Can DVD recorders control digiboxes?
A. Some recorders will wait in automatic ‘slave mode’ for an external tuner to activate from its own timer. A recording will then start but this process is often hit-and-miss and far from ideal. Recorders with VideoPlus Deluxe, such as JVC’s DR-MH200, include an infrared extender to control digiboxes but you still need VideoPlus codes for timer setting. GuidePlus is the latest incarnation, which uses full on-screen listings plus an infrared extender. You can find GuidePlus in various Philips and Pioneer recorders, with Panasonic, Sony and more brands to follow. Q. What else should I consider? A. Many DVD recorders include a multimedia card slot or USB port for transferring digital photos or MP3 files directly from your PC, camera, PDA or smart phone. Digital camcorder users should look for an i.Link DV input. A few recorders may record video in MPEG-4, which is handy for copying to portable media players, but this feature is still unusual. High quality HDMI outputs are also starting to
