Philips VR355/50 - User Manual

The Philips VR355/50 is a VHS Video Cassette Recorder (VCR) designed for home use, offering both playback of prerecorded cassettes and recording of TV programs. It is a sophisticated yet simple-to-use device, prepared for reception of NTSC programs.

Function Description

The VCR functions as a standalone television receiver, capable of recording one TV program while another is being watched on the TV set. Its primary functions include:

• Playback: Plays back VHS cassettes. It automatically selects the correct tape speed (SP, LP, or SLP) during playback.
• Recording: Records TV programs onto VHS cassettes. Users can select between Standard Play (SP) and Super Long Play (SLP) recording speeds.
• One Touch Recording (OTR): Allows for quick, immediate recording without complex timer programming. Recording duration can be set in 30-minute increments up to 9 hours.
• Timer Recording: Enables unattended recording of TV programs at a specified time and channel, up to 12 months in advance. Users can program for single events, daily, or weekly recordings.
• Special Playback Features: Includes fast forward, rewind, visual search (forward and reverse), still picture (freeze frame), and slow-motion playback.
• Tape Duplication (Re-Recording): Facilitates copying content from one VCR (source player) to another VCR (editing recorder).
• Tuner Setting: Automatically scans and stores receivable local TV channels into the VCR's memory. Users can also manually add or delete channels.
• Clock Setting: Allows setting the current day and time, essential for timer recording.
• On-Screen Displays (OSD): Provides a user-friendly interface for menu navigation, VCR status display, language selection, repeat playback settings, and picture control.
• Auto Tracking Control: Automatically adjusts for optimum picture quality during playback, minimizing noise. Manual tracking adjustment is also available.
• Auto Operation Functions: Includes auto playback upon tape insertion (if the record tab is removed), auto rewind at tape end, and memory rewind with power off.

Important Technical Specifications

• Video Recording System: Rotary four-head helical scan system.
• Video Signal: EIA standards: NTSC color.
• Antenna: VHF/UHF - 75 ohm external antenna terminal.
• VHF Output Signal: Channel 3 or 4 (switchable) 75 ohms unbalanced.
• Power Requirement: AC110V-127V-220V~, 50/60 Hz.
• Power Consumption: 19W.
• Operating Temperature: 41°F (5°C) to 104°F (40°C).
• Relative Humidity: 10% to 80%.
• Weight: 3.8 kg.
• Dimensions: 360(W) x 94(H) x 295(D) mm.
• Tuner Broadcast Channels: VHF 2-13, UHF 14-69.
• Tuner CATV Channels: Midband A-I, Superband J-W, Hyperband AA-EEE, Lowband A5-A1, Special channel 5A, Ultraband 65-125.
• Accessories: Wireless Remote Control, "AAA" Batteries, RF Coaxial Cable, Conversion plug.

Usage Features

• Remote Control: The VCR is primarily operated via a wireless remote control, which includes buttons for power, play, stop, record, fast forward, rewind, channel selection, tape speed, menu navigation, clock setting, and special playback features.
• Front Panel Controls: Essential controls like STOP/EJECT, PLAY, FF/SEARCH, REC/OTR, POWER, REW/SEARCH, VCR/TV, and CHANNEL UP/DOWN buttons are also available on the VCR's front panel.
• Display Panel: Features a VCR indicator, OTR indicator, Timer indicator, Digital Clock/Counter, Channel/Input Signal Indicator, Mode Indicator (REC, PLAY, PAUSE), Memory Indicator, Speed Indicator (SP, SLP), and Cassette-Inside Indicator.
• Tape Speed Selection: Recording speed can be manually selected (SP or SLP) using the remote control's TAPE SPEED button. Playback speed is automatically detected.
• Erase Protection: Cassettes have a record tab that, when broken off, prevents accidental erasure. To record again on such a tape, the hole must be covered with cellophane tape.
• Input/Output Jacks: Includes AUDIO IN/OUT, VIDEO IN/OUT, RF OUT (to TV), and ANT IN (from Antenna) for various connections. A CH3/CH4 switch on the rear panel allows selection of the output channel to the TV.
• Language Selection: On-screen menu messages can be displayed in English or Spanish.
• Picture Control: An on-screen menu option allows for picture control to improve viewing of tapes with noise, such as rental tapes.
• Memory Function: Allows users to memorize a specific tape position (counter 0:00:00) for easy navigation using the GO-TO function.

Maintenance Features

• Safety Precautions: Warnings against dangerous voltage inside the unit and exposure to rain or moisture. The POWER button does not completely shut off mains power.
• Positioning: Advised not to place the VCR directly on top of or underneath the TV, ensuring at least 20 cm separation for air circulation to prevent condensation and overheating.
• Condensation Prevention: Important to let cold cassettes acclimatize in the room for at least two hours before insertion to prevent damage.
• Power Failure Resilience: Timer recordings will be erased if power fails. Users are instructed to reset the clock and reprogram timers after a power interruption.
• Video Head Maintenance: Periodic maintenance, including cleaning or replacement of video heads, is required for continued excellent performance and should be performed by an authorized Video System Service Center.
• Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a section to help users diagnose and correct common issues related to power, recording, playback, and remote control functionality before requesting service. This includes checking connections, tape record tabs, clock settings, and tracking adjustments.