Cable Ready TV: A converter box is not needed for cable-ready TVs. If your TV set is not cable ready, but you use a cable-ready VCR, then your VCR will act as a converter box. Whenever possible, use the original remote control that came with your TV or VCR to access the menu or setup screens. Universal or “all-in-one” remote controls do not always work and you will not be able to program your TV or VCR.
Coaxial Cable Wire: A length of coaxial cable wire, long enough to reach the cable jack from your TV, with a screw-on connection at each end. This may already be available in your apartment. If not, a five foot piece of cable is available at the leasing office. You may purchase longer lengths of cable at any local electronics store. You will need an additional length of cable if you plan to connect a VCR also.
Matching Transformer: Older TVs (usually not cable ready) have two VHF antenna screws instead of a screw-on terminal. These older TVs need a matching transformer to complete the connection. The matching transformer may be purchased at any local electronics store.
TV installation
Cable Ready TV: Connect one end of the coaxial cable wire to the fitting on the wall plate (cable connection) and the other end to the fitting, designated VHF “Input” on the rear of the TV set. Set TV to “Cable” mode and follow the TV set’s instruction booklet. Select “AUTO PROGRAM” to pre-program the set. You may need to twist the ends of the connections to secure.
Non Cable Ready TV with Cable Ready VCR acting as a converter: Connect one end of the coaxial cable wire to the fitting on the wall plate (cable connection) and the other end to the fitting, designated “Input” on the VCR. An additional coaxial cable wire is needed to connect the fitting designated “Output” on the VCR. The other end of the coaxial cable wire gets connected to the designated VHF “Input” on the TV set. Some older TVs may require a matching transformer (adapter). This will be needed to link the coax connector to the VHF connector on the back of the set. Permanently turn the TV set to channel 3 in order to use the converter box for channel selection. You may need to twist the ends of the connections to secure.
