Problem with video recorder clock

My Video Recorder Clock is not working properly

Question submitted by F. Wyatt

We have a Bush VCR which we have connected to a new Digital TV via a Set Top Box so that we can watch one programme and record another.

The VCR has an Auto Clock Set Function with no Manual Set option. The time/date setting keeps reverting to 27th March but the year and time are correct.

Our Answer

Video recorders sold in the 1990s and early 2000s sometimes included a feature that allowed them to synchronise the video recorder’s built-in clock, with a signal send over-the air by the broadcaster (BBC, ITV, etc). This was a handy way of making sure that the video recorder’s clock didn’t drift, meaning you might miss the start or end of a show, and helping to adjust for the switch to and from Daylight Saving.

The signal from the broadcaster was sent over-the-air as part of the analogue TV service, and VHS recorders could detect the time signal and set the built-in clock. Typically, only the time (hours, minutes and seconds) was used to update the clock.

In 2008, the UK Digital Switchover started, and the old analogue TV service started switching off around the country. Analogue video recorders can still be used, but as they don’t contain a digital receiver, you typically need to connect a digital set-top box using a SCART lead. This means that the video recorder is still able to record TV, but two services are casualties:

  1. VideoPlus – Used to programme a video recorder using code numbers found in TV listings magazines. The system can’t cope with the large number of new channels
  2. Clock Updates – Once the analogue transmitter is switched off, there’s no analogue clock information for the VCR (Video Cassette Recorder)

What’s the fix?

Look in the video recorder’s manual and/or the on-screen menu for an option to disable “Auto Clock Updates”. This could be labelled “Clock Set” or “Auto Time”.

If you can’t find the option in the manual or the on-screen menu screen, you should contact the manufacturer of the recorder and ask them to tell you how to disable the auto-clock updates.

Alternatives?

As a result of the Digital Switchover, VHS Video Recorders are no longer the best way of recording TV. You may want to consider getting either a DVD Recorder, or a PVR (which is a set-top box with a hard-disc built-in. These record hundreds of hours of TV without the need for tape, and support features such as the ability to pause TV, and Series Link, so you don’t miss a show)

PVRs are available online, or on the high street at Comet, Currys and Argos.

Need help with your recorder?

Add a comment below, including the make and model, and perhaps someone can help…

This entry was posted in Recording TV.

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