Panasonic Dmr Eh50 Operating Instructions Manual

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TV Guide On ScreenTM systemPage
Does the TV Guide On ScreenTM 
system work with analog and digital 
cable TV boxes?≥Yes. The TV Guide On ScreenTM system works with both analog and digital cable TV 
boxes.—
I have relocated, changed my 
television reception system or cable 
TV box etc. How should I redo the 
TV Guide On Screen
TM system 
setup?≥Select “Change system settings” in “SETUP” in the Navigation menu of the TV Guide 
On Screen
TM system. If you select “No, repeat setup process”, you can then access the 
TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup screen. You can also access the setup screen 
from “TV Guide Settings” in the SETUP menu.29, 54
Please tell me about the 
downloading of television program 
list data.≥Channel line-up data is transmitted continuously, 24 hours a day–7 days a week.
≥Program information that contains details about each program is usually transmitted 
four times a day, and the cycles last approximately 3 hours. The TV Guide On Screen
TM 
system only requires one transmission a day to maintain up-to-date program listings. 
Because the unit must be turned off in order to receive new information, multiple 
transmissions are conveniently scheduled early to mid-morning and during the early 
afternoon hours.
—
—
Why doesn’t my favorite program 
have more information in the 
information window or expanded 
information window?≥The hardware that makes TV Guide On Screen
TM system possible is a computer chip 
which has limited storage space. Factors used in determining which programs display 
detailed program information are the number of channels turned “ON” in the CHANNEL 
EDITOR screen and the availability of the descriptions. 
Setting channels that cannot be received to “OFF” in the CHANNEL EDITOR screen 
may increase the amount of information displayed.29
What kind of information might be 
seen in the MESSAGES screen?≥Useful Product Related Information (PRI) such as alerting the user to new features or 
data available through the TV Guide On ScreenTM system. This feature may not be 
active in all viewing areas.
—
Can I record one channel while 
watching another?If you do not connect a cable TV box
≥Yes. Change the television’s input mode to “TV”.
If you connect a cable TV box
≥No. The user cannot watch one program and record another.—
—
If I have a power failure, will I need to 
reset the scheduled recording of 
programs I have already set?≥In most cases the scheduled recording of programs will be saved. However, if an 
extended power failure occurs, it is strongly recommended that you verify the scheduled 
recording of programs that you had previously set. Press [SCHEDULE] to display the 
SCHEDULE screen.27
I do not want TV Guide On Screen
TM 
system to automatically appear on 
screen.≥Select “Off ” in “Review options” menu, so that TV Guide On ScreenTM system appears 
only when you press [TV GUIDE].29
I do not want to use TV Guide On 
ScreenTM system.
≥Set the unit with “Set Channels Automatically” in the SETUP menu. Note that you can 
set scheduled recording only manually after you set the unit with “Set Channels 
Automatically”.57
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Troubleshooting guide
Before requesting service, make the following checks. If you are in doubt about some of the check points, or if the solutions indicated in the chart 
do not solve the problem, refer to the “Customer Services Directory” on page 70 if you reside in the U.S.A., or refer to the “Product information” on 
page 69 if you reside in Canada.
The following do not indicate a problem with this unit:
To reset this unitPage
Power
Displays
TV screen and video≥Regular disc rotating sounds.
≥Poor reception due to atmospheric conditions.
≥Image disturbance during search.
≥Interruptions in reception due to periodic satellite broadcasting 
breaks.
≥A sound is heard when the HDD goes into SLEEP mode, or 
operations are slow to respond in SLEEP mode.≥Operations do not work due to a poor-quality disc. (Try again using a 
Panasonic disc.)
≥The unit freezes due to one of its safety devices being activated. 
(Press and hold [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit for 10 seconds.
≥When the HDD has been automatically placed in the SLEEP mode 
(➡4), or the unit is turned on or off, there may be an unexpected 
sound. This does not indicate a problem with this unit.
To return the channel settings 
and clock to the factory preset 
(No setting)≥Press and hold [CHW] and [XCH] on the main unit for about 5 seconds.
(Current channel line-up and television program list are cleared.)—
To return all the settings other 
than the main ones to the 
factory preset≥Select “Yes” in “Restore Default Settings” in the SETUP menu.
This returns all values in the SETUP menus, except for the clock, channel settings, ratings 
level, and on-screen language, to the default settings.54
To reset the ratings level 
settings≥While the disc tray is open, press [DVD] then press and hold [¥REC] and [1](PLAY/a1.3) 
on the main unit at the same time for 5 or more seconds.—
To restore the unit if it freezes 
due to one of the safety 
devices being activated≥Press and hold [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit for 10 seconds. (The settings remain.)—
No power. ≥Insert the AC power supply cord securely into a known active AC outlet.12, 13
The unit switches to standby 
mode.
≥This is a power saving feature. It can be changed if desired using “Off Timer” in the SETUP menu.≥One of the unit’s safety devices is activated. Press [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit to turn the 
unit on.54
—
The display is dim.≥Change “Front Display” in the SETUP menu.56
“12:00A” is flashing on the 
unit’s display.≥After setting the TV Guide On Screen
TM system, wait until the clock is downloaded. (The 
flashing “12:00A” will change to the current time.)
≥If the units display does not change to the current time even after waiting, we recommend 
that you set the clock using “Set Clock Manually”.
≥If you do not want to use the TV Guide On Screen
TM system, set the clock with “Set Clock 
Automatically”.—
17
57
Compared to the actual 
recorded time, the elapsed time 
displayed is less.≥The displayed recording/play time is converted from the number of frames at 29.97 frames 
(equal to 0.999 seconds) to one second. There will be a slight difference between the time 
displayed and the actual elapsed time (e.g., actual one-hour elapsed time may display as 
approximately 59 minutes 56 seconds). This does not affect the recording.—
The time recorded on the disc 
and the available time shown 
do not add up.
The play time shown for MP3 
does not agree with the actual 
time.≥Times shown may disagree with actual times.
≥Available recording space on DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) increases only when the last 
recorded title is erased. It does not increase if other titles are erased.
≥Even if you erase recorded content from the DVD-R or +R, there is no increase in disc space.
≥More disc space than the actual recording time is used after recording or editing the DVD-R 
or +R 200 times or more.
≥While searching, the elapsed time may not display correctly.—
—
—
—
—
Television reception worsens 
after connecting the unit.≥This can occur because the signals are being divided between the unit and other equipment. 
It can be solved by using a signal booster, available from audio-visual suppliers. If it is not 
solved by using a signal booster, consult the dealer.—
Status messages do not 
appear.≥Select “Automatic” in “Status Messages” in the SETUP menu.56
The blue background does not 
appear.≥Select “On” in “Blue Background” in the SETUP menu.56
The 4:3 aspect ratio picture 
expands left and right.
Screen size is wrong.≥Use the television to change the aspect. If your television does not have that function, set 
“Progressive” in the Video menu to “Off”.
≥Check the settings for “TV Type”, “4:3 TV Settings for DVD-Video” or “4:3 TV Settings for 
DVD-RAM” in the SETUP menu.37
56
There is a lot of after-image 
when playing video.≥Change the settings for “Integrated DNR” to “0” or turn “MPEG-DNR” off if it is on.37
When playing DVD-Video using 
progressive output, one part of 
the picture momentarily 
appears to be doubled up.≥Set “Progressive” in the Video menu to “Off”. This problem is caused by the editing method or 
material used on DVD-Video, but should be corrected if you use interlace output.37
There is no apparent change in 
picture quality when adjusted 
with the Video menu in the on-
screen menus.≥The effect is less perceivable with some types of video.—
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TV screen and video (Continued)Pag e
Sound
Operation
Continued on next page
The images from this unit do 
not appear on the television.
Picture is distorted.≥Make sure that the television is connected to the VIDEO OUT terminal, S-VIDEO OUT 
terminal or COMPONENT VIDEO OUT terminals on this unit.
≥Make sure that the television’s input setting (e.g., VIDEO 1) is correct.
≥Progressive output is set to on but the connected television is not progressive compatible. 
Press and hold [∫] and [1](PLAY/a1.3) on the main unit at the same time for more than 5 
seconds to cancel this setting. The setting will change to interlace.12–14
—
—
The channels keep changing.≥When the unit is turned off, it uses the IR Blaster to scan the cable TV box channels and 
acquire the TV program list data. To watch a cable TV box program (even if not recording) 
turn the unit back on.—
No sound.
Low volume.
Distorted sound.
Cannot hear the desired audio 
type.≥Check the connections and the “Digital Audio Output” settings. Check the input mode on the 
amplifier if you have connected one.
≥Press [AUDIO] to select the audio. 
≥Turn off V.S.S. in the following cases.
–When using discs that do not have surround sound effects such as Karaoke discs.
–When playing MTS broadcast programs.
≥The disc may have a restriction on the method of audio output. If “D.MIX” does not appear in 
the display when playing multi-channel DVD-Audio, only audio for the two front channels will 
be output. Refer to the disc’s jacket. [DVD-A]
≥Output is not digital with DVD-Audio.12–15, 
56
22, 32
37
—
—
Cannot switch audio.≥You cannot switch the audio in the following cases.
–When a DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) or +R disc is in the disc tray while DVD drive 
is selected.
–When the recording mode is XP and “Audio for XP Recording” is set to “LPCM”.
–When “Rec. for High-Speed Dubbing” is set to “On”.
≥When connecting an amplifier using an optical digital cable, you cannot switch the audio if 
“Dolby Digital” is set to “Bitstream”. Set “Dolby Digital” to “PCM” or connect using audio cables.
≥There are discs for which audio cannot be changed because of how the disc was created.—
56
22
56, 15
—
Cannot operate the television.
The remote control doesn’t 
work.≥Change the manufacturer code. Some televisions cannot be operated even if you change the 
code.
≥The remote control and main unit are using different codes. Change the code on the remote control.Press and hold [ENTER] and the indicated number button at 
the same time for more than 2 seconds.
≥The batteries are depleted. Replace them with new ones.
≥You are not pointing the remote control at the main unit’s remote control signal sensor during 
operation.
≥Colored glass may obstruct the signal reception/transmission.
≥Don’t place the signal sensor in direct sunlight or in areas that may be subject to sunlight 
exposure.
≥It may be necessary to set the code on the remote control again after changing the batteries.
≥It may be necessary to set the manufacturer code again after changing the batteries.
19
19
7
—
—
—
19
19
The unit is on but cannot be 
operated.≥Recording drive or playback drive has not been selected properly.
≥Some operations may be prohibited by the disc.
≥The unit is hot (“U59” appears on the display). Wait for “U59” to disappear.
≥One of the unit’s safety devices may have been activated.
Reset the unit as follows:
1 Press [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit to switch the unit to standby.
If the unit doesn’t switch to standby, press and hold [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit for 
about 10 seconds. The unit is forcibly switched to standby.
Alternatively, disconnect the AC power supply cord, wait one minute, then reconnect it.
2 Press [POWERÍ/I] on the main unit to switch it on. If the unit still cannot be operated, 
consult the dealer.20, 30
—
—
—
HDD activation is slow.≥The HDD is in SLEEP mode. (“HDD SLP” appears in the unit’s display.)4
Cannot eject disc.≥The unit is recording.
≥The unit may have a problem. While the unit is off, press and hold [∫] and [CHW] on the 
main unit at the same time for about 5 seconds. Remove the disc and consult the dealer.—
—
Startup is slow.≥Startup takes time in the following situations.
–A disc other than a DVD-RAM is inserted.
–The clock is not set.
–Immediately after a power failure or the AC power supply cord is connected.—
Takes time to read DVD-RAM.≥It may take time to read a disc if it is being used for the first time in this unit or it has not been 
used for a long time.—
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Troubleshooting guide
Recording/Scheduled recording/Transferring (dubbing)Page
TV Guide On Screen
TM system
Cannot record.≥You haven’t inserted a disc or the disc you inserted cannot be recorded on. Insert a disc the 
unit can record onto.
≥The disc is unformatted. Format the disc. [RAM] [-RW‹V›] 
≥The write-protect tab on the cartridge is set to PROTECT, or the disc is protected with DISC 
MANAGEMENT.
≥Some programs have limitations on the number of times they can be recorded. (CPRM)
≥You cannot record when there is not enough space or when the number of titles has reached 
its limit. Erase unwanted titles or use a new disc.
≥You cannot record on finalized DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format), +R or DVD-RW (DVD 
Video Recording format) discs.
≥Due to peculiarities of DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) and +R, you may be unable to 
record onto them if you either insert and remove the disc or switch the unit on and off while a 
disc is loaded, a total of fifty times.
≥A DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) and +R recorded on this unit may not be recordable 
on other Panasonic DVD Recorders.8, 9
51
50
68
32, 39, 
51
—
—
—
Cannot record from external 
equipment.≥Check that the connection is correct.
≥Select the input channel (“IN1”, “IN2” or “IN3”) for the equipment you have connected .
12–15, 47—
Scheduled recording does not 
work properly.
VCR Plusr system does not 
work properly.≥The scheduled program is incorrect or different scheduled program times overlap. Correct the 
program.
≥The scheduled program may be deleted if there is an interruption to the power.
≥VCR Plusr system works only after this unit downloads the television program list.27
—
—
Scheduled recording does not 
stop even when [∫] is pressed.≥Press [∫] and then [ENTER] within 5 seconds. Recording stops.—
The scheduled program 
remains even after recording 
finishes.≥The scheduled program remains unless set to “Once”.24, 25
A part or whole of a recorded 
title has been lost.≥If there is a power failure or the plug is disconnected from the household AC outlet while 
recording or editing, the title may be lost or the HDD/disc may become unusable.
You will have to format the disc ([HDD] [RAM] [-RW‹V›]) or use a new disc. We cannot offer any 
guarantee regarding lost titles or discs.51
The program name and the 
recorded title do not match.≥There was a program change after scheduled recording was set but the recorded title still has 
the old program name.—
Cannot transfer (dub) to a DVD-
R, etc. disc using the high 
speed mode.≥When recording to the HDD, set “Rec. for High-Speed Dubbing” to “On” in the SETUP menu.22
When transferring (dubbing), it 
takes a long time even when 
high speed mode is selected.≥Use a disc that is compatible with high speed recording. Even if the disc is high speed 
recording compatible, the maximum speed may not be possible due to the condition of the 
disc.
≥It takes longer than normal to transfer (dub) many titles.
≥You cannot high speed transfer (dub) to DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) and +R, titles 
longer than 6 hours when using other Panasonic DVD Recorders that are not compatible with 
EP (8 hour) mode recording.—
—
—
An unusually loud sound is 
coming from the rotating DVD-
R, etc.≥When recording or high speed transferring (dubbing) to a DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video 
format) and +R, the sound of the disc rotating may be louder than normal; however, this is not 
a problem.—
There is no picture on the 
television during scheduled 
recording.≥Scheduled recordings are activated regardless of whether the unit is turned on/off. Turn on 
the power to confirm the contents of the scheduled recording.—
Although initial setup for the 
TV Guide On ScreenTM system 
was completed hours ago, 
television program list does 
not display when [TV GUIDE] is 
pressed.≥Leave the unit turned off for at least 24 hours.
≥Initial setup was done incorrectly. (e.g, The user entered the wrong country, ZIP/postal code 
or cable TV box information.) Select “Change system settings” menu and verify the data 
entered during initial setup. If the settings are wrong, set up the TV Guide On Screen
TM 
system again.
≥Check the connection and set up the TV Guide On Screen
TM system again.
If you connect a cable TV box
–the output terminal of the cable TV box is connected to this unit’s RF IN or IN3 terminal
–the IR Blaster is correctly connected and installed
–the cable TV box is turned on
If you do not connect a cable TV box
–the antenna cable is connected to this unit’s RF IN terminal
≥The television program list was temporarily unavailable in your area (Wait another 24 hours 
or Redo setup).
≥The television program list is not available in your area. Set the unit using “Set Channels 
Automatically”. Note that you can only manually set scheduled recording after you set the unit 
using “Set Channels Automatically”.
≥Consult your service provider if you are using a cable TV box.
≥The TV Guide On Screen
TM system may not be able to receive the program list data if 
reception is poor. This may be improved by using a booster. Consult your dealer.
—
29
29
13
13
—
12
—
57
—
—
“Cable code -INCOMPLETE-” 
appears in the TV Guide On 
Screen
TM system setup.≥The unit cannot find the correct IR code for the cable TV box. Consult your service provider.—
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TV Guide On ScreenTM system (Continued)Pag e
Continued on next page
As soon as the unit is turned 
on, and when you try to start 
scheduled recording, the TV 
Guide On Screen
TM system 
setup begins.
≥Even if you do not want to use the TV Guide On ScreenTM system, you need to complete the 
TV Guide On ScreenTM system setup (until you have to press [ENTER] after the “Watch TV” 
message screen is displayed). It will not be displayed after this point.16
Some or all of the channels 
display “No Listing”≥For a newly installed unit, the TV Guide On Screen
TM system may not have been given 
enough time to download the initial data. This procedure can only occur when the unit is in 
standby mode for a period of 24 hours. (During this time, do not turn on the unit as the 
download will be interrupted.) Once the procedure takes place the phrase “No Listing” will be 
replaced with program information.
≥The channel(s) in question was (were) recently turned “ON” (in the CHANNEL EDITOR 
screen); however, TV Guide On Screen
TM system has yet to receive channel data for this 
channel. Leave the unit in standby mode.
≥Immediately after beginning use there are several days of blank listings. You can display the 
television program list for up to the next 8 days without any blank listings by downloading 
program lists continuously over several days.
≥The unit was left turned on for an extended period of time and the TV Guide On Screen
TM 
system was unable to receive television program list data. Press [ÍDVD POWER] to set the 
unit in standby mode when not in use.
≥During the data download the station from which data is downloaded had an unscheduled 
power outage.
≥If using an off-air antenna, marginally poor reception can cause some of the data to be missed.≥If using a cable TV box, it was accidentally turned off. In installations using a cable TV box, 
the box must be left on continuously.—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Cannot receive some channels 
displayed on the television 
program list.≥Cable TV subscribers receive channel data for all available channels your cable TV provider 
offers. In order to view all the channels, you’d also have to subscribe to all the channels. If 
you are connected to an off-air antenna the channel data you receive often represents a 
viewing area larger than you would typically be able to receive. Your location, the type of TV 
antenna you are using and your distance from each station’s transmitting antenna will all 
determine which channels are viewable from your location. Once you’ve determined which 
channels can be received, all others can be removed from the television program list. Set 
these channels to “OFF” in the CHANNEL EDITOR screen.29
Some off-air or cable channels 
are not listed on the television 
program list and even on the 
CHANNEL EDITOR screen.≥Presently, the TV Guide On Screen
TM system does not list all channels in any given 
broadcast area. As a result, channels are selected primarily on a “majority rules” basis. 
Channels with the highest potential viewership are given top priority.
≥Data for local programming which is not provided to TV Guide’s data distribution network 
would also not be available. —
—
The program highlighted 
doesn’t match up with the 
video window on the TV 
screen.≥The data entered during the initial setup was incorrect or the channel line-up you selected 
was incorrect. Select “Change system settings” menu and verify the data entered during 
initial setup. If the settings are wrong, set up the TV Guide On Screen
TM system again.
≥The station in question may have made recent program schedule changes and the TV Guide 
On Screen
TM system has not yet been updated.
29
—
The unit doesn’t change 
channels or it changes to the 
wrong channel.
Some channels are listed on 
the wrong number.≥Data entered into the initial setup screen was done incorrectly. (e.g., The user entered the 
wrong ZIP/postal code or selected the incorrect channel line-up.) Select “Change system 
settings” menu and verify the data entered during initial setup. If the settings are wrong, set 
up the TV Guide On Screen
TM system again.
≥The cable company has not yet informed industry sources of their channel line-up changes. 
Use the CHANNEL EDITOR feature to make adjustments.29
29
Two stations are received on 
certain channels; morning and 
evening programs differ.≥Such situations occur more frequently on cable TV. “Split” channels occur when the cable 
provider may not have an adequate number of open channels and chooses to switch the 
channel line to better suit the subscribers’ viewing habits. When a “Split” channel occurs, 
program data for only one channel is usually provided.—
Cable TV box doesn’t change 
channels with TV Guide On 
Screen
TM system.≥The incorrect cable TV box brand code was selected during the initial setup. Select “Change 
system settings” menu and verify the data entered during initial setup. If the setting is wrong, 
set up the TV Guide On ScreenTM system again.≥The user has incorrectly connected or positioned the IR Blaster. Please reconnect or reposition it.≥The cable TV box has no remote capability and is incompatible. Consult your service provider.≥The user has an “after market” brand cable TV box which may be incompatible. Consult your 
service provider.29
13
—
—
Cannot record a program. The 
screen remains snowy or blue.If you do not connect a cable TV box
≥The unit was not hooked up correctly. Please reconnect it.
≥The user selected the incorrect channel lineup. Select “Change system settings” menu and 
verify the data entered during initial setup. If the setting is wrong, set up the TV Guide On 
Screen
TM system again. 
If you connect a cable TV box
≥The unit is not set to the correct output channel. Select “Change system settings” menu and 
verify the data entered during initial setup. If the setting is wrong, redo setup correctly 
choosing 03, 04 or whichever output channel is set by your cable system. 
≥The unit and/or cable TV box is hooked up incorrectly. Please reconnect it, or contact the 
cable company for proper wiring procedure.
≥The cable TV box was left OFF. The user should always leave the cable TV box turned on 
and the unit turned off (when not in use).
12
29
29
13
—
The SCHEDULE screen only 
shows the channel number of 
the program instead of the 
program name.≥The time slot and channel for the scheduled program may not have yet received listings 
information. Once updated information is received the program name will appear in the 
SCHEDULE screen.—
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Troubleshooting guide
PlayPage
Edit
Still pictures
Play fails to start even when 
[1] (PLAY) is pressed.
Play starts but then stops 
immediately.≥Insert the disc correctly with the label facing up.
≥The disc is dirty.
≥You tried to play a blank disc or disc unplayable on this unit.
≥You tried to play a +RW that needs to be finalized on the equipment used for recording.
≥You may be able to transfer (dub) a “One time only recording” title that was recorded to DVD-
RAM using a different Panasonic DVD Recorder to this unit’s HDD, but play is not possible 
due to copyright protection.
≥When recording to DVD-RAM using EP (8H) mode, play may not be possible on DVD players 
that are compatible with DVD-RAM. In this case use EP (6H) mode.30
5
8, 9
—
—
55
Audio and video momentarily 
pause.≥This occurs between playlist chapters.
≥This occurs between chapters and with partially deleted titles on finalized DVD-R, DVD-RW 
(DVD-Video format) and +R that have been transferred (dubbed) using the high speed mode.
≥This occurs as scenes change during Quick View.—
—
—
DVD-Video is not played.≥You have set a ratings level to limit DVD-Video play. Change this setting.55
Alternative soundtrack and 
subtitles cannot be selected.≥The languages are not recorded on the disc.
≥You may not be able to use the on-screen menus to change the soundtrack and subtitles on 
some discs. Use the disc’s menus to make changes.—
31
No subtitles.≥When progressive output is on, closed captions cannot be displayed.
≥Subtitles are not recorded on the disc.
≥Turn the subtitles on. Set “Subtitle” on the on-screen menu to “On”.—
—
36
Angle cannot be changed.≥Angles can only be changed during scenes where different angles are recorded.—
You have forgotten your ratings 
password.
You want to cancel the ratings 
level.≥The ratings level returns to the factory preset. While the disc tray is open, press [DVD] then 
press and hold [¥REC] and [1] (PLAY) on the main unit at the same time for 5 or more 
seconds (“INIT” will appear on the unit’s display).—
Quick View does not work.≥This does not work when audio is other than Dolby Digital.
≥[HDD] [RAM] This does not work when recording is in XP or FR mode.—
—
The resume play function does 
not work.≥This function only works when “PLAY” is flashing on the unit display.
≥Memorized positions are canceled when the unit is turned off or when the tray is opened. The 
memorized position on the playlist is also canceled when the playlist and title are edited.—
—
Cannot format.≥The disc is dirty. Wipe with a damp cloth and then wipe dry.
≥You tried formatting a disc that you may not be able to use in this unit.5
8, 9
Cannot create chapters.
Cannot mark the start point or 
the end point during “Shorten 
Title” operation.≥The unit writes the chapter division information to the disc when you turn it off or remove the 
disc. The information is not written if there is an interruption to the power before this.
≥These operations are not possible with still pictures.
≥You cannot set points if they are too close to each other. You cannot set an end point before a 
start point.—
—
—
Cannot erase chapters.≥When the chapter is too short to erase, use “Combine Chapters” to make the chapter longer.39
The available recording time 
doesn’t increase even after 
erasing recordings on the disc.≥Available recording space on the DVD-R and +R does not increase even after erasing 
previously recorded titles.
≥Disc space on a DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) increases only when the last recorded title is 
erased. It does not increase if other titles are erased.—
—
Cannot create a playlist.≥You cannot select all the chapters at once in a title if the title also includes still pictures. Select 
them individually.—
Cannot display Direct 
Navigator screen.≥This screen cannot be displayed during recording or transfer (dubbing).—
Cannot edit or format a card.≥Release the card’s protection setting. (With some cards, the “Write Protection Off ” message 
sometimes appears on the screen even when protection has been set.)50
The contents of the card 
cannot be read.≥The card format is not compatible with the unit. (The contents on the card may be damaged.) Format using FAT 12 or FAT 16 with other equipment or format the card with this unit.≥The card contains a folder structure and/or file extensions that are not compatible with this 
unit.
≥Turn off and then turn on the unit again.
9, 35, 51
9
—
Transferring (dubbing), erasing 
and setting protection takes a 
long time.≥When there are a lot of folders and files, it may sometimes take a few hours.
≥When repeating transferring (dubbing) or erasing, it may sometimes take a long time. Format 
the disc or card.—
51
Scheduled recording began in 
the middle of editing a still 
picture.≥If it comes to the time scheduled for recording, the recording may start even though you are 
editing.—
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Specifications
Recordable discs:
Recording system:
Internal HDD Capacity:100 GB
Recording time:
≥Maximum 8 hours (using 4.7 GB disc)
≥Maximum 177 hours with HDD (EP 8H mode)
Playable discs:
Optical pick-up:
LASER Specification
Class I LASER Product
Television systemVideo system
Audio system
SD card slot
Other input/output connector:
Digital audio optical output connector
G-LINK terminal:Only use the included IR Blaster
Regional code:‚ 1
Clock unit:Quartz-controlled 12-hour digital display
Operating temperature range:5 oC–40 oC (41 oF–104 oF)
Operating humidity range:10 %–80 % RH (no condensation)
Power supply:AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Power consumption:Approx. 31 W
Dimensions (WkHkD):Approx. 430 mmk63 mmk350.5 mm
(Approx.1615/16qk21/2qk1313/16q)
Mass:Approx. 4.5 kg (9.92 lbs)
[Note]
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Mass and dimensions are approximate.
User memo: DV D - R A M : Ve r.  2 . 0
Ver. 2.1/3k–SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 1.0
Ver. 2.2/5k–SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 2.0
DVD-R: for General Ver. 2.0
for General Ver. 2.0/4k–SPEED DVD-R Revision 1.0
for General Ver. 2.x/8k–SPEED DVD-R Revision 3.0
DVD-RW: Ver. 1.1
Ver. 1.1/2k–SPEED DVD-RW Revision 1.0
Ve r.  1 . 2 / 4k–SPEED DVD-RW Revision 2.0
+R: Ver. 1.0
Ve r.  1 . 1
Ve r.  1 . 2
DVD-RAM: DVD Video Recording format
DVD-R: DVD-Video format
DVD-RW: DVD-Video format
XP: 60 minutes
LP: 240 minutesSP: 120 minutes
EP: 360 minutes or 480 minutes
DVD-RAM
DV D - RW
+RWDV D - R
+R
DVD-Video DVD-Audio
CD-Audio (CD-DA) Video CD
CD-R/CD-RW (CD-DA, Video CD, MP3, JPEG formatted discs)
System with 1 lens, 2 integrated units
(662 nm wavelength for DVDs, 795 nm wavelength for CDs)
Wave Length: 795 nm (CDs)
662 nm (DVDs) 
Laser power: No hazardous radiation is emitted with 
the safety protection
TV system: NTSC system, 525 lines, 60 fields
Antenna reception 
input:TV Channel:  2 ch–69 ch, 75 ≠
CATV Channel:  1 ch–125 ch, 75 ≠
RF converter output: Not providedRecording system:MPEG2 (Hybrid VBR)
Input:LINE (pin jack)a3, 1.0 Vp-p; 75 ≠
S connectora3 Y:1.0 Vp-p; 75 ≠
C: 0.286 Vp-p; 75 ≠
Output:LINE (pin jack)a2, 1.0 Vp-p; 75 ≠
S connectora2 Y:1.0 Vp-p; 75 ≠
C: 0.286 Vp-p; 75 ≠
Component video output:
(480p/480i)Y: 1.0 Vp-p; 75 ≠
P
B: 0.7 Vp-p; 75 ≠
P
R: 0.7 Vp-p; 75 ≠
Recording system:Dolby Digital, Linear PCM (XP mode)
Input:LINE (pin jack)a3
Reference input: 309 mVrms
FS: 2 Vrms (1 kHz, 0 dB)
Input impedance: 47 k≠
Output:LINE (pin jack)a2
Reference output: 309 mVrms
FS: 2 Vrms (1 kHz, 0 dB)
Output impedance: 1 k≠
(Load impedance: 10 k≠)
Number of channels:Recording: 2 channels
Playback: 2 channels
Still picture (JPEG, 
TIFF)SD Memory Card slot: 1 pc
Compatible media
SD Memory Card
§, MultiMediaCard§Includes miniSDTM cards. (A miniSDTM 
card adaptor needs to be inserted.)
FormatFAT12, FAT16
Image file format:JPEG conforming to DCF (Design rule 
for Camera File system) (sub sampling; 
4:2:2 or 4:2:0)
TIFF (Uncompressed RGB chunky), 
DPOF Compatible
Number of pixels:34 a 34 to 6144 a 4096
Thawing time:Approx. 7 sec (2 M pixels)
Power consumption in standby mode:
  approx. 13 W
The model number and serial number of this product can be 
found on either the back or the bottom of the unit.
Please note them in the space provided below and keep for
future reference.
MODEL NUMBER  DMR-EH50
SERIAL NUMBER 
DATE OF PURCHASE  _______________________________
DEALER NAME  ____________________________________
DEALER ADDRESS  _________________________________
__________________________________________________
TELEPHONE NUMBER  ______________________________
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Glossary
Bitstream
This is the digital form of multi-channel audio data (e.g., 5.1 channel) 
before it is decoded into its various channels.
CPRM (Content Protection for Recordable Media)
CPRM is technology used to protect broadcasts that are allowed to 
be recorded only once. Such broadcasts can be recorded only with 
CPRM compatible recorders and discs.
Decoder
A decoder restores the coded audio signals on DVDs to normal. This 
is called decoding.
Dolby Digital
This is a method of coding digital signals developed by Dolby 
Laboratories. Apart from stereo (2-channel) audio, these signals can 
also be multi-channel audio. A large amount of audio information can 
be recorded on one disc using this method.
When recording on this unit Dolby Digital (2 channel) is the default 
audio.
Down-mixing
This is the process of remixing the multi-channel audio found on 
some discs into two channels. It is useful when you want to listen to 
the 5.1-channel audio recorded on DVDs through your television’s 
speakers. Some discs prohibit down-mixing and this unit can then 
only output the front two channels.
DPOF (Digital Print Order Format)
DPOF is the standard printing format for still picture data taken by a 
digital camera, etc. It is used for automatic printing at a photo 
developing store or on your home printer.
Drive
In the instance of this unit, this refers to the hard disk (HDD), disc 
(DVD) and SD card (SD). These perform the reading and writing of 
data.
DTS (Digital Theater Systems)
This surround system is used in many movie theaters. There is good 
separation between the channels, so realistic sound effects are 
possible.
Dynamic range
Dynamic range is the difference between the lowest level of sound 
that can be heard above the noise of the equipment and the highest 
level of sound before distortion occurs.
Dynamic range compression means reducing the gap between the 
loudest and softest sounds. This means you can listen at low 
volumes but still hear dialog clearly.
EPG (Electronic Program Guide)
This is a system used to display the television program list on 
televisions, computers and cellular phones. Data is transmitted using 
the internet or television waves. This unit is compatible with the 
method using television waves. You can use the television program 
list for functions such as scheduled recording.
Film and video
DVD-Video are recorded using either film or video. This unit can 
determine which type has been used, then uses the most suitable 
method of progressive output.
Film is 24 or 30 frames per second, with motion picture film generally 
being 24 frames per second.
Video is 60 fields per second (two fields making up one frame).
Finalize
A process that makes play of a recorded CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, etc. 
possible on equipment that can play such media. You can finalize 
DVD-R, DVD-RW (DVD-Video format) and +R on this unit.
After finalizing, the disc becomes play-only and you can no longer 
record or edit. However, finalized DVD-RW can be formatted to 
become recordable.
Folder
This is a place on the hard disk or memory card where groups of 
data are stored together. In the case of this unit, it refers to the place 
where still pictures (JPEG, TIFF) are stored.Formatting
Formatting is the process of making media such as DVD-RAM 
recordable on recording equipment.
You can format the HDD, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW (only as DVD-Video 
format) and SD memory card on this unit. Formatting irrevocably 
erases all contents.
Frames and fields
Frames refer to the single images that constitute the video you see 
on your television. Each frame consists of two fields.
≥A frame still shows two fields, so there may be some blurring, but 
picture quality is generally better.
≥A field still shows less picture information so it may be rougher, but 
there is no blurring.
HDD (Hard disk drive)
This is a mass data storage device used in computers, etc. A disk 
with a surface that has been treated with magnetic fluid is spun and 
a magnetic head is brought in close proximity to facilitate the reading 
and writing of large amounts of data at high speed.
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
This is a system used for compressing/decoding color still pictures. If 
you select JPEG as the storage system on digital cameras, etc., the 
data will be compressed to 1/10–1/100 of its original size. The 
benefit of JPEG is less deterioration in picture quality considering 
the degree of compression.
LPCM (Linear PCM)
These are uncompressed digital signals, similar to those found on 
CDs. LPCM sound is available when recording in XP mode.
MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer 3)
An audio compression method that compresses audio to 
approximately one tenth of its size without any considerable loss of 
audio quality. You can play MP3 you have recorded onto CD-R and 
CD-RW.
Pan&Scan/Letterbox
In general, DVD-Video are produced with the intention that they be 
viewed on a widescreen television (16:9 aspect ratio), so images 
often don’t fit regular (4:3 aspect ratio) televisions. Two styles of 
picture, “Pan & Scan” and “Letterbox”, deal with this problem.
Pan&Scan: The sides are cut off so the picture fills 
the screen.
Letterbox: Black bands appear at the top and 
bottom of the picture so the picture itself 
appears in an aspect ratio of 16:9.
Playback control (PBC)
If a Video CD has playback control, you can select scenes and 
information with menus.
(This unit is compatible with version 2.0 and 1.1.) 
Progressive/Interlace
NTSC, the video signal standard, has 480 interlaced (i) scan lines, 
whereas progressive scanning uses twice the number of scan lines. 
This is called 480p.
Using progressive output, you can enjoy the high-resolution video 
recorded on media such as DVD-Video.
Your television must be compatible to enjoy progressive video.Frame Field Field
u
r
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Protection
You can prevent accidental erasure by setting writing protection or 
erasure protection.
Sampling frequency
Sampling is the process of converting the heights of sound wave 
(analog signal) samples taken at set periods into digits (digital 
encoding). Sampling frequency is the number of samples taken per 
second, so larger numbers mean more faithful reproduction of the 
original sound.
Thumbnail
This refers to a miniature representation of a picture used to display 
multiple pictures in the form of a list.
TIFF (Tag Image File Format)
This is a system used for compressing/decoding color still pictures, a 
common format for storing high quality images on digital cameras 
and other devices.
1. Damage requiring service— The unit should be serviced by qualified service personnel if:
(a) The AC power supply cord or AC adaptor has been damaged; or
(b) Objects or liquids have gotten into the unit; or
(c) The unit has been exposed to rain; or
(d) The unit does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or
(e) The unit has been dropped or the cabinet damaged.
2. Servicing— Do not attempt to service the unit beyond that described in these operating instructions. Refer all other servicing to authorized 
servicing personnel.
3. Replacement parts— When parts need replacing ensure the servicer uses parts specified by the manufacturer or parts that have the same 
characteristics as the original parts. Unauthorized substitutes may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
4. Safety check— After repairs or service, ask the servicer to perform safety checks to confirm that the unit is in proper working condition.
For product information or assistance with product operation:
In the U.S.A., refer to “Customer Services Directory” on page 70.
In Canada, contact the Panasonic Canada Inc. Customer Care Centre at 1-800-561-5505, or visit the website (www.panasonic.ca), or an 
authorized Servicentre closest to you.
Language code list  Enter the code with the numbered buttons.
Abkhazian: 6566
Afar: 6565
Afrikaans: 6570
Albanian: 8381
Ameharic: 6577
Arabic: 6582
Armenian: 7289
Assamese: 6583
Aymara: 6589
Azerbaijani: 6590
Bashkir: 6665
Basque: 6985
Bengali; Bangla:
6678
Bhutani: 6890
Bihari: 6672
Breton: 6682
Bulgarian: 6671
Burmese: 7789
Byelorussian: 6669
Cambodian: 7577Catalan: 6765
Chinese: 9072
Corsican: 6779
Croatian: 7282
Czech: 6783
Danish: 6865
Dutch: 7876
English: 6978
Esperanto: 6979
Estonian: 6984
Faroese: 7079
Fiji: 7074
Finnish: 7073
French: 7082
Frisian: 7089
Galician: 7176
Georgian: 7565
German: 6869
Greek: 6976
Greenlandic: 7576
Guarani: 7178Gujarati: 7185
Hausa: 7265
Hebrew: 7387
Hindi: 7273
Hungarian: 7285
Icelandic: 7383
Indonesian: 7378
Interlingua: 7365
Irish: 7165
Italian: 7384
Japanese: 7465
Javanese: 7487
Kannada: 7578
Kashmiri: 7583
Kazakh: 7575
Kirghiz: 7589
Korean: 7579
Kurdish: 7585
Laotian: 7679
Latin: 7665
Latvian, Lettish:7686Lingala: 7678
Lithuanian: 7684
Macedonian: 7775
Malagasy: 7771
Malay: 7783
Malayalam: 7776
Maltese: 7784
Maori: 7773
Marathi: 7782
Moldavian: 7779
Mongolian: 7778
Nauru: 7865
Nepali: 7869
Norwegian: 7879
Oriya: 7982
Pashto, Pushto:8083
Persian: 7065
Polish: 8076
Portuguese: 8084
Punjabi: 8065
Quechua: 8185Rhaeto-Romance:
8277
Romanian: 8279
Russian: 8285
Samoan: 8377
Sanskrit: 8365
Scots Gaelic: 7168
Serbian: 8382
Serbo-Croatian:8372
Shona: 8378
Sindhi: 8368
Singhalese: 8373
Slovak: 8375
Slovenian: 8376
Somali: 8379
Spanish: 6983
Sundanese: 8385
Swahili: 8387
Swedish: 8386
Tagalog: 8476
Tajik: 8471Tamil: 8465
Tatar: 8484
Telugu: 8469
Thai: 8472
Tibetan: 6679
Tigrinya: 8473
Tonga: 8479
Turkish: 8482
Turkmen: 8475
Twi: 8487
Ukrainian: 8575
Urdu: 8582
Uzbek: 8590
Vietnamese: 8673
Volapük: 8679
Welsh: 6789
Wolof: 8779
Xhosa: 8872
Yiddish: 7473
Yoruba: 8979
Zulu: 9085
Product Service
Product information
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Reference
Limited Warranty (ONLY FOR U.S.A.)
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, 
Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America
One Panasonic Way Secaucus, New Jersey 07094Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc.
Ave. 65 de Infantería, Km. 9.5 
San Gabriel Industrial Park, Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985
Panasonic DVD Recorder
Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty Coverage
If your product does not work properly because of a defect in materials or workmanship, 
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company or Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc. (collectively 
referred to as “the warrantor”) will, for the length of the period indicated on the chart below, 
which starts with the date of original purchase (“warranty period”), at its option either (a) 
repair your product with new or refurbished parts, or (b) replace it with a new or a 
refurbished product. The decision to repair or replace will be made by the warrantor.
During the “Labor” warranty period there will be no charge for labor. During the “Parts” 
warranty period, there will be no charge for parts.  You must carry-in or mail-in your product 
during the warranty period. If non-rechargeable batteries are included, they are not 
warranted. This warranty only applies to products purchased and serviced in the United 
States or Puerto Rico. This warranty is extended only to the original purchaser of a new 
product which was not sold “as is”. A purchase receipt or other proof of the original 
purchase date is required for warranty service.
Carry-In or Mail-In Service 
For Carry-In or Mail-In Service in the United States call 1-800-211-PANA (7262) or visit 
Panasonic Web Site: http://www.panasonic.com
For assistance in Puerto Rico call Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc. (787)-750-4300 or fax 
(787)-768-2910. Limited Warranty Limits And Exclusions
This warranty ONLY COVERS failures due to defects in materials or workmanship, and 
DOES NOT COVER normal wear and tear or cosmetic damage. The warranty ALSO DOES 
NOT COVER damages which occurred in shipment, or failures which are caused by 
products not supplied by the warrantor, or failures which result from accidents, misuse, 
abuse, neglect, mishandling, misapplication, alteration, faulty installation, set-up 
adjustments, misadjustment of consumer controls, improper maintenance, power line 
surge, lightning damage, modification, or commercial use (such as in a hotel, office, 
restaurant, or other business), rental use of the product, service by anyone other than a 
Factory Servicenter or other Authorized Servicer, or damage that is attributable to acts of 
God.
THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES EXCEPT AS LISTED UNDER 
“LIMITED WARRANTY COVERAGE”. THE WARRANTOR IS NOT LIABLE 
FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM 
THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT, OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF 
THIS WARRANTY. (As examples, this excludes damages for lost time, travel 
to and from the servicer, loss of media or images, data or other recorded 
content. The items listed are not exclusive, but are for illustration only.) ALL 
EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE WARRANTY OF 
MERCHANTABILITY, ARE LIMITED TO THE PERIOD OF THE LIMITED 
WARRANTY.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or 
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, 
so the exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other 
rights which vary from state to state. If a problem with this product develops 
during or after the warranty period, you may contact your dealer or 
Servicenter. If the problem is not handled to your satisfaction, then write to the 
warrantor’s Consumer Affairs Department at the addresses listed for the 
warrantor.
PARTS AND SERVICE WHICH ARE NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED 
WARRANTY ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
F1104 Product or Part Name Parts Labor
DVD Recorder One (1) Year One (1) Year
Rechargeable Batteries, 
DVD-RAM Disc (in 
exchange for defective 
item)Ten (10) Days Not Applicable
Customer Services Directory
Obtain Product Information and Operating Assistance; locate your nearest Dealer or Servicenter; purchase Parts and 
Accessories; or make Customer Service and Literature requests by visiting our Web Site at:
http://www.panasonic.com/consumersupport
or, contact us via the web at:
http://www.panasonic.com/contactinfo
You may also contact us directly at:
1-800-211-PANA (7262),
Monday-Friday 9 am-9 pm; Saturday-Sunday 10 am-7 pm, EST.
For hearing or speech impaired TTY users, TTY : 1-877-833-8855
Accessory Purchases
Purchase Parts, Accessories and Instruction Books online for all Panasonic Products by visiting our Web Site at:
http://www.pasc.panasonic.com
or, send your request by E-mail to:
[email protected]
You may also contact us directly at:
1-800-332-5368 (Phone)  1-800-237-9080 (Fax Only) (Monday – Friday 9 am to 8 pm, EST.)
Panasonic Services Company
20421 84th Avenue South, Kent, WA 98032
(We Accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, American Express, and Personal Checks)
For hearing or speech impaired TTY users, TTY : 1-866-605-1277
Service in Puerto Rico
Panasonic Puerto Rico, Inc.
Ave. 65 de Infantería, Km. 9.5, San Gabriel Industrial Park, Carolina, Puerto Rico 00985
Phone (787)750-4300, Fax (787)768-2910
EH50English.book  Page 70  Tuesday, February 1, 2005  6:36 PM