To use the VCR after setting the timer
To use the VCR before a recording begins, just press ?/1. The 
indicator turns off and the VCR switches on. Remember to press ?/1 to reset the VCR to recording standby after using the VCR.
You can also do the following tasks while the VCR is recording:
•Reset the counter (page 39).
•Display tape information on the TV screen (page 42).
•Check the timer settings (page 62).
•Watch another TV programme (page 42).
To use the Auto Tape Speed function*3
In step 2 above, press m to select AUTO. When you are recording a programme in the SP mode and the remaining tape length becomes shorter than the recording time, the recording tape speed is automatically changed to the LP mode. Note that some noise will appear on the picture when the tape speed is changed. To operate this function correctly, the “TAPE SELECT” setting in the USER SET menu must be accurate (see page 71).
Tips
•To set the line input video source, you can also use the INPUT SELECT button.
•Even if you set TIMER METHOD*1 to SHOWVIEW in the EASY OPERATION menu, you can set the timer manually. Press MENU to select TIMER PROGRAMMING, then go to step 2.
•To check, change, or cancel the programme setting, see “Checking/changing/ cancelling timer settings” on page 62.
Notes
•When setting the timer with VPS/PDC*2 signals, enter the start and stop times exactly as indicated in the TV programme guide. Otherwise, the VPS/PDC function will not work.
•If the VPS/PDC*2 signal is too weak or the broadcasting station failed to transmit VPS/PDC signals, the VCR will start recording at the set time without using the VPS/PDC function.
•The 
and 
indicators flash in the display window when you press ?/1 with no tape inserted.
•The VPS/PDC function*2 is automatically set to off for the timer recording of a satellite programme.
*1 not available on
*3 not available on
56Recording TV programmes using the timer