RCA SCENIUM HDTV Monitor User's Guide

Important Information

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

This symbol indicates "dangerous voltage" inside the product that presents a risk of electric shock or personal injury.

This symbol indicates important instructions accompanying the product.

The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Refer to the identification/rating label located on the back panel of your product for its proper operating voltage.

FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void the user's authority to operate it.

Using video games or any external accessory with fixed images for extended periods of time can cause them to be permanently imprinted on the picture tube (or projection TV picture tubes). ALSO, some network/program logos, phone numbers, black borders (sides, top and bottom), etc. may cause similar damage. This damage is not covered by your warranty.

Cable TV Installer: This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the National Electrical Code (Section 54 of the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1) which provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

Do not use the Freeze feature for an extended period of time. This can cause the image to be permanently imprinted on the picture tube. Such damage is not covered by your warranty. Press any button to unfreeze the picture at any time.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card (packed separately) and return it immediately. Returning the card allows us to contact you if needed.

Product Information

Keep your sales receipt to obtain warranty parts and service and for proof of purchase. Attach it here and record the serial and model numbers in case you need them. These numbers are located on the product.

• Model No.: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
• Serial No.: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
• Purchase Date: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
• Dealer/Address/Phone: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Introduction

Key Features Overview

Your TV is equipped with features that will add to your TV viewing experience. The following information summarizes a few of these features. Chapter 3 provides more information about the rest of the TV's features and how to use them.

DVI-HDTV Input

Lets you connect an HD receiver with a DVI output.

• DVI (Digital Visual Interface) Provides an uncompressed, digital video interface developed for high-bandwidth digital connection. It supports the overlay of high-resolution graphics needed by some electronic program guide navigation and other interactive services. DVI, when combined with HDCP (High bandwidth Digital Content Protection) technology, creates a protected digital connection. The signal speed of the DVI connection is 1080i for HDTV at a rate of 1.78 Gigabits per second.

Dolby* Virtual

Available only for stereo signals. Creates a virtualized surround sound experience from two speakers using the Dolby Pro Logic decoding. It provides the sensation of being surrounded by additional speakers.

PIP (Picture-In-Picture) and POP (Picture-Outside-Picture)

Description: PIP lets you watch two channels at one time -- one channel on the main screen and the other in a smaller window. POP also lets you watch two channels at one time- one channel on the left side of the screen (the main picture) and the other on the right.

Requirements: Press the PIP button to bring up the PIP window. Press again to bring up POP. Chapter 3 has detailed instructions on how to use the PIP and POP features.

Auto Tuning

Description: Allows you to set up the TV to automatically tune to a specific channel when you press a certain component (VCR, DVD player, etc.) button on the remote.

Requirements: Set up Auto Tuning in the TV's menu system. (Chapter 3 has details).

V-Chip: Parental Controls

Description: You can block programs and movies by content, age-based ratings, and/or movie ratings.

Requirements:

• Set up the Parental Control menu in the TV's main menu (Chapter 3 has details).
• The broadcasters must use the rating system when they send the program to your TV in order for your TV to block the program.
• Parental controls must be locked for these settings to take affect.

* Dolby is a trademark of Dolby Laboratories

Connections & Setup

Things to Consider Before You Connect

Protect Against Power Surges

• Connect all components before you plug any of their power cords into the wall outlet.
• Turn off the TV and/or component before you connect or disconnect any cables.
• Make sure all antennas and cables are properly grounded. Refer to the Important Safety Instructions on page 1.

Protect Components from Overheating

• Don't block ventilation holes on any of the components. Arrange the components so that air can circulate freely.
• Don't stack components.
• When you place components in a stand, make sure you allow adequate ventilation.
• If you connect an audio receiver or amplifier, place it on the top shelf so the heated air from it won't flow around other components.

Position Cables Properly to Avoid Audio Interference

• Insert each cable firmly into the designated jack.
• If you place components above the TV, route all cables down the side of the back of the TV instead of straight down the middle of the TV.
• If your antenna uses 300-ohm twin lead cables, do not coil the cables. Also, keep the twin lead cables away from audio/video cables.

Important Stand and Base Safety Information

Choose the location for your TV carefully. Place the TV on a stand or base that is of adequate size and strength to prevent the TV from being accidentally tipped over, pushed off, or pulled off. This could cause personal injury and/ or damage the TV. Refer to the Important Safety Instructions on page 1.

Use Indirect Light

Don't place the TV where sunlight or room lighting will be directed toward the screen. Use soft or indirect lighting.

Cables Needed to Connect Components to Your TV

The pictures below show the cables needed for the connections represented in this book.

• Audio/Video cables
• Coaxial cable
• S-Video cable
• Component Video (YPbPr) cables

Choose Your Connection

There are several ways to connect your TV. Please use the following chart to determine which connection is best for you. Proceed to the appropriate page and connect your TV.

Note: If you prefer, we can provide you with the name of an Authorized Service Representative who will visit your home for a fee to install your electronic entertainment system and to instruct you in its operation. For details about this service, call 1-888-206-3359.

For general information on connecting an A/V receiver or speakers to your TV, go to page 9.

TV + HD Receiver + VCR + DVD Player

Diagrams illustrating the connection of an HD Receiver, DVD player, and VCR to the TV. Follow the numbered steps for proper connection.

1. Make sure cable or antenna and/or satellite is connected to your VCR.
2. Connect your HD Receiver to your TV.
3. Connect your HD Receiver to your VCR.
4. Connect your VCR to your TV.
5. Connect your DVD player to your TV.

TV + Satellite Receiver + VCR

Diagrams illustrating the connection of a Satellite Receiver and VCR to the TV. Follow the numbered steps for proper connection.

1. Connect your VCR to your TV.
2. Make sure cable or antenna is connected to your VCR.
3. Connect your Satellite Receiver to your TV.

TV + DVD + VCR

Diagrams illustrating the connection of a DVD Player and VCR to the TV. Follow the numbered steps for proper connection.

1. Connect your DVD Player to your TV.
2. Connect your VCR to your TV.
3. Make sure cable or antenna is connected to your VCR.

TV+ A/V Receiver or Speakers

Describes two ways to connect audio components or external speakers to the TV.

1. Connect audio cables to either the FIXED or VARIABLE AUDIO L and R OUTPUT jacks and to the Audio Inputs on the A/V receiver.
2. Use speaker wire to connect the TV to external speakers.

Explanation of Jacks

This section describes the jacks you can use to make connections. There are several ways to connect components to your TV.

• DVI-HDTV Input: Connects an HD receiver with a DVI output. Supports digital video interface for high-bandwidth connections.
• COMPONENT INPUTS: Connects component video sources like DVD players. Includes CMP1 and CMP2 jacks for video (Y, PB, PR) and audio (L/MONO, R).
• COMPOSITE INPUTS: Connects VCRs, DVD players, or laserdisc players. Includes VIDEO (V), L/MONO, and R jacks. Also includes S-VIDEO input for better picture quality.
• AUDIO/VIDEO OUTPUTS: Provides audio output (FIXED AUDIO L/R, VARIABLE AUDIO, SUBWOOFER) for connecting to amplifiers or receivers.
• EXTERNAL SPEAKERS: Terminals for connecting left and right external speakers. Includes an EXT/INT switch to select internal or external speakers.
• ANTENNA/CABLE: Connects a coaxial cable for antenna, cable, or VCR signals.

The Front of Your TV

Front Inputs

The TV has front inputs for convenience: one set of audio/video inputs, an S-Video, and a headphone jack. These are ideal for using a video game console or a camcorder. The INPUT button on the remote selects the front input (FRNT).

• PHONES: Connect headphones.
• VIDEO (in): Receives video from components.
• L/MONO and R AUDIO: Receives audio from components.
• S-VIDEO (in): Connects an S-Video cable from a component.

Front Panel Buttons

If the remote is lost, these buttons operate TV features:

• MENU/OK: Accesses Main menu or selects items.
• CH v / CH ^: Scan channels down/up; acts as down/up arrow in menus.
• VOL < / VOL >: Adjust volume; acts as left/right arrow in menus.
• POWER: Turns the TV on and off.

Plug in the TV

Plug the power cord into a grounded wall outlet.

Put batteries in the remote

Insert 2 "AA" batteries, ensuring correct polarity.

How to Use the Remote Control to Complete the Initial Setup

The TV guides you through an initial setup process upon first power-on. This involves navigating menus using the remote's arrow buttons and the OK button to select options.

• Set the Menu Language: Select your preferred language.
• Complete Auto Channel Search: The TV scans for available channels.
• Changing Lists and Labels: Customize channel lists and assign labels.
• Auto Convergence: Adjusts picture tube alignment for optimal color display.

Using the Remote Control

The Buttons on the Remote Control

The remote control has numerous buttons for operating the TV and other connected components.

• Number Buttons (0-9): Enter channel numbers and time settings.
• Arrows: Navigate menus and adjust settings.
• AUX: Puts the remote in AUX mode for controlling other components.
• Backlight: Illuminates buttons in the dark.
• CH +/-: Scan channels up or down.
• CH +/- PIP: Change channels in PIP/POP windows.
• CLEAR: Removes menus or displays.
• DISC MENU: Accesses DVD menus (when in DVD mode).
• DVD: Puts the remote in DVD mode.
• FREEZE: Freezes the current picture. Avoid prolonged use to prevent screen burn-in.
• GO BACK: Returns to the previous channel.
• GUIDE: Displays the Channel Guide menu.
• INFO: Displays status information.
• INPUT: Cycles through available input sources.
• MENU: Accesses the Main menu.
• MUTE: Silences the TV's audio.
• OK/FREEZE: Selects menu items or freezes the picture.
• ON/OFF: Powers the TV or programmed components on/off.
• PIP: Activates Picture-In-Picture or Picture-Outside-Picture modes.
• Transport Controls (REVERSE, PLAY, FORWARD, RECORD, STOP, PAUSE): Control VCRs, DVD players, etc.
• SAT CABLE: Puts the remote in SAT CABLE mode.
• SKIP: Delays channel change for a set time.
• SOUND ANT: Displays Picture and Sound preset settings.
• SWAP: Swaps PIP/POP windows.
• TV: Puts the remote in TV mode.

Using the INPUT Button

Use the INPUT button to scroll through available input channels and view connected components.

Programming the Remote to Operate Other Components

The universal remote can be programmed to control most brands of components. It is pre-programmed for RCA, GE, and Proscan devices. The AUX button can also be programmed.

Find Out If You Need to Program the Remote

Turn on the component and test basic remote functions (ON/OFF, CH +/-). If it doesn't respond, programming is required.

Programming the Remote

Two methods are available: automatic code search and direct entry.

• Automatic Code Search: Turn on the component, press and hold the component button (e.g., VCR1), then press ON/OFF until the indicator lights up. Release buttons. Press PLAY repeatedly until the component turns off. Confirm with REVERSE and STOP.
• Direct Entry: Look up the brand and code in the provided lists. Enter the 4-digit code using the number buttons while holding the component button. Test with ON/OFF.

How to Use the Remote After You've Programmed It

Press the appropriate component button (TV, VCR1, DVD, etc.) to select the mode before operating the component.

Remote Control Codes

Extensive lists of codes are provided for programming the remote to control various brands of VCRs, Cable Boxes, DVDs, Satellite Receivers, and Audio devices.

Using the TV's Features

Channel Banner

The Channel Banner displays information when TV or INFO buttons are pressed:

• 4/3 format: Current screen format.
• Mono/Stereo: Broadcast audio type.
• SAP: Second Audio Program information.
• CC: Closed Captioning availability.
• Time: Current time display.
• Channel Label: Current channel and its assigned label.
• Commercial skip timer: Counts down remaining time for commercial skip.
• Mute indicator: Shown when the sound is muted.

Autotuning

Autotuning automatically tunes the TV to the correct channel for connected components. This eliminates the need to manually change channels when switching devices.

How to Set Up the Autotuning Feature

Access the Setup menu, select Autotuning, and choose the appropriate channel assignment for each component (VCR1, VCR2, DVD, SAT/Cable) based on how it's connected (e.g., CABLE/ANTENNA, VID1/VID2, FRNT).

Parental Controls and V-Chip

The V-Chip system allows blocking of TV programs and movies based on content ratings and themes. Parental controls can be locked with a password.

How V-Chip Works

V-Chip uses age-based ratings (e.g., TV-MA, TV-14) and content themes (Violence, Language, etc.) to block content. Broadcasters are not required to provide themes, so blocking may rely on ratings alone.

V-Chip Rating Screen

This screen allows selection of age-based ratings and content themes to block or view. Settings are indicated by color: green for View, red for Block.

Blocking Age-Based Ratings

Automatically block ratings above a specified level. To block, scroll to the lowest unwanted rating and toggle to 'Block'. Lock Parental Controls for settings to take effect.

Viewing Age-Based Ratings

Change blocked ratings back to 'View' if needed.

Blocking Specific Content Themes

Block programs based on content themes (D, L, S, V, FV). Blocking a theme for one rating also blocks it for higher ratings.

Viewing Specific Content Themes

Change specific content themes back to 'View' if desired.

V-Chip Movie Rating Limit

Set movie rating limits by blocking movies rated above a specified level.

V-Chip Unrated Program Block

Choose whether to view or block programs recognized as 'unrated' (news, sports, etc.).

Lock/Unlock Parental Controls

Lock or unlock parental control settings using a password. If the password is forgotten, a specific button combination can unlock it.

Front Panel Block

Disable or enable the TV's front panel buttons. Remember to lock parental controls for this setting to be effective.

PIP (Picture-in-Picture) and POP (Picture-outside-Picture) Operation

PIP displays a smaller picture within the main picture. POP displays two windows side-by-side. These features are not available for DVI or component video sources.

PIP and POP Buttons

Use the PIP button to activate/deactivate PIP/POP. Arrow buttons move the PIP window. SWAP exchanges PIP/POP windows. PIP CH+/- changes channels in the PIP/POP window.

Using the TV's Menu System

Sound Menu

Adjusts TV speakers and subwoofer. Options include Left/Right balance, speaker selection (External/Internal), Subwoofer settings, Sound type (Mono, Stereo, Automatic), Sound Mode (Normal, Wide, Magic, Dolby Virtual), Surround effect, Second Audio Program (SAP), Automatic sound level, Headphone settings, and Graphic equalizer presets.

Picture Menu

Applies to video for the main TV and input selections. Options include Advanced picture settings (Contrast expand, SVM, Autoformat, Video noise reduction), Picture Presets (Movie, Videogame, etc.), Black Level, Color, Contrast, Sharpness, Color Warmth, and Tint.

Channel Guide Menu

Allows viewing and selection of channels from the entire list, including assigned labels.

Time Menu

Settings for Sleep Timer, current Time, and Wake up timer (including time, duration, channel, and daily options).

Parental Control Menu

Refer to Chapter 3 for detailed information on Parental Controls and V-Chip settings.

PIP Menu

Controls PIP display: Display Mode (Off, PIP, POP), PIP channel selection, PIP size (Small, Medium, Large), and PIP position (corners of the screen).

Setup Menu

Includes Channel setup (Signal Type, Auto channel search, Auto channel update, List and labels), Preferences (Language, Maximum volume, Curtain effect, Special features), Closed caption settings, Autotuning, and Convergence settings.

Other Information

Troubleshooting

Provides solutions for common TV problems:

• TV won't turn on: Check power, remote, front panel controls.
• Buttons don't work: Check remote mode, front panel controls, power cycle the TV.
• TV turns off while playing: Check Sleep timer or electronic protection.
• TV turns on unexpectedly: Check Wake up timer or Auto on settings.
• Blank screen: Ensure connected component is on, try another channel.
• No sound, picture okay: Check mute, audio connections, INT/EXT switch, sound settings.
• Can't select certain channel: Check Parental Controls or VCR/TV/VCR mode.
• Noisy stereo reception: Try mono sound.
• No picture/blue screen, no sound but TV is on: Check cable/air function, blank channels, VCR connection and mode.
• Sound okay, picture poor: Check antenna connections, adjust sharpness.
• Volume buttons not adjusting volume louder: Check maximum volume setting.
• Picture not moving: Unfreeze the picture.
• Black box appears on the screen: Check Closed Caption settings.
• Freeze not working: Not available for Component or DVI inputs.
• Low battery warning: Replace remote batteries.

The Remote Control Doesn't Work

Troubleshooting steps include checking for obstructions, aiming, remote mode, battery status, and performing a remote microprocessor reset.

Problems with V-Chip/Parental Controls

Ensure Parental Controls are locked. If password is forgotten, a specific unlock procedure is available. Unrated programs may need specific 'View' settings.

Care and Cleaning

Turn off the TV before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid strong cleaning agents. Do not spray liquid directly on the screen. Be cautious of permanent image imprinting from fixed images.

Limited Warranty

Covers defects in materials and workmanship for one year (labor/parts), two years for the picture tube. Details service procedures, exclusions (customer instruction, misuse, batteries, etc.), and warranty limitations. Governed by Indiana law.

Accessories

Lists available accessories like antenna cables, signal splitters, surge protectors, and audio/video adapters with part numbers and prices. Ordering information by phone or mail is provided.