Connecting the

Explorer 8300HDC Digital Video Recorder
Notice for CATV Installers

CATV Installers Notice

If you are a CATV installer, read the information in the box below.

U.S. Patents

U.S. Patents List
A patent notice is affixed to this product. In addition, the product may also be covered by one or more of the following patents:
4,498,169; 4,636,852; 4,641,181; 4,651,208; 4,691,353; 4,692,919; 4,698,598; 4,719,642; 4,748,667; 4,829,569; 4,866,770; 4,885,775; 4,888,799; 4,890,319; 4,922,456; 4,922,532; 4,924,498; 4,965,534; 4,991,011; 5,003,384; 5,012,510; 5,029,207; 5,045,816; 5,053,883; 5,054,071; 5,058,160; 5,142,575; 5,142,690; 5,146,526; 5,155,590; 5,214,390; 5,225,902; 5,225,925; 5,235,619; 5,237,610; 5,239,540; 5,241,610; 5,247,364; 5,255,086; 5,257,403; 5,267,071; 5,270,809; 5,271,041; 5,272,752; 5,282,028; 5,285,497; 5,287,351; 5,301,028; 5,309,514; 5,317,391; 5,319,709; 5,341,425; 5,347,388; 5,347,389; 5,357,276; 5,359,601; 5,361,156; 5,367,571; 5,379,141; 5,379,145; 5,381,481; 5,390,337; 5,400,401; 5,406,558; 5,418,782; 5,420,866; 5,420,923; 5,425,101; 5,428,404; 5,430,568; 5,434,610; 5,436,749; 5,438,370; 5,440,632; 5,442,472; 5,455,570; 5,457,701; 5,471,492; 5,477,199; 5,477,262; 5,477,370; 5,481,389; 5,481,542; 5,485,221; 5,493,339; 5,497,187; 5,500,758; 5,502,499; 5,506,904; 5,519,780; 5,539,822; 5,550,825; 5,579,055; 5,579,057; 5,583,562; 5,592,551; 5,596,606; 5,600,378; 5,602,933; 5,640,388; 5,657,414; 5,675,575; 5,684,876; 5,715,515; 5,724,525; 5,740,300; 5,742,677; 5,754,940; 5,757,416; 5,771,064; 5,774,859; 5,825,829; 5,826,167; 5,850,305; 5,854,703; 5,870,474; 5,892,607; 5,920,626; 5,923,755; 5,930,024; 5,930,515; 5,937,067; 5,963,352; 5,966,163; 5,982,424; 5,991,139; 5,999,207; 6,005,631; 6,005,938; 6,016,163; 6,028,941; 6,029,046; 6,052,384; 6,055,244; 6,072,532; 6,105,134; 6,148,039; 6,157,719; 6,188,729; 6,195,389; 6,212,278; 6,215,530; 6,219,358; 6,240,103; 6,243,145; 6,246,767; 6,252,964; 6,272,226; 6,292,081; 6,292,568; 6,320,131; 6,374,275; 6,405,239; 6,411,602; 6,417,949; 6,424,714; 6,424,717; 6,433,906; 6,438,139; 6,463,586; 6,467,091; 6,476,878; 6,493,876; 6,510,519; 6,516,002; 6,516,412; 6,526,508; 6,538,595; 6,546,013; 6,560,340; 6,567,118; 6,570,888; 6,622,308; 6,629,227; 6,664,984; 6,667,994; 6,671,879; 6,674,967; 6,678,891; 6,714,598; 6,721,352; 6,721,956; 6,725,459; 6,738,982; 6,744,892; 6,744,967; 6,751,271; 6,760,918; 6,795,972; 6,802,077; 6,804,708; 6,811,447; 6,817,028; 6,822,972; 6,823,385; 6,832,386; 6,845,106; 6,868,473; 6,874,075; 6,889,191; 6,909,471; 6,917,622; 6,917,628; 6,922,412; 6,927,806; 6,928,656; 6,931,058; 6,937,729; 6,969,279; 6,971,008; 6,971,121; 6,978,310; D348065; D354959; D359737; D363932; D390217; D434753; D507240; D507535; RE36368; RE36988

20051216SI

Contents
Important Safety Instructions... iv Welcome.... 1 Safety First.... 1 The Explorer eClub.... 1 Identify Your 8300HDC... 1 Whats in the Carton?... 2 Additional Equipment You Might Need... 2 Whats on the Front Panel?... 3 Whats on the Back Panel?.... 4 Connecting the 8300HDC... 5 Connections for an HDTV and VCR... 6 Connections for a Standard-Definition TV and VCR.. 7 View and Record Television Programming... 8 Performance Tips.... 9 Frequently Asked Questions About HDTV.. 10 Picture Formats.... 11 Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with an HDMI Connector.. 12 Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with a DVI Connector.. 13 Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with Component Input (PrPbY/V). 14 Connecting the 8300HDC to a Home Theater System with Component Input (PrPbY/V)... 15 Connecting the 8300HDC to a Stereo VCR and HDTV (optional). 16 Connecting the 8300HDC to an External SATA Hard Disk Drive (optional). 17 Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with a 1394 Connector.. 19 Connecting the 8300HDC in HD Mode to an SDTV with Component Input (PrPbY/V)... 19 Compliance Information... 20 Index.... 21

Grounding This Product (U.S.A. and Canada Only)
WARNING: To avoid electric shock and fire hazard, match the plug and outlet connections carefully, then fully insert. If the plug and outlet do not match, or you cannot fully insert the plug, contact an electrician to update your power outlets. If this product is equipped with either a three-prong (grounding pin) safety plug or a two-prong (polarized) safety plug, follow these safety guidelines to properly ground this product: For a 3-prong plug (one prong on this plug is a protective grounding pin), insert the plug into a grounded mains, 3-prong outlet. Note: This plug fits only one way. If you are unable to insert this plug fully into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. For a 2-prong plug (a polarized plug with one wide blade and one narrow blade), insert the plug into a polarized mains, 2-prong outlet in which one socket is wider than the other. Note: If you are unable to insert this plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
Selecting a Proper Location
WARNING: Avoid personal injury and damage to this product! An unstable surface may cause this product to fall. Place this product in a location that is close enough to an electrical outlet and where the power cord is easily accessible to be disconnected from the wall outlet or from the rear panel of the product. Important: The power cord is the mains power supply disconnect device. Place this product on a stable surface. The surface must support the size and weight of this product.

Cleaning This Product

WARNING: Avoid electric shock! Unplug this product before cleaning. Before cleaning this product, unplug it from the electrical outlet. Use a damp cloth to clean this product. Do not use a liquid cleaner or an aerosol cleaner. Do not use a magnetic/ static cleaning device (dust remover) to clean this product.

Overloading

WARNING: Avoid electric shock and fire hazard! Do not overload mains AC outlets and extension cords. For products that require battery power or other power sources to operate them, refer to the operating instructions for those products.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS, continued
Protecting This Product From Foreign Objects and Water or Moisture Damage
WARNING: Avoid electric shock and fire hazard! Never push objects through the openings in this product. Foreign objects can cause electrical shorts that can result in electric shock or fire. Do not expose this product to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquid, such as vases, on this product. Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Do not expose this product to liquids or moisture. Do not place this product on a wet surface. Do not spill liquids on or near this product. Do not use this product near water (such as a bath tub, wash bowl, sink, or laundry tub), in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool.

Checking Product Safety

Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, the service technician must perform safety checks to determine that this product is in proper operating condition.

Outdoor Grounding System

If this product connects to an outdoor antenna or cable system, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded (earthed). This provides some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electric Code (NEC) ANSI/NFPA No. 70-1990, provides the following information: Grounding of the mast and supporting structure Grounding the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit Size of the grounding conductors Location of the antenna-discharge unit Connection to grounding electrodes Requirements for the grounding electrodes (see the following antenna grounding diagram as recommended by NEC ANSI/NFPA 70)

Accessories Warnings

WARNING: Avoid any potential for electric shock or fire. Do not use accessories with this product unless recommended by your cable service provider. Avoid any potential for electric shock or fire. Do not use accessories with this product unless recommended by your cable service provider.

Service Warnings

Servicing This Product
WARNING: Avoid electric shock! Opening or removing the cover may expose you to dangerous voltages. This product contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Lightning

Do not open the cover of this product. If you open the cover, your warranty will be void. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel only. Contact your cable service provider for instructions. For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges. Plugging this product into a surge protector may reduce the risk of damage. Note: Unplugging this product for an extended period of time can result in loss of authorization. For reauthorization, contact your cable service provider.

Obtaining Service for Product Damage
For damage that requires service, unplug this product from the AC outlet. Then, contact your cable service provider or qualified service personnel to obtain service for the following conditions: If there is damage to the power-supply cord or plug If liquid enters this product If you expose this product to rain or water If you drop this product, a heavy object falls on this product, or damage occurs to the cover of this product If this product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions If this product exhibits a distinct change in performance

Power Lines

WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not locate an outside antenna system in the vicinity of overhead power lines or power circuits. Do not locate an outside antenna system in the vicinity of overhead power lines or power circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, take extreme care to keep from touching power lines or circuits, as contact might be fatal. 20050719STBD

Welcome

DVR makes it easy to watch TV on your terms. The Explorer 8300HDCTM Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is the simple way to take control over your TV and your life. You take control because DVR lets you decide whats on TV and when. So theres no more putting off the things you need to do, just because theres a show on TV you want to watch. Just think what DVR can do for you: Never miss a minute of your favorite movie or the big game. Simply pause the live action and play again when youre ready. You can even rewind what you missed. Two of your favorite shows on at the same time? Simple. Just record one program while you watch the other. You can even record two programs at the same time while watching a previously recorded program. Your VCR cant do that. Is your favorite sports team having an away game and you cant go? Imagine being able to record it and watch it in high definition (HD) at a more convenient time. In HD, the picture is so clear youll almost forget that youre not there. Dont miss another minute of the TV shows you love! Follow the instructions in this guide to install the 8300HDC, to become familiar with the buttons on the front panel, and to access your cable services. Then, enjoy the features of the 8300HDC and change the way you watch TV! Find out more! Join the Explorer eClub for more information about this DVR! Get details in the Explorer eClub section later in this document.

Safety First

Before using the 8300HDC, read the Important Safety Instructions section of this guide.

The Explorer eClub

Visit the online Explorer eClub for more information about this DVR, including additional connection diagrams, documentation, how-to tips, and FAQs. You can access the Explorer eClub on the Internet at the following Web address: www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub To join and access the online Explorer eClub, you need to enter the model number of your DVR. The model number is located on the front panel.

9 VOL + and VOL 10 CH + and CH 11 Select 12 USB Port
Increases and decreases the volume Scrolls up and down through the channels Provides access to your on-screen selection Connects to external equipment, such as a keyboard or mouse (reserved for future use, may not be available on all 8300HDC models)

Whats on the Back Panel?

1 Cable In 2 Cable Out
Connect the coaxial cable that delivers the signal from your cable service provider Connect a coaxial cable to send analog audio and video signals to a TV or VCR. These signals are standard-definition TV (SDTV) video and stereo audio Connect the 8300HDC (in HD mode) to the component video input (YPrPb) on the HDTV. When the 8300HDC is configured for SD mode, the Y/V portion of the component video output connects to the composite video input of an SDTV. See Connections for an HDTV and VCR on page 6 or Connections for a Standard-Definition TV and VCR on page 7 for complete details Connect an RCA cable to send a digital audio signal to a surroundsound receiver or other digital audio device Connect to either a VCR for archiving saved content from the 8300HD or connect to another set of inputs (composite) on your HDTV Connect RCA cables to send analog audio signals (left and right) to the stereo outputs of an HDTV Connect an optical cable to send a digital audio signal to a surroundsound receiver or other digital audio device Connect an S-Video cable to send an S-Video signal to your TV or VCR. This signal is standard definition but higher quality than other SDTV connections (This connector reserved for future use) Connect the HDTV HDMI connector to the HDMI port. HDMI supports both digital audio and video. May be used to connect to a DVI interface using an adaptor for video and separate audio connections. You can use any of the following audio connections: Digital Audio Out (4), Audio Out [LEFT and RIGHT] (6), or Optical Audio Out (7) Slot for CableCARD multi-stream card for decrypting subscription digital channels. Obtain the multi-stream card from your cable service provider. Connect to an external Serial ATA (SATA) hard disk drive for expanded recording capacity. Check with your cable service provider for a list of approved hard drive models for use with the 8300HDC Connect to display devices equipped with 1394 inputs. These connectors might not be available on all 8300HDC models. When you connect the DVR-DVD to your TV using 1394, you must make additional video and audio connections to your TV to receive analog signals Connect the AC power cord from another device, such as a TV Connect the power cord to deliver power to the 8300HDC

3 PrPbY/V

4 Digital Audio Out 5 Out 2 (Secondary Video and Audio Out) 6 Audio Out (LEFT and RIGHT) 7 Optical Audio Output 8 S-Video Out

9 IR 10 HDMI

11 CableCARDTM 12 SATA

Outputs

14 AC Outlet 15 AC Power Input

Connecting the 8300HDC

To connect your 8300HDC to your entertainment devices, complete these steps. Determine if your TV is HD or SD and whether it is wide screen (16:9) or standard screen (4:3). See page 11 for more information.
Make the connections for your TV and VCR as follows: If you are using an HDTV, see page 6 and the connection diagrams at the end of this guide. If you are using an SDTV, see page 7 and the connection diagrams at the end of this guide. If you want to archive some programs to VCR tape, see pages 6 and 7 and the connection diagrams at the end of this guide. Identify the additional devices you will connect to the 8300HDC and TV. See pages 12 through 19 and the related user guides for more information.

D-VCR Other

Home Theater External SATA Drive
Plug the 8300HDC and the TV into an AC power source that is not controlled by a switch.
Do not turn on the 8300HDC or TV yet.
It may take several minutes for the 8300HDC to receive the latest software, programming, and service information. Wait until you see one of the following displays on the front panel of the 8300HDC that indicates that the update is complete:

Current time

Four dashes (- - - -)
Note: If four dashes are displayed, you must call your cable service provider to get the 8300HD authorized. Set up your 8300HDC for HDTV or SDTV by completing the following steps: Make sure the 8300HDC is Off and the TV is On. On the front panel of the 8300HDC, press GUIDE and INFO at the same time. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose HD or SD mode and wide screen (16:9) or standard screen (4:3) depending upon your TV type. See Page 10 for more information on the scan rate. At the conclusion of the on-screen instructions, press POWER on the 8300HDC to begin watching TV.
Connections for an HDTV and VCR
To use the 8300HDC with an HDTV, you must make one of the following connections to view the HD content. In addition, you can make connections to a digital or analog VCR to archive recordings to a VCR tape. Refer to your TV and VCR users guides and the cabling diagrams in this guide for more detailed connection information. Note: The labeling on your 8300HDC may vary slightly. Required Connections to an HDTV (use one) Some HDTVs have a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connector. The HDMI connector provides both a digital video and audio connection. See the connection diagram on page 12 for an example. The HDMI connector can provide the connection to an HDTV with a DVI input. If your HDTV has a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) connector, you will need an HDMI-to-DVI adapter, and you will need to connect a separate audio connection. See the connection diagram on page 13 for an example. The Y/V PbPr connectors can provide high-definition component video signals to an HDTV.

PrPbY/V

8300HDC Connections

HDTV Connections

Adapter Needed

Y Pb Pr L R

Note: Use the HD Setup Wizard on the 8300HDC to set the HD mode and select the output video format that will matches the full capabilities of your HDTV. See the connection diagram on page 14 for an example. Some HDTVs have only RGB connectors. If you have one of these HDTVs, you need an RGB adapter. Check with your cable service provider for information about acquiring an RGB adapter, or you can purchase the adapter at your local electronics supplier.

R G B H V L R

RGB and Audio Adapters Needed
Some HDTVs have 1394 connectors. If you connect to your HDTV using 1394, you also need to connect separate video and audio connections to your HDTV. See the connection diagram on page 19 for an example.

Y Pb Pr

VIDEO Y/V
Optional Connections to a VCR (use one) For VCRs with Video and Left and Right audio connectors, you can use the Out 2 connectors (Video, Left, and Right) on the 8300HDC. See the connection diagram on page 16 for an example.

OUT 2 A L U D I RO

VCR Connections

VIDEO IN

AUDIO IN L R
For VCRs with S-Video and Left and Right audio connectors, you can use the S-Video Out and the Out 2 Left and Right connectors on the 8300HDC.

OUT 2 L

S-VIDEO OUT S-VIDEO IN
For Digital VCRs, you can use the 1394 out connector on the DVR-DVD.
Connections for a Standard-Definition TV and VCR
When using the 8300HDC with an SDTV, you must make one of the following connections to view content. Some SDTVs may not have all these connections. In addition, you can make connections to a VCR to archive recordings to a VCR tape. Refer to your TV and VCR user guides and the cabling diagrams in this guide for more detailed information. Note: The labeling on your 8300HDC may vary slightly. Required Connections to an SDTV (use one) The Y/V PbPr connectors can provide standarddefinition component video signals to an SDTV.

SDTV Connections

Note: To connect PrPbY/V to an SDTV, you must set the HD Setup Wizard on the 8300HDC to HD Mode, and select the output video format (typically 480i) that will match the capabilities of your SDTV.

No Color

Verify that the current TV program is broadcast in color. Adjust the TV color controls. If you are using a component video connection (PrPbY/V), check that all connectors are completely plugged into the 8300HDC and TV.

No Sound

If your setup includes a VCR or stereo, verify that you have properly connected them to the 8300HDC. Verify that the volume is turned up (analog audio only). Verify that the mute function is not on (analog audio only).
Automatic Software Updates
The TV screen displays a message that indicates the 8300HDC is automatically updating its software. Wait for the current time to display on the front panel of your 8300HDC before continuing. When the front panel displays the time, the update is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions About HDTV
What is Digital Television?
Digital television (DTV) is a huge leap forward in television technology compared to analog television that has been widely available since the 1940s. DTV is delivered and displayed using digital encoding, similar to the way a PC operates. By using digital technology, there is no variation in picture and sound quality from the origination point until it is displayed on your television. You always receive a high-quality picture without the wavy lines or static you might sometimes get from a weak analog signal. Because DTV receives and displays digital images that contain many times more picture elements (pixels - the small dots that make up the color image on your screen) than standard analog television, you can get a sharper on-screen image than with analog. Additionally, DTV supports CD-quality sound. DTV includes SDTV (Standard Definition Television), EDTV (Enhanced Definition Television), and HDTV (High-Definition Television). That means that all HDTV is digital, but not all digital TV is high-definition. A high-definition program must originate in HD format and be broadcast in HD format. Having an HDTV system does not mean that everything you watch will be in high-definition. Getting the signal from digital cable also does not mean it is high-definition.
What is Standard-Definition Television?
Standard-definition television (SDTV) is basic digital television programming delivered by cable. Typically, the SDTV screen is the same, nearly square shape as an analog television screen. Digital images on an SDTV set are crisp and clearnoticeably better than on a standard analog television set using an antenna to receive over-the-air signals.

What is High-Definition Television?
High-definition television (HDTV) is a completely new way to send and receive television broadcast signals. HDTV images are made up of pixels that are much smaller and closer together than those used in standard analog television, and there are millions of them. Thus, HDTV can display five to six times the detail of analog television to deliver picture quality that is much more realistic, dimensional, and precise. SDTV programs can be viewed on an HDTV. Another feature of HDTV is digital surround sound using Dolby Digital, which is the same technology used to produce the sound you hear in movie theaters.
Are Local TV Stations Broadcasting in HDTV?
Many local TV stations are transmitting digital signals. However, transmitting a digital signal does not mean transmitting an HDTV signal. Some stations are using the new bandwidth to broadcast several standard-definition channels. Most stations, once they begin broadcasting in digital, are offering HD content from their parent network (for example, CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, WB, UPN, and PBS).

What is a CableCard?

A CableCard is a multi-stream card that allows the set-top box to decrypt subscription digital channels. The card fits into the CableCard slot on the back of the 8300HDC (see page 3 for the location of the slot). You can obtain a CableCard from your cable service provider.
Where Are the Connection Diagrams?
The diagrams at the end of this guide show examples of common ways to connect the 8300HDC to your HDTV, DVD, and home theater receiver. However, these diagrams do not show every possible combination of devices. Refer to the users guides that came with your other electronic devices for further information.

What Cables Do I Need?

Some of the cables and adaptors shown in the diagrams may not be included with the 8300HDC. Some of the required cables are shown in the connection diagrams and on page 2 of this guide.

Picture Formats

What is the Difference Between a Standard-Screen and a Wide-Screen HDTV
The type of screen your HDTV has (wide screen or standard screen) determines how the 8300HDC displays programs on the screen. The picture format for an HDTV is a combination of aspect ratio and screen resolution and is different for standard-screen and wide-screen HDTVs.

If the TV is not Dolby Digital capable, it may not produce audio through its speakers when the Audio: Digital Out setting on the 8300HDC is set to Dolby Digital. You can either switch the Audio: Digital Out setting back to HDMI when you are not using the home theater or Dolby Digital decoder, or you can connect the baseband audio outputs (OUT 1 Audio Left and Right) to the TV. Digital content is encrypted with High-Bandwidth Content Protection (HDCP) on the DVI/HDMI port. The HDC DVR is not compatible with devices that do not support HDCP. You must use either the YPrPb or 1394 connection to connect the DVR to these devices.
Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with a DVI Connector
WARNING: Electric shock hazard! Unplug all electronic devices before connecting or disconnecting any device cables to the 8300HDC.

Required cables:

1 HDMI-to-DVI or 1 HDMI-to-HDMI cable and 1 DVI adapter 1 audio Left/Right cable

Notes:

When you connect the HDMI connector to the DVI connector on your HDTV, you need an HDMIto-DVI adaptor and a separate audio connection. Digital content is encrypted with High-Bandwidth Content Protection (HDCP) on the DVI/HDMI port. The HDC DVR is not compatible with devices that do not support HDCP. You must use either the YPrPb or 1394 connection (which uses Digital Transmission Content Protection, or DTCP) to connect the DVR to these devices. Also refer to the Important Note Regarding the HDMI Interface on the 8300HDC on page 12.
Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with Component Input (PrPbY/V)
1 set component video cables (PrPbY/V) 1 audio Left/Right cable
Connecting the 8300HDC to a Home Theater System with Component Input (PrPbY/V)
3 sets component video cables (PrPbY/V) 2 coaxial digital audio cables
Back of Home Theater Receiver

DIGITAL AUDIO

1 S-VIDEO 2 VIDEO 3 L 4 L L L 1 VIDEO VIDEO VIDEO PR PR PR S-VIDEO S-VIDEO S-VIDEO PB PB PB S-VIDEO OUT

TV/CABLE

VIDEO 1

COMPONENT VIDEO

MONITOR

VIDEO OUT

1 S-VIDEO 2 VIDEO 3 L 4 AUDIO AUDIO AUDIO AUDIO L L L 1 VIDEO VIDEO VIDEO PR PR PR S-VIDEO S-VIDEO S-VIDEO PB PB PB S-VIDEO OUT

Back of DVD Player

DIGITAL OUT COAXIAL AUDIO OUT

OPTICAL DIGITAL OUT

COMPONENT VIDEO OUT/ PROGRESSIVE SCAN

Back of HDTV

AUDIO CENTER CHANNEL IN

DVI/HDCP IN

T11135

ON OFF

AUDIO IN DVI/HDCP

S-VIDEO R L

ANT (75)

VIDEO Y VIDEO Y ANT-1

L/ MONO AUDIO R

L/ MONO

R VIDEO-1 VIDEO-2 HD 1 AUDIO HD 2

T11136

Note: This connection assumes that audio is provided by the home theater speakers.
Connecting the 8300HDC to a Stereo VCR and HDTV (optional)
1 RF coaxial cable 2 sets composite A/V cables
Note: This connection allows for archiving to the VCR and for watching VCR tapes on your HDTV. To watch HD content, use the HDMI, PrPbY/V, or DVI connector.
Connecting the 8300HDC to an External SATA Hard Disk Drive (optional)
Complete the following steps to install a SATA drive. 1. Make sure that both the 8300HDC and the external SATA drive are unplugged from power. 2. Connect the data cable for the SATA drive to the 8300HDC. 3. Plug in power to the external SATA drive. WARNING: Electric shock hazard! Unplug all electronic devices before connecting or disconnecting any device cables to the 8300HDC.
4. Plug in the 8300HDC power cord, and then turn on the 8300HDC. 5. Follow the on-screen instructions. One of the following occurs: If it is a new drive or one used on another device, you are asked to format it. If the drive is formatted and will work with this 8300HDC, you get a confirmation that the drive is working.
Guidelines for Using the External SATA Hard Disk Drive
The external SATA hard disk drive requires continuous power. If the SATA drive loses power while the 8300HDC is plugged in, the 8300HDC may stop recording or not provide enough space for future recordings. Follow these guidelines for using the SATA drive: Do not plug in the power cord for the SATA drive to a switched outlet or to the AC outlet on the 8300HDC. Do not turn off, disconnect, or unplug the SATA drive while the 8300HDC is plugged in.
Recommendations for the SATA Drive
Contact your cable service provider for a list of approved external SATA hard disk drives. At a minimum, your SATA drive should have these capabilities: External SATA Connector - SATA II: Cable and Connector, Revision 1.0 (www.sata-io.org for more information) Drive Speed: 7200 RPM (5400 RPM without Multi-room); 133 MB/sec Capacity: Only one SATA drive can be connected to the 8300HDC. The 8300HDC will not support a separate port multiplier. SATA Drive Power: The SATA drive should power on when plugged in and should not be controlled by a switch.

Connecting the 8300HDC to an External SATA Hard Disk Drive (optional), continued
How the SATA Drive Works with Your 8300HDC
Recordings are balanced between the internal hard drive on the 8300HDC and the external SATA drive as follows: A recording is not split between an internal and external hard drive. The 8300HDC automatically stores complete programs using the following space available logic: - If the external SATA drive has more space available, the SATA drive stores the next recording. - If the internal hard drive on the 8300HDC has more space available, the internal hard drive stores the next recording.

% Space Used

Internal External Hard Drive SATA Drive

Internal Hard Drive

External SATA Drive
Golf 1:00 pm EST, Saturday

T11467

T11468
College Football 3:30 pm EST, Saturday
Disconnecting the External SATA Hard Disk Drive
Complete the following steps to disconnect the SATA drive safely. 1. Make sure that the 8300HDC is powered off. 2. Disconnect the power cord from the 8300HDC and wait for at least 10 seconds. 3. Disconnect the power cord and data cable from the external SATA drive. Note: If you improperly disconnect your SATA drive, you will receive an error message, and you will be required to restart the 8300HDC upon reconnecting.
Connecting the 8300HDC to an HDTV with a 1394 Connector
1 6-pin to 4-pin 1394 cable (Consult your TV users guides for more detailed information) 1 set composite A/V cables
1 set audio Left/Right cables
Important: When you connect the DVR-DVD to your TV using 1394, you must make the additional video and audio connections to your TV to receive analog signals.
Connecting the 8300HDC in HD Mode to an SDTV with Component Input (PrPbY/V)

Compliance Information

United States FCC Compliance
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the applicable limits of Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or TV reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on. The user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected Consult your cable company or an experienced radio/TV technician for help Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by Scientific Atlanta could void the users authority to operate the equipment. Important: The information shown in the FCC Declaration of Conformity paragraph below is a requirement of the FCC and is intended to supply you with information regarding the FCC approval of this device. The phone numbers listed are for FCCrelated questions only and not intended for questions regarding the connection or operation for this device. Please contact your cable service provider for any questions you may have regarding the operation or installation of this device.

Getting Started With The

Explorer 8300 and 8300HD DVR
Record your favorite programs when youre busy Record one program and watch another Record two live programs while watching a third program you recorded earlier Record and store up to 50 hours of standard-definition programs on the 8300 DVR, or up to 20 hours of high-definition programs on the 8300HD DVR Pause live TV for up to 1 hour without missing a minute Use instant replay any time you want Watch two programs at the same time with the Picture-in-Picture feature on any TV you have

Welcome!

With the Explorer 8300 Digital Video Recorder (DVR), you can easily record your favorite programs and then play them back anytime. The DVR and Picture-In-Picture (PIP) features give you complete control, convenience, and choice when watching TV. Use your DVR to control the following features.
"Design On A Dime"

Save: Until erased

Recorded List
Title World Soccer Extreme Homes Design On A Dime Home Matters Thirteen Days Options/Play
Date Wed 11/10 Wed 11/10 Mon 11/15 Sun 11/14 Mon 11/8
Time 4:10am 8:10pm 12:00pm 12:30pm 8:00pm
Length 30min 50min 30min 30min 1hr 30min Preferences

Scheduled Recordings

Control live TV
The telephone is ringing and you do not want to miss any scenes of your favorite live TV program. DVR lets you PAUSE the live program, or REWIND and PLAY a portion of it again, or FAST-FORWARD it to catch up to live TV. Sports fans can enjoy complete control by using INSTANT REPLAY, SLOW MOTION, and FRAME ADVANCE AND REWIND to watch their favorite play again.
Record TV programs without a VCR
RECORD and save your favorite TV programs to the DVR to watch later. When two of your favorite TV programs are scheduled at the same time, RECORD one program to the built-in recorder while watching the other! Never miss your favorite programs that are scheduled at the same time. Simply RECORD both programs at the same time. While recording both programs, you can play back a third program you have already recorded. RECORD a single episode or all episodes of your favorite TV programs. RECORD one of your favorite TV programs and at the same time, access any advanced application, such as video-on-demand (VOD). Not sure if you have room to RECORD new programs? You can check your available recording space any time.
Watch two TV programs at the same time
PIP is built into the Explorer 8300 DVR, so you can watch two live programs at the same time on any make or model TV that is connected to your DVR. When something exciting occurs in the PIP program, you can easily swap the PIP into the Main screen. Once that program is in the Main screen, you can pause, rewind, or record it. When the PIP screen position is covering a must see moment on the Main screen, simply MOVE the PIP screen to a different corner of your TV screen.

Lets Get Started!

Using Your Remote Control
Use the keys on the AllTouch Remote Control to access the DVR and PIP features of your DVR. This guide describes the keys used to access the DVR and PIP features. For descriptions of the other key functions, refer to the users guide for your remote control model: AT8400 AllTouch Remote Control Users Guide, part number 749219 AT8450 AllTouch Remote Control Users Guide, part number 4001707 AT8550 AllTouch Remote Control Users Guide, part number 4006383 Important: Your remote control must be set to Cable Mode (CBL) to access the DVR features.
AllTouch AT8400 Remote Control
Displays a menu of services or options (if offered by your cable service provider)
Power on or off Selects cable mode Performs the selected action
Displays the Program Guide
Moves through on-screen choices Removes all banners and graphics from TV screen

Makes on-screen choices

Displays a list of your recorded programs Replays the last 8 seconds of a program (Instant Replay) Rewinds in 3 speeds (Must be in Play mode) Stops recording a program or stops playback Pauses the program you are watching Swaps PIP screen with Main screen Turns PIP feature on or off Moves PIP screen

Dedicated DVR Keys

Returns to live programming Fast-forwards in 3 speeds (Must be in Play mode) Records a program Resumes playing a paused program (Press twice for slow motion) Sizes the picture for some high-definition television (HDTV) models Selects PIP channels up or down

Dedicated PIP Keys

T11349
Preparing the Explorer 8300HD DVR to Work With Your High-Definition TV
First make sure that your DVR is properly connected to your HDTV television and other electronic devices. Use the component (PrPbY) or HDMI ports to connect the DVR to your HDTV. For more information, refer to the connectivity guide for your DVR model: Connecting the Explorer 8300 Digital Video Recorder, part number 4003987 Connecting the Explorer 8300HD Digital Video Recorder, part number 4003986 Note: The composite ports (red, yellow, white) and the component ports (PrPbY) on the back of the 8300HD are both active simultaneously.
Selecting HDTV Picture Formats With the HDTV Setup Wizard
The following section provides instructions for using the HDTV Setup Wizard to select HDTV picture formats using the Easy and Advanced Setup modes.
Start the HDTV Setup Wizard
To start the HDTV Setup Wizard, follow these steps. 1. Make sure that the DVR is powered OFF, but still plugged into an active power outlet, and connected to the HDTV using the proper connectors (HDMI or Component for an HDTV; Composite, RF, or S-Video for a SDTV). 2. Turn the TV ON. 3. With the DVR powered OFF, press Guide and Info at the same time. The HDTV Setup Wizard screen appears. 4. Press
Press the Guide and Info keys at the same time

to start the set up.

5. Choose one of the following options: To choose the Easy Setup option press A ; then, go to the Easy Setup Instructions on page 5. Note: Choosing the Easy Setup mode limits your HDTV picture formats to 480i and 1080i, depending on the TV type you select. To choose the Advanced Setup option press B ; then, go to the Advanced Setup Instructions on page 5. Note: Choosing the Advanced Setup mode allows you to save all the HDTV picture formats, so that you can toggle between them easily while watching TV.

Setup Options

Press Press
for Easy Setup: Used by most TV viewers for Advanced Setup: Used by advanced TV viewers

Complete setup

Easy Setup Instructions
1. Press A or B to select the type of TV screen you have. The setup is complete. 2. Press Power to begin watching TV. Notes: If you pressed A for the standard screen (4:3) TV setting, the TV is set to receive programming in 480i format on non-HD channels and 1080i format on HD channels.

Standard or Widescreen

if your TV has a standard screen (4:3) if your TV has a widescreen (16:9)

Restart setup

If you pressed B for the widescreen (16:9) TV setting, the TV is set to only receive programming in 1080i format (even on non-HD channels). Tip: After you complete the setup, you can use picture. to stretch or zoom the
Advanced Setup Instructions
1. Press A or B to select the type of TV screen you have. 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to select your picture formats. 3. Press SELECT to toggle between the Save and Remove options, or press B to see how the next format looks on your TV screen.
Note: If you see a black screen do not press SELECT. Press B again to view the next screen format. 4. After saving the picture formats, press EXIT. The setup is complete. 5. Press POWER to begin watching TV. to stretch or zoom the Tip: After you complete the setup, you can use picture.
Select Picture Mode for Normal Viewing
After you use the HDTV Setup Wizard to select all the HDTV picture formats you want to use, you need to choose a General Settings picture mode for normal viewing. If you do not have your HDTV connected to the HDMI connector on the back of the 8300HD DVR, then Pass-Through mode is recommended for normal viewing. Pass-Through mode allows non-HD channels to be displayed using their native picture formats, which can improve picture quality on non-HD channels. To select Pass-Through mode for normal viewing, follow these steps. 1. Press Settings twice. The General Settings menu appears. 2. Press Move Up or Move Down highlight Set: Picture Format. 3. Press Move Right format setting. 4. Press Move Up to
to highlight the picture to select Pass-Through.
5. Press Accept A to use this option for the 8300HD. The DVR front panel displays AUTO, plus the scan rate you are viewing (for example, 1080i). 6. Press Exit to return to normal viewing.
Note: When the HDMI connector is connected to the HDTV, the General Settings - Set: Picture Format screen displays the AutoDVI/HDMI option instead of the Pass-Through option. Important: Do not connect the HDMI (DVI) output to a HDTV that does not support High-Definition Copy Protection (HDCP). If you connect the HDMI (DVI) output cable to a HDTV that does not support HDCP, you will not be able to see any video output. A message will be displayed instructing you to disconnect the HDMI connection and watch video output through the PrPbY component connectors.

Important Note Regarding the HDMI Interface
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an all-digital audio and video interface. HDMI provides a digital interface between any audio and video source. HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus digital audio. Some HDTVs do not contain circuitry to decode Dolby Digital formatted content. If you connect your DVR to an HDTV that cannot support Dolby Digital audio, the HDMI interface instructs the DVR to switch its audio outputs to 2-channel PCM audio (to be compatible with the HDTV). In this case, all digital audio outputs on the DVR are formatted as 2-channel PCM. As a result, you will not be able to receive Dolby Digital or DTS audio on your home theater system when connected to either the optical or coax (RCA Connector) S/PDIF ports. You can avoid this by overriding the automatic configuration through the General Settings menu and switching the audio output to Dolby Digital. Important: If your HDTV cannot decode Dolby Digital formatted content and you have configured the DVR to output in the Dolby Digital format, you will not be able to listen to audio through the TV. Instead, you must use your home theater or your Dolby Digital decoding device in order to hear audio. Alternatively, you can reconfigure the DVR to output 2-channel PCM any time you want to use the TV to produce the audio portion of the content by selecting HDMI in the General Settings - Audio Output screen. Depending upon your equipment capabilities to select alternate audio sources for input, other configurations may be possible. Refer to your equipment users guides for more information.

Controlling Live TV

Control a Live Program You Are Watching
Use the following remote control keys to control the live program in the Main screen: The Pause, Rewind, Fast-Forward, Play, Instant Replay, and Live keys on the remote control are used to control the live program in the Main screen. For example, when you are watching your favorite live TV program and the telephone rings, press Pause to pause the program for up to 1 hour. From Pause mode, press Pause or Play to resume the normal play mode.

T10964

While in normal play mode, press Rewind or Fast-Forward to cycle through three different speeds of rewind or fast-forward. To reverse or advance one frame at a time, press Pause and then repeatedly press Rewind or Fast-Forward. For example, to advance three frames, press Pause and then press Fast-Forward three times. To see the action in slow motion, press Play from normal play mode. Press Play again to resume normal play mode. To replay the last 8 seconds of a live or recorded program, press Instant Replay. If you have rewound or paused a live program, press Live at anytime to catch up to the live TV program. Note: You can use these same dedicated DVR keys to control the reduced screen (also known as the quarter screen) in the Program Guide and in all DVR screens.

Pause a Live Program

The paused status bar appears when you press Pause.
Green Area of Bar Indicates Stored or Recorded Programming Red Area of Bar Indicates Missed Programming "Paused" Status Bar

T11170

Triangle Indicates Your Current Position in Program
Live Point of Programming

Design On A Dime

12:00 - 12:30pm
Clear Area of Bar Indicates Programming Not Aired Yet
Note: All of the features for controlling live TV (such as Pause, Fast-Forward, Rewind) are also available when playing back recorded programs.

Using the Program Guide

Find a Program to Watch
1. Press Guide. The Program Guide appears and lists the next 7 days of programs. ) to 2. Press the directional keys ( move through the program listings and highlight the program you want to watch.

Headline News

4:00-5:00pm
Up-to-the-minute coverage of the latest events.

CHANNEL 4:00pm

36 4:30pm

Wed 6/18

5:00pm

4:02pm

DSC 34 Great Chefs Great Chefs CNN 35 Inside Politics Early Prime HDLN 36 ' Headline News ESPN 37 Bikes, Blades & Boards TOON 38 Yu-Gi-Oh! Yu-Gi-Oh! Browse By Date WED 6/18

Travelers Hollywo Headline News NFL's Greatest Pokemon Pokemo
3. Press Select. If the program is currently on, the Program Guide closes and the program you selected appears in full-screen TV. If the program is on in the future, a future program option screen appears.
Search for a Program by Channel, Title, or Theme
1. Press Guide. The Program Guide appears and lists the next 7 days of programs. 2. Press Browse By A. The Browse By area of the Program Guide displays the options Title, Channel, and Theme. 3. Press Move Up options: or Move Down to highlight one of the following
Channel, which lists programs numerically by channel number Title, which lists programs alphabetically by program title Theme, which lists programs by theme, such as adventure, comedy, sports, or news 4. Press Select. The Browse By area of the Program Guide displays the programs according to the option you selected.
Search for a Program by Date
1. Press Guide. The Program Guide appears and lists the next 7 days of programs. 2. Press Date 7 dates.
. The Browse By area of the Program Guide displays the next or Move Down to highlight a date.

3. Press Move Up

4. Press Select. The Program Guide displays the programs that will be broadcast on that date.

Recording TV Programs

Record a TV Program You Are Watching

1. Press Record.

Confirm Recording

Tue: 11/13 Save: 14 days

2. While in the Confirm Recording screen, choose your recording options and press A. The Record Indicator is lit on the front panel of the DVR. 3. To manually stop recording before the scheduled time, press Stop and then follow the on-screen choices.

RECORD

SAVE TIME

12:00pm

12:30pm

One episode All episodes

14 days

Accept recording

Cancel changes
Record a TV Program From the Program Guide
1. Press Guide. 2. Press the arrow keys to highlight a TV program, and then press Record
Channel 2 Action News (60 min)
3. In the Confirm Recording screen, choose your recording options and press A. The recording program is highlighted in red in the Program Guide.

Tue 5:00-6:00pm

CHANNEL

5:30pm

6:00pm
PBY_B 1915 World View News DVR 1 Recorded Programs List WSB 2 Channel 2 Action News WATL 3 Ricki Lake WGNX 4 Frasier Frasier Browse By Date TUE 1/15
Channel 2 Action News Steve Harvey Simpso Judge Judy
Record Multiple Episodes of a TV Program
If you want to record all the episodes of a program you are watching, follow these steps:
1. Press Record. 2. Choose One Episode or All Episodes. Notice the information in the fourth column changes, based on your selection. Press A. If you selected All Episodes from the third column, the All Episode Recording Options screen appears. 3. Choose one of the options on the screen. 4. Press Select to save your settings. Note: The New first-run episodes on this channel option is subject to availability in your area.

All episodes One episode

All Episode Recording Options

HGTV (Ch 238) Thu: 11/13

Options All episodes on this channel at any time New first-run episodes on this channel All episodes on this channel in this time slot

Choose highlighted item

Watching Your Recordings
Access and Play Back Your Recorded Programs Anytime
1. Press List. 2. Use the arrow keys to choose the program you want to play back. 3. Press Select to display your options.
Access and Play Back Your Recorded Programs From the Program Guide
1. Press Guide. 2. Use the arrow keys to choose the DVR channel and press Select. Note: The DVR channel is a dedicated channel that allows you to play back your recorded programs. 3. Use the arrow keys to choose the program you want to play back. 4. Press Select to play back the program.

Recorded Programs List

Programs you have recorded for later viewing.

Tue 3:00-9:00pm

PBY_A 1914 World Business News PBY_B 1915 World View News DVR 1 Recorded Programs List WSB 2 Channel 2 Action News WATL 3 Ricki Lake Browse By Date TUE 1/15
Channel 2 Action News Steve Harvey Simpso

Managing Recording Space

How Much Recording Space Do I Have?
1. Press List. 2. Press B to display the Preferences screen, which displays the percentage of space used.

Preferences

Recording Space Used:
19% You currently have 10 recordings.
Options Sort Recorded List by time recorded Turn ON Auto Erase Recording space used Change Save Time for future recordings Schedule a new Manual Recording Scheduled Recordings Recorded List
Automatically Erasing Oldest Recordings If Space Is Needed
Turning Auto Erase on will automatically erase your oldest recordings one by one until there is enough space to record your new programs. Note: Any recordings that have a Save Time of Until I Erase will not be automatically erased. 1. Press List 2. Press B to display the Preferences screen. 3. Choose Turn ON Auto Erase.

Auto Erase is OFF.

Press if you want your oldest recordings automatically erased to make space for new ones.
Options Schedule a new Manual Recording Sort Recorded List by time recorded Turn ON Auto Erase Recording space used Change Save Time for future recordings Scheduled Recordings Recorded List

Copy Recordings From Your DVR to a VCR Tape
The Copy to VCR feature lets you copy recordings from your DVR to a VCR tape. Warning: Avoid electric shock. Unplug all electronic devices before connecting or disconnecting any device cables to the DVR.
Verify that the OUT 2 outputs are connected to your VCR inputs. Note: This graphic shows the 8300HD DVR back panel layout. The 8300 DVR back panel is slightly different.
CABLE OUT OUT 1 Pr L Pb R Y/V OUT 2

A U D I O

OPTICAL

DIGITAL AUDIO OUT

AUDIO OUT

S - VIDEO OUT

RF IN L R L R

VIDEO IN

AUDIO IN

VIDEO OUT

RF OUT
VCR T11304 The program that you are copying appears in the PIP window. Connecting to your VCR using the OUT 2 outputs allows you to watch or record another program or even change channels in the Main screen, without affecting the copy in progress.
Notes: You can turn the PIP feature off and on without affecting the copy in progress. A Copying to VCR banner will be displayed for 3 seconds when you turn the PIP feature on. You can still record live TV directly to a VCR tape (instead of your DVR) by connecting the DVR OUT 2 outputs directly to the VCR inputs and not using the Copy a Recording to a VCR Tape instructions on page 13. Recording live TV directly to your VCR causes the VCR to record all remote control activities, including information banners and on-screen displays such as is pressed. when Guide
Copy a Recording to a VCR Tape
1. Connect the VCR to the OUT 2 connection on the back of the Explorer DVR. See page 12 for more information. 2. Make sure that a tape is in your VCR and that the VCR is set to record. The Recorded List 3. Press List screen appears.
4. Press Move Up or Move Down to highlight the recording you want to copy to the VCR. Make sure to select a program that is not currently being recorded. 5. Press Select. The Recorded Program Options screen appears.

Save: Until Erased

Recorded Programs Friends ER Design On A Dime Divine Design NYPD Blues Options/Play
Date Wed 11/10 Thur 11/11 Mon 11/15 Tue 11/16 Wed 11/17
Time 8:30pm 9:00pm 12:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm

Length 30min 1hr 0min 30min 30min 1hr 0min Preferences

Recorded Program Options

6. Press Move Up to VCR.

to highlight Copy

Recorded: Mon 11/15 12:00pm 30min Save: Until Erased
7. Press Select. The Copy to VCR screen appears. 8. Make sure your VCR is properly connected to your DVR outputs, and press Record on your VCR. 9. Press Start copy A. The recording begins copying to VCR tape. The Recorded List displays the VCR symbol for the recording that is copying to VCR. Note: You can watch the copying in progress through the PIP.
Options Erase Change save time Copy to VCR Play "Design On A Dime" Block "Design On A Dime" Choose highlighted item Recorded List

Copy to VCR

Connect VCR inputs to cable box outputs "OUT 2 (VCR)." Place a blank tape in your VCR. Set your VCR input to record from the cable box. Press RECORD on your VCR.

Start copy

Cancel copy

Using Picture-In-Picture

Activate PIP on Your TV
While watching a program, press PIP On/Off to activate the PIP screen. Notes: To pause or record the video in the PIP screen, you must first swap it to the Main screen. You can only use the dedicated DVR keys (Pause, Rewind, Fast-Forward) to control the program shown in the Main screen. To change the channel in the PIP screen, use PIP CH+ and PIP CH-. Tip: While the PIP screen is activated, press INFO banner for both the Main screen and the PIP screen. PIP Screen Main Screen

to display a channel

Activate PIP From the Program Guide
From the Program Guide, press Exit or Guide to close the Program Guide, and then press PIP On/Off to activate PIP. You can only activate PIP from full-screen video. PIP Screen Main Screen
Swap the Main and PIP Screens
To swap the TV program that is in the PIP screen to the Main screen, press PIP Swap. Note: You will only hear the audio for the program shown in the Main screen.

Move the PIP Screen

To move the PIP screen clockwise to a different corner of the Main screen, press PIP Move. You can move the PIP screen to any of the four corners of the Main screen.

Use Power-Save Mode

To maximize the life of your DVR, you should power-down the DVR when it is not in use. Simply press CBL and then Power on your remote control, or press Power on the front panel of the DVR. The Power light turns off; but, because the DVR is still plugged in, your scheduled recordings still occur. Between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily, your DVR will automatically enter Power-Save mode unless you press a key on the remote control or a key on the DVR front panel at least once every 2 hours. In Power-Save mode, the set-top is powered-down, but all scheduled recordings still occur. When the DVR enters Power-Save mode, your TV displays a black screen. Note: Your cable service provider controls whether or not the automatic Power-Save mode is activated on your set-top.

Attention

Your DVR will automatically enter power-save mode in 5 minutes. Press any remote key to continue watching TV.
At 1:10 a.m., the DVR displays the above 5-minute warning banner, indicating that the DVR is about to enter power-save mode. When this banner appears, do one of the following: To allow the DVR to enter Power-Save mode, do nothing when the warning banner appears. The DVR will automatically power-down. After your DVR powers down, you must press CBL and then Power on your remote control, or press Power on the front panel of your DVR to start watching TV again. To prevent the DVR from entering Power-Save mode, simply press any key on your remote or any key on the front panel of the DVR when the warning banner appears. The DVR will not attempt to enter power-save mode again until another 2 hours of inactivity has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far back can I rewind live TV? The length of time you can rewind live TV depends on how long you have been tuned to a single channel. Each time you change channels, a new copy is automatically stored to the built-in recorder. This copy saves up to the last 1 hour of programming. For example, if you have been watching the same channel for 15 minutes, you can rewind that 15 minutes of the program. Can I record the quarter screen in the Program Guide or the DVR Recorded List? Yes, you can record the quarter screen on all DVR screens by pressing Record. You can also record the quarter screen in the Program Guide. Press Exit to display the video in full screen, and then press Record. Note: Pressing Record while in the Program Guide will record the highlighted program in the grid. Can I record or pause the video in the PIP screen? Yes, but you must swap it to the Main screen first. After pressing Record and confirming the recording, you can swap it back to the PIP screen and it will continue recording. You can also press PIP On/Off, and the video will continue to record. Can I use PIP while copying a program to my VCR? When copying a program to a VCR, the PIP can be used only to monitor the progress of the copy status. You cannot use PIP to watch another program while copying a program to a VCR. If Ive been tuned to a program since it started, do I have to rewind to the beginning to record the entire program? No, if you have been tuned to the program since its beginning, just press Record from any point in the program to record the entire program. Recording will automatically stop when the program ends. How will I know the DVR is almost out of recording space? When you try to schedule the next recording, a warning appears on the Confirm Recording screen. Also, you can see what percentage of recording space you have used. Press List and then press B for preferences. What happens if my DVR loses power temporarily? Everything you have recorded is saved, based on the save time you selected in the Confirm Recording screen. Your scheduled recordings during the time the DVR lost power are the only recordings you may miss. Do my Parental Controls in the Program Guide carry over to DVR recordings? Yes. If you block programs by channel or rating in General Settings menu, those settings are carried over to DVR recordings. For example, if you decide to block all R-rated programs in the General Settings menu, the R-rated programs will still be recorded, but you cannot play them back until you enter the correct PIN. How do I block or erase individual recordings in my recorded list or change the save time for the recording? Highlight the recording on the Recorded List screen, and press Select on the remote control. An Options screen appears for the program you selected. Why are all my programs displayed in 1080i format? You may have selected the Easy Setup mode and the Widescreen (16:9) TV setting in the HDTV Setup Wizard. Choosing these two settings together limits your programming to 1080i format, even on non-HD channels. To see your non-HD programs in 480i on a widescreen (16:9) HDTV, use the Advanced Setup in the HDTV Setup Wizard. Make sure that you select 480i as one of your saved formats, and then select PassThrough in General Settings: Picture Format for your default picture format.

2004 Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved. AllTouch, Explorer, Scientific-Atlanta, and the Scientific-Atlanta logo are registered trademarks of Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. 8300, 8300HD, AT8400, AT8450, and AT8550 are trademarks of Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories. HDMI, the HDMI logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. All other trademarks shown are trademarks of their respective owners. Product and service availability subject to change without notice. Scientific-Atlanta, Inc., 5030 Sugarloaf Parkway, Box 465447, Lawrenceville, GA 30042 www.scientificatlanta.com August 2004 Printed in USA. 4004007 Rev A For questions or comments, call your cable service provider.