Can i Set the VCR for timer recording without having to set the digital converter box to the channel I want to record?

A recent email to TVConversionhelp asks:

We installed the Magnavox DTV Converter through our VCR, can I set the VCR for timer recording without having to set the converter box to the channel I want to record? We have asked several different “customer service reps.” and get different answers. If not, I guess I have to live with it.
Thank you,

XXXX



Hello and thank you for your question.  It sounds like you want the VCR to change the channel at a specific time to record what you want to watch like it used to do when you watchedanalog television?

Wow, this is a situation I haven’t come across yet, but I’m willing to bet it’s going to affect quite a few people.

Bad News for “Auto” Recording Digital Programs on Your VCR

Unfortunately, your VCR won’t be able to switch the channel on your converter box when its ready to record at the time you set it for. You will be able to still record digital programs and set the auto timer to start at the time of your choice, but you’ll have to manually switch the TV channel by hand before the VCR starts recording.

Why?

Your VCR has the option to auto record and change the channel on analog TV becuase it has it’s own “analog” converter built-in, but since it’s now connected to the digital converter box….it no longer has the ability to change channels due to that converter box now being the tuner/receiver of television channels.

Good luck and if you want, send me the make/model of your VCR….I can check with the manufacture and see what they suggest.


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  • How do I Install a Digital Converter Box, VCR, and DVD Player?
  • Zenith DTT900 Converter Box
  • Will You Help Me Select a Digital Converter Box?
  • Comments

    One Response to “Can i Set the VCR for timer recording without having to set the digital converter box to the channel I want to record?”

    1. Steven Bolin on June 13th, 2008 8:14 pm

      The only digital to analog converter boxes I have found that can change the channels by them self are the Echostar TR-40 sometime called Echostar TR40 anbd the Echostar TR50. I have been trying to find a source qualified to give me the $40 discount on the Echostar TRB-40 on a prepay or non prepay basis before my coupons expire on June 19, 2008 though have not yet found this yet I found and add saying one can prepay for it and will be calling a number on that advertisement to see where at and if I can get discount for it, the expected price will likely be paid for with the coupon in full, however will the coupon cover shipping fee, handling / tax? If anyone knows of a place I can prepay or buy this at where I can prepay for this for of a source qualified to accept my United States goverment coupons please let know quickly. I have not heard thast the TR50 is on the US goverment prigram yet or not.
      Sincerely, Steven wizard24672000@yahoo.com

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