LG DV398H Manual

The LG DV398H is a DVD/VCR Combo Recorder with built-in digital TV tuner, progressive scan output, HDMI connectivity, USB port for media playback, Time Shift recording, DivX support, and EasyLink (HDMI-CEC) compatibility. It allows recording from TV to DVD or VHS, playback of various disc formats, and features a sleek design with front-panel controls. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Recording and Playback 8. USB Media Playback 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: DVD/VCR combo unit, Remote Control, HDMI output, USB port, SCART connector, Coaxial input, Front panel controls.

FeatureDescription
HDMI OutputFor high-quality digital video and audio connection to TV
USB PortFor playback of photos, music, and videos from USB storage
SCART ConnectorFor analog video/audio input and output
Coaxial InputFor TV antenna or cable signal
Front Panel ControlsPower, Eject, Play, Stop, Record, Channel buttons
Digital TV TunerBuilt-in DVB-T tuner for receiving digital broadcasts
Progressive ScanProvides smoother picture quality for compatible displays
Time ShiftPause and rewind live TV
DivX SupportPlayback of DivX encoded video files from disc or USB
EasyLink (HDMI-CEC)Control compatible devices with one remote

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, well-ventilated surface.

  1. Connect TV: Use HDMI cable for best quality, or SCART/Composite cables.
  2. Connect antenna: Attach TV antenna cable to coaxial input on rear.
  3. Connect power: Plug AC power cord into wall outlet.
  4. Connect USB device: Insert USB drive into front USB port for media playback.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block vents. Keep away from heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Select language: Choose preferred menu language (default: English).
  2. Auto-tune channels: Perform automatic channel search for digital TV.
  3. Set time and date: Configure clock for accurate recording.
  4. Configure EasyLink: Enable in settings to control compatible TV with unit's remote.
  5. Test playback: Insert a DVD to verify proper operation.

CAUTION! Handle discs and tapes carefully; insert correctly to avoid damage.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT (DVD/VHS), PLAY, STOP, REC, CHANNEL +/-.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, MENU, GUIDE, INFO, RECORD, PLAY/PAUSE, STOP, NAVIGATION arrows, OK, RETURN, SUBTITLE, AUDIO, INPUT.

Setup Menu: Language, Channel Setup, Time Settings, Parental Lock (default password 0000), EasyLink, Display Settings. Recording Settings: Quality (XP, SP, LP, EP), Timer Recording, One-Touch Recording. Playback Settings: Repeat, Zoom, Angle, Subtitle, Audio Track.

Connecting Devices

TV: HDMI or SCART. Antenna: Coaxial input. External devices: Use SCART or front AV inputs.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting cables.
  2. Use appropriate cables for each connection (HDMI for HD, SCART for analog).
  3. Select input on TV to match connection (HDMI 1, AV1, etc.).
  4. Select source on unit using INPUT button (TV, AV1, AV2, USB).

Tip: For best picture quality, use HDMI connection and enable Progressive Scan in settings.

Recording and Playback

Record TV programs to DVD or VHS; play back various media formats.

  1. Recording to DVD:
    • Insert recordable DVD.
    • Select channel to record.
    • Press REC once for immediate recording; press again to stop.
    • Use Timer Recording in menu for scheduled recordings.
  2. Recording to VHS:
    • Insert VHS tape.
    • Select source (TV or AV input).
    • Press REC to start recording.
  3. Playback:
    • Insert disc or tape.
    • Press PLAY; use navigation buttons for chapter/track selection.
    • Use STOP to pause playback; press again to stop completely.
  4. Time Shift:
    • Press TIME SHIFT while watching TV to pause live broadcast.
    • Use PLAY/PAUSE, REW, FF to control playback.

WARNING! Do not remove disc or tape during recording or playback. Ensure sufficient disc space/tape length.

USB Media Playback

Play photos, music, and video files from USB storage devices.

  1. Insert USB drive into front USB port.
  2. Press USB button on remote or select USB from source menu.
  3. Navigate through folders using arrow buttons.
  4. Select file and press OK to play.
  5. Supported formats: JPEG, MP3, DivX, Xvid, MPEG.

Note: Some file formats or DRM-protected content may not be supported.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug unit before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for exterior; do not use solvents.

For DVD lens cleaning: Use approved cleaning disc only.

For VHS heads: Use approved cleaning cassette as needed.

CAUTION! Never open the unit casing; refer servicing to qualified personnel. Store in dry environment.

Regulatory Information

CE compliant; meets EU directives for safety and electromagnetic compatibility. Copyright © LG Electronics Inc. DivX® is a registered trademark of DivX, LLC. For support, visit www.lg.com or contact LG customer service at the number provided in your region.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord not connectedCheck power connection; ensure outlet is working.
No pictureIncorrect input selectedSelect correct input on TV; check cable connections.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to unit's IR sensor.
Disc not recognizedDisc dirty/damagedClean disc; ensure it's compatible format; insert correctly.
No soundAudio settings/cablesCheck audio cables; ensure TV volume is up; check mute status.
Recording failsDisc not recordable/space fullUse recordable disc; check available space; finalize disc if required.
Poor picture qualitySignal strength/cablesCheck antenna connection; retune channels; use better quality cables.

Reset: Unplug unit for 1 minute, then reconnect to reset temporary issues.

Service: Contact LG customer support or authorized service center.

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