TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 HITACHI Video Deck VT-F370A Owner's Manual Your Complete Guide to Videocassette Viewing and Recording Using these quality features: VHS hi-fidelity sound in playback Automatic tape head cleaning Up to 8 delayed recording programs Auto tracking for improved picture in playback Cable-compatible frequency synthesizer quartz tuner Remote control for use with your VCR and TV, and cable converter All basic playback functions on the VCR On-screen programming guide Multi-channel TV sound (MTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................................2 FOR YOUR SAFETY..................................................................................................................................................4 Read This First ......................................................................................................................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS Basic Recording Steps ............................................................................................................................. 37 Recording Tips ........................................................................................................................................ 38 Using the Instant Recording Timer (IRT) .................................................................................................... 39 Setting the VCR to Record Later ...........
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. Illustrated below is the label on the back of your unit. This symbol warns the user that uninsulated voltage within the unit may have sufficient magnitude to cause electric shock.
Read This First "Note to CATV system installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer's attention to Article 820-40 of the NEC that provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical". 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.
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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. Please read it carefully before operating your video product and keep it in a handy place for future reference.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance. 8 Ventilation -- Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation to ensure reliable operation of the video product and to protect it from overheating. These openings must not be blocked or covered.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (cont.) pg. 7 12 Outdoor Antenna Grounding -- If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the video product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS SERVICE 17 Servicing -- Do not attempt to service this video product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. 18 Conditions Requiring Service -- Unplug this video product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions. a. When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged. b.
Getting Started Getting Started Relax. Using a VCR is very straightforward. This sections explains how to hookup the VCR, quick tour of the controls, set up for first-time operation using on-screen menus, and videocassette tapes. Enjoy getting to know all about your Hitachi VCR. Let's get started. Simple Hookups 1 Decide Where to Put Your VCR Be sure your chosen location allows for proper ventilation, stability, and protection from heat and moisture (see Important Safeguards).
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 9 Any other devices you want to include in the system (stereo, second VCR, etc.) We will guide you through this 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. Then read through the rest of this hookup section before proceeding to an actual hookup. DO NOT TURN ON THE POWER YET.
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 10 Connect the yellow VIDEO OUT jack on the VCR to the VIDEO IN jack on the TV. This direct video input will give you the best picture. It will also let you play videos in a "picture in picture" feature, if your TV has it. Then connect the AUDIO OUT jacks (red and white) on the VCR to the AUDIO IN jacks on the TV (left to left, right to right).
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 11 If you have been watching the TV in your home before getting the VCR, you will already have a round wire attached to your TV. Otherwise, look for a cable connection coming in through the wall from outside. (If you find this connection, remember to call your local cable company to start the service.) 1. If still hooked up to your TV, unscrew the round wire from the 75 ohm connector on your television.
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 12 External or Internal 300 Ohm Antenna If you have either an external or internal (rabbit ears) antenna rather than cable, you may have 300 ohm connectors like these. In this case, you will need special adapters to make the 75 ohm round wire connection shown below. (You may already have one on your TV.) 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.
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 13 If you have "rabbit ears" (an antenna on top of your TV), you will need an additional adapter and 75 ohm extension to make your leads reach from the antenna to the VCR. 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 TV.
Getting Started Getting Started (Hookups cont.) pg. 14 6 Install Batteries in the Remote Control The remote control requires two fresh "AA" batteries. On the back of the remote, a plastic cover slides off in the direction shown by the arrow. Remove this cover and install the batteries, matching the plus end of each battery with the plus mark on the remote. 7 Set the RF or Video Channel Switch When the VCR is on, its video signal can come into your TV on either channel 3 or channel 4.
Getting Started (Controls) Getting Started (Controls) Quick Tour of the Controls Study these pictures carefully to learn about the buttons and controls that you'll need for everyday operation. Various controls are explained throughout this manual as they are needed, but now is a good time to get familiar with their locations. 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.
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Getting Started (Controls) Getting Started (Controls cont.) pg. 16 Remote Control Buttons Remote Control Illustration POWER Turns the VCR on and off. VCR1, TV, CATV, VCR2 Device buttons let you set the remote to control one of four devices. MUTE (TO CONTROL TV) Turns off the audio until you press Mute again. VOLUME/SLOW Increase or decrease the audio volume and plays back in adjustable slow motion. REW Rewinds the videotape. PLAY Starts playing a loaded videocassette.
Getting Started (Controls) Getting Started (Controls cont.) pg. 17 When the Remote Doesn't Work Right Check out these possibilities: Low Battery If the remote is not working even at close range, try putting in two fresh AA batteries. Objects in the Way There may be objects between the remote and the VCR - for instance, a stack of books on the coffee table, your 2-year-old child, the dog. Hold the remote so that it points at the VCR with nothing in the way.
Getting Started (Controls) Getting Started (Controls cont.) pg. 18 VCR Controls POWER Turns VCR power on and off. STOP/EJECT Cancels any videotape action, and when pressed a second time, ejects tape. PLAY Play the loaded videotape. DISPLAY Shows time, channel, and status indicators. CHANNEL Up and down arrows for selecting channels. REC/IRT To begin recording. F.FWD Fast forwards the videotape. REW Rewinds the videotape.
Getting Started (Controls) Getting Started (Controls cont.) pg. 19 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.
Getting Started (Initial Setup) Getting Started (Initial Setup) Setup for First-Time Operation Before you use your VCR to watch or record from your TV, you need to "tell" the VCR whether your TV uses cable or antenna input and let it program itself to receive your TV's channels. It's also a good idea to set the clock so you can do timed recording later. With your TV and VCR hooked up, turn them both on and follow these steps using the remote control.
Getting Started (Initial Setup) Getting Started (Initial Setup cont.) pg. 21 Here is what the options mean: 1 ANTENNA/CABLE Press 1 to select the type of receiving setup you have: Internal or external antenna Ordinary cable Alternate cable (if CATV1 doesn't give you the channels you expect) 2 AUTO CHANNEL SETTING Press 2 to automatically program the VCR to receive all the channels that come in on your antenna or cable.
Getting Started (Initial Setup) Getting Started (Initial Setup cont.) pg. 22 Setting the Clock This is easy to do and important for your later timed recordings. You'll need to set the clock when first hooking up your VCR, and any time the power goes out more than 5 seconds. When you first plug in the VCR or after a power outage, the clock display will read "--:--".
Getting Started (Initial Setup) Getting Started (Initial Setup cont.) pg. 23 More About Channel Selections Your VCR is capable of receiving 68 broadcast TV channels (VHF 2-13, UHF 14-69) and 125 cable channels (CATV 1-125). When you press 2 on the Initial Setup screen, the tuner automatically cycles through all available channels in your area and places them in memory. This takes 2-3 minutes.
Getting Started (Initial Setup) Getting Started (Initial Setup cont.) pg. 24 Caution After a Power Failure If a power failure lasting for more than 5 seconds occurs, reset the clock and perform the "AUTO CHANNEL SETTING" found in the "INITIAL SET-UP" menu. Choosing a Mode for Audio Playback Choose between hi-fi and linear modes, depending on your needs. HIFI is the preferred setting because it works for all tapes whether they were recorded in hi-fi or linear modes.
Getting Started (Videotapes) Getting Started (Videotapes) About Videocassette Tapes Types The best thing you can do for your VCR is use the best quality tapes available. This VCR uses VHS tapes only, which are the most common type. Look for the VHS mark on new or prerecorded tapes you buy. Tapes are marked either T-120 or T-160, which signifies how many minutes of programming they can hold at standard recording speed (SP). To get the best quality picture, record at standard speed.
Getting Started (Videotapes) Getting Started (Videotapes cont.) pg. 26 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. When the cassette is all the way in, the VCR powers up automatically and a TAPE-IN indicator shows on the display.
Basic Operations 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! Viewing a Videocassette To play Back a Recorded Tape 1. Insert the cassette, arrow-side forward, into the slot at the front of the VCR.
Basic Operations Basic Operations (Playback cont.) pg. 28 Manual Tracking Scratched tapes or poorly recorded tapes may require additional picture adjustment. You can do this with the remote control. Press VCR1 or VCR2 on respective mode, then press either of the TRACKING buttons (down or up arrows) until picture clears up. After operating the tracking manually, eject the tape and reinsert it to reactivate auto tracking.
Basic Operations Basic Operations (Playback cont.) pg. 29 Frame Advance While in PAUSE mode during playback, press 9 button to view the video one frame at a time. Press PAUSE to resume play. Skip Playback While playing back your tape you can skip forward by pressing the FRAME ADVANCE button. The tape will search ahead for about a minute and then resume playing.
Basic Operations Basic Operations (Playback cont.) pg. 30 Searching with the Time Counter During playback (and recording), a counter keeps track of how many hours, minutes, and seconds the tape has run. When you first start playback, the counter shows briefly in the TV screen's upper right corner. When you want to check the counter during playback, there are several ways to do it. Pressing DISPLAY will cycle you through the three options.
Basic Operations Basic Operations (Playback cont.) pg. 31 Press DISPLAY again and an "M" will display below the counter on the TV screen: This indicates that the counter's memory function is engaged. Now when you rewind the tape, it will automatically stop at the spot where you cleared the counter. (Notice it moves just past the marker and then back to it.) Press PLAY to watch the tape from that preselected spot. Press DISPLAY to take the counter display off.
Basic Operations Basic Operations (Playback cont.) pg. 32 Jump to an Index Mark with INDEX A quick way to access specific program segments is with the index search feature. This lets you move through a tape that has several recordings on it by searching for the INDEX "mark." This function only works with recordings that have been set up with indexing.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording) Recording a Program Before you Record The VCR must be hooked up properly for recording. See the Simple Hookups at the beginning of this manual. Make sure you are familiar with the Easy Guide System for on-screen programming (page 19) and the basics about videocassettes and VCR safety. Copyright Infringement Warning Most television programs and films are copyrighted.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) pg. 34 Recording Tips To Watch the Same Program While Recording 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. To Watch One Program While Recording Another Once you have set the VCR for recording, press VCR/TV. Now, you will be viewing through your TV only.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) pg. 35 To Leave Index Marks on the Tape This feature is useful when you are recording several programs on the same tape. It helps you quickly find the beginnings of the shows during playback (page 32). You create the index "mark" every time you begin recording by pressing REC and PLAY at the same time or REC/IRT.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) pg. 36 Setting the VCR to Record Later With the delayed recording feature, you can set this VCR so that it automatically comes on and records programs whenever you like - without your being around! You can record a program one time only, or you can automatically record a show every weekday or every week at the same time. You can preset as many as 8 timed recordings at once.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) pg. 37 Delayed Recording Steps You set up the delayed recording using the on-screen Easy Guide System. Press GUIDE twice, then press number buttons 3, 4, or 5 for ONE TIME, DAILY, or WEEKLY RECORDING. Follow the flashing instructions on screen to complete the programming. The programs are identified by numbers from 1 to 8. Remember to press 0 before single-digit channel numbers, times, and dates - for example, 0 and 6 for channel 6.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) PROGRAM 1 CH -START TIME --:-- pg. 38 END TIME --:-START DATE --/--/-TAPE SPEED EP FILL IN BLINKING SPACE PRESS CLEAR TO CORRECT *TO END PRESS GUIDE Now fill in the blanks: Select channel 8 by pressing 0 and 8 on the remote control. Enter the start time by pressing 0, 6, 0, and 0 for 6 o'clock. Then press 2 for PM. Enter the end time, half past six, as 06:30. The VCR automatically selects PM for you.
Basic Operations (Recording) Basic Operations (Recording cont.) pg. 39 Programming Priorities When you have set up several timed recordings, it may occur that some of their times overlap. For example, this can happen if you are set up to record shows on a daily or weekly basis, and a special show comes on that you try to record during the same time slot. The following charts will help you visualize how the VCR prioritizes the preset timed recordings.
Advanced Operations (Remote Control of TV) Advanced Operations (Remote Control of TV) This section explains how to use the VCR's remote control to operate your TV. It also shows you how to hook up a cable box and how to connect a stereo or a second VCR for a complete home entertainment system. Controlling Your TV with the VCR's Remote Compatibility The remote control is designed to be compatible with many televisions and cable converters, but will not work with every one made.
Advanced Operations (Remote Control of TV) Advanced Operations (Remote Control of TV cont.) pg. 41 If that button combination does not change the TV channel, go through the whole list of button combinations one by one until you find one that does change your TV channel. Also, if your brand of TV is not listed in the chart, try all the number buttons. One of them may work for you.
Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups) Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups) Hooking Up to a Cable Box The cable box brings all the advantages of pay cable, but finding a satisfactory hookup can be challenging. To sort out what to do, we suggest a step-by-step approach to installation. You will need RF TV splitters, coaxial cable jumpers, and possible RF switches to try various configurations.
Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups) Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups cont.) pg. 43 Option 1 - All Channels Scrambled 1. Remove the cable company's cable line from the back of your TV. Connect it to the IN FROM ANT lower jack on the back of the VCR. 2. Using the 75 ohm coaxial cable supplied with your VCR, connect either end to the VCR's OUT TO TV upper jack. 3. Connect the other end of the 75 ohm cable to the TV, in the same place where you removed the cable line.
Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups) Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups cont.) pg. 44 Check all the TV and VCR functions. If you don't get all the functions you want, precede with Option 3. Option 3--Some Channels Scrambled This hookup requires three coaxial jumpers with connectors, a 1-into-2 splitter, and an A-or-B switch box. 1. Disconnect the cable from the cable box and attach it to the input line of the 1-into-2 splitter. 2.
Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups) Advanced Operations (Cable Box Hookups cont.) pg. 45 Option 4 If none of the preceding hookups work, check with your cable company. You may need to purchase a video switching system from your local electronics or video retailer. This will easily handle most hookup problems. Remote Control of the Cable Converter If you have a cable converter, you will probably want to program your VCR's remote control so you can easily change channels.
Advanced Operations (Stereo System) Advanced Operations (Stereo System) Integrating Your Stereo System There are several reasons to consider hooking up your stereo system with your TV and VCR. If your TV does not have stereo, you can get stereo quality from your VCR by hooking it to your stereo receiver. Even if your TV does have stereo, you can get better sound by taking advantage of your stereo's better speakers.
Advanced Operations (Second VCR) Advanced Operations (Second VCR) Integrating a Second VCR With another VCR hooked up, you can copy videotapes as needed, and you can get fancy with multimedia programming. For this discussion, we refer to the model VT-F370A Hitachi as VCR2 and the other unit as VCR1.
Advanced Operations (Second VCR) Press REC on VCR1, and press PLAY on VCR2. To monitor the picture as you record, VCR1 must be connected to your TV (follow instructions in the other VCR's manual). Press the VCR/TV button on the remote. The VCR indicator will light on VCR1's display and you can view the picture being recorded.
Advanced Operations (Second VCR) Advanced Operations (Second VCR cont.) pg. 50 Copying Tapes From A Camcorder If you would like to copy a video tape shot in your camcorder onto your VCR here's how to do it. Connect the camcorder's AV output cable to your VCR. (see diagram below) Camcorder Hookup Illustration Press the AVX button on the VCRs remote control so that the L (Line) indicator appears in the VCR display. Press REC/IRT on the VCR to start recording.
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. Routine Cleaning Head Cleaning The heads are tiny mechanisms in the VCR that pick up the video signal as a videotape passes over them.
VCR Care and Servicing Care and Servicing (cont.) pg. 52 If the VCR Doesn't Work Right Many operational problems are easily remedied by reviewing the instructions in this manual and trying out some different controls and settings. The chart on the facing page covers the more common problems that new VCR owners encounter. You can also consult the problem guide in your on-screen Easy Guide System. To bring up the screen, press GUIDE twice, then press 7.
Care and Servicing (Problems) Care and Servicing (Problems) OFTEN ENCOUNTERED PROBLEMS THINGS TO CHECK SOLUTION Power cord plugged in? Connect the power cord to AC outlet. Delayed recording does Program set to the Reset the delayed not work. correct channel? recording. Program time and date Reset the delayed set correctly? recording VCR power turned off? Turn power off to activate the timer.
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Care and Servicing (Problems) Care and Servicing (Problems cont.) pg. 54 Hitachi Service Hotline Authorized Hitachi service facilities are available throughout the US and Canada. For the location nearest you, call the Hitachi Service Hotline at one of these numbers: In the continental U.S.A.
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS Technical Specifications Recording: Video: Cassette: Heads: Tape Speed: Tape Width: RF Output: RF Input: Tuning Range: Video Input: Video Output: Audio Input Audio Output Video Recording S/N: Horizontal Resolution: Audio Response: Audio S/N: Hi-Fi Audio: Power Input: Power Consumption: Cabinet Size: Weight: Accessories: Rotary two-head helical scan azimuth recording NTSC color EIA standard VHS type 4 video heads 2 for SP, 2 for EP 2 hi-fi audio heads 1 full track audio/v
SPECIFICATIONS Design and specifications subject to change without notice.