SONY SLV-SF900G - Video recorder

SLV-SF900G - Video recorder SONY - Free user manual and instructions

Find the device manual for free SLV-SF900G SONY in PDF.

📄 110 pages English EN Download 💬 AI Question 10 questions ⚙️ Specs
Notice SONY SLV-SF900G - page 2
View the manual : Français FR English EN
Pick your language and provide your email: we'll send you a specifically translated version.
Product type VHS video recorder (VCR)
Brand SONY
Model SLV-SF900G
Dimensions (W × H × D) 430 × 100 × 330 mm (including projecting parts)
Weight 4.8 kg
Power supply 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz
Power consumption 25 W (normal); 2.7 W (energy saving mode)
Recording format PAL (recording and playback); NTSC 4.43 (playback only)
Tape speeds SP (Standard Play), LP (Long Play), EP (NTSC playback only)
Max. recording/playback time 10 hours in LP with E300 cassette
Fast forward/rewind Approx. 1 minute with E180 cassette
Inputs/Outputs LINE-1 (TV): SCART (21 pins); LINE-3 IN: SCART (21 pins); LINE-2 IN: Video (phono) + Audio L/R (phono); AUDIO OUT: L/R (phono)
Antenna connectors ANTENNA INPUT (AERIAL IN) and ANTENNA OUTPUT (AERIAL OUT)
Main functions SmartFile (electronic labels), VIDEO Plus+ (programmed recording), Timer, VPS/PDC, Recording synchronization, Automatic adjustment, Index search, Parental control (personal code), Reality Regenerator (RR), Optimal Picture Control (OPC)
Remote control Infrared remote control with R6 (AA) batteries; can control Sony and other brand TVs (adjustable code)
Included accessories Remote control, 2 R6 batteries, antenna cable, 10 SmartFile labels
Safety Personal code (up to 11 characters); program protection (record tab); automatic shutdown in case of overheating
Maintenance and cleaning Clean the casing with a soft, dry cloth; use a Sony cleaning cassette (T-25CLD, E-25CLDR, or T-25CLW) for the video heads
Operating conditions Temperature: 5°C to 40°C; humidity: without condensation

Frequently Asked Questions - SLV-SF900G SONY

How to set the clock manually?
Press MENU, select SETTINGS > CLOCK > MANUAL ADJUST. Use the << / >> buttons to choose the date, month, year, hour and minutes, then confirm with OK. The day of the week is set automatically.
How to record a program with VIDEO Plus+?
Insert a cassette with the record tab, press TIMER, select VIDEO Plus+, then enter the PLUSCODE using the number buttons. Press OK to confirm the schedule and program. The VCR will automatically switch to programmed standby.
What to do if playing an NTSC cassette gives a black and white picture?
Check the NTSC PB selector on the back of the VCR. Set it to NTSC 4.43 if your TV accepts this standard, or to ON PAL TV for PAL conversion. Depending on your TV, the picture may remain black and white.
How to clean the video heads?
Use a recommended Sony cleaning cassette (models T-25CLD, E-25CLDR or T-25CLW). Insert it and start playback for about 10 seconds. Never use non-Sony liquid cleaning cassettes; they may damage the heads.
How to use the SmartFile function?
Attach a SmartFile label to the edge of the cassette. During recording, data (date, channel, title) is automatically stored. To view the contents, bring the label close to the SMARTFILE sensor on the front of the VCR without inserting the cassette. You can then select a program and start playback directly.
Why is the cassette ejected when I press REC?
The record tab has been removed. To re-record on this cassette, cover the hole with a piece of adhesive tape. If the cassette contains a program protected via SmartFile, recording will stop before that area.
How to connect the VCR to a TV without a SCART socket?
Use only the supplied antenna cable: connect the AERIAL IN socket of the VCR to the antenna, then AERIAL OUT to the TV's antenna input. Set the TV to a free UHF channel and tune it to the VCR's RF output channel (default RF21).
How to program a daily or weekly recording?
When setting the timer (manual or VIDEO Plus+), after entering the date, press the down arrow key multiple times to cycle through options: TODAY, SUN-SAT, MON-FRI, etc. Choose the desired pattern. The VCR will record at the same times according to the selected frequency.
The TIMER indicator flashes but recording does not start, why?
Check that the clock is correctly set and that the cassette is not at the end of the tape. Make sure the record tab is present. If you are using the VPS/PDC function, recording may be delayed if the signal is not received. Refer to the Troubleshooting section of the manual for more details.
How to adjust the picture during playback?
Use the TRACKING +/- buttons to eliminate horizontal noise. For automatic adjustment, press both TRACKING + and - simultaneously. You can also activate the Reality Regenerator (RR) function by pressing the REALITY REGENERATOR button to improve picture quality of worn cassettes.

User questions about SLV-SF900G SONY

0 question about this device. Answer the ones you know or ask your own.

Ask a new question about this device

The email remains private: it is only used to notify you if someone responds to your question.

No questions yet. Be the first to ask one.

Download the instructions for your Video recorder in PDF format for free! Find your manual SLV-SF900G - SONY and take your electronic device back in hand. On this page are published all the documents necessary for the use of your device. SLV-SF900G by SONY.

USER MANUAL SLV-SF900G SONY

Video Cassette Recorder

Operating Instructions

The SmartFile function in this model meets the requirements of EU, EFTA, Central and Eastern Europe

CE 0499 Ⓙ

VHS

PAL NTSC 4.43

Hi-Fi

VIDEOPlus ^®

SLV-SF900G

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

Mains lead must only be changed at a qualified service shop.

Notice for customers in the United Kingdom

A moulded plug complying with BS1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience.

If the 13A fitted plug does not match the outlet socket in your home, please refer to your Appointed Sony Dealer for advice.

Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a 5 AMP fuse approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362, (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used.

If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

Precautions

Safety

  • This unit operates on 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz. Check that the unit's operating voltage is identical with your local power supply.
  • If anything falls into the cabinet, unplug the unit and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.
  • The unit is not disconnected from the mains as long as it is connected to the mains, even if the unit itself has been turned off.
  • Unplug the unit from the wall outlet if you do not intend to use it for an extended period of time. To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug, never by the cord.

Installing

  • Allow adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat buildup.
  • Do not place the unit on surfaces (rugs, blankets, etc.) or near materials (curtains, draperies) that may block the ventilation slots.
  • Do not install the unit near heat sources such as radiators or air ducts, or in a place subject to direct sunlight, excessive dust, mechanical vibration or shock.

  • Do not install the unit in an inclined position. It is designed to be operated in a horizontal position only.

  • Keep the unit and cassettes away from equipment with strong magnets, such as microwave ovens or large loudspeakers.
  • Do not place heavy objects on the unit.
  • If the unit is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, moisture may condense inside the VCR and cause damage to the video head and tape. When you first install the unit, or when you move it from a cold to a warm location, wait for about three hours before operating the unit.

Caution

Television programmes, films, video tapes and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such material may be contrary to the provisions of the copyright laws. Also, use of this recorder with cable television transmission may require authorization from the cable television transmitter and/or programme owner.

Compatible colour systems

This VCR is designed to record using the PAL colour system and play back using the PAL and NTSC 4.43 colour systems. Recording of video sources based on other colour systems cannot be guaranteed.

VIDEO Plus + is a registered trademark of Gemstar Development Corporation. VIDEO Plus + system is manufactured under license from Gemstar Development Corporation.

SmartFile is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Table of contents

Getting Started

4 Step 1: Unpacking
5 Step 2: Setting up the remote commander
9 Step 3: Connecting the VCR
15 Step 4: Tuning your TV to the VCR
18 Step 5: Setting up the VCR with the Auto Set Up function
19 Step 6: Setting the clock
24 Selecting a language
25 Presetting channels
28 Setting/changing the station names
30 Changing/disabling programme positions
34 Setting your personal code

Basic Operations

37 Playing a tape
40 Recording TV programmes
44 Recording TV programmes using the VIDEO Plus + system
49 Setting the timer manually

Additional Operations

52 Playing/searching at various speeds
54 Setting the recording duration time
55 Synchronized Recording
57 Checking/changing/cancelling timer settings
59 Recording stereo and bilingual programmes
61 Searching using the index function
62 Adjusting the picture
64 Changing menu options

Editing

67 Connecting to a VCR or stereo system
69 Basic Editing

SmartFile function

70 About the SmartFile function
72 Recording using the SmartFile function
77 Selecting and playing a programme
78 Checking the contents of a tape
80 Labelling a recorded programme and tape
88 Registering the contents of a recorded tape in the SmartFile label
90 Protecting a recorded programme
92 Erasing the data of an unwanted programme

Additional Information

94 Troubleshooting
100 Specifications
106 Menu chart

101 Index to parts and controls

Back cover

Index

Step 1 : Unpacking

Check that you have received the following items with the VCR :

- Remote commander

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 1 : Unpacking - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a remote control device with buttons and dials (no text or symbols)

• R6 (size AA) batteries

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 1 : Unpacking - 2

- Aerial cable

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 1 : Unpacking - 3

natural_image Line drawing of a coiled cable with two connectors (no text or symbols)

- SmartFile labels

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 1 : Unpacking - 4

natural_image Two identical isometric diagrams of a grid-like structure with rectangular elements, no text or symbols present.

Step 2 : Setting up the remote commander

Inserting the batteries

Insert two R6 (size AA) batteries by matching the + and - on the batteries to the diagram inside the battery compartment.

Insert the negative (−) end first, then push in and down until the positive (+) end clicks into position.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Inserting the batteries - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a battery pack and its internal casing, showing no text or symbols

Using the remote commander

You can use this remote commander to operate this VCR and a Sony TV. Buttons on the remote commander marked with a dot ( ) can be used to operate your Sony TV. If the TV does not have the R symbol near the remote sensor, this remote commander will not operate the TV.

Remote sensor TV / VIDEO

To operateSet TV / VIDEO to
the VCRVIDEO and point at the remote sensor on the VCR
a Sony TVTV and point at the remote sensor on the TV

WIDE AUDIO MONITOR FASTEXT buttons + DISPLAY TV/VIDEO Programme number buttons -/-- - PROG +/- +/+/-

TV control buttons

ToPress
Set the TV to standby modeI/⏻
Select an input source: aerial in or line in⇨ TV/VIDEO
Select the TV’s programme positionProgramme number buttons, -/- -, PROG +/-
Adjust the TV’s volume△+/-
Switch to TV (Teletext off)☐ (TV)
Switch to Teletext≡ (Teletext)
Select the soundAUDIO MONITOR
Use FASTEXTFASTEXT buttons
Call up the on-screen display1+ DISPLAY
Change the Teletext pageEA/EV
Switch to/from wide mode of a Sony wide TV (For other manufactures’ wide TVs, see “Controlling other TVs with the remote commander”.)WIDE

Notes

  • With normal use, the batteries should last about three to six months.
  • If you do not use the remote commander for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.
  • Do not use a new battery with an old one together.
  • Do not use different types of batteries together.
  • Some buttons may not work with certain Sony TVs.

Controlling other TVs with the remote commander

The remote commander is preprogrammed to control non-Sony TVs. If your TV is listed in the table below, set the appropriate manufacturer's code number.

1 Set TV/VIDEO at the top of the remote commander to TV.
2 Hold down I/↓, and enter your TV's code number(s) using the programme number buttons. Then release I/↓.

Now you can use the following TV control buttons to control your TV:

I/∅, TV/VIDEO, programme number buttons, -/- - (ten's digit), PROG +/-, ∠+/-, □(TV), ⊗(Teletext), FASTEXT buttons, WIDE*, MENU*, ↑*/↓*/←*/→*, and OK*.

* These buttons may not work with all TVs.

Tip

- When you set your TV's code number correctly while the TV is turned on, the TV turns off automatically.

Code numbers of controllable TVs

If more than one code number is listed, try entering them one at a time until you find the one that works with your TV.

To switch to wide mode, see the footnotes below this table for the applicable code numbers.

ManufacturerCode number
Sony01*1, 02
Akai68
Blaupunkt10
C.G.M09
Ferguson52
Goldstar03, 04, 17
Grundig10*1, 11*1
Hitachi24
ITT15, 16, 69*3
JVC33
Loewe45
Mivar09
ManufacturerCode number
NEC66
Nokia15, 16, 69^*3
Panasonic 17^*1 , 49
Philips 06^*1 , 07^*1 , 08^*1
Saba12, 13
Samsung22, 23
Sanyo25
Sharp29
Thomson 43^*2
Toshiba38

*1 Press WIDE to switch to the wide picture mode you want.
*2 Press WIDE, then press △+/- to select the wide picture mode you want.
*3 Press WIDE. The menu appears on the TV screen. Then, press ↑/↓/←/→ to select the wide picture you want and press OK.

Notes

  • If the TV uses a different remote control system from the one programmed to work with the VCR, you cannot control your TV with the remote commander.
  • If you enter a new code number, the code number previously entered will be erased.
  • If you remove the batteries of the remote commander for more than a few minutes, the code number may be reset to 01 (Sony). In this case, reset the appropriate code number.

Step 3 : Connecting the VCR

We recommend connecting your VCR to your TV using a Scart (EURO-AV) cable. You must still connect your VCR to your TV with an aerial cable as well.

If you use the Scart (EURO-AV) cable for connecting, you will improve the picture and sound quality playback of your VCR and make the set up easier.

  • Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only, see page 12.
  • Connection to your TV and Set-Top Box, see page 13.

Connection to your TV with a Scart (EURO-AV) connector
SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 3 : Connecting the VCR - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Main"] -->|to mains| B["Line-1 (TV)"]
    B --> C["Aerial OUT"]
    C --> D["Aerial IN"]
    D --> E["Scart (EURO-AV)"]
    E --> F["Aerial cable (supplied)"]
    F --> G["Scart (EURO-AV) cable (not supplied)"]
    G --> H["Aerial IN"]
    H --> I["Aerial IN"]
    I --> J["Aerial IN"]
    J --> K["Aerial IN"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#cfc,stroke:#333

1

Disconnect the aerial cable from your TV and connect it to AERIAL IN on the rear panel of the VCR.

AERIAL ANTENNE IN ENTREE OUT SORTIE

2

Connect AERIAL OUT of the VCR and the aerial input of your TV using the supplied aerial cable.

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 1

flowchart
graph LR
    A["AERIAL ANTENNE IN ENTREE"] --> B["OUT SORTIE"]
    B --> C["Output Device"]

continued

3

Connect LINE-1 (TV) on the VCR and the Scart (EURO-AV) connector on the TV with the optional EURO-AV cable.

This connection improves picture and sound quality. Whenever you want to watch the VCR picture, press TV/VIDEO to display the VIDEO indicator in the display window.

LINE-1 (TV) LIGNE-1 (TV)

4

Connect the mains lead to the mains.

You can now tune your TV to the VCR (see page 15).

Notes

  • If the TV is connected to the LINE-1 (TV) connector, setting the RF channel to OFF is recommended (see page 17). In the OFF position, only the signal from the aerial is output through the AERIAL OUT connector.
  • For a correct SmartLink connection, you will need a Scart cable which the 21 pins are completely connected (for example a Sony cable reference VMC-2121HG). Please refer to your TV's instruction manual as well for this connection.

If the connected TV complies with SMARTLINK, NexTView Link, MEGALOGIC ^1 , EASYLINK/CinemaLink ^2 , Q-Link ^3 or T-V LINK ^4 , you can use the

SMARTLINK

SMARTLINK function after you complete the steps on the previous page (the SMARTLINK indicator appears in the VCR's display window when you turn on the TV). You can enjoy the following SMARTLINK features.

  • Preset Download
    You can download your TV tuner preset data to this VCR and tune the VCR according to that data in Auto Set Up. This greatly simplifies the Auto Set Up procedure. Be careful not to disconnect the cables or exit the Auto Set Up function during the procedure. See “Setting up the VCR with the Auto Set Up function” on page 18.

- TV Direct Rec

You can easily record what you are watching on the TV (other than tapes being played on this VCR). For details, see “Recording what you are watching on the TV (TV Direct Rec)” on page 43.

- One Touch Play

With One Touch Play, you can start playback automatically without turning on the TV. For details, see “Starting playback automatically with one button (One Touch Play)” on page 39.

- One Touch Menu

You can turn on the VCR and TV, set the TV to the video channel, and display the VCR's on-screen display automatically by pressing MENU on the remote commander.

- One Touch Timer

You can turn on the VCR and TV, set the TV to the video channel, and display the timer recording menu (the TIMER METHOD menu, the TIMER menu or the VIDEO Plus + menu) automatically by pressing ⏻ TIMER on the remote commander. You can set which timer recording menu is displayed using TIMER OPTIONS in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).

• Automatic Power off

You can have the VCR turn off automatically, if the VCR is not used for about 1 minute, after you turn off the TV.

- NexTView Download

You can easily set the timer by using the NexTView Download function on your TV. Please refer to your TV's instruction manual.

*1 “MEGALOGIC” is a registered trademark of Grundig Corporation.
*2 “EASYLINK/CinemaLink” is a trademark of Philips Corporation.
*3 “Q-Link” is a trademark of Panasonic Corporation.
*4 “T-V LINK” is a trademark of JVC Corporation.

Note

- Not all TVs respond to the functions above.

continued

Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only

SONY SLV-SF900G - Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Mains lead"] --> B["Aerial cable (supplied)"]
    B --> C["Aerial IN"]
    C --> D["Aerial OUT"]
    D --> E["Aerial IN"]
    E --> F["Aerial cable (supplied)"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#ffc,stroke:#333

SONY SLV-SF900G - Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only - 2

Signal flow

1Disconnect the aerial cable from your TV and connect it to AERIAL IN on the rear panel of the VCR.SONY SLV-SF900G - Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only - 3
2Connect AERIAL OUT of the VCR and the aerial input of your TV using the supplied aerial cable.SONY SLV-SF900G - Connection to your TV with an aerial cable only - 4
3Connect the mains lead to the mains.You can now tune your TV to the VCR (see page 15).

Connection to your TV and Set-Top Box (STB)

If you don't use a STB, skip to page 15.

If your STB has a Scart (EURO-AV) connector

The illustration below shows an example of connecting the STB to LINE-3 IN.

SONY SLV-SF900G - If your STB has a Scart (EURO-AV) connector - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["SCart cable (supplied with the STB)"] --> B["STB"]
    B --> C["Aerial IN"]
    C --> D["Aerial OUT"]
    D --> E["Line-1 (TV)"]
    D --> F["LINE - 3 IN"]
    G["Scart cable (not supplied)"] --> H["Aerial cable (supplied)"]
    H --> I["Aerial IN"]
    I --> J["EURO-AV"]
    K["Scart (EURO-AV)"] --> L["15"]
    M["Satellite"] --> N["Antenna"]

SONY SLV-SF900G - If your STB has a Scart (EURO-AV) connector - 2

: Signal flow

You can watch programmes from the Set-Top Box connected to this VCR on your TV even when the VCR is turned off using the Line Through function. When you turn on the STB, this VCR automatically sends the signal from the STB to the TV without turning itself on.

1 Connect the STB to the LINE-3IN connector as shown above.
2 Set POWER SAVE to OFF in the OTHER OPTIONS menu.
3 Turn off the VCR. To watch a programme from the STB, turn on the STB and the TV.

Note

- You cannot watch programmes from your STB on the TV while recording unless you record a programme from your STB.

continued

If your STB does not have a Scart (EURO-AV) connector.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["STB"] -->|Aerial cable (not supplied)| B["Aerial IN"]
    B --> C["Aerial OUT"]
    C --> D["Line-1 (TV)"]
    D --> E["Aerial cable (supplied)"]
    E --> F["Aerial IN"]
    F --> G["Scart (EURO-AV)"]
    G --> H["Scart cable* (not supplied)"]

SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 2

: Signal flow

* If your TV doesn't have a Scart (EURO-AV) connector, the Scart cable connected to the VCR is not required.

Additional connections

To a stereo system

You can improve sound quality by connecting a stereo system to the AUDIO OUT R/L jacks as shown on the right.

AUDIO OUT R/L LINE IN Audio cable (not supplied)

Step 4 : Tuning your TV to the VCR

If you have connected your VCR to the TV with an aerial cable only

I/O RF CHANNEL PROGRAM +/-

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 4 : Tuning your TV to the VCR - 2

Turn on your TV and press I/⏻ (on/standby) to turn on the VCR.

Pull down the drop down panel.

2

AUTO SET UP

SONY SLV-SF900G - Step 4 : Tuning your TV to the VCR - 3

RF CHANNEL

Press briefly RF CHANNEL on the VCR.

The factory-preset RF (Radio Frequency) channel appears in the display window..

RF 21

3

Turn on your TV and select an unused programme position for the VCR picture (for ex. programme position "0").

This programme position will be referred to as the video channel (for watching your VCR on the TV) after tuning is completed.

continued

4

Tune in the programme position you have selected (for ex. programme position "0") until the picture shown on the right appears clearly on the TV screen (background must be green).

Refer to your TV manual for tuning instructions.

If the picture does not appear clearly, see “To obtain a clear picture from the VCR” below.

You have now tuned your TV to the VCR. From now on, whenever you want to play a tape, set the TV to the video channel (for ex. programme position "0").

You can now set your VCR with the Auto Set Up function (see page 18).

To check if the TV tuning is correct

Set the TV to the video channel (for ex. programme position "0") and press PROGRAM +/- on the VCR. If the TV screen changes to a different programme each time you press PROGRAM +/-, the TV tuning is correct.

To obtain a clear picture from the VCR

If the screen does not appear clearly in step 4 above, press PROGRAM +/-, so that another RF channel appears. Then tune the TV to the new RF channel until a clear picture appears.

If you have connected your VCR to the TV with a Scart (EURO-AV) connector and an aerial cable as well

In order to avoid any interferences with existing broadcasts, we recommend you to set RF channel to the OFF position.

RF CHANNEL PROGRAM +/-

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 1

Turn on your TV and press I/⏻ (on/standby) to turn on the VCR.

Pull down the drop down panel.

2

AUTO SET UP RF CHANNEL

Press briefly RF CHANNEL on the VCR.

The factory-preset RF (Radio Frequency) channel appears in the display window.

RF 21

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press PROGRAM +/- until the OFF indication appears in the display window. The RF channel is then switched off.

OFF

The picture shown below appears clearly on the TV screen (background must be green).

AUTO SET UP RF CHANNEL

Press RF CHANNEL again. You can now set your VCR with the Auto Set Up function (see page 18).

Note

- If in step 3 the green screen does not appear, select the "AV/EXTERNAL" source on your TV (please refer to your TV instruction manual). Tuning your TV to the VCI

Step 5 : Setting up the VCR with the Auto Set Up function

Before using the VCR for the first time, set up the VCR using the Auto Set Up function. With this function, you can set the language for the on-screen display, TV channels, guide channels for the VIDEO Plus + system, and VCR clock automatically.

Before you start ...

- Turn on the set -top box if it is connected to the VCR only by the aerial cable and not to the Scart cable.

AUTO SET UP PROGRAM +/-

AUTO SET UP

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start ... - 2

RF CHANNEL

Hold down AUTO SET UP on the VCR for more than 3 seconds.

The VCR automatically turns on, and starts searching for all of the receivable channels and presets them in the appropriate order for your local area.

SET UP

If you use the SMARTLINK connection, the Preset Download function starts and the SMARTLINK indicator flashes in the display window during download.

After the search or download is complete, the current time appears in the display window for any stations that transmit a time signal.

To cancel the Auto Set Up function

Press AUTO SET UP.

Notes

  • Do not cancel the Auto Set Up function during step 3. If you do, repeat Auto Set Up from the beginning.
  • When you operate the Auto Set Up function, some of the settings (VIDEO Plus +, timer etc...) will be reset. In this case, you have to set them again.

Step 6 : Setting the clock

You must set the time and date on the VCR to use the timer recording features properly. If the VCR clock was not set in the Auto Set Up procedure, you need to set it manually.

The Auto Clock Set function works only if a station in your area is broadcasting a time signal. If the Auto Set Up function did not set the clock correctly for your local area, try another station for the Auto Clock Set function.

MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

Setting the clock manually

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

1

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 2

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight SETTINGS and press OK.

SETTINGS TUNER CLOCK LANGUAGE TV GUIDE PAGE RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 4

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CLOCK, then press OK.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 1.1:20.00 SAT 0:00 SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

continued

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press ↑/↓ to highlight MANUAL ADJUST, then press OK.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 1.1.2000 SAT 0:00 SELECT :+- SET :+- CONFIRM :OK EXIT :MENU

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

Press / to set the date.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 28 1 : 20.0 FRI 0 : 0.0 SELECT SET CONFIRM OK EXIT : MENU

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press to highlight the month and set the month pressing / .

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 28 9 : 20.00 THU 0 : 0 SELECT : + + SET : + + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

6

SONY SLV-SF900G - 6 - 1

Set the year, hour, and minutes in sequence, pressing to highlight the item to be set, and press / to select the digits.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 28 .9 .2000 THU 18 : 00 SELECT :♦♦ SET :♦♦ CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

7

SONY SLV-SF900G - 7 - 1

The day of the week is set automatically.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 28 9 : 20:00 THU 18 : 0 SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

8

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - 8 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Tip

- To change the digits while setting, press to return to the item to be changed, and select the digits pressing / .

Note

- The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Changing the station for the Auto Clock Set function

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 3

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight SETTINGS and press OK.

SETTINGS TUNER CLOCK LANGUAGE TV GUIDE PAGE RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 5

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CLOCK, then press OK.

AUTO ADJUST is highlighted.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST OFF MANUAL ADJUST 1 1 2000 SAT 0:00 SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 7

Press OK.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST ON CLOCK PROGRAM OFF MANUAL ADJUST 28 9 : 20.00 THU 18 : 0.0 SELECT : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

Press ↑/↓ to highlight ON, then press OK.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST ON CLOCK PROGRAM 1 AAB MANUAL ADJUST 28 9 : 20:00 THU 18 : 00 SELECT : OK SET : OK EXIT : MENU

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press ↓ to highlight CLOCK PROGRAM, then press OK.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST CLOCK PROGRAM 1 AAB MANUAL ADJUST 28.9:20.0 THU 18:00 SELECT : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

6

SONY SLV-SF900G - 6 - 1

Press / until the programme position of the station that carries the time signal appears.

If the VCR does not receive the time signal from any station, AUTO ADJUST returns to OFF automatically.

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST CLOCK PROGRAM 2 CDE MANUAL ADJUST 28.9:2000 THU 18:00 SELECT : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

7

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - 7 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Tips

  • To change the digits while setting, press to return to the item to be changed, and select the digits using / .
  • If you set AUTO ADJUST to ON, the Auto Clock Set function is activated whenever the VCR is turned off. The time is adjusted automatically by making reference to the time signal from the station whose programme position is displayed in the “CLOCK PROGRAM” row. If you do not need the Auto Clock Set function, select OFF.

Note

- The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Selecting a language

If you prefer an on-screen language other than English, use the on screen display to select another language.

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 3

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight SETTINGS and press OK.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 4

SETTINGS TUNER CLOCK LANGUAGE TV GUIDE PAGE RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 6

Press ↑/↓ to highlight LANGUAGE, then press OK.

LANGUAGE ENGLISH DEUTSCH FRANÇAIS ITALIANO ESPAÑOL PORTUGUÉS NEDERLANDS DANSK/NORSK SVENSKA SUOMI EAHNIKA TÜRKÇE SELECT : +••• SET : OK EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 8

Press /// to highlight the desired language, then press OK.

Note

- The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Presetting channels

If some channels could not be preset using the Auto Set Up function, you can preset them manually.

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

PROG +/- MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

MENU
SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 3

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight SETTINGS and press OK.

↑/↓ to
SETTINGS TUNER CLOCK LANGUAGE TV GUIDE PAGE RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 5

Press ↑/↓ to highlight TUNER, then press OK.

TUNER PROG. 1 CHANNEL SET C12 AAB AFT ON FINE TUNING RETURN SELECT : ♦ SET : OK EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 7

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CHANNEL SET.

TUNER PROG 1 CHANNEL SET C12 AAB AFT ON FINE TUNING RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

continued

4

• PROG
SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

Press PROG +/- to select the programme position.

Selected programme position
TUNER PROG 4 CHANNEL SET C12 AFT ON FINE TUNING RETURN SELECT : SET : ON EXIT : MENU

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press OK to highlight the channel number row, then press / to start tuning.

The VCR starts searching for a channel and displays the first one it finds on the TV screen. Press ↑/↓ repeatedly until the channel you want is displayed.

The channels are scanned in the following order:

- UHF B21 - B69

If you know the number of the channel you want, press the programme number buttons. For example, for channel 05, first press “0” and then press “5.”

TUNER PROG 4 CHANNEL SET C27 TUV AFT ON FINE TUNING RETURN SELECT :+ CONFIRM :OK EXIT :MENU

6

SONY SLV-SF900G - 6 - 1

Press OK.

7

To allocate another channel to another programme position, repeat steps 4 and 5.

8

MENU
SONY SLV-SF900G - 8 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Disabling unwanted programme positions

After tuning the TV channels, you can disable unused programme positions. The disabled positions will be skipped later when you press the PROG +/- buttons. You can also disable unwanted programme positions using the CHANNEL LIST menu (see page 30).

1 In step 5 above, press programme number button “0” twice to display the number “00” beside CHANNEL SET.
2 Press OK to confirm the setting, then MENU to exit the menu.

If the picture is not clear

Normally, the Auto Fine Tuning (AFT) function automatically tunes in channels clearly. If, the picture is not clear, you may also use the manual tuning function.

1 Press PROG +/- or the programme number buttons to select the programme position for which you cannot obtain a clear picture.
2 Press MENU, then select SETTINGS and press OK.
3 Select TUNER, then press OK.
4 Select FINE TUNING. The fine tuning meter appears.

TUNER PROG. CHANNEL SET C27 TUV AFT FINE TUNING •••••••••• RETURN SET :+ EXIT :MENU Selected programme position

5 Press ←/→ to get a clearer picture, then press MENU to exit the menu. Note that the AFT (Auto Fine Tuning) setting switches to OFF.

Tip

- If you want to return to the previous menu, highlight RETURN and press OK.

Note

- The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Setting/changing the station names

You can also set and change station names as you like (up to 5 characters). The set station names are displayed on the TV screen when you change the programme position on the VCR.

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 2

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight LISTS and press OK.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 3

CHANNEL LIST TIMER LIST RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 5

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CHANNEL LIST, then press OK.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT :◆* MOVE PROGRAM :◆* ERASE PROGRAM CLEAR EXIT:MEN

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 7

Press ↑/↓ to highlight the row on which you want to set or change the station name.

To display other pages for programme positions 6 to 60, press ↑/↓ repeatedly.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT : MOVE PROGRAM : ERASE PROGRAM : EXIT:MEN

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

  • If you want to set the station name, press twice to highlight the station name column only.
  • If you don't want to set the station name, go to step 7.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT A CHARACTER NEXT CONFIRM EXIT : MENU

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Enter the station name.

1 Press ↑/↓ to select a character. Each time you press ↑, the character changes as shown below.

$$ \begin{array}{rl} & \mathrm{A}\longrightarrow \mathrm{B}\longrightarrow \dots \longrightarrow \mathrm{Z}\longrightarrow \mathrm{a}\longrightarrow \mathrm{b}\longrightarrow \dots \ & \longrightarrow \mathrm{z}\longrightarrow 0\longrightarrow 1\longrightarrow \dots \longrightarrow 9\longrightarrow \ & (\mathrm{symbols})\longrightarrow (\mathrm{blank~space})\longrightarrow \mathrm{A} \end{array} $$

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 Li 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT A CHARACTER :● NEXT :● PREVIOUS :● EXIT :MENU

2 Press to set the next character.

The next space is highlighted.

To correct a character, press ← until the character you want to correct is highlighted, then reset it.

You can set up to 5 characters for the station name.

6

To change or to set the station name of another station, repeat steps 2 to 4.

7

SONY SLV-SF900G - 7 - 1

Press OK to confirm the setting.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 LMO 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT :◆ MOVE PROGRAM :◆ ERASE PROGRAM :CLEAR EXIT :MENU

8

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - 8 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Note

- The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Changing/disabling programme positions

After setting the channels, you can change the programme positions as you like. If any programme positions are unused or contain unwanted channels, you can disable them.

Before you start...

  • Turn on the VCR and the TV.
  • Set the TV to the video channel.

MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

Changing programme positions

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Changing programme positions - 1

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight LISTS and press OK.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Changing programme positions - 2

LISTS CHANNEL LIST TIMER LIST RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Changing programme positions - 4

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CHANNEL LIST, then press OK.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT : MOVE PROGRAM : ERASE PROGRAM : EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press ↑/↓ to highlight the row on which you want to change the programme position, then press

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 2

To display other pages for programme positions 6 to 60, press ↑/↓ repeatedly.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C56 LMO 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT ●# SET STATION NAME ●# CONFIRM OK EXIT : MENU

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

Press ↑/↓ until the selected channel row moves to the desired programme position.

The selected channel is inserted at the new programme position and the intermediate channels are displaced to fill the gap.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C5.6 LMO 2 C1.2 AAB 3 C0.3 CDE 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT ● SET STATION NAME ● CONFIRM ● EXIT : MENU

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press OK to confirm the setting.

6

To change the programme position of another station, repeat steps 3 to 5.

7

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - 7 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Disabling unwanted programme positions

After presetting channels, you can disable unused programme positions. The disabled positions will be skipped later when you press the PROG +/- buttons.

CLEAR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + + - + MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

MENU

SONY SLV-SF900G - Disabling unwanted programme positions - 2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Disabling unwanted programme positions - 3

Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight LISTS, and press OK.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Disabling unwanted programme positions - 4

LISTS CHANNEL LIST TIMER LIST RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - Disabling unwanted programme positions - 6

Press ↑/↓ to highlight CHANNEL LIST, then press OK.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT : MOVE PROGRAM : ERASE PROGRAM : EXIT:MEN

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press ↑/↓ to highlight the row which you want to disable.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 C5.6 LMO 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT :◆ MOVE PROGRAM :◆ ERASE PROGRAM :CLEAR EXIT :MENU

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

Press CLEAR.

The selected row will be cleared as shown on the right.

CHANNEL LIST PROG CH NAME 1 C1.2 AAB 2 C0.3 CDE 3 4 C2.7 5 C0.9 FGH SELECT : MOVE PROGRAM : ERASE PROGRAM CLEAR EXIT : MENU

5

Repeat steps 3 and 4 for any other programme positions you want to disable.

6

SONY SLV-SF900G - 6 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Notes

  • The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.
  • Be sure to select the programme position you want to disable correctly. If you disable a programme position by mistake, you need to reset that channel manually.

Setting your personal code

This VCR is equipped with a security function that assures quick identification of your set in case of a robbery. Just enter the Personal Code to personalize your set. Once you enter your personal code, you can check it any time but can never change it.

Before you start...

  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
  • Remove the tape in the VCR if there is one inserted.
  • Turn off the VCR.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a CD-ROM front panel with indicator lights and control buttons (no text or symbols)

CLEAR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + - + - ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 3

Hold down first Ⅲ (pause), hold on Ⅰ/⏻ (on/standby) simultaneously on the VCR for more than 3 seconds.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start... - 4

The VCR automatically turns on, and the on-screen display appears on the TV screen.

SECURITY FUNCTION PERSONAL CODE SELECT : + SET : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 1

Press ↑/↓/←/→ to enter your personal code.

1 Press ↑/↓ to select a character.

2 Press to set the next character.

The next space is highlighted.

To correct a character, press / until the character you want to correct is highlighted, then reset it.

You can set up to 11 characters for your personal code.

SECURITY FUNCTION PERSONAL CODE WB-1578---- SELECT : + SET : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press OK.

A confirmation screen appears.

SECURITY FUNCTION PERSONAL CODE WB - 1 5 7 8 - —— FINAL CONFIRM : OK CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

If the displayed personal code is correct, press OK to confirm the setting and to return to the normal display.

If the displayed personal code is wrong, press CLEAR to cancel the code and re-enter it restarting from step 2.

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 2

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press I/ ^1 (on/standby) to turn off the VCR.

Checking your personal code

After setting the personal code number of your VCR, you can check the setting.

1 Holding down first Ⅱ (pause), hold down Ⅰ/⏻ (on/standby) for more than 3 seconds. The VCR automatically turns on, and the entered personal code appears on the TV screen.

SECURITY FUNCTION PERSONAL CODE WB - 1 57 8 ---- EXIT : MENU

2 Press OK to exit the menu.

Playing a tape

NTSC PB EJECT DISPLAY CLEAR PLAY PAUSE FF STOP REW

1

Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

2

Insert a tape.

The VCR turns on and starts playing automatically if you insert a tape with its safety tab removed.

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 1

natural_image Front view of a CD-ROM drive with control buttons and indicator lights (no text or symbols visible)

continued

Additional tasks

ToPress
Stop play■ STOP
Pause play■ PAUSE
Resume play after pause■ PAUSE or ▷ PLAY
Fast-forward the tape▶▶ FF during stop
Rewind the tape◀◀ REW during stop
Eject the tape▲ EJECT

To play an NTSC-recorded tape

Set NTSC PB at the rear of the VCR according to the colour system of your TV.

When your TV isSet NTSC PB to
PAL onlyON PAL TV
PAL and NTSCNTSC 4.43

To use the time counter

Press CLEAR at the point on the tape that you want to find later. The counter in the display window resets to “0:00:00.” Search for the point afterwards by referring to the counter.

SONY SLV-SF900G - To use the time counter - 1

To display the counter on the TV screen, press ⓘ+ DISPLAY.

Notes

  • The counter resets to “0:00:00” whenever a tape is reinserted.
  • The counter stops counting when it comes to a portion with no recording.
  • Depending on your TV, the following may occur while playing an NTSC-recorded tape:

– The picture becomes black and white.

– The picture shakes.

– No picture appears on the TV screen.

– Black streaks appear horizontally on the TV screen.

– The colour density increases or decreases.

- If you playback a tape in LP or EP mode with the NTSC system, the sound is heard in monaural.

- While setting the menu on the TV screen, you cannot use /// buttons for tape operation.

Starting playback automatically with one button (One Touch Play)

If you use the SMARTLINK connection, you can turn on the VCR and the TV, set the TV to the video channel, and start playback automatically with one button.

1 Insert a tape.

The VCR automatically turns on.

If you insert a tape with its safety tab removed, the TV turns on and switches to the video channel. Playback starts automatically.

2 Press ▷ PLAY.

The TV turns on and switches to the video channel automatically. Playback starts.

Tip

- When there already is a tape in the VCR, the VCR and the TV turn on, the TV is set to the video channel, and playback starts automatically in one sequence when you press PLAY.

Note

- When you use the One Touch Play function, leave the TV on or in the standby mode.

Recording TV programmes
COUNTER/REMAIN DISPLAY SP/LP TV/VIDEO INPUT SELECT PROG +/- REC STOP

1

Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

To record from a decoder or other source, turn it on.

2Insert a tape with its safety tab in place.
3SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 2To record a normal channel.Press PROG +/- until the programme position number you want appears in the display window.SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 3
SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 4To record a video source from the LINE-1 (TV) or LINE-3 (Scart) connector or the LINE-2 IN jacks. Press INPUT SELECT until L1, L2, or L3 appears in the display window.SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 5
4SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 6Press SP/LP to select the tape speed, SP or LP.LP (Long Play) provides recording time twice as long as SP. However, SP (Standard Play) produces better picture and audio quality.SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 7
5SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 8Press ● REC to start recording.The recording indicator lights up red in the display window.Recording —indicator SONY SLV-SF900G - Note - 9

4

5

To stop recording

Press ■ STOP.

continued

To check the remaining time

Press ①+ DISPLAY. With the display on, press COUNTER/REMAIN to check the remaining time. Each time you press COUNTER/REMAIN, the time counter and the remaining time appear alternately. The ○ indicator indicates the remaining time..

SP 0:00:22 Time counter

1H46M Remaining time

In order to get an accurate remaining time indication, be sure the TAPE LENGTH item in the TAPE OPTIONS menu is set according to the tape type you use (see page 65).

To watch another TV programme while recording

1 Press → TV/VIDEO on the remote commander to turn off the VIDEO indicator in the display window.
2 Select another programme position on the TV.

To protect a recording

To prevent accidental erasure, break off the safety tab as illustrated. To record on a tape again, cover the tab hole with adhesive tape.

You can also protect a recording by using the SmartFile function (see page 90).

Safety tab

Tips

  • To select a programme position, you can use the programme number buttons on the remote
    commander. For two-digit numbers, press the - / - -(ten's digit) button followed by the programme number buttons.
  • The display appears on the TV screen indicating information about the tape, but the information won't be recorded on the tape.
  • If you don't want to watch TV while recording, you can turn off the TV.
    When using a decoder or other source, make sure to leave it on.

Notes

  • If a tape has portions recorded in both PAL and NTSC systems, the time counter reading will not be correct. This discrepancy is due to the difference between the counting cycles of the two video systems.
  • You cannot watch a PAY-TV/Canal Plus programme while recording another PAY-TV/Canal Plus programme.
  • The remaining time is intended for rough measurement only.
  • The remaining time will be displayed for only about 30 seconds after the tape starts playback.

Recording what you are watching on the TV (TV Direct Rec)

If you use the SMARTLINK connection, you can easily record what you are watching on the TV (other than tapes being played on the VCR).

1 Insert a tape with its safety tab in place.

2 Press ● REC while you are watching a TV programme or external source. The VCR automatically turns on, then the TV indicator lights up and the VCR starts recording what you are watching on the TV.

Tips

- The TV indicator appears in the display window after you press ● REC in some situations such as:

- when you are watching a source connected to the TV's line input, or

- when the TV tuner preset data for the programme position is different from the data preset in the VCR tuner.

- If there already is a tape with its safety tab in place in the VCR, the VCR automatically turns on and starts recording what you are watching on the TV when you press ● REC.

- You can turn the TV Direct Rec function ON and OFF in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).

Notes

  • You cannot record what you are watching using this method when the VCR is in the following modes: pause, timer standby, tuner preset, Auto Set Up, and recording.
  • When the TV indicator is lit in the display window, do not turn off the TV nor change the TV programme position. When the TV indicator is not lit, the VCR continues recording the programme even if you change the TV programme position on the TV.

Recording TV programmes using the VIDEO Plus + system

The VIDEO Plus + system is a feature that simplifies programming the VCR to make timer recordings. Just enter the PLUSCODE NO. listed in the TV programme guide. The date, times, and programme position of that programme are set automatically. You can preset up to eight programmes at a time.

Before you start...

  • Check that the VCR clock is set to the correct time and date.
  • Insert a tape with its safety tab in place. Make sure the tape is longer than the total recording time.
  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
  • If you insert a tape with the SmartFile function, make sure the total recording time doesn't overlap the protected programme. For details about the SmartFile function, see page 70.
  • Set TIMER OPTIONS to VIDEO Plus + or VARIABLE in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).

I/ SP/LP CLEAR Programme number buttons TIMER ↑/↓/←/→ OK ■ STOP

1

TIMER
SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 1

SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 2

Press ⏻ TIMER.

  • When you set TIMER OPTIONS to VARIABLE:
    The TIMER METHOD menu appears
    on the TV screen. Press
    select VIDEO Plus +, then press OK.

SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 3

- When you set TIMER OPTIONS to VIDEO Plus +: The VIDEO Plus +, menu appears on the TV screen.

TIMER METHOD STANDARD VIDEO Plus + SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

VIDEO Plus + 28 . 9 THU PLUSCODE NO. SET : 0-9 EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 1

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 2

Press the programme number buttons to enter the PLUSCODE NO.

If you make a mistake, press CLEAR and re-enter the correct number.

VIDEO Plus + 28 . 9 THU PLUSCODE NO. 1 2 4 6 = - SET : 0 - 9 CONFIRM : OK CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

3

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press OK.

The date, start and stop times, programme position, tape speed, and VPS/PDC setting appear on the TV screen.

If “--” appears in the “PROG.”

(programme) column (this may happen for local broadcasts), you have to set the appropriate programme position manually.

TIMER 28.9 THU DATE TIME PROG. TODAY 20:00+21:00 AAB SP / LP SP VPS / PDC OFF LIST SELECT : + SET : + CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

• To select a terrestrial channel.
Press / to select the desired programme position.
- To select a video source from the LINE-1 (TV) or LINE-3 IN connector, or the LINE-2 IN jacks.
Press INPUT SELECT to select the desired video source.

You will only have to do this operation once for the referred channel. The VCR will then store your setting.

SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 3

For details about the VPS/PDC function, see “Timer recording with VPS/PDC signals” on page 47.

If the information is incorrect, press CLEAR to cancel the setting.

4

SONY SLV-SF900G - 4 - 1

If you want to change the date, tape speed, and the VPS/PDC function setting:

1 Press / to highlight the item you want to change.

2 Press ↑/↓ to reset it.

TIMER 28.9 THU DATE TIME PROG TODAY 20:00+21:00 AAB SP / LP SP VPS / PDC OFF LIST SELECT : + SET : + CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

  • To record the same programme every day or the same day every week, see “Daily/weekly recording” on page 47.
  • To use the VPS/PDC function, set VPS/PDC to ON. For details about the VPS/PDC function, see “Timer recording with VPS/PDC signals” on page 47.
  • To change the setting, press MENU, and highlight LIST, then select TIMER LIST and press OK. Then enter the new timer setting and press OK.

If the information is not correct, press CLEAR to cancel the settings.

5

SONY SLV-SF900G - 5 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

To stop recording

To stop the VCR while recording, press ■ STOP.

Daily/weekly recording

In step 4 above, press ↓ to select the recording pattern. Each time you press ↓, the indication changes as shown below. Press ↑ to change the indication in reverse order.

TODAY → SUN-SAT (Sunday to Saturday) → MON-SAT (Monday to Saturday) → MON-FRI (Monday to Friday) → SAT (every Saturday) ..... → MON (every Monday) → SUN (every Sunday) → 1 month later → (dates count down) → TOMORROW → TODAY

Timer recording with VPS/PDC signals

Some broadcast systems transmit VPS (Video Programme System) or PDC (Programme Delivery Control) signals with their TV programmes. These signals ensure that your timer recordings are made regardless of broadcast delays, early starts, or broadcast interruptions (when the VPS or PDC indicator in the display window is lit).

In step 4 above, press ↑/↓ to turn on/off the VPS/PDC indication after you set the recording date. If you do not want to set the VPS/PDC function, turn off the VPS/PDC indication.

You can also use the VPS/PDC function for a source connected to the LINE-1 (TV) and LINE-3 IN (Scart) connectors, or the LINE-2 IN jacks.

To use the VCR after setting the timer

To use the VCR before a timer recording begins, just press I/⏻. The ⏻ indicator turns off and the VCR switches on. Remember to press I/⏻ to reset the VCR after using the VCR.

You can also do the following tasks while the VCR is recording:

  • Reset the counter.
  • Display tape information on the TV screen.
  • Check the timer settings (see “Setting the timer manually” on page 49).
  • Watch another TV programme.

Tips

  • To set the programme position with a two digit number, press - / - - (ten's digit) button followed by the programme number button.
  • To set the programme position, you can also use the PROG +/- or programme number buttons.
  • To set the tape speed, you can also use the SP/LP button.
  • When you are recording a programme in the SP mode and the remaining tape becomes shorter than the recording time, the tape speed is automatically changed to the LP mode. Note that some interference will appear on the picture at the point the tape speed is changed. If you want to keep the same tape speed, set AUTO LONG PLAY to OFF in the TAPE OPTIONS menu (see page 64).
  • To check, change, or cancel the programme setting, press / to choose LIST, then press OK after step 4. For details, see step 3 in "Checking/changing/cancelling timer settings on page 57.

Notes

  • When setting the timer with VPS/PDC signals, enter the start and stop times exactly as indicated in the TV programme guide, otherwise the VPS/PDC function won’t work and the recording won’t start.
  • If the VPS/PDC signal is too weak or the broadcasting station failed to transmit VPS/PDC signals, the VCR will start recording at the set time without using the VPS/PDC function.
  • The ⏻ indicator flashes in the display window when you press I/⏻ with no tape inserted.
  • The VPS/PDC function is automatically set to OFF for the timer recording of a satellite programme.
  • When you set TIMER OPTIONS to STANDARD in the OTHER OPTIONS menu, the VIDEO Plus + menu does not appear on the TV screen. Select VIDEO Plus + or VARIABLE.

Setting the timer manually

If the VIDEO Plus + system is not available in your area, follow the instructions below to set the timer to record programmes.

Before you start...

  • Check that the VCR clock is set to the correct time and date.
  • Insert a tape with its safety tab in place. Make sure the tape is longer than the total recording time.
  • To record from a decoder or other source, turn it on.
  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
  • If you insert a tape with the SmartFile function, make sure the total recording time doesn't overlap the protected programme. For details about the SmartFile function, see page 70.
  • Set TIMER OPTIONS to STANDARD or VARIABLE in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).

I/O INPUT SELECT TIMER ↑/↓/←/ →/OK ■ STOP

continued

1

TIMER
SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 1

SONY SLV-SF900G - 1 - 2

Press ⏻ TIMER.

  • When you set TIMER OPTIONS to VARIABLE:
    The TIMER METHOD menu appears on the TV screen. Press ↑/↓ to select STANDARD, then press OK.

TIMER METHOD STANDARD VIDEO Plus + SELECT : ⬆ SET : OK EXIT : MENU

- When you set TIMER OPTIONS to STANDARD: The TIMER menu appears on the TV screen.

TIMER 28.9 THU DATE TIME PROG. TODAY --- --- --- --- SP / LP SP VPS / PDC OFF LIST SELECT : + SET : + CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

2

SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 1

Set the date, start and stop times, programme position, tape speed, and VPS/PDC function:

1 Press to highlight each item in turn.

2 Press ↑/↓ to set each item.

TIMER DATE TIME PROG. 2.10 10:00+11:30 CDE SP/LP LP VPS/PDC ON LIST SELECT : + SET : + CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

To correct a setting, press to return to that setting and reset it.

  • To record the same programme every day or the same day every week, see “Daily/weekly recording” on page 51.
  • To use the VPS/PDC function, set VPS/PDC to ON. For details about the VPS/PDC function, see “Timer recording with VPS/PDC signals” on page 47.
  • To record from a decoder or other source connected to the LINE-1 (TV) or LINE-3 IN connectors, or the LINE-2 INjacks, press INPUT SELECT to display “L1,” “L2,” or “L3” in the “PROG.” position.

INPUT SELECT
SONY SLV-SF900G - 2 - 3

3

MENU
SONY SLV-SF900G - 3 - 1

Press MENU to exit the menu.

Press I/ ^1 to turn off the VCR.

The Ⓧ indicator appears in the display window and the VCR stands by for recording.

To record from a decoder or other sources, leave the connected equipment switched on.

To stop recording

To stop the VCR while recording, press ■ STOP.

Daily/weekly recording

In step 2 above, press ↓ to select the recording pattern. Each time you press ↓, the indication changes as shown below. Press ↑ to change the indication in reverse order.

TODAY → SUN-SAT (Sunday to Saturday) → MON-SAT (Monday to Saturday) → MON-FRI (Monday to Friday) → SAT (every Saturday) ..... → MON (every Monday) → SUN (every Sunday) → 1 month later → (dates count down) → TOMORROW → TODAY

Tips

  • To set the programme position, you can also use the PROG +/- or programme number buttons.
  • To set the tape speed, you can also use the SP/LP button.
  • When you are recording a programme in the SP mode and the remaining tape becomes shorter than the recording time, the tape speed is automatically changed to the LP mode. Note that some interference will appear on the picture at the point the tape speed is changed. If you want to keep the same tape speed, set AUTO LONG PLAY to OFF in the TAPE OPTIONS menu (see page 64).
  • Even if you set TIMER OPTIONS to VIDEO Plus + in the OTHER OPTIONS menu, you can set the timer manually. Press MENU to select TIMER, then go to step 2.

Notes

  • When setting the timer with VPS/PDC signals, enter the start and stop times exactly as indicated in the TV programme guide, otherwise the VPS/PDC function won't work and the recording won't start.
  • If the VPS/PDC signal is too weak or the broadcasting station failed to transmit VPS/PDC signals, the VCR will start recording at the set time without using the VPS/PDC function.
  • The VPS/PDC function is automatically set to OFF for the timer recording of a satellite programme.
  • The ⏻ indicator flashes in the display window when you press I/⏻ with no tape inserted.

Playing/searching at various speeds
X 2 SLOW 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + - + - FF REW

Playback optionsOperation
Fast-forward /rewindDuring stop, press ▶▶ ▶FF or ◀◀ ◀REWand release.
View the picture during fast-forward or rewindDuring fast-forward, hold ▶▶ ▶FF down. During rewind, hold ◀◀ ◀REW down.
Play at high speed• During playback, press ▶▶ ▶FF down or ◀◀ ◀REW on the remote commander.• During playback, hold down ▶▶ ▶FF or ◀◀ ◀REW. When you release the button, normal playback resumes.
Play at twice the normal speedDuring playback, press X2.
Play in slow motionDuring playback, press ▶ SLOW.
Play frame by frame• During pause, press ▶▶ FF down or ◀◀ REW on the remote commander. Hold down ▶▶ FF or ◀◀ REW to play one frame each second.
Rewind and start playDuring stop, hold ◀◀ (rewind) down on the VCR and press ▷ ( playback) on the VCR then release both.

To resume normal playback

Press ▷ ( playback).

Tip

- Adjust the picture using the TRACKING +/- buttons if:

– Streaks appear while playing in slow motion.

– Bands appear at the top or bottom while pausing.

– The picture shakes while pausing.

To set tracking to the centre position, press both TRACKING buttons (+/-) at the same time.

Notes

  • The playback sound is muted during the operations in the above table.
  • In the LP mode, noise may appear or there may be no colour.
  • If the playback mode mark doesn't appear on the TV screen, press i+ DISPLAY.

Setting the recording duration time

After you start recording in the normal way, you can have the VCR stop recording automatically after a specified duration.

REC

1 While recording, press ● REC.

The ⏻ indicator appears in the display window.

SP VIDEO 0:30

2 Press ● REC repeatedly to set the duration.

Each press advances the time in increments of 30 minutes.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Setting the recording duration time - 3

flowchart
graph LR
    A["0:30"] --> B["1:00"]
    B --> C["5:30"]
    C --> D["6:00"]
    D --> E["Normal recording"]

The tape counter decreases minute by minute to 0:00, then the VCR stops recording and turns off automatically.

To extend the duration

Press ● REC repeatedly to set a new duration.

To cancel the duration

Press ● REC repeatedly until the ⏻ indicator disappears and the VCR returns to normal recording mode.

To stop recording

To stop the VCR while recording, press ■ STOP.

Note

- You cannot display the current tape time in the display window when setting the recording duration.

Synchronized Recording

You can set the VCR to automatically record programmes from equipment such as a programmable Set Top Box by connecting the equipment to the LINE-3 IN connector. The connected equipment must have a timer function for this feature to work.

When the connected equipment turns on, the VCR also automatically turns on and starts recording a programme from LINE-3 IN.

How to connect for Synchronized Recording.

Connect the LINE-3 IN of the VCR to the TV Scart connector of the Set-Top Box. Then connect the LINE-1 (TV) connector to the TV.

SONY SLV-SF900G - How to connect for Synchronized Recording. - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["TV Scart connector"] --> B["Programmable Set -Top Box"]
    B --> C["Scart cable (not supplied)"]
    C --> D["Line-1 (TV)"]
    C --> E["Line-3 IN (TV)"]
    D --> F["Scart cable (not supplied)"]
    E --> F
    G["Scart (EURO-AV)"] --> H["Scart cable (not supplied)"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#ffc,stroke:#333

Recording programmes using the Synchronized Recording function

Before you start...

- Insert a tape with its safety tab in place. Make sure the tape is longer than the total recording time.

SYNCHRO REC

SP/LP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 INPUT SELECT PROG +/-

1 Set the timer on the STB to the time of the programme you want to record, then turn it off.
2 Press SP/LP to select the tape speed on the VCR.
3 Hold down SYNCHRO REC for more than two seconds.

The SYNCHRO REC indicator lights up on the front panel and the VCR stands by for recording.

The VCR automatically turns on and starts recording when it receives an input signal from the STB.

The VCR automatically stops recording when the tape reaches the end or when the STB stops transmitting an input signal.

To cancel the Synchronized Recording function

Press SYNCHRO REC. The SYNCHRO REC indicator turns off.

To stop recording

Press ■ STOP while recording.

Notes

  • This function may not work with some types of Set-Top Boxes.
  • If the settings for timer recording and Synchronized Recording overlap, the proramme that starts first has priority and the second programme starts recording only after the first programme has finished.
  • The Auto Clock Set function does not work while the VCR stands by for Synchronized Recording.

Checking/changing/cancelling timer settings

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

I/O CLEAR MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1 Press I/ ^① to turn on the VCR.
2 Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight LISTS and press OK.

continued

  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive
  • Perpetitive

3 Press ↑/↓ to highlight TIMER LIST, then press OK:

  • If you want to change or cancel a setting, go on to the next step.
  • If you do not need to change or cancel the settings, press MENU, then turn off the VCR to return to recording standby.

4 Press ↑/↓ to select the setting you want to change or cancel, then press OK.

The selected setting appears in the TIMER menu.

EF TIMER LIST DATE TIME PROG. TODAY 20:00+21:00 AAB SP MON-FRI 14:00+15:00 FGH LP 30.9 20:00+21:00 AAB SP SUN 6:30+7:00 IJK LP 2.10 10:00+11:30 CDE LP -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- - - RETURN SELECT * SET :OK CANCEL :CLEAR EXIT :MENU

TIMER 28.9 THU DATE TIME PROG 2.10 10:00+11:30 CDE SP/LP SP VPS/PDC ON LIST SELECT : + SET : + CANCEL : CLEAR EXIT : MENU

5 • To change the setting, press ←/→ to highlight the item you want to change, and press ↑/↓ to change it.

- To cancel the setting, press CLEAR.

6 Press MENU.

If any settings remain, turn off the VCR to return to recording standby.

When the timer settings overlap

The programme that starts first has priority and the second programme starts recording only after the first programme has finished. If the programmes start at the same time, the programme listed first in the menu has priority.

SONY SLV-SF900G - When the timer settings overlap - 1

flowchart
graph LR
    A["Programme 1"] --> B["Programme 2"]
    B --> C["about 20 seconds"]
    D["Programme 1"] --> E["Programme 2"]
    E --> F["will be cut off"]
    G["Programme 2"] --> H["Programme 1"]
    H --> I["about 20 seconds will be cut off"]

Tip

- In step 5 above, you can check the TIMER LIST by selecting LIST and pressing OK. Press MENU to exit the TIMER LIST.

Recording stereo and bilingual programmes

In NICAM system

This VCR receives and records stereo and bilingual programmes based on the NICAM system (the NICAM indicator appears). When a stereo or bilingual programme is received, the STEREO indicator appears in the display window.

To record a NICAM programme, HIFI AUDIO in the AUDIO OPTIONS menu should be set to NICAM (initial setting). To check the menu setting, see page 65 for details.

To select the sound while recording

Press AUDIO MONITOR to select the sound you want.

Stereo programme

To listen toOn-screen displayDisplay window
StereoSTEREOSTEREO
Standard sound*No indicatorNo indicator

* Usually the mixed sound of left and right channels (monaural)

Bilingual programme

To listen toOn-screen displayDisplay window
MainMAINSTEREO
SubSUBSTEREO
Main and subMAIN/SUBSTEREO
Standard sound*No indicatorNo indicator

* Usually the main sound (monaural)

Selecting the sound during playback

Press AUDIO MONITOR to select the sound you want.

To listen toOn-screen displayDisplay window
Stereo/main and sub (left and right channels)STEREOSTEREO
Left channel/mainLCHSTEREO
Right channel/subRCHSTEREO
Standard soundNo indicatorNo indicator

continued

How sound is recorded on a video tape

The VCR records sound onto two separate tracks. Hi-fi audio is recorded onto the main track along with the picture. Monaural sound is recorded onto the normal audio track along the edge of the tape.

Stereo Usually mixed left/right channels Normal audio track (monaural) Hi-fi audio track (main track) Stereo sound (left/right channels) Bilingual Usually main sound Main (left channel) Sub (right channel)

Notes

  • To listen to playback sounds in stereo, you must use the EURO-AV or AUDIO OUT connections.
  • When you play a tape recorded in monaural, the sound is heard in monaural regardless of the AUDIO MONITOR setting.
  • If the AUDIO MONITOR button does not function, check that AUDIO MIX in the AUDIO OPTIONS menu is set to OFF (see page 65).
  • If HIFI AUDIO is set to STANDARD, the standard sound will be recorded on both the hi-fi and normal audio tracks. Pressing AUDIO MONITOR will not change the sound.

Searching using the index function

The VCR marks the tape with an index signal at the point where each recording begins. Use these signals as references to find a specific recording. The VCR can search up to 99 index signals ahead or behind the current position.

INDEX SEARCH

1 Insert an indexed tape into the VCR.
2 Press ◀◀◀/▶▶INDEX SEARCH repeatedly to specify how many index signals ahead or behind you want to search :

  • To search ahead, press ▶▶INDEX SEARCH.
  • To search backwards, press ◀◀◀ INDEX SEARCH.

The VCR starts searching and the index number on the TV screen counts down to zero. Playback starts automatically from that point.

INDEX 2 SEARCH

To stop searching

Press ■ STOP.

Note

- No index signal will be added when recording starts from recording pause. However, an index signal will be marked if you change the programme position during recording pause.

Adjusting the picture

Adjusting the tracking

Although the VCR automatically adjusts the tracking when playing a tape (the ☑ indicator flashes in the display window, then goes off), distortion may occur if the tape was recorded in poor condition. In this case, manually adjust the tracking.

During playback, press TRACKING +/- to display the tracking meter. The distortion should disappear as you press one of the two buttons (the ☑ indicator lights up). To resume automatic tracking adjustments, eject the tape and re-insert it. To set the tracking to the centre position, press TRACKING + and – buttons at the same time.

TRACKING Tracking meter

About the Reality Regenerator (RR) function

The Reality Regenerator (RR) function automatically restores the picture to its original quality during playback.

To use the RR function, press REALITY REGENERATOR button. The REALITY REGENERATOR indicator lights up. You can set RR to HIGH or NORMAL in the VIDEO OPTIONS menu (see page 64).

To turn it off, press REALITY REGENERATOR. The REALITY REGENERATOR indicator lights off.

REALITY REGENERATOR

About the Optimum Picture Control (OPC) function

The Optimum Picture Control (OPC) function automatically improves recording and playback quality by adjusting the VCR to the condition of the video heads and tape. To maintain better picture quality, we recommend that you set OPC to ON in the VIDEO OPTIONS menu (with the OPC indicator in the display window lit). For details, see page 64.

VIDEO OPTIONS OPC ON EDIT OFF SHARPNESS NORMAL RR NORMAL RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

OPC playback

The OPC function automatically works on all types of tapes, including rental tapes and tapes that were not recorded with OPC.

OPC recording

Whenever you insert a tape and start recording for the first time, the VCR adjusts to the tape using the OPC function (the OPC indicator flashes rapidly). This adjustment is retained until the tape is ejected.

To deactivate the OPC function

Set OPC to OFF in the VIDEO OPTIONS menu. The OPC indicator in the display window turns off.

Notes

  • You can adjust the tracking for an NTSC-recorded tape but the tracking meter won't be displayed.
  • With the Auto Long Play function ON, the OPC function will work only in SP mode. If the tape speed automatically switches from SP to LP, the OPC function turns off. However, if the entire programme is recorded in LP mode, the OPC function will work.
  • There is a delay of about ten seconds before the VCR actually starts recording while the VCR analyses the tape. To avoid the delay, first set the VCR to recording pause (the OPC indicator flashes slowly) and press ● REC to have the VCR analyse the tape (the OPC indicator flashes rapidly) and return to recording pause. After the OPC indicator stops flashing, press ■ PAUSE to start recording immediately. If you want to start recording quickly without using the OPC function, first set the VCR to recording pause (the OPC indicator flashes slowly) and press ■ PAUSE to start recording.

Changing menu options

1 Press MENU, then select OPTIONS and press OK.

OPTIONS VIDEO OPTIONS AUDIO OPTIONS TAPE OPTIONS OTHER OPTIONS RETURN SELECT : SET : EXIT : MENU

2 Press ↑/↓ to highlight the kind of option to change, VIDEO OPTIONS, AUDIO OPTIONS, TAPE OPTIONS or OTHER OPTIONS, then press OK.

3 Press ↑/↓ to select the option, then press OK to enter the pop up menu.

4 Press ↑/↓ to select the desired setting, then press OK.

5 Press MENU to exit the menu.

VIDEO OPTIONS menu

Initial settings are indicated in bold print.

VIDEO OPTIONS OPC ON EDIT OFF SHARPNESS NORMAL RR NORMAL RETURN SELECT : - SET : OK EXIT : MENU

Menu optionSet this option to
OPCONto switch on the OPC (Optimum Picture Control) function and improve picture quality.OFF to switch off OPC.
EDITON to minimize picture deterioration when editing.OFFto turn off EDIT.
SHARPNESSLOW to playback a poor quality tape.NORMALto playback an average quality tape.HIGH to playback a good quality tape.
RRNORMALfor normal everyday use.HIGH for well-used video tapes such as rented tapes. Select this option when NORMAL does not improve the picture quality.For details, see page 62.

Note

- When you playback with the EDIT function ON, the OPC and the SHARPNESS functions don't work.

AUDIO OPTIONS menu

Initial settings are indicated in bold print.

AUDIO OPTIONS AUDIO MIX OFF HIFI AUDIO NICAM RETURN SELECT : - SET : OK EXIT : MENU

Menu optionSet this option to
AUDIO MIXON to listen to the hi-fi and normal audio tracks at the same time. The AUDIO MONITOR button will not function.OFFto listen to the hi-fi and normal audio tracks separately.Select the sound using the AUDIO MONITOR button.For details, see page 59.
HIFI AUDIOSTANDARD to record standard sound on the hi-fi audio track.NICAMto record NICAM broadcasts on the hi-fi audio track.For details, see page 59.

Note

- If you eject the tape, AUDIO MIX is automatically set to OFF.

TAPE OPTIONS menu

Initial settings are indicated in bold print.

TAPE OPTIONS AUTO LONG PLAY OFF TAPE LENGTH E180 RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

Menu optionSet this option to
AUTO LONG PLAYON to automatically record from SP (Standard Play) to LP (Long Play) when the tape length is not long enough.OFFto normally record in SP (Standard Play).
TAPE LENGTHE180to use an E-180 or shorter tape type.E195 to use an E-195.E240 to use an E-240.E300 to use an E-300.

continued

OTHER OPTIONS menu

Initial settings are indicated in bold print.

OTHER OPTIONS BUZZER ON DIMMER OFF POWER SAVE OFF TIMER OPTIONS VARIABLE TV DIRECT REC ON RETURN SELECT : SET : EXIT : MENU

Menu optionSet this option to
BUZZERONto output a beep sound.OFF to deactivate it.
DIMMERON to make the display window dim.OFFto make it brighter.
POWER SAVEON to turn off the indicators in the display window to save the VCR power.OFFto turn on the indicators in the display window while the VCR is standing by.
TIMER OPTIONSVARIABLEto display the TIMER METHOD menu for selecting STANDARD or VIDEO Plus + when pressing the ◎ TIMER button.STANDARD to display only the TIMER menu when pressing the ◎ TIMER button.VIDEO Plus + to display only the VIDEO Plus + menu when pressing the ◎ TIMER button.For details, see page 44 and 49.
TV DIRECT RECONto activate the TV Direct Rec function.OFF to deactivate it.

Note

- When you set a timer recording or a synchronized recording, the indicators in the display window remain on, even though POWER SAVE is set to ON.

Connecting to a VCR or stereo system

How to connect to record on your VCR

Connect the line outputs of the other VCR to the LINE IN connector or jacks of your VCR. Refer to the examples A and B and choose the connection that best suits your VCR.

Example A
SONY SLV-SF900G - How to connect to record on your VCR - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Your VCR (Recorder)"] -->|LINE-3 IN| B["Line 3 IN"]
    A --> C["TV"]
    C --> D["Other VCR (Player)"]
    D --> E["Scart (EURO-AV)"]
    E --> F["VMC-2121HG Scart cable (not supplied)"]

: Signal flow

Example B
SONY SLV-SF900G - How to connect to record on your VCR - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Your VCR (Recorder)"] --> B["TV"]
    B --> C["Other VCR (Player)"]
    C --> D["VMC-820 audio/video cable (not supplied)"]
    D --> E["LINE OUT"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333

: Signal flow

continued

How to connect to a stereo system

Connect the LINE-2 IN AUDIO L/R jacks on your VCR to the audio output jacks on the stereo system using the RK-C510HG audio cable (not supplied).

Notes

  • Make sure you connect the plugs to jacks of the same colour.
  • If the other VCR is a monaural type, leave the red plugs unconnected.
  • If you connect your VCR to both the LINE IN and LINE OUT jacks of the other VCR, select the input correctly to prevent a humming noise.
  • If the other VCR does not have a Scart (EURO-AV) connector, use the VMC-2106HG cable instead and connect the cable to the line out jacks of the other VCR.

Tip

- You can also use the LINE-3 IN connector instead.

Basic Editing

(when recording on your VCR)

Before you start editing...

  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel. Press INPUT SELECT to display “L2” (or “L1” or “L3”) in the display window.
  • Press SP/LP to select the tape speed, SP or LP.
  • On your VCR, set EDIT to ON in the VIDEO OPTIONS menu to display “EDIT” in the display window. If the other VCR has a similar feature, activate this one as well.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Before you start editing... - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a CD-ROM front panel with buttons and indicator lights (no text or symbols)

VIDEO OPTIONS OPC ON EDIT ON SHARPNESS NORMAL RR NORMAL RETURN SELECT : SET : ON EXIT : MENU

1 Insert a source tape with its safety tab removed into the other ( playback) VCR. Search for the point to start playback and set it to playback pause.
2 Insert a tape with its safety tab in place into your (recording) VCR. Search for the point to start recording and press Ⅱ (pause).
3 Press ● (record) on your VCR to set it to recording pause.
4 To start editing, press the Ⅱ (pause) buttons on both VCRs at the same time.

To stop editing

Press the ■ (stop) buttons on both VCRs.

Tip

- To cut out unwanted scenes while editing, press III (pause) on your VCR when an unwanted scene begins. When it ends, press III (pause) again to resume recording.

Note

- If you start editing following the procedure above, the VCR won't start recording with the OPC function. To record a tape with the OPC function, press ● (record) again during recording pause in step 3 so the VCR analyses the tape. Then, press || (pause) after the OPC indicator stops flashing to start recording. If you press || (pause) before the OPC indicator stops flashing, the OPC function is cancelled.

About the SmartFile function

SmartFile allows you to view the contents of your video tape (recording date, channel, name etc.) on the TV screen. It is no longer necessary to rewind, fast-forward, or playback a tape to find out what is recorded on it. You can also locate and start playback of a specific programme or find the place from which you want to start recording by using this list. Programme data is stored in the memory of the SmartFile label attached to the tape.

The following functions are possible using SmartFile :

Recording using the SmartFile function (page 72)

To use the SmartFile function, attach the SmartFile label to the tape. If you record a programme on a tape with a SmartFile label, the contents will appear on the SmartFile search list. With the SmartFile list, you can also easily find the beginning of the available recording space.

SmartFile search list
2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 FILMS SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

Selecting and playing a programme (page 77)

To playback a recorded programme, select the programme you want to watch using the SmartFile search list. The VCR locates the programme and playback starts automatically.

Checking the contents of a tape (page 78)

When you bring the SmartFile label close to the SMARTFILE sensor on the VCR, a summary of the recorded programmes appears in the SmartFile check list. It is not necessary to insert the tape into the VCR and press ▷ PLAY to find out what is recorded on it. This feature allows you to easily find the programme you want to watch, or to quickly find a tape with enough recording space.

Diagram showing a device with a plus button and a 1:0 symbol, likely illustrating a system or control interface.

SmartFile check list
2. 8.00 - 10. 10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN 30. 9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 22. 9 FRI 12:00 SARU 10. 9 SUN 9:00 STB098 2. 9 SAT 23:00 STB NEXT : EXIT : MENU

Labelling a recorded programme and tape (page 80)

You can attach an electronic "label" to the video tape and its programmes on the SmartFile list. Labelling the recorded programmes enables you to find a programme easily when you want to play it back. If TV guide pages are available in the Teletext, recorded programmes are labelled automatically. Also, once you label a programme which you set to record regularly (i.e everyday, same day of the week), the VCR recognizes the label and will automatically label all future recordings of the same programme.

Registering the contents of a recorded tape in the SmartFile label (page 88)

You can register programmes recorded on a tape in the memory of a new SmartFile label.

Protecting a recorded programme (page 90)

You can protect a recorded programme from accidental over-recording or erasure.

Erasing the data of an unwanted programme (page 92)

By erasing a programme from the SmartFile list, the VCR will record over the unwanted programme.

Running a demonstration

This VCR can give a demonstration of the various SmartFile functions. To run a demonstration, turn on the VCR and hold the SMARTFILE button for 3 seconds while no tape is inserted. To stop the demonstration, press any key.

SMARTFILE

Recording using the SmartFile function

To use the SmartFile function, attach the SmartFile label to the spine of the cassette. If you record a programme for more than 20 minutes in LP mode and 11 minutes in SP mode on a tape with a SmartFile label, programme data, such as the name, date and channel, is automatically stored in the memory of the SmartFile label. Some stations may not offer this service.

Attaching the SmartFile label to the cassette

To use the SmartFile function, attach the supplied SmartFile label to the cassette. Remove any stains or dirt from the surface of the spine of the tape. Then, holding both edges of the SmartFile label so that it doesn't bend, attach it along the guide line to the spine of the cassette. This tape is henceforth referred to as a SmartFile tape.

SMARTFLEX SENSOR

Note on the purchase of SmartFile labels

- If you want to order additional SmartFile labels, contact your nearest Sony service facility.

Notes

- The SmartFile label is equipped with a memory chip. The memory chip may be damaged and cannot be used when you:

- twist or fold the SmartFile label.

- remove the SmartFile label and re-attach it to a tape.

- attach more than one SmartFile label to a tape.

- attach metal, or sticker which has metal, to the SmartFile label.

- write too strongly on the SmartFile label using a ballpoint pen or similar sharp instrument.

- disassemble or remodel a label.

- Do not leave the SmartFile label in a place subject to excessive dust or dirt, direct sunlight, humidity, mildew, strong magnetism or near heat sources.

- If you attach the SmartFile label to a tape shorter than an E-30, the SmartFile function may not work correctly.

Recording a programme on the SmartFile tape

When recording a programme on the SmartFile tape, no matter what method you use to record the programme (normal recording, Video Plus+ recording, etc.), programme data (date, name, channel, recording start time, etc.) is stored in the memory of the SmartFile label. The SmartFile label can contain data for up to 12 programmes. When the number of stored programmes goes over 12, the oldest programme data is erased from the SmartFile list. However, a programme which lasts less than about 20 minutes in LP mode or about 11 minutes in SP mode cannot be stored in the memory. When you record a programme on a SmartFile tape which already contains programme data, see “Recording after locating the Blank Time space” on page 75.

SMARTFILE ↑/↓/←/→ OK

Before you start...

  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel
  • Check that the VCR clock is set to the correct time and date.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape with its safety tab in place. The SmartFile indicator lights up.
2 Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears on the TV screen.

PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M START END

3 Use ↑ to select BLANKTIME and press OK. The VCR starts searching for the longest blank part of the tape. The SmartFile search list disappears.

You can now start recording a programme.

Tip

- You can protect a recorded programme from accidental over-recording or erasure (see page 90).

Note

- If you press the PAUSE button one or more times during recording, thereby creating short lengths of recorded time between such pauses, programme data may not be stored in the SmartFile label.

continued

Checking the information of a recorded programme

Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears. The recording day of the week, start time, programme position, date, name, recording time and tape speed appear on the list. The longest space which doesn't have any programme data (Blank Time space) appears as "BLANK TIME":

Initial and latest dates of use for this SmartFile tape Recording start time Remaining time Programme position * Recording time Tape speed Date Day of the week Estimated position of the recorded programme START END SELECT : SEARCH : ON EXIT : MENU Station name*

* When the station name is not available, the programme position is displayed instead.

Tip

- You can manually name a recorded programme and select the category. You can also name the SmartFile tape.

Notes

  • If you don't set the clock or the clock isn't set to the correct time and date, the recording start time won't be stored correctly on the Smartfile list. Also, the programme label won't be stored correctly if the TV guide page information of Teletext is not set correctly (see page 81).
  • When you set the AUTO LONG PLAY option to ON in the TAPE OPTIONS menu, and the tape speed automatically changes from SP to LP during recording, the VCR displays the entire recording time converted to SP mode in the SmartFile list.
  • The recording time length in the SmartFile list is an estimation and may be slightly different from the actual recorded time length.

Recording after locating the Blank Time space

The SmartFile function identifies not only the largest amount of available blank space, but also recorded material that doesn't have corresponding programme data stored in the SmartFile label. The longest available recording space (including programmes that are not stored on the SmartFile label) is referred to as "Blank Time space". You can locate the beginning of the Blank Time space for recording. If there is a recorded programme after the Blank Time space, the VCR will record over on that programme unless you stop recording. If there is a programme you want to prevent from being recorded over or erased, protect that programme before you start recording another programme see page 90.

Before you start...

SP/LP SMARTFILE ↑/↓/←/→ OK

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape with its safety tab in place. The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.
2 Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears on the TV screen. The Blank Time space appears in the "BLANK TIME" row. The Blank Time space also appears in the display window.
3 Press ↑ repeatedly to select BLANK TIME.

2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP OH 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 FILMS SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

continued

4 Press SP/LP to select the tape speed, SP or LP. The BLANK TIME changes according to the selected tape speed. Select a tape speed that matches the length of the programme you want to record.

2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME LP 3H 50M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32M FILMS SP 1H 30M START END SELECT :# SEARCH :OK EXIT :MENU

5 Press OK. The VCR goes to the beginning of the Blank Time space and stops.

NOW SEARCHING START END

6 Press PROG +/- to select the programme position you want to record.

7 Press ● REC to start recording.

Notes

  • You may not be able to locate the beginning of the Blank Time space correctly in the step 4 above when :
  • the SmartFile tape contains one or more short length (less than about 20 minutes in the LP mode and about 11 minutes in the SP mode) programmes for which programme data is not stored in the SmartFile label.
  • the SmartFile tape is damaged or dirty.
  • the SmartFile tape has a portion recorded in the NTSC system.

- If a newly recorded programme overlaps a stored programme, the stored programme information is erased from the SmartFile list as shown below when :

- the remaining length of the stored programme becomes less than about 20 minutes in the LP mode and about 11 minutes in the SP mode.

- the stored programme is over-recorded for more than 20 minutes in the LP mode and about 11 minutes in the SP mode.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Notes - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Stored programme"] --> B["necessary portion"]
    B --> C["unnecessary portion"]
    D["Newly recorded programme"] --> E["or"]
    E --> F["or"]
    F --> G["20 minutes in the LP mode"]
    F --> H["11 minutes in the SP mode"]

Selecting and playing a programme

You can automatically locate and start playback of a programme recorded on the SmartFile tape. Select a programme in the SmartFile search list. The SmartFile search list can contain up to 12 programmes.

SMARTFILE ↑/↓/←/→ OK

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape. The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.
2 Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears on the TV screen.

3 Press ↑/↓ to select a programme. Press ↑/↓ repeatedly to turn the pages.

2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 FILMS SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

42 2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP QH 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 FILMS SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

4 Press OK. The VCR starts searching for the beginning of the selected programme. Playback starts automatically from that point.

To stop searching

Press ■ STOP.

Note

  • You may not be able to locate the beginning of the selected programme correctly when: - the SmartFile tape contains one or more short length (less than about 20 minutes in the LP mode and about 11 minutes in SP mode) programmes for which programme data is not stored in the SmartFile label.
  • the SmartFile tape is damaged or dirty.
  • the SmartFile tape has a portion recorded in the NTSC system.

Checking the contents of a tape

You can display the programme data list of a SmartFile tape on the TV screen. It is not necessary to insert the tape into the VCR. This feature allows you to quickly find a specific programme or to find a tape with enough recording space. The SmartFile check list can contain up to 12 programmes.

Before you start...

  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
  • Turn on your VCR.

SmartFile sensor CURSOR ↑/↓

1 Hold the label side of the SmartFile tape close to the SmartFile sensor.

Slowly bring the center of the label within 3 cm of the SmartFile sensor.

There is a short beep, the SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR, and the SmartFile check list appears. The BLANK TIME space also appears in the display window.

1/5

2. 8:00-10. 10:00 PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN 30. 9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 22. 9 FRI 12:00 SARU 10. 9 SUN 9:00 STB098 2. 9 SAT 23:00 STB NEXT : EXIT : MENU

SP BL | _I_ _I_ | H _I _IM

2 Press CURSOR ↑/↓ to turn the pages.

2.8.00-10.10.00 PAGE 2 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 31.8 24HOURS TV 2.8 GOLF BACK : EXIT : MENU

3 Press MENU to exit the SmartFile check list.

Tip

- If you press any button other than SP/LP or CURSOR ↑/↓, the SmartFile check list disappears.

Notes

- You cannot display the SmartFile check list while :

  • you display the SmartFile list of a different SmartFile tape inserted into the VCR.
  • you display any other menu.
  • If the SmartFile check list doesn't appear on the TV screen, try drawing the SmartFile tape at least 5 cm away from the SmarFile sensor, then bring it back to within 3 cm of the sensor.
  • The menu disappears automatically if you don't proceed for more than a few minutes.

Labelling a recorded programme and tape

Some broadcast systems ensure a Teletext service in which the complete programmes and their data (title, date, channel, recording start time etc.) are stored day by day. A TV guide page corresponds to each day of the week. When recording a programme, the VCR automatically takes the label information from the Teletext pages and stores it in the SmartFile label. The TV guide page numbers depend entirely on the broadcast itself and may be subject to change. If so, you may have to set those TV guide page numbers manually in the TV GUIDE PAGE menu.

Tape title MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10 - 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP TH 30M Category Programme label START END SELECT : SEARCH : EXIT : MENU

Setting the TV guide page number

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

CLEAR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + - + - PROGRAMME number buttons PROG +/- MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

1 Select the programme position for which you want to set or change the TV guide page.
2 Press MENU, then press ↑/↓ to highlight SETTINGS and press OK.
3 Press ↑/↓ to highlight TV GUIDE PAGE and press OK.

  • The TV guide page numbers appear automatically when the VCR detects them (P301).
  • If the VCR does not detect them (P---), you have to set the appropriate TV guide page number manually.

SETTINGS TUNER CLOCK LANGUAGE TV GUIDE PAGE RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

TV GUIDE PAGE PROG .5 SUN P --- MON P --- TUE P --- WED P --- THU P --- FRI P --- SAT P --- SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

4 Press ↑/↓ to select the TV guide page number you want to modify and press OK.

TV GUIDE PAGE PROG. 5 SUN P... MON TUE P... WED P... THU P... FRI P... SAT P... SET : 0-9 CONFIRM OKI CANCEL CLEAR EXIT : MENU

5 Press the programme number buttons to enter the TV guide page number and press OK to confirm the setting.

If you make a mistake, press CLEAR to re-enter the correct number.

TV GUIDE PAGE PROG .5 SUN P 3 0 1 MON P --- TUE P --- WED P --- THU P --- FRI P --- SAT P --- SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

6 To set or change another TV guide page number, repeat steps 3 and 4 above.
7 Press MENU to exit the menu.

Notes

  • In step 4 above, enter "000" if you don't want to use the TV guide page number for automatic labelling. The VCR will instead store default data (date, programme position, duration etc.) in the label.
  • Refer to the Teletext information on your TV screen to get the TV guide page number with the programme titles and their start times.
  • If the Teletext TV guide has a page which always shows the programmes for the current day, this page should be input for all days.
  • If you start recording more than two minutes before the programme is scheduled to start, the correct label information may not be transferred. The VCR receives the label information two minutes after the recording starts.
  • If you set a timer recording with VPS/PDC OFF, the title information will be transferred in the middle of the recording.
  • Note that this function may not work correctly with programmes broadcast from some stations.
  • If the Broadcast system updates the Teletext information at the moment recording starts, the title on the label may not correspond to the one of the recorded programme. In this case, you may have to manually enter the correct title using the SMARTFILE EDIT menu.
  • You cannot get the label information from sources connected to the LINE input or the satellite channels.

Labelling a recorded programme manually

If Teletext data is not available, label and select the appropriate category of the recorded programme manually. Labelling manually takes priority over labelling automatically. You can also label the tape. Up to 18 characters can be input for a programme and tape label.

CLEAR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + + - + MENU ↑/↓/←/→ OK

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape.
The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.

2 Press MENU and select SMARTFILE EDIT, then press OK.

The SMARTFILE EDIT menu appears.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG-32 FILMS SP 1H30M SELECT CATEGORY TITLE EXIT : MENU

continued

3 Press ↑/↓ to select a programme.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 SAT 7:00 PROG 32 FILMS SP 1H 30M SELECT CATEGORY TITLE EXIT : MENU

4 Press →.

The cursor moves to the programme label input position.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8. 00 - 10. 10. 00 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30. 9 FILMS SP 1H 30M NEXT : NEXT : EXIT : MENU

5 Label the programme.

1 Press ↑/↓ to select a character.
Each time you press , the character changes as shown below.
A→B→...→Z→special characters→!→&→,(comma)→-(hyphen)→.
(period) → 0 → 1 ... → 9 → (blank space) You can also select a blank space by pressing CLEAR.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 N FILMS SP 1H 30M NEXT : NEXT : EXIT : MENU

2 To set the next character, press .
The cursor moves to the next position.

3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to label the programme.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 N FILMS SP 1H 30M NEXT : NEXT : EXIT : MENU

6 Press OK.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SP 1H 30M FILMS SELECT : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

7 Press ↑/↓ to select a category.

Each time you press , the category changes as shown below.

SPECIAL → FILMS → NEWS → SHOW SPORTS → CHILDREN → MUSIC → ARTS → SERIES → EDUCATION → LEISURE → SHOPPING → VARIETY → (blank)

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8. 00 - 10. 10. 00 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30. 9 NICK & MATT SP 1H 30M SHOW SELECT CATEGORY :# TITLE : EXIT : MENU

8 Press OK.

The programme label and a selected category are stored.

9 Press MENU to exit the menu.

To erase the programme label

Press CLEAR after step 3 above. The programme label is erased and the default recording data reappears.

To erase the selected category

Press CLEAR in step 7 above. The selected category is erased and the space becomes blank.

To label a regularly scheduled timer-recorded programme

Once you label a programme which is set to record regularly (i.e. everyday, same day of the week) in the Video Plus+ system or timer recording mode, the VCR recognizes the label and will automatically label all future recordings of the same programme. The set label is assigned even when an information signal containing a different programme name, category name or other information is broadcast with the programme. However, if you change the programme label and the category several times, the VCR may automatically assign the set label only to the last recorded programme for which the programme label and category were changed.

Labelling a tape

CLEAR MENU OK

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape.
The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.

2 Press MENU and select SMARTFILE EDIT, then press OK.

The SMARTFILE EDIT menu appears.

3 Press to select the tape title.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10. 10.00 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H30M 30. 9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H30M SELECT CATEGORY TITLE EXIT : MENU

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 2. 8.00 - 10.10.00 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M SELECT TITLE EDIT EXIT : MENU

4 Press →.

The cursor moves to the title input position.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30. 9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M SELECT : + BACK : + CONFIRM : OK NEXT : + EXIT : MENU

5 Label the tape.

1 Press ↑/↓ to select a character.

Each time you press , the character changes as shown below.

$$ \begin{array}{l}\mathrm{A}\rightarrow \mathrm{B}\rightarrow \ldots \rightarrow \mathrm{Z}\rightarrow \mathrm{special~characters}\rightarrow\!\rightarrow \&\rightarrow ,(\mathrm{comma})\rightarrow -(\mathrm{hyphen})\rightarrow .\(\mathrm{period})\rightarrow 0\rightarrow 1\ldots \rightarrow 9\rightarrow (\mathrm{blank~space})\end{array} $$

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 M 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30. 9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M NEXT : EXIT : MENU SELECT ▼ BACK ◀ CONFIRM OK

You can also select a blank space by pressing CLEAR.

2 To set the next character, press →. The cursor moves to the next position.
3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 to label the tape.

SMARTFILE EDIT PAGE 1 M: 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M SELECT ▼ NEXT : BACK ▼ CONFIRM OK EXIT : MENU

6 Press OK.

The tape title is stored.

SMARTFILE EDIT MY VIDEO TAPE 10. 10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1. 10 NEWS SEVEN SP 1H 30M 30. 9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M SELECT :# TITLE EDIT :# EXIT : MENU

7 Press MENU to exit the menu.

To erase the tape title

Press CLEAR after step 3 above. The tape title is erased and the recording date reappears. When you want to erase the recording date from the tape title column, press CLEAR again.

Registering the contents of a recorded tape in the SmartFile label

The VCR will register programmes recorded on a tape (even a non-SmartFile recorded tape) in the memory of a new SmartFile label by detecting the index signals indicating the start of recorded programmes. You can register up to the 12th programme from the start of the tape. The programmes appear from the bottom of the screen as PROGRAM NO. 1, PROGRAM NO.2, ... PROGRAM NO.12 in this order. The 13th and subsequent programmes are ignored. You can manually name the registered programme numbers and select the category (see page 80).

SONY SLV-SF900G - Registering the contents of a recorded tape in the SmartFile label - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a CD-ROM front panel with buttons and drive indicators (no text or symbols)

SMARTFILE GENERATOR

Before you start...

  • Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.
  • Turn on your VCR.

1 Attach the SmartFile label to the spine of the cassette as shown on the right and insert the tape.

SMARTILE SENSOR

2 Press the SMARTFILE GENERATOR button on the VCR.

A message appears indicating that the recorded programmes are being registered. The index signals are detected from the start of the tape, and the registration stops when the end of the tape is reached. The message disappears when registration is complete.

SMARTFILE INDEXING IS IN PROGRESS START END

To stop registration to the SmartFile label

Press SMARTFILE GENERATOR.

The data registered before the button is pressed remains in the SmartFile label. You can register the programmes again by pressing SMARTFILE GENERATOR again.

To check the information of a registered programme

Press SMARTFILE.

The SmartFile search list appears. The registered programme number, registration date and recording time appear in this list. Note that the registration date differs from the recorded date.

Registration date Programme located in a recorded tape Estimated position of the registered programme PAGE 1 MY VIDEO TAPE SP 1H 55M 15. 11 PROGRAM NO.11 SP 0H 30M 15. 11 PROGRAM NO.10 LP 2H 00M 15. 11 PROGRAM NO. 9 SP 0H 45M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

Tips

  • The programmes recorded on the tape can be registered again in a SmartFile label that already contains programme data. However, the recorded date and time, programme name and information input manually (such as the programme label and category) are replaced with "PROGRAM NO. XX".
  • If the SmartFile label contains stored programme data that includes protected programmes, a message appears and the registration stops.

Notes

  • Programme data is not registered correctly in the SmartFile label when :
    – the programme length is about 20 minutes or less in LP mode or about 11 minutes in SP mode.
    – the programme does not have an index signal or the index signal has been recorded over and erased.
    – the tape is damaged or dirty.

- If you don't set the clock or the clock isn't set to the correct date, the registration date won't be stored correctly on the SmartFile list.

- After you press SMARTFILE GENERATOR and start registration, registration is interrupted if you press ■ STOP, ▷ PLAY, ▶FF, ◀◀ REW, I/○ or ◀◀/▶◀ INDEX SEARCH. In these cases as well, the data registered up to the point when registration was interrupted remains in the SmartFile label.

- When you set AUTO LONG PLAY to ON in the TAPE OPTIONS menu, and the tape speed automatically changes from SP to LP during recording, the VCR displays the entire recording time converted to SP mode in the SmartFile list.

- The estimated position of the registered programmes may not be correct if many short programmes are recorded on long tapes.

Protecting a recorded programme

You can protect a recorded programme from accidental over-recording or erasure using the SmartFile function.

When you start recording from a position prior to the protected programme, the recording stops automatically before the protected programme.

SMARTFILE ↑/↓/←/→

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape. The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.

MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SP 1H 30M SHOW START END SELECT : + SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

2 Press SMARTFILE. The SmartFile search list appears on the TV screen.
3 Press ↑/↓ to select the programme you want to protect.

MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SP 1H 30M SHOW START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

4 Press →.

The 🔒 indicator appears to the left of the selected programme and the programme is now protected.

MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

5 Press SMARTFILE.

The SmartFile search list disappears.

To unlock the protected programme

Press ← in the 4 above. The 🔒 indicator disappears and you can record over this programme.

Tips

  • When you start recording from a position prior to the protected programme, the recording automatically stops no more than about four minutes in SP mode and about eight minutes in LP mode before the beginning of the protected programme. The BLANK TIME indicator flashes in the display window.
  • If you protect a programme just after the Blank Time space, BLANK TIME is shortened by about four minutes in SP mode and about eight minutes in LP mode.
  • If you try to record on a SmartFile tape containing a protected programme, a message indicating that there is a protected programme on this tape appears on the TV screen.

Notes

  • When you record another programme just after a protected programme, locate the beginning of the Blank Time space" by following the instructions in "Recording after locating the Blank Time space' on page 75. Otherwise, if the recording start point overlaps the protected programme, the VCR may over-record the protected programme.
  • If you insert a SmartFile tape which contains a protected programme or protect a programme for the first time on a new tape, the VCR will analyse the position of the protected programme for a few seconds. You cannot operate the VCR while the VCR is analysing the tape.
  • If the SmartFile list contains 12 protected programmes, the next programme you record won't be stored in the SmartFile list.
  • When you try to turn off the VCR after setting a Video Plus+ or timer recording on the protected programme, the VCR automatically ejects the cassette.
  • The protect function may not work with an NTSC-recorded tape.

Erasing the data of an unwanted programme

You can erase an unwanted programme from the SmartFile list.

When you erase a programme from the list, that portion of tape becomes Blank Time space.

1+ DISPLAY CLEAR 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 + - + - SMARTFILE ↑/↓/←/→

Before you start...

- Turn on your TV and set it to the video channel.

1 Insert a SmartFile tape.

The SMARTFILE indicator lights up on the VCR.

MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

2 Press SMARTFILE.

The SmartFile search list appears on the TV screen.

3 Press ↑/↓ to select a programme you want to erase from the list.

MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 1.10 NEWS SEVEN SP 0H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SHOW SP 1H 30M START END SELECT : + SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

4 Press CLEAR.

The selected programme is erased from the SmartFile list.

If you erase a programme by mistake, press i+ DISPLAY to make the programme reappear.

42 MY VIDEO TAPE PAGE 1 BLANK TIME SP 1H 55M 10.10 SPORTS FESTIVAL SPORTS CCB SP 1H 30M 30.9 NICK & MATT SP 1H 30M SHOW START END SELECT : SEARCH : OK EXIT : MENU

5 Press SMARTFILE.

The SmartFile search list disappears.

Notes

  • You cannot erase a protected programme from the SmartFile list. You have to first unlock the protected programme by following the instructions in “To unlock the protected programme’ on page 91, then erase that programme from the list.
  • The erased programme disappears from the SmartFile list, but it still remains on the tape.
  • If the remaining length of a program is about 11 minutes or less in SP mode or about 20 minutes or less in LP mode, you cannot make the programme reappear by using the ①+ DISPLAY button.

Troubleshooting

If you have any questions or if your problems are not covered below, please consult your nearest Sony service facility.

Problem summary

The following table summarizes the reference numbers for the problems you might face. In order to solve your problem, please refer to the corresponding reference (S1=symptom1, S2=symptom2 ...) in the right column below.

CATEGORYREFER TO
Picturewhile watching broadcast tuned by the TVS2, S6
while watching broadcast tuned by the VCR.S1, S6
while playing a tape.S3, S4, S5
Soundwhile playing a tape.S7, S8, S9
FunctionalPlaybackS4, S9, S10
Normal recordingS11, S12
SmartFileS13, S14
Timer recordingS15, S16
Synchronized RecordingS17, S18, S19
Remote commanderS20, S21
CleaningS22
ClockS23
PowerS24, S25, S26, S27, S28
TapeS29, S30
SMARTLINKS31
Set-Top BoxS32
Picture
S1The VCR picture does not appear on the TV screen.→ Make sure the TV is set to the video channel. If you are using a monitor, set it to video input.→ If the VCR is connected to the TV with a Scart cable, make sure the TV/VIDEO indicator is lit in the display window. Use the TV/VIDEO key on the remote commander to light the TV/VIDEO indicator.→ If your VCR is connected to the TV with only an aerial cable, make sure the TV is correctly tuned to the VCR (see page 15).
S2The TV programme is not clear or has some interference.→ If your TV is connected to the VCR with both a Scart and an aerial cable, make sure the RF channel is set to OFF (see page 17).→ If your VCR is connected to the TV with only an aerial cable, make sure the TV is correctly tuned to the VCR (see page 15).
S3The playback picture is not clear or has some interference.→ If your TV is connected to the VCR with both a Scart and an aerial cable, make sure the RF channel is set to OFF (see page 17).→ Existing broadcasts may interfere with the VCR. Reset the RF channel output of your VCR (see page 15).→ Adjust the tracking with the TRACKING +/- buttons (see page 62).→ The video heads are dirty (see below). Clean the video heads using the Sony T-25CLD, E-25CLDR, or T-25CLW video head cleaning cassette. If these cleaning cassettes are not available in your area, have the heads cleaned at your nearest Sony service facility (a standard service charge will be required). Do not use a commercially available liquid type cleaning cassette other than Sony's, as it may damage the video heads.→ The video heads may have to be replaced. Consult your local Sony service facility for more information.
S4The tracking meter does not appear on the TV screen.→ The recording condition of the tape is very poor and tracking cannot be adjusted.
S5The picture rolls vertically during picture search.→ Adjust the vertical hold control on the TV or monitor.

Symptoms caused by contaminated video heads
- Rough picture
Unclear picture
• No picture (or black & white screen appears)

  • Normal picture
    SONY SLV-SF900G - Problem summary - 1
natural_image Black-and-white photo of two smiling children, one wearing a cap and shirt, the other in a white hat (no text or symbols visible)

SONY SLV-SF900G - Problem summary - 2

natural_image Black-and-white photo of two smiling children wearing hats (no visible text or symbols)

SONY SLV-SF900G - Problem summary - 3

natural_image Black-and-white photo of two smiling children (no text or symbols visible)

Scanned text of contract clauses

initial contamination
terminal

Picture
S6TV reception is poor.→ Make sure the aerial cables are connected securely.→ Adjust the TV aerial.
Sound
S7The picture has no sound.→ The tape is defective. Please use a new tape.
S8The sound is unstable or has an echo.→ When you play a tape with the same sound recorded on both the hi-fi and normal sound tracks, make sure AUDIO MIX in the AUDIO OPTIONS menu is set to OFF (see page 65).
S9You cannot select the left or the right channel while playing a tape→ Make sure AUDIO MIX is set to OFF in the AUDIO OPTIONS menu (see page 65).→ Make sure you are playing a hi-fi tape.
Playback
S10The tape starts playing as soon as it is inserted.→ This is normal. When you insert a tape with no safety tab, the VCR starts playing automatically.
Normal recording
S11The tape is ejected when you press ● REC.→ The safety tab has been removed. To record on this tape, cover the tab hole (see page 42).
S12Nothing happens when you press ● REC.→ Make sure the tape is not at its end.→ If the BL indicator is flashing in the display window, the tape contains a programme protected by the SmartFile function (see page 90).
SmartFile
S13The programme label cannot be taken properly.→ Make sure the clock and the date are set correctly.→ Check the setting of the TV guide pages. Some stations may not offer this service (see page 80).→ If you start recording more than two minutes before the beginning of the programme, the title on the label may not correspond to the one of the recorded programme. Manually enter the correct title using the SMARTFILE EDIT menu (see page 83).→ If the TV reception is poor, the VCR will not be able to take the title correctly. Manually enter the correct title using the SMARTFILE EDIT menu (see page 83).
S14Recording stops halfway.→ If the tape contains a programme protected by the SmartFile function, recording automatically stops before the protected programme. Use another tape which has enough recording space.
Timer recording
S15The timer does not operate properly.→ Check that the clock is set.→ The clock stops if the VCR is disconnected from the mains for more than an hour. Reset the clock and the timer.→ Check that the safety tab has not been removed.→ If the timer recording overlaps a programme protected by the SmartFile function, the recording stops halfway (see page 90).→ The starting point of the recording overlaps a protected programme.→ Make sure the tape is not at its end.→ Make sure a tape has been inserted.→ Make sure the current time is not already past your timer settings.→ If you are recording a programme from a set top box, make sure the set top box is turned on.
S16The VPS/PDC function does not operate properly.→ Check that the clock and the date are set correctly.→ Check that the VPS/PDC time you set is the correct one (there might be a mistake in the TV guide programme). If the broadcast you wanted to record did not send the correct VPS/PDC information, the VCR will not start recording.→ If the reception is poor, the VPS/PDC signal might be altered and the VCR might not start recording.
Synchronized Recording
S17The SYNCHRO REC indicator turns off while recording or does not go back to recording standby mode.→ The tape has reached its end. Insert a new tape and press SYNCHRO REC again.
S18The Synchronized Recording function does not work.→ The connected equipment was not turned off.Turn off the connected equipment and press SYNCHRO REC again.→ There was a power failure. Press SYNCHRO REC again.
S19The programme recorded with the Synchronized Recording function is incomplete.→ If the settings for timer recordings and Synchronized Recording overlap, the programme that starts first has priority and the second programme starts recording only after the first programme has finished.→ There was a power failure. Press SYNCHRO REC again.
Remote commander
S20The remote commander does not operate.→ Make sure you are pointing the remote commander at the remote sensor on the VCR.→ Replace all of the batteries in the remote commander with new ones if they are weak.→ Make sure the TV/VIDEO remote control switch is set correctly.
Remote commander
S21You cannot control your TV.→ Set your TV's code number. The code number may change when you replace the batteries for the remote commander (see page 8).
Cleaning
S22The VCR needs to be cleaned.→ Clean the cabinet, panel and controls with a dry, soft cloth, or a soft cloth slightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of solvent, such as alcohol or benzene.
Clock
S23The clock has stopped and “-:- -” lights up in the display window.→ The clock stops if the VCR is disconnected from the mains for more than one hour. Reset the clock and timer if needed (see page 19).
Power
S24The I/⏻ ON/ STANDBY switch does not function.→ Connect the mains lead to the mains securely.
Power
S25The power is turned on but the VCR does not operate.→ Moisture condensation has occurred. Turn the power off, unplug the mains lead and leave the VCR to dry for over three hours.
S26The tape is ejected when you press I/⏻ ON/STANDBY.→ You have set a timer recording, but the tape on which you want to record is protected (or contains protected recordings). Unlock the protection or use another tape or replace the safety tab (see page 91).
S27The display is not lit when the VCR is in STANDBY mode.→ The VCR is in power save mode. Set the POWER SAVE option to OFF in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).
S28POWER SAVE is set to ON but the display remains lit in STANDBY mode.→ The display is always lit if the VCR is in timer standby mode. For more details regarding the energy saving function, see page 66.
Tape
S29The tape is ejected when you press I/⏻ ON/STANDBY.→ You have set a timer recording, but the tape on which you want to record is protected (or contains protected recordings). Unlock the protection or use another tape or replace the safety tab (see page 91).
S30A tape cannot be inserted.→ Check that a tape isn't already in the tape compartment.
SMARTLINK
S31The SMARTLINK function does not work properly.→ Check that your TV complies with SMARTLINK, NexTView Link, MEGALOGIC, EASYLINK/CinemaLink, Q-Link or TV-LINK.→ Make sure you use a 21-pin Scart cable to connect the VCR and your TV.→ Make sure the Scart cable is connected securely. Refer to your TV manual for instructions.
Set-Top Box control
S32You cannot watch the STB picture when the VCR is in standby mode or ● REC standby mode.→ Make sure the POWER SAVE option is set to OFF in the OTHER OPTIONS menu (see page 66).

Specifications

System

Channel coverage

PAL (I)

UHF B21 to B69

RF output signal

UHF channels 21 to 69

Aerial out

75-ohm asymmetrical aerial socket

Tape speed

SP: PAL 23,39 mm/s (recording/playback)

NTSC 33,35 mm/s (playback only)

LP: PAL 11,70 mm/s (recording/playback)

NTSC 16,67mm/s (playback only)

EP: NTSC 11,12 mm/s (playback only)

Maximum recording/playback time

10 hrs. in LP mode (with E300 tape)

Fast-forward and rewind time

Approx. 1 min. (with E180 tape)

Inputs and outputs

LINE-1 (TV)

21-pin

Video input: pin 20

Audio input: pins 2 and 6

Video output: pin 19

Audio output: pins 1 and 3

→ LINE-3 IN

21-pin

Video input: pin 20

Audio input: pins 2 and 6

LINE-2 IN

VIDEO IN, phono jack (1)

Input signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced, sync negative

AUDIO IN, phono jack (2)

Input level: 327 mVrms

Input impedance: more than 47 kilohms

AUDIO OUT, phono jack (2)

Rated output level: 327 mVrms

Load impedance: 47 kilohms

Output impedance: less than 10 kilohms

General

Power requirements

220 - 240 V AC, 50 Hz

Power consumption

25 W (Normal)

2,7 W (POWER SAVE is set to ON, no decoder)

Operating temperature

5^ to 40^

Storage temperature

-20^ to 60^

Dimensions

Approx. 430 × 100 × 330 mm (w/h/d)

including projecting parts and controls

Mass

Approx. 4.8 kg

Supplied accessories

Remote commander (1)

R6 (size AA) batteries (2)

Aerial cable (1)

SmartFile labels (10)

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Index to parts and controls

Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for details.

Front panel
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1/2 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14

1 I/ (on/standby) button/indicator (6)
2 SMARTFILE button (71)
3 SMARTFILE sensor (78)
4 CURSOR ↑/↓ buttons (78)
5 Tape compartment
6 REALITY REGENERATOR (RR) indicator (62)
7 SYNCHRO REC indicator (56)
8 ▲ (eject) button (38)
9 SYNCHRO REC button (56)
10 ▷ ( playback) button (38)
11 ■ (stop) button (38)
12 II (pause) button (38)

13 ● (record) button (40), (69)
14 AUTO SET UP (18)/ RF (Radio Frequency) CHANNEL button (15)
15 ◀◀ (rewind) /▶▶ (fast-forward) buttons (38)
16 PROGRAM/TRACKING +/- buttons (15), (18), (62)
17 REALITY REGENERATOR button (62)
18 SMARTFILE indicator (78)
19 Remote sensor (5)
20 OK button
21 SMARTFILE GENERATOR button
22 LINE-2 IN VIDEO/AUDIO L/R jacks (67)

Display window

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 SMARTLINK SPEP STEREO OPC LP VIDEO TVNICAM BL EDIT VPS PDC _/_/_ H M* S _/_/ 15 14 13 12 11 10

1 Timer indicator (44), (49)
2 VPS (Video Programme System)/PDC (Programme Delivery Control) indicator (47)
③ OPC (Optimum Picture Control) indicator (62)
4 SMARTLINK indicator (11)
5 Tape speed indicators (41)
6 VIDEO indicator (41)
7 TV indicator (43)

8 STEREO indicator (59)
9 NICAM indicator (59)
10 Time counter/clock/line/programme position indicator (15), (38), (41)
11 Remaining time indicator (42)
12 Tracking indicator (62)
13 EDIT indicator (69)
14 BL (Blank Time space) indicator (78)
15 Tape/recording indicator (41)

Rear panel

1 2 3 4 7 6 5

1 Mains lead (9), (12)
2 → LINE-1 (TV) → LIGNE-1 (TV) connector (9)
3 → LINE-3 IN → ENTREE LIGNE-3 connector (13)
4 AERIAL IN ANTENNE ENTREE connector (9), (12)

5 AERIAL OUT ANTENNE SORTIE connector (9), (12)
6 NTSC PB (Play Back) switch (37)
7 LINE-2 OUT AUDIO R/L /VIDEO SORTIE LIGNE-2 AUDIO D/G/VIDEO (14)

Remote commander
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 8 9 10 11 12

1 ▲ EJECT button (38)
2 WIDE button (for TV) (7)
3 AUDIO MONITOR button (7), (59)
4 X2 button*
5 ▶ SLOW button*
6 SP (Standard Play)/LP (Long Play) button (40)
7 i+ DISPLAY button (42)
8 -/---(ten's digit) button (6), (42)
9 △ (volume) +/- buttons (for TV) (6)
10 ● REC (record) button (40), (54), (69)
11 MENU button
12 ↑/↓/←/→ buttons OK button
◀◀ ▶ REW(rewind) button (38), (52)
▶▶ ▶ FF (fast-forward) button (38), (52)
▷ PLAY button (38), (52)
■ STOP button (38), (54)
■ PAUSE button (38), (54)
* FASTEXT buttons (for TV)

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

13 TV/VIDEO remote control switch (5)
14 I/ ^1 (on/standby) button (6), (49)
15 COUNTER/REMAIN button (42) ≡ (Teletext) button (for TV) (6)
16 □ TV power on/TV mode select button (for TV) (6)
17 ◀◀/▶▶ INDEX SEARCH buttons* (61)
18 CLEAR button (37), (44), (57)
19 → TV/VIDEO button (6)
20 Programme number buttons (6)
21 INPUT SELECT button (41), (49)
22 PROG (programme) +/- buttons (6), (25) (41) E/A/EV Teletext page access buttons (for TV) (7)
23 ⏻ TIMER button (44), (49)
24 SMARTFILE button (73)

* FASTEXT buttons (for TV)

This VCR is equipped with an on-screen indication system which allows you a visual, quick and easy selection of the different menus. For a total view of all the menus, please refer to the following chart.

SONY SLV-SF900G - Menu chart - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["TIMER 28.9 THU"] --> B["LISTS"]
    B --> C["OPTIONS"]
    C --> D["SMARTFILE EDIT"]
    D --> E["SETTINGS"]
    E --> F["SELECT: OK SET EXIT: MENU"]

    G["CHANNEL LIST"] --> H["PROG: CH NAME"]
    H --> I["1 C12 AAB"]
    H --> J["2 C03 CDE"]
    H --> K["3 C56 LMO"]
    H --> L["4 C27"]
    H --> M["5 C09 FGH"]

    N["TIMER LIST 28.9 THU"] --> O["DATE: TIME PROG: R3"]
    O --> P["TODAY 20:00→21:00 AAB SP"]
    O --> Q["MON-FRI 14:00→15:00 FGH LP"]
    O --> R["30.9 20:00→21:00 AAB SP"]
    O --> S["SUN 6:30→7:00 IJK LP"]
    O --> T["2.10 10:00→11:30 CDE LP"]
    O --> U["---- --- ---- --- ----"]

    V["TIMER LIST"] --> W["PROG: CH NAME"]
    W --> X["1 C12 AAB"]
    W --> Y["2 C03 CDE"]
    W --> Z["3 C56 LMO"]
    W --> AA["4 C27"]
    W --> AB["5 C09 FGH"]

    AC["TIMER LIST"] --> AD["PROG: CH NAME"]
    AD --> AE["1 C12 AAB"]
    AC --> AF["2 C03 CDE"]
    AC --> AG["3 C56 LMO"]
    AC --> AH["4 C27"]
    AC --> AI["5 C09 FGH"]

    AJ["TIMER LIST"] --> AK["PROG: CH NAME"]
    AK --> AL["1 C12 AAB"]
    AJ --> AM["2 C03 CDE"]
    AJ --> AN["3 C56 LMO"]
    AJ --> AO["4 C27"]
    AJ --> AP["5 C09 FGH"]

    AQ["TIMER LIST"] --> AR["PROG: CH NAME"]
    AR --> AS["1 C12 AAB"]
    AQ --> AT["2 C03 CDE"]
    AQ --> AU["3 C56 LMO"]
    AQ --> AV["4 C27"]
    AQ --> AW["5 C09 FGH"]

    AX["TIMER LIST"] --> AY["PROG: CH NAME"]
    AY --> AZ["1 C12 AAB"]
    AX --> BA["2 C03 CDE"]
    AX --> BB["3 C56 LMO"]
    AX --> BC["4 C27"]
    AX --> BD["5 C09 FGH"]

    BE["TIMER LIST"] --> BF["PROG: CH NAME"]
    BF --> BG["1 C12 AAB"]
    BE --> BH["2 C03 CDE"]
    BE --> BI["3 C56 LMO"]
    BE --> BJ["4 C27"]
    BE --> BK["5 C09 FGH"]

    BL["TIMER LIST"] --> BM["PROG: CH NAME"]
    BM --> BN["1 C12 AAB"]
    BL --> BO["2 C03 CDE"]
    BL --> BP["3 C56 LMO"]
    BL --> BQ["4 C27"]
    BL --> BR["5 C09 FGH"]

    BS["TIMER LIST"] --> BT["PROG: CH NAME"]
    BT --> BU["1 C12 AAB"]
    BS --> BV["2 C03 CDE"]
    BS --> BW["3 C56 LMO"]
    BS --> BX["4 C27"]
    BS --> BY["5 C09 FGH"]

    CA["TIMER LIST"] --> CB["PROG: CH NAME"]
    CB --> CC["1 C12 AAB"]
    CA --> CD["2 C03 CDE"]
    CA --> CE["3 C56 LMO"]
    CA --> CF["4 C27"]
    CA --> CG["5 C09 FGH"]

    CE --> DH["PROG: CH NAME"]
    DH --> DI["1 C12 AAB"]
    CE --> DJ["2 C03 CDE"]
    CE --> DK["3 C56 LMO"]
    CE --> DL["4 C27"]
    CE --> DJ["5 C09 FGH"]

    BE --> DE["PROG: CH NAME"]
    DE --> DF["1 C12 AAB"]
    BE --> DG["2 C03 CDE"]
    BE --> DH

VIDEO OPTIONS OPC ON EDIT OFF SHARPNESS NORMAL RR NORMAL RETURN SELECT : * SET : OK EXIT : MENU

AUDIO OPTIONS AUDIO MIX OFF HIFI AUDIO NICAM RETURN SELECT : ✓ SET : OK EXIT : MENU

TAPE OPTIONS AUTO LONG PLAY OFF TAPE LENGTH E180 RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

OTHER OPTIONS BUZZER ON DIMMER OFF POWER SAVE OFF TIMER OPTIONS VARIABLE TV DIRECT REC ON RETURN SELECT : ♦ SET : OK EXIT : MENU

TUNER PROG. 1 CHANNEL SET C12 AAB AFT ON FINE TUNING RETURN SELECT : SET : OK EXIT : MENU

CLOCK AUTO ADJUST CLOCK PROGRAM 1 AAB MANUAL ADJUST 28 9 : 20:00 THU 18 : 0.0 SELECT : + CONFIRM : OK EXIT : MENU

LANGUAGE ENGLISH DEUTSCH FRANÇAIS ITALIANO ESPAÑOL PORTUGUÊS NEDERLANDS DANSK/NORSK SVENSKA SUOMI EALHNIKA TÜRKÇE SELECT : ⚠️ ✕️ SET : OK EXIT : MENU

TV GUIDE PAGE PROG .5 SUN P 3.0.1 MON P ... TUE P ... WED P ... THU P ... FRI P ... SAT P ... SELECT : SET : DK EXIT : MENU

SONY

Sony International (Europe) GmbH

Advanced Technology Center Stuttgart

Hedelfinger Straße 61, D-70327 Stuttgart

Telefon (0711) 58 58-0, Telefax (0711) 58 58-235

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

We Sony International (Europe) GmbH

Hedelfinger Str. 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany

declare under our sole responsibility that the product

Category Name: Video Cassette Recorder

Model Name: SLV-SF900G

to which this declaration relates is in conformity with the following standard(s) or other normative document(s)

Art.3.1 (a): EN 60065 (1998)

Art.3.1 (b): EN 55013 (1990) + Am. 12 (1994), EN 55020 (1990),

EN 61000-3-2 (1995), EN 61000-3-3 (1995), ETS 300683 (1997)

Art.3.2 : EN 300330 (1999)

Art.3.3 : not applicable

following the provisions of 1999/5/EC, R&TTE directive(s)

Germany, May 18, 2000

&TTE directive(s) Hubert Klamm

Senior Manager

Product Compliance Europe

Index

A

Accessories supplied 4

Adjusting

picture 27, 62

tracking 62

AFT (Auto Fine Tuning) 27

Audio track 60

Auto Clock set 22

Auto Set Up 18

C

Changing the programme position 30

Clock setting 19

Colour system

compatible colour systems 2

setting 38

Connecting

the VCR to the TV with a EURO- AV (Scart) connector 9

the VCR to the TV with an aerial cable only 12

to a Set - Top Box 13

to a stereo system 14

Counter 38

D

Disabling the programme positions 32

Dubbing. see Editing

E

Editing 67

EP mode 38

EURO-AV connection 9

H

Hi-fi audio track 60

|

Index Search 61

L

Language selecting 24

LP mode 41

M

Menu options 64

Monitoring

during playback 59

during recording 59

N

NICAM broadcasts 59

Normal audio track 60

O

OPC (Optimum Picture Control) 62

P

PDC (Programme Delivery

Control) 47

Personal code 34

Picture adjustment. See Adjusting

Playback 37

at various speeds 38, 52

selecting the sound 59

slow motion 52

Power save 66

Presetting channels 25

R

Recording 40

bilingual programmes 59

saving 42

using the VIDEO Plus + system 44

what you are watching on the TV 43

while watching another programme 42

Remote commander 5

RF channel 15, 17

RR (Reality Regenerator) 62

S

Safety tab 42

Searching

at various speeds 52

using the index function 61

Set - Top Box

connecting 13

line through 13

SMARTFILE 70

checking the contents of a tape 78

demonstration 71

erasing the data of an unwanted programme 92

labelling a recorded programme and tape 80

protecting a recorded programme 90

recording 72

registering the contents of a recorded tape in the SmartFile label 88 selecting 77

SmartFile label 4, 72

SMARTLINK 11

Automatic Power Off 11

connection 9

NexTView Download 11

One Touch Menu 11

One Touch Play 11, 39

One Touch Timer 11

Preset Download 11

TV Direct Rec 11, 43

SP mode 41

Station name

changing 28

setting 28

Synchronized Recording 55

T

Timer recording 44, 49

overlapping timer recording 58

using the VIDEO Plus + system 44

Timer setting

cancelling 57

changing 57

checking 57

daily/weekly recording 47, 51

Tracking adjustment. See Adjusting

V

VPS (Video Programme System) 47

Sony on line

http://www.world.sony.com/

Table of contents Click a title to access it
Manual assistant
Powered by Anthropic
Waiting for your message
Product information

Brand : SONY

Model : SLV-SF900G

Category : Video recorder