How can I make my vcr record?

Question

I have connected my new digital converter Box to my tv, I can play DVDs and VHS tapes but I need to understand how to make my previously programmed VCR to record when am not home, like it did before I added the Digital Converter Box? Also the VCR appears to be recording as it is already programmed but I only get black snow as the recorded product. What do I need to do ? to make it record the channels I have set to record.

Answer 1

vcrs are cavemen technology

Answer 2

Recording from a converter box isn't as easy as with a direct connection from cable TV but it is possible.

To ensure your VCR will record anything, you need to view the program through your VCR.  Meaning the output of the box feeds into the VCR then VCR to TV.  If you see a picture on the TV you'll know it is going through the VCR.  Try record something manually and play it back.  If it does then you have the connection set up correct.

Once you have the right connection, you can set the programming.  This is a little trickier depending on the box and VCR.  Some VCR has the capability to remote control a box to turn on and change the channel at the scheduled time.  Consult the manuals for this.  If your VCR has no capability to turn on the box, more so set the right channel, you'd need to leave the box on at the right channel whenever you program the VCR.

Next step is to program the VCR.  Do this like you always did.  The difference now is you do not set the channel you're recording, rather the input of the VCR that the box is hook up to.  This is most likely going to be a Line In connection.

If you do a lot of program recording, consider investing in a DVR, better yet a converter box with a built in DVR.  This virtually eliminates the headache of recording TV programming.