Sylvania DVR90DEA DVD Recorder Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Sylvania DVR90DEA DVD Recorder. This device combines DVD playback and recording capabilities, allowing you to record television programs or other video sources onto DVD-R/RW discs and enjoy various media formats.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure safe and efficient operation. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Safety Information

• Power Supply: Ensure the unit is connected to a power source within the specified voltage range.
• Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Allow adequate space around the unit for proper airflow to prevent overheating.
• Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or excessive humidity.
• Cleaning: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Analog Tuner Notice: This device includes an analog broadcast tuner. After February 17, 2009, a converter box may be required to receive over-the-air broadcasts with an antenna due to the transition to digital broadcasting in the U.S. This does not affect its use with cable, satellite, gaming consoles, VCRs, or DVD players.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Sylvania DVR90DEA DVD Recorder/Player Unit
• Remote Control (with 2 AA batteries)
• Composite AV Cable
• RF Cable
• Printed Operating Instructions Manual

4. Setup

4.1 Connecting to a Television

The DVR90DEA offers several options for connecting to your television. Choose the connection type that provides the best quality supported by your TV.

• Component Video (480i/480p): For the highest quality analog video. Connect the Y, Pb, Pr output jacks on the recorder to the corresponding input jacks on your TV. Also connect the L/R audio output jacks.
• S-Video: Provides better video quality than Composite Video. Connect the S-Video output jack on the recorder to the S-Video input on your TV. Also connect the L/R audio output jacks.
• Composite AV (RCA): Standard video and stereo audio connection. Connect the yellow video output jack and the red/white audio output jacks on the recorder to the corresponding input jacks on your TV.
• RF (Coaxial): Connect the RF OUT jack on the recorder to the antenna/cable input on your TV. This connection provides both video and audio over a single cable but offers the lowest quality.

4.2 Connecting to Other Devices (e.g., Cable Box, VCR)

To record from external sources, connect them to the recorder's input jacks.

• Composite AV (RCA): The recorder has two Composite AV input sets (one on the front, one on the rear). Connect the video and audio output from your cable box or VCR to these inputs.
• S-Video: The recorder has two S-Video input jacks (one on the front, one on the rear). Connect the S-Video output from your source device to these inputs. Remember to also connect the L/R audio cables for stereo sound.
• RF: Connect the RF IN jack on the recorder to your antenna or cable wall outlet.

Note on Stereo Audio: When recording from a cable box, using RCA or S-Video connections for audio will provide a stereo signal. Recording via the RF cable may result in a mono signal.

4.3 Power Connection

After all audio/video connections are made, plug the recorder's power cord into a standard AC outlet.

4.4 Initial Setup and Clock Setting

Upon first power-on, follow the on-screen prompts to set the clock and perform initial tuner setup. Accurate clock setting is crucial for timer recordings.

Front view of the Sylvania DVR90DEA DVD Recorder, showing the disc tray, control buttons, and front panel input ports.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Playback

• Loading a Disc: Press the OPEN/CLOSE button to open the disc tray. Place a DVD or CD with the label side up. Press OPEN/CLOSE again to close the tray.
• Starting Playback: The disc will usually begin playing automatically. If not, press the PLAY button on the remote control or front panel.
• Supported Formats: The recorder supports playback of DVD-Video, CD-Audio, CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW, MP3, WMA, and JPEG files.

5.2 Recording Video

The DVR90DEA can record video onto DVD-R or DVD-RW discs. Ensure you have a compatible blank disc inserted.

5.2.1 Manual Recording

1. Select the desired input source (e.g., L1 for Composite/S-Video, TV for tuner).
2. Press the REC button. Recording will begin immediately.
3. To extend recording time, press REC again. Each press adds 30 minutes, up to a maximum of 4 hours.
4. To stop recording, press the STOP button.

5.2.2 Timer Recording

The recorder supports up to eight timer recordings over a one-year period.

1. Access the timer recording menu via the remote control.
2. Set the start time, end time, date (or recurrence), input source, and channel (if using the internal tuner).
3. Important: Double-check AM/PM settings for accuracy. It is recommended to set the recording to start a minute or two before the program begins and end a minute or two after to avoid missing content.
4. Ensure the recorder is powered off or in standby mode for timer recording to activate. The unit will power on automatically and load the disc approximately one to two minutes before the scheduled recording.

5.2.3 Recording Speeds

The DVR90DEA offers six DVD recording speeds, providing between one and ten hours of content on a single-sided 4.7 GB recordable DVD. Press the REC SPEED button to cycle through available modes.

• SP (Standard Play): Approximately 2 hours of recording time with high quality.
• LP (Long Play): Approximately 4 hours of recording time with good quality.
• Other modes offer longer recording times at progressively lower video quality.

Recommendation: For best results, use SP or LP modes. Avoid using slower speeds for content intended for long-term viewing. Avoid mixing different recording speeds on the same disc if possible.

5.3 Disc Finalization

After recording, you must "finalize" the DVD-R or DVD-RW disc if you intend to play it on other DVD players or a computer DVD drive. Discs that are not finalized can typically only be played back on the DVR90DEA unit that recorded them.

1. Insert the recorded disc into the recorder.
2. Access the Disc Menu (usually via a dedicated button on the remote or through the setup menu).
3. Select the "Finalize" option.
4. Confirm the action. The finalization process may take a few minutes.

5.4 Editing Features

The recorder includes basic editing features for recorded content:

• Auto Playlist Creation: Automatically organizes recorded segments.
• Project Titling: Allows you to name your recorded discs or individual titles.
• Title Deletion and Editing: Remove unwanted titles or segments.
• Scene Deletion: Delete specific scenes within a recorded title.

Refer to the detailed operating instructions in the printed manual for specific steps on using these editing functions.

5.5 Playing MP3, WMA, and JPEG Files

The DVR90DEA can play MP3 and WMA audio files, and display JPEG image files burned onto CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW discs.

• Insert a disc containing these files.
• The unit will typically display a menu allowing you to navigate folders and select files.
• JPEG files can be viewed as a slideshow, often with background music if audio files are also present on the disc.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning the Unit: Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Disc Care: Handle discs by their edges. Keep them clean and free of scratches. Store discs in their cases when not in use.
• Lens Cleaning: Avoid attempting to clean the internal optical lens yourself. If disc reading issues persist, consult a qualified service technician.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or contact Sylvania customer service. Many Sylvania products are supported by Funai Corporation. You may find their contact information in the included manual or on the official Sylvania/Funai website.

When contacting support, please have your model number (DVR90DEA) and purchase information readily available.