Page 2 - Safety Information; WARNING; Cautions; Note to Cable TV Installer:
Safety Information WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVECOVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. This symbol indicates“dangerous voltage” inside theproduct that presents a risk ofelectric shock or personal injury. This sy...
Page 3 - Table of Contents
Table of Contents 1 First Things First ............................................................ 3 What is the DSS® System? .............................................................. 4 Ordering DSS® Programming ......................................................... 4 What’s in the Box .......
Page 5 - The Menu System; system, and show you how to use the; Putting You in Control; programming by creating; First Things First
First Things First 3 The Only Rule:Point and select ➣ ➣ ➣ The Menu System Program Guides ➣ Lists & Limits Hi, my name is jay... and I wrote this User Manual. You can believe mewhen I tell you that you should read this page firstbecause it gives you a game plan for attacking thisrather large manu...
Page 6 - from the Main menu, and; What is the DSS; The DSS; Ordering DSS
First Things First 4 When you order programming, youneed to know your Access Cardnumber. To get the number, select Options from the Main menu, and then select System Test . Wait for the system to run all of it’s tests. TheAccess Card number is displayed atthe end of the system test. Write the Access...
Page 7 - What ’s in the Box; Receiver
First Things First 5 What ’s in the Box The following items come with your RCA DSS ® receiver: • Receiver (with access card inserted) • Remote Control ON/OFF DISPLAY ANTENNA MENU SELECT Receiver FAV • INPUT PREV CH DISPLAY GUIDE MENU • SELECT CLEAR 0 8 7 9 5 4 6 CHAN 2 1 3 ANT MUTE ALT AUD DSS TV OF...
Page 8 - Using This Manual; Important Note about This User’s
First Things First 6 Using This Manual There are a couple of conventions used in this manual that mighthelp you read it. • Words that appear in ALL CAPS indicate the name of abutton. • The names of on-screen menu option are shown in italics . Important Note about This User’s Manual This manual assum...
Page 10 - What is Point and Select?; Don’t worry about getting stuck inside
The Only Rule:Point and Select 8 MENU•SELECT What is Point and Select? Point and Select is the two-step method you use to control theDSS ® system. 1. Point You point by pressing the arrow keys on the remote or frontpanel. Pressing the arrow keys moves the on-screen highlightto different items in the...
Page 11 - Program Guides
Program Guides 9 The Only Rule:Point and select ➣ ➣ Program Guides First Things First ➣ The Menu System ➣ Lists & limits What is a Program Guide? A program guide is an on-screen programmingschedule. There are several types of guides, eachpresenting the schedule in a different format. Using the P...
Page 12 - Bringing Up the Program Guides; Using the GUIDE Button; Changing Channels with the number
Program Guides 10 Bringing Up the Program Guides You can access the program guides by using the GUIDE button onthe remote, or by selecting Program Guide from the Main menu. Using the GUIDE Button Each press of the GUIDE button takes you to an alternate type ofprogram guide: • Press GUIDE once to see...
Page 13 - Scrolling Page By Page
Program Guides 11 Scrolling Page By Page If you want to scroll up or down through the Program Guidefaster, press the Channel Up/Down buttons on the remotecontrol. The highlight scrolls a page at a time. This is called“paging.” Tuning to a Program • To tune directly to a program listed in the guide, ...
Page 14 - Types of Program Guides
Program Guides 12 Types of Program Guides There are five types of program guides: the Grid Guide, the InfoGuide, the Topic Guide, the Channel Guide, and the AttractionsGuide. The Grid Guide Shows the schedule in a time-and-channel format, similar to a TVschedule listed in a newspaper. The seven-chan...
Page 15 - The Topic Guide
Program Guides 13 The Topic Guide Lets you sort the programming schedule to show certain topics,such as “movies” or “sports.” The Topic guide. The Channel Guide Displays the programming schedule in a channel-by-channelformat. The Channel guide. The Attractions Guide Displays coming attractions and s...
Page 16 - Sorting the Grid and Info Guides; Using the Sorting Buttons
Program Guides 14 Sorting the Grid and Info Guides There are six on-screen choices—called “buttons”— at thebottom of the Grid Guide and the Info Guide: down arrow,Movies, Sports, Other, All, and Sort. The Sorting buttons are at the bottom of the screen. The arrow button allows you to scroll down thr...
Page 17 - Using the Themes Button; Exiting A Program Guide
Program Guides 15 Allows you choose from a list of sorting topics. Once you haveselected a sorting topic from the list, your guide will besimplified to show only that type of program. After selecting a topic, a Themes button may appear in the place of the Other button. Resets the guide to show all a...
Page 19 - Don’ t Forget Point and Select
The Menu System 17 The Only Rule:Point and select ➣ ➣ Program Guides First Things First ➣ The Menu System ➣ Lists & Limits What ’s a Menu? The DSS ® menu is a list of choices, just like a menu in a restaurant. And, just as a restaurant menu isdivided into sections such as appetizers, entrees,and...
Page 20 - Using the Menu System; Exit and Help; Exiting a Screen; Using Help; Context-Sensitive Help
The Menu System 18 Using the Menu System To bring up the Main Menu, press MENU•SELECT on the remote. The Main Menu. To use the menu system, you need to know the Point and Selectrule. Use the arrows on the remote to point to an item on thescreen, and then press MENU•SELECT to select it. Exit and Help...
Page 21 - Menu Descriptions
The Menu System 19 Menu Descriptions This section briefly describes each of the available Main Menuoptions. Detailed information about each menu is included in thesections of the manual which describe each menu. Program Guide Shows the on-screen programming schedules. Mailbox Use to read your mail m...
Page 23 - viewing by letting you create channel lists; Especially for Parents
Lists & Limits 21 The Only Rule:Point and select ➣ ➣ Program Guides First Things First ➣ The Menu System ➣ Lists & Limits Different Drummers Not everybody likes to watch the same thing, andwithin your own family, you might not wanteverybody to be able to watch everything. TheLists & Limi...
Page 25 - Setting Up Spending Limits; Creating Favorite Channel Lists
Lists & Limits 23 Setting Up Spending Limits Use the Spending Limit option to indicate a per-event spending limit for pay-per-view programs. 1. Point to Spending Limit , and press MENU•SELECT. Set a per-event spending limit. 2. Use the arrow keys to enter a single-program spending limit. After a...
Page 26 - Add or Delete All Channels
Lists & Limits 24 1. Point to Channel Lists and press MENU•SELECT. Select a Favorite channel list to edit. 2. Point to a channel list option and press MENU•SELECT. Channels containing a checkmark are included inthe channel list . 3. Use the arrow keys to point to a channel, and pressMENU•SELECT ...
Page 28 - Unlocking the System; Session Unlock
Lists & Limits 26 2. Use the arrows or the digit keys to enter a four-digitsystem password. 3. Enter the password a second time to confirm it. After the system has been locked, you must enter the correctpassword in order to access the Lists & Limits menu, so Don’t Forget Your Password! If yo...
Page 30 - More Features; Purchasing and Viewing; Tuning to a PPV Program; You may need to enter your four-digit
More Features 28 Pay-Per-View Programs Pay-per-view programs (PPV) are programs that you purchase—like a movie ticket—on an event-by-event basis. For instance,there might be a specific channel that runs nothing but previewsfor movies. After previewing the movie, you can purchase it orfind out more d...
Page 31 - Using the Program Guide for PPV; Using the Attractions Guide; You need to connect your phone line; Buy and Record Option; the program details screen. Selecting; allows you to record
More Features 29 Using the Program Guide for PPV Programs When you use the Program Guide, to select a PPV program, pressthe DISPLAY to see a different Program Details screen. Use the Program Guide to get to the Program Details screen. • Select View Channel to see go to that channel and view aprogram...
Page 32 - Using the Purchases Menu
More Features 30 Using the Purchases Menu The Purchases menu allows you to review upcoming and pastpurchases. The Purchases menu shows you upcoming or pastpurchases. The list of purchases may be longer than one screen; use thedown arrow keys to see more items. The display also shows thetitle, channe...
Page 33 - Timer Feature; Editing or Canceling a Timer
More Features 31 Timer Feature The Timer feature allows you to preset your system toautomatically tune to a particular channel at a predeterminedtime. To use the Timer feature, select Timers from the main menu to bring up the Timers screen. Select a Timer (1, 2, 3, or 4) and thenuse the arrow keys t...
Page 34 - The Mailbox; How to tell when you have mail
More Features 32 The Mailbox The mailbox shows you messages that are sent—or “mailed”—from your program providers. For example, you may receive amessage calling your attention to a new service. How to tell when you have mail There are two ways to tell if you have mail, depending onwhether the DSS ® ...
Page 35 - Mailbox Size; Alternate Audio Programs; ALT AUD Remote Button; Alternate Audio Display Screen
More Features 33 Mailbox Size The mailbox has enough memory to store as many as ten (10)200-character messages. You should periodically review anderase your mail messages to prevent any mail messages frombeing erased by the system when memory runs low. Alternate Audio Programs Alternate Audio allows...
Page 36 - Picture Size; New Access Card Setup
More Features 34 Picture Size The Picture size display screen allows you to choose between astandard TV screen and a Cinema option. A standard TV screenhas an aspect ratio of 4:3; the Cinema option has an aspect ratioof 16:9. You should only use the Cinema option if you have aCinemaScreen ® TV; usin...
Page 37 - Auto Help
More Features 35 Using On-Line Help On-line Help is available for all of the menus and display screens.The System provides Auto Help, Help buttons, and Menu Help. Auto Help Most menus contain a short description of that menu. Help Buttons Help buttons appear in many display screens. To see informati...
Page 39 - Protect Your Components from Power Surges; Connections
Connections 37 Things to Know BeforeConnecting Components Protect Your Components from Power Surges • Connect all components before plugging any power cordsinto the wall outlet. • Always turn off the DSS ® receiver, TV and other components before you connect or disconnect any cables. Position Cables...
Page 40 - Jacks and Cables
Connections 38 Connecting Your DSS ® Receiver to Your TV If your DSS ® system has not been professionally installed, or if you move your system or add a component, refer to these pagesto help you connect your system. Jacks and Cables S-Video Jack and Cable (S-VHS) The S-Video jack provides the best ...
Page 41 - Choosing a Connection
Connections 39 Choosing a Connection The following pages show four examples of hookups commonlyused to connect the DSS ® receiver with a TV and other components. Refer to your TV and VCR Owner’s Manuals formore information on hooking up your specific components. Connection A Provides the best possib...
Page 42 - Connection A; Best Picture and Sound Quality
Connections 40 Connection A Best Picture and Sound Quality To use this connection you must have: • TV with separate RF, audio/video, and S-Video inputs (jacks) • VCR with RF and audio/video inputs • Coaxial, audio/video, and S-Video cables To connect TV, VCR and antenna or cable box. 1. Connect coax...
Page 43 - Connection B; Very Good Picture and Sound Quality
Connections 41 Connection B Very Good Picture and Sound Quality To use this connection you must have: • TV with separate RF and audio/video inputs (jacks) • VCR with RF and audio/video inputs • Coaxial and audio/video cables To connect TV, VCR and antenna or cable box. 1. Connect coaxial cables as s...
Page 44 - CAUTION; Connection C; Good Picture and Sound Quality
Connections 42 CAUTION Do not stack electronic componentsor other objects on top of the DSS ® receiver. See Safety Information,inside front cover. Connection C Good Picture and Sound Quality To use this connection you must have: • TV with RF input (jack) • VCR with RF and audio/video inputs • Coaxia...
Page 45 - Connection D; Good Picture and Sound Quality)
Connections 43 Connection D Good Picture and Sound Quality) To use this connection you must have: • TV with RF input • Coaxial cables To connect TV and antenna or cable box: 1. Connect coaxial cables as shown. To receive DSS ® programming: • Tune TV to channel 3 or 4 (depending on how you setthe CH3...
Page 46 - Interactive Setup; Disabling Interactive Setup
Connections 44 Interactive Setup If you self-installed your satellite dish, you may have already usedthe interactive setup to find the dish pointing coordinates,acquire and fine-tune the signal, and run a system test. If you need to run the interactive setup again, go to the Assistance menu and sele...
Page 47 - How It All Works; Although the DSS; Reference
Reference 45 How It All Works Although the DSS ® system is simple to use, there are a number of parts in the system.Don’t be overwhelmed. This section explainshow these different parts work together to bringa picture to your screen. What ’s It For? This section also describes the controlls locatedon...
Page 48 - Parts of the DSS; World View; Uplink Center Transmits programming up to the satellite.
Reference 46 Uplink Center Authorization Center Satellite Satellite Dish Antenna Parts of the DSS ® System One way to understand the DSS ® system is to look at the different parts of the system—from the studio down to the DSS ® receiver and remote control in your living room. World View These parts ...
Page 49 - Home View
Reference 47 Home View These parts are inside of or attached to your house. DSS ® Satellite Dish Picks up the satellite’s coded program information and relays it to your DSS ® receiver. (Your satellite dish may be installed in different locations on or around your house. Thesatellite dish must, howe...
Page 50 - Front Panel Controls
Reference 48 The Access Card door slides open so that you can replace the card when necessary. Front Panel Controls ON/OFF DISPLAY ANTENNA MENU SELECT ON/OFF Turns the DSS ® receiver’s power on or off. DISPLAY Brings up the on-screen channel marker. ANTENNA Switches the source of the video signal fr...
Page 51 - Remote Control Buttons
Reference 49 FAV • INPUT PREV CH DISPLAY GUIDE MENU • SELECT CLEAR 0 8 7 9 5 4 6 CHAN 2 1 3 ANT MUTE ALT AUD DSS TV OFF • ON VOL Remote Control Buttons OFF•ON Turns the device you are controlling on or off. TV Tells the remote to control the TV. VCR Tells the remote to control the VCR. ALT Tells the...
Page 52 - Programming the Remote Control; Programming the Remote to Control
Reference 50 After you program the remote tocontrol your TV, record your TV codehere for easy reference. Programming the Remote Control The remote can be programmed to control most brands of remotecontrollable TV. Most RCA, GE and ProScan TVs and VCRs arealready programmed. Other manufacturer’s bran...
Page 53 - Remote Codes; TV Codes
Reference 51 Remote Codes TV Codes Realistic ............................................. 021Sampo ........................................ 011, 027Samsung ........... 006, 011, 014, 015, 019, 027, 036, 037, 077 Sanyo ......... 017, 021, 039, 056, 057, 058Scott ................................... 0...
Page 54 - Glossary
Reference 52 Glossary The following is a list of terms used in this manual. There is also a glossary contained within the Assistancemenu of your DSS ® system. Access Card Identifies you to the DSS ® service providers and is required for your DSS ® system to work. Do not remove the access card except...
Page 56 - Troubleshooting; Running the System Test
Reference 54 Troubleshooting The DSS ® System Test allows you to run a basic diagnostics check on your DSS ® system. If you are experiencing any trouble with your system, run the system test. Make sure that • All connections—jacks, cables, etc. are correctly in place. SeeConnecting Your DSS ® Receiv...
Page 57 - Appendix A: Warranty Information; Toll-Free Telephone Product Help; Please have your DSS; Returning Equipment to Thomson for Repair or Exchange; Digital Satellite System (DSS; What your warranty covers:; For how long after your purchase:
55 Appendix A: Warranty Information Toll-Free Telephone Product Help You can reach Thomson Consumer Electronics at the following number:1-800-679-4776 (Toll free inside U.S.A.)Our toll-free DSS ® System number operates from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST on weekdays and10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST Satu...
Page 58 - To receive a replacement receiver before your return yours:
56 What we will do: • During the initial 90 days: Exchange the defective portion of your DSS ® with a new or, at our option, refurbished unit and correct any basic installation defects at no cost to you. • After the 90 days and within one year: Exchange the defective portion of your DSS ® with a new...
Page 60 - Appendix B: FCC Regulations; FCC Registration Information
58 - Appendix B: FCC Regulations FCC Registration Information Your DSS ® equipment is registered with the Federal Communications Commission and is in compliance with parts 15B and 68, FCC Rules and Regulations. 1. Notification to the Local Telephone Company. On the bottom of this equipment is a labe...
Page 61 - Appendix C: Accessories; Miscellaneous Supplies; Detach Here
59 Appendix C: Accessories Audio/Video Cables Accessory Order Form for RCA DSS ® Models Price Part No. Total Description RG-6 Coaxial Cable 12 feet D912 $12.95 25 feet D925 $15.95 50 feet D950 $21.95 75 feet D975 $29.95 100 feet D901 $29.95 Stereo Audio/Video Cable 6 feet D906 $12.95 12 feet D914 $1...
Page 62 - United States and Canadian Orders; PLEASE
60 Appendix C: Accessories To order accessories, contact your local RCA Dealer.If a dealer is not nearby, you can also follow theinstructions below to order by telephone. United States and Canadian Orders To place your order by phone, have your Visa orMasterCard ready and call the toll-free numberli...
Page 63 - Index
61 Index A Access Card 47 new card setup 34 number 4 ALT AUD button 33 Alternate audio programs 33 Arrow keys 8 Attractions Guide 13, 29 Audio/video jacks 38 Auto Help 35 B Back Panel controls 48 AUDIO 48 IN FROM ANT 48 LOW SPEED DATA port 48 OUT TO TV 48 PHONE JACK 48 REMOTE IN 48 S-VIDEO 48 SATELL...
