Cable splitters provide inexpensive and effective ways for VCR users to add flexibility to cable-TV installation, but there is another alternative
–using an up-converter.
Another converter? First, let`s clarify our terms. The word ”converter” as applied to cable television refers to the specialized radio-frequency tuner used to pick up signals in between the usual TV channels. This device then converts the selected channel to a regular VHF channel for viewing, usually 2, 3 or 4. Such a unit is also called a down-converter.
The up-converter performs a similar function but with important differences. It takes the incoming cable frequencies and boosts them to the UHF band (channels 14 to 83), which all standard TV sets and VCRs are able to receive.
In addition, its output is not confined to one channel at a time. It conveys all the channels as a group or block of signals, and for this reason it is also referred to as a UHF block converter.
Since UHF tuning gives you access to all the cable stations, complete programability is restored to the VCR. You can time multiple recordings, including ones that involve changing the channel. By using your TV`s UHF tuner, you can watch one program while simultaneously recording another. And any remote-control devices you may have can once again be employed.
EVEN A scrambled pay station can be accommodated on those up-converter models that have dual outputs.
Considering its many advantages to cable subscribers, the up-converter is not expensive. Commonly advertised models are priced from $25 to $50.