1. Introduction
The Philips DVDR3575H/37 is a versatile Hard Disk/DVD Recorder designed to enhance your home entertainment experience. This unit combines a 160 GB built-in Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for recording and storing your favorite programs, an ATSC digital tuner for receiving digital HD TV broadcasts, and a dual-media DVD recorder compatible with both DVD-R/-RW and DVD+R/+RW formats. It features 1080p/720p upscaling via HDMI for high-definition picture performance and supports DivX playback for downloaded PC movies. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your recorder.
2. Important Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before operating this device. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to the power supply indicated on the rating label.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings. Do not place the unit on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation slots.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
- Heat: Do not place the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Cleaning: Unplug the unit from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
3. What's in the Box
Carefully unpack the box and ensure all items are present:
- Philips DVDR3575H/37 Hard Disk/DVD Recorder Unit
- Remote Control
- A/V Cable
- RF Antenna Cable
- User Manual (this document)
- 2 x AAA Batteries
- Warranty Leaflet
4. Product Overview
4.1 Main Unit
Figure 1: Front view of the Philips DVDR3575H/37 Hard Disk/DVD Recorder. This image shows the sleek black and silver design of the unit, with the disc tray visible on the front panel.
Figure 2: Angled front view of the Philips DVDR3575H/37 Hard Disk/DVD Recorder, highlighting the disc tray and front panel controls.
The front panel includes the disc tray, power button, and basic playback controls. The rear panel features various input/output ports for connecting to your television and other audio/video equipment.
4.2 Remote Control
Figure 3: The remote control for the Philips DVDR3575H/37. It features dedicated buttons for source selection (USB, HDMI, DTV/TV), HDD and DVD functions, playback controls (Play, Pause, Stop, Rew, FFW), recording (REC), and channel/volume adjustments. Numeric buttons and special function keys like 'Pause Live TV' and 'Skip' are also present.
The remote control provides full functionality for operating your recorder. Insert the two AAA batteries provided, ensuring correct polarity. Familiarize yourself with the button layout for efficient use.
5. Setup
5.1 Connecting to Your TV
Choose one of the following connection methods based on your TV's available inputs:
- HDMI Connection (Recommended for 1080p Upscaling):
Connect an HDMI cable (not included) from the HDMI OUT port on the recorder to an HDMI IN port on your TV. This connection provides the best picture and sound quality, supporting 1080p/720p upscaling. - A/V (Composite) Connection:
Connect the yellow, white, and red A/V cables from the A/V OUT ports on the recorder to the corresponding A/V IN ports on your TV. This provides standard definition video and stereo audio.
5.2 Antenna/Cable Connection
The DVDR3575H/37 includes a built-in ATSC digital tuner for receiving over-the-air (OTA) digital broadcasts.
- Connect your antenna or cable TV signal directly to the ANT IN port on the recorder using the RF antenna cable.
- If you have an older TV with only a cable input and wish to record from a cable box, you may need to connect the cable box to the recorder's A/V IN ports. The recorder's built-in tuner may not be able to scroll through channels from an external cable box directly. In such cases, you would tune channels on your cable box and record the output via the A/V connection.
5.3 Initial Power-On and Setup Wizard
After connecting all cables:
- Insert the batteries into the remote control.
- Plug the recorder's power cord into an electrical outlet.
- Press the POWER button on the unit or remote control.
- Follow the on-screen instructions for the initial setup wizard, which typically includes language selection, time zone, and channel scanning for the built-in tuner.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Basic Playback
- Playing a DVD: Insert a DVD into the disc tray. The unit should automatically switch to DVD mode and begin playback. If not, press the DVD button on the remote.
- Playing from HDD: Press the HDD button on the remote to access recorded programs. Use the arrow keys and OK to select and play a title.
- Playing DivX/MP3/WMA/CD: Insert the disc or connect a USB device (if applicable). Use the SOURCE button to select USB if playing from a USB drive.
6.2 Recording Programs
The DVDR3575H/37 allows recording to its internal 160 GB HDD or to a blank DVD.
- Instant Recording: While watching TV, press the REC button on the remote to start recording to the HDD. Press REC again to extend recording time. Press STOP to end recording.
- Timer Recording: Use the TIMER button to set up scheduled recordings. You will need to manually input the date, start time, end time, and channel.
- Recording to DVD: Insert a blank DVD. You can record directly to DVD or transfer content from the HDD to DVD. Refer to the on-screen menu for DVD recording options.
6.3 Pause Live TV and Instant Replay
When watching live TV through the recorder's tuner, you can:
- Press PAUSE LIVE TV to temporarily pause the broadcast. Press it again to resume.
- Press REPLAY to instantly jump back a few seconds in the live broadcast.
6.4 Upscaling and HDMI Output
The recorder can upscale standard definition content to 1080p or 720p resolution when connected via HDMI. Ensure your TV is set to the correct HDMI input to benefit from this feature.
6.5 i-Link (FireWire) Connection
Use the i-Link port to connect compatible camcorders for easy transfer and recording of video content to the HDD or DVD.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Cleaning the Unit
To maintain optimal performance and appearance:
- Unplug the unit from the power outlet before cleaning.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior surfaces.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents as they can damage the finish.
- For the disc tray, use a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid touching the lens inside the disc tray.
7.2 Disc Care
- Handle discs by their edges to avoid fingerprints.
- Store discs in their cases to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
- Clean dirty discs with a soft, lint-free cloth, wiping from the center outwards.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Philips DVDR3575H/37, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| No power | Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into both the unit and a working electrical outlet. |
| No picture/sound | Check all audio/video cable connections (HDMI, A/V). Ensure your TV is set to the correct input source. |
| Cannot record from cable box / Only one channel records | This model may have limitations with external cable boxes. Connect the cable box to the recorder's A/V IN ports and tune channels directly on the cable box. The recorder will record the output from the cable box. |
| HD signals record as Standard Definition (SD) | The built-in ATSC tuner receives HD signals but records them in standard definition. This is a design characteristic of the unit. |
| Picture has black borders (4:3 content on 16:9 TV) | When playing 4:3 content on a 16:9 widescreen TV, black borders may appear. Use the zoom function on your TV or the recorder's remote control to adjust the aspect ratio. |
| DVD loading is slow | This is a known characteristic due to the unit's compatibility with multiple DVD formats. Allow sufficient time for discs to load. |
| Remote control not responding | Check and replace batteries if necessary. Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the unit's IR sensor. |
| Titling recorded tracks is tedious | The text input method for titling uses numeric buttons. While cumbersome, it is the standard input method for this device. Plan to title recordings immediately after they are made for easier identification. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DVDR3575H/37 |
| Brand | Philips |
| Hard Disk Drive | 160 GB |
| DVD Recording Formats | DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW |
| Upscaling Resolution | 1080p/720p via HDMI |
| Built-In Tuner | ATSC Digital TV Tuner |
| Supported Media Types | CD, DVD, DivX, MP3, WMA |
| Connectivity | HDMI, A/V (Composite), i-Link (FireWire) |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo, Dolby Digital, DTS decoder |
| Product Dimensions | 10 x 16.5 x 2.3 inches |
| Item Weight | 7.5 pounds (approx. 3400 grams) |
| Color | Black |
10. Warranty and Support
This Philips product is covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty leaflet included in your product packaging for detailed terms and conditions, including warranty period and coverage.
For technical support, service, or further assistance, please visit the official Philips support website or contact Philips customer service in your region. Keep your purchase receipt and model number handy when contacting support.
