videoing TV progs - a more accurate way?

stripes · 21-10-2004, 17:36

Using a standard VCR/STB, I can tape two or more sequential programmes, but I'm always annoyed by the way the STB changes automatically a couple of minutes before the next programme is due to start. I know it's mostly rubbish, but I want to CHOOSE whether I see the last minute or so of a programme!
Is there any other way of programming the STB on a more accurate basis, or are we stuck with the 'Automatic' system?
Ta.
Allen, London.

23-10-2004, 03:47

Quote:

Originally Posted by billybob

Is there any other way of programming the STB on a more accurate basis, or are we stuck with the 'Automatic' system?

Yeah, go back to the old Analogue boxes where you could set up proper, repeating, recording slots and there was none of this "set a reminder" followed by a sodding great banner right across the middle of whatever was on previously

Alternatively you can, at least, set the reminder to only come on one minute before the next programme, rather than the default three minutes. It's not perfect by any means, though...

stripes · 23-10-2004, 10:43

Hello Graham. Thanks for the reply.

I think you can guess the next question....

So how do I change from 3 to 1 minute? I've had a look at the TV....Options, but the only options I get are to make a reminder Automatic or not. So which button(s) should I be pressing?

Thanks.

Allen. (NW London, with a PACE STB).

threadbare · 23-10-2004, 11:12

in visual settings there is an option to change the the length of the reminder - it is actually possible to change it to 'no prompt.' I have not tried this setting before - I presume it will change the channel at the appropriate time....

stripes · 23-10-2004, 14:32

Hello threadbare.

Not on my STB or remote there isn't. No 'visual settings' prompt, button, menu, or anything like it.

Where should I be looking?

Cheers.

Allen.

23-10-2004, 16:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by billybob

So how do I change from 3 to 1 minute? I've had a look at the TV....Options, but the only options I get are to make a reminder Automatic or not. So which button(s) should I be pressing?

Well on my Pace STB it's the TV Guide button, then select Settings/ Display Settings which lets you set the duration of "Display Now and Next", "Display Reminders" and "Enhanced Programming". You can set reminders for 7, 5, 2, 1 and "No Reminder".

It seems they've fixed a glitch that used to exist with "No Reminder" that it wouldn't actually switch the program over (which is why I didn't mention it previously!) but I've just tried again and it now works.

Don't forget once you've changed the settings to select "Keep Changes" otherwise it won't change anything!

threadbare · 23-10-2004, 21:20

I have returned home after trying this setting, to record the rugby on sky sports, it seems to have recorded fine

on mine it is accessed by pressing guide > settings > visual settings > display reminder before event > no prompt

stripes · 24-10-2004, 11:18

Thanks Graham, and Threadbare.

That's worked. Just a note for future readers.... working with a PACE STB in NW London, there are different options - we haven't got the 7-5-2-1-no reminder sequence, but the one minute option does make a difference. Also, there's no prompt to 'save changes', but they are saved nonetheless, so that doesn't matter.

(Q: why does NTL do this? I mean why does it have differently functioning STBs in different parts of the country? Don't they trust Londoners, for example? Funny old gang.)

Anyway, thanks again. It will help a lot.

Allen.