Troubleshooting a Hard Disk Recorder

Hard Disk Recorders are devices that store media, usually TV programs or broadcasts inside the hard disk included in the unit, making those contents accessible anytime later. The advantages these devices have against DVD recorders are that you can delete the content from the hard disk if you don't need it anymore. With DVD recorders you have to use another DVD (if it's not rewritable), if you run out of storage. Also, hard disks have several times more space to store the media in contrast to DVDs.

If you think there is a problem with your Hard Disk Recorder, please check the following first. If the items below do not solve the problem, contact your manufacturer support help desk.

Power

You pressed the power button and nothing happened.

• If you are using the remote control, first replace the batteries with new ones. Then, if the problem persists, try using the power button located on front of the recorder.
• Confirm that the power cord is correctly plugged into the wall socket.
• Plug the power cord into another wall socket.
• If the power cord is detachable, try using another cord.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall socket. Let the recorder rest for about 10 minutes and then plug it again. See if you can turn on the recorder now.
  

TV Output

Image is distorted or not showing on the TV screen.

• Verify that the RCA/S-Video/HDMI cables are properly plugged into the TV set according to the matching colors.
• Check if the hard disk recorder video output (NTSC/PAL) matches the TV system. You can change these settings using the MENU option.
• Use another set of cables.
• Select the right input mode on your TV using TV/VIDEO or A/V INPUT functions.

Recorder

Media cannot be stored in the hard disk recorder.

• Verify that you have free space on the hard drive. If not, delete some programs or files you don’t need anymore.
• If you hear clicks inside the hard disk unit, it could be a disk failure. Replace the old hard disk for a new one with the same specifications as the original. You will have to open up the recorder to do this. First, put the anti-static wrist on and using the screwdrivers remove the recorder case. Next, carefully take out the original hard disk and replace it with the new one. Put everything back together and assemble the recorder. Turn on the device and see if you can record media now.
• In the case the recorder cannot boot up correctly, or keeps rebooting from time to time, you could be having problems with the hard disk. Try formatting the hard disk if the recorder has a format option. Otherwise, open up the recorder, take out the hard disk and install it on your computer. Then, format it using hard disk utilities on your operating system.
• It is always advisable to upgrade the firmware to the latest one for better performance.