to the next higher station.

  • Page 55: Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups)

    Position Cable Box Position a remote-controllable cable box on the top of the VCR as shown. Be sure not to block any of the VCR's ventilation holes. A. Basic Hookup Use this hookup for a simple connection which requires fewer accessories.

  • Page 56: Advanced Hookup (Cable Box To Unscramble All Channels)

    This connection requires additional accessories not provided. 2. Plug in power cords of VCR, TV, and cable box. You will tune the TV to its video input to watch the VCR. All pay channels are viewed through the VCR. Illustration of Hookup...

  • Page 57: Advanced Operations (Second Vcr)

    A two-way cord that has both audio and video jacks Study the back of VCR2 (VT-M294A) to find the two color-coded jacks that are labeled IN. The yellow jack is for video, white is for audio. Locate similar jacks on VCR1. Then, with the power off: Connect VIDEO OUT on VCR2 to the yellow VIDEO IN on VCR1.

  • Page 58: Copying Tapes From A Camcorder

    Advanced Operations (Second VCR) The other VCR must be a Hitachi and must have a jack labeled EDIT. This is the recording VCR. You will need to purchase a synchro edit cable. Ask for part number VTCH40S. Use the buttons on the VCR for operation. Do not operate the remote control.
  • Page 59 Advanced Operations (Second VCR) Press the AVX button on the VCRs remote control so that the L2 (Line) indicator appears in the VCR display. Press REC/IRT on the VCR to start recording. Press PLAY on your camcorder to start copying your tape.

  • Page 60: Vcr Care And Servicing

    VCR Care and Servicing VCR Care and Servicing The VCR is fairly self-servicing, but you'll want to keep an eye on a few things as you go. In addition, you may sometimes have troubles with your VCR. We offer some suggestions for care to prevent problems, ways to troubleshoot, and places to contact when you cannot solve the problems yourself.

  • Page 61: Don't Attempt Repairs Yourself

    * Check your cable company's compatibility requirements. For information about how to obtain these accessories, please call TOLL FREE 1-800- 448-2244 for your nearest Hitachi Authorized Parts Distributor in the continental United States. For ALASKA and HAWAII, please contact the nearest Hitachi Regional office.

  • Page 62: Care And Servicing (Problems)

    POWER CORD PLUGGED CONNECT THE POWER CORD TO AC OUTLET PROGRAM SET TO THE RESET THE DELAYED CORRECT CHANNEL? RECORDING. IF USING VCR PLUS+, CHECK DOES NOT WORK THE CHANNEL SETUP. PROGRAM TIME AND RESET THE DELAYED DATE SET CORRECTLY? RECORDING/...
  • Page 63 TV CANNOT BE OPERATED BY THE VCR’S REMOTE CONTROL. MECHANICAL SOUNDS DURING PLAYBACK. VIEWING CHANNEL? OR 4. IS VCR REMOTE FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CONTROL PROGRAMMED IN ADVANCED FOR YOUR TV? OPERATIONS TO PROGRAM THE REMOTE TO SIGNALS THAT YOUR TV CAN RECOGNIZE.

  • Page 64: Hitachi Service Hotline

    * 1 YEAR PARTS (Except Battery) Conditions of Hitachi Limited Warranty Hitachi Video Products are warranted to be free of defects in parts and workmanship at the time of purchase by the original owner. If this product is found to be defective, Hitachi will repair or replace defective parts at no charge to the original owner.

  • Page 65: Norcross, Ga

    For 90 days from the date of original purchase, Hitachi will provide labor for the repair or replacement of defective parts without charge, subject to the following conditions: 1. Owner must provide verification of the date of purchase when requesting Limited Warranty Service.

  • Page 66: Hitachi Warranty Card (Usa Back)

    ARE LIMITED TO 90 DAYS FOR LABOR AND TWO YEARS FOR PARTS, THE DURATION OF THE APPLICABLE EXPRESS WARRANTY CONTAINED ABOVE HITACHI SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO THE PURCHASER OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSS OF PROFIT OR PRODUCT RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECT IN OR MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF THIS HITACHI PRODUCT.
  • Page 67 HITACHI WARRANTY CARD (USA Back) EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

  • Page 68: Hitachi Warranty Card (Front) Canada Only

    Hitachi. The program is available only for products covered by an original validated Hitachi warranty given at the time of the purchase. B - Hitachi will make repairs to the product mentioned in this plan, parts and labour charges included, until the expiry date of this plan.
  • Page 69 (9) The replacement of the video camera pick-up element, if the pick-up element has been over exposed to an intense source of light; (10) Cleaning the video heads. F - All repair costs must be claimed from Hitachi, at all times, through an authorized...
  • Page 70 Plan. Hitachi, however, reserves the right to refuse any renewal. I - Hitachi reserves the right to cancel the Protection Plan in case of abuse by the owner, in such case, Hitachi will reimburse the owner the portion of the plan cost, based on the period used.
  • Page 71 Canada. However, to receive your exclusive Hitachi GOLD CARD, you must include a copy of your bill of sale with the return portion of this warranty registration card.
  • Page 72 13. The replacement of the video camera pickup element if the pickup element has been OVER EXPOSED to an intense source of light. 14. Products sold in Canada by any organization other than HITACHI (HSC) CANADA INC. IMPORTANT: This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, guarantees, or agreements whether express or implied, and no person, dealer or company is authorized to change, modify, or extend its terms in any manner whatsoever.
  • Page 73 HITACHI CANADA WARRANTY CARD (Back) Model No. Serial No. Date of Purchase Dealer's Name Dealer's Address City Province...

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