LG RC897T VHS to DVD Recorder VCR Combo Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The LG RC897T is a versatile DVD Recorder/VCR Combo unit designed for playing and recording both VHS tapes and DVDs. It features a built-in Digital Tuner and supports 2-Way Dubbing, allowing you to transfer your VHS tapes to DVD. This unit records onto DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W, and DVD-RAM media. It also enables recording of TV shows directly from a cable box or satellite receiver.

Figure 1: Front view of the LG RC897T unit, showing the VHS and DVD trays, control buttons, and included accessories like the remote control, instruction manual, and blank DVDs.

Included Components:

• LG RC897T DVD Recorder/VCR Combo Unit
• Remote Control
• Instruction Manual
• HDMI Cable
• AV Cable (Red, White, Yellow)
• Blank DVDs (for immediate recording)

2. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to connect your LG RC897T unit to your television and other devices.

2.1 Connecting to a Television

1. HDMI Connection (Recommended for best quality): Connect one end of the provided HDMI cable to the HDMI OUT port on the rear of the LG RC897T unit and the other end to an available HDMI IN port on your television.
2. AV Connection (Standard Definition): If your TV does not have an HDMI port, connect the provided AV cable (red, white, yellow) from the VIDEO OUT and AUDIO OUT (L/R) ports on the rear of the LG RC897T to the corresponding VIDEO IN and AUDIO IN (L/R) ports on your television.

2.2 Power Connection

Plug the power cord of the LG RC897T into a standard electrical outlet.

2.3 Initial Power On

Press the Power button on the front panel of the unit or on the remote control to turn on the device. Follow any on-screen prompts for initial setup, such as language selection or channel scanning if using the digital tuner.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the LG RC897T, highlighting the HDMI, Component, S-Video, and Audio/Video (RCA) input/output connections for connecting to a TV or other media devices.

3. Operating Instructions

This section details how to play VHS tapes and DVDs, and how to record from VHS to DVD.

3.1 Playing VHS Tapes

1. Insert a VHS tape into the VCR slot on the left side of the unit.
2. Press the VCR/DVD Source button on the front panel or remote to select VCR mode.
3. Press the Play button (►) to begin playback.
4. Use the Rewind (◀◀), Fast Forward (►►), and Stop/Eject (■/▲) buttons for tape control.

3.2 Playing DVDs

1. Press the Open/Close button (▲) on the right side of the unit to open the DVD tray.
2. Place a DVD disc onto the tray with the label facing up, then press Open/Close again to close the tray.
3. Press the VCR/DVD Source button on the front panel or remote to select DVD mode.
4. The DVD should begin playing automatically. If not, press the Play button (►).

3.3 Recording VHS to DVD (2-Way Dubbing)

This feature allows you to transfer content from a VHS tape to a blank DVD.

1. Insert the VHS tape you wish to record from into the VCR slot.
2. Insert a blank, recordable DVD (DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W, or DVD-RAM) into the DVD tray.
3. Ensure the unit is in the correct source mode for dubbing (refer to the full manual for specific dubbing instructions, usually involving a 'D.Dubbing' or 'Record' function while the source is playing).
4. Press the Record button (●) to start recording.
5. Press Stop (■) when you wish to end the recording.

4. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your LG RC897T unit.

4.1 Cleaning the Unit

• Exterior: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water and a mild detergent, then wipe dry. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation slots on the unit are not blocked to prevent overheating. Regularly dust the vents.
• Disc Tray: Keep the disc tray clean and free of dust or debris.

4.2 Tape and Disc Care

• Store VHS tapes and DVDs in their cases to protect them from dust, scratches, and direct sunlight.
• Avoid touching the recording surface of discs. Hold them by the edges.
• Clean dirty discs with a soft, lint-free cloth, wiping from the center outwards.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your LG RC897T, refer to the following common troubleshooting tips.

5.1 No Power

• Check if the power cord is securely plugged into both the unit and the electrical outlet.
• Verify that the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.

5.2 No Picture or Sound

• Ensure all video and audio cables (HDMI or AV) are correctly connected between the unit and the TV.
• Confirm that your TV input/source is set to the correct input where the LG RC897T is connected (e.g., HDMI 1, Video 1).
• If using AV cables, check that the red, white, and yellow connectors match the corresponding colors on both devices.

5.3 Disc/Tape Playback Issues

• Clean the disc or tape if it appears dirty or smudged.
• Try playing a different disc or tape to determine if the issue is with the media or the unit.
• For VHS tapes, ensure the tape is fully inserted and the VCR mode is selected.

5.4 Recording Problems

• Ensure you are using a blank, recordable DVD (DVD-R/W, DVD+R/W, or DVD-RAM).
• Check the remaining space on the DVD.
• Refer to the detailed recording instructions in the full user manual for specific steps and settings.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

This product is guaranteed to be 100% working. For any issues or support needs, please refer to the comprehensive manual included with your purchase. For returns, a hassle-free return process is available through Amazon.

For further assistance, please consult the official LG support channels or the detailed user manual provided with your unit.