DVD and VHS recorders are a messy thing to figure out. The method of setting each one up varies from one device to another. I guess you'll just have to read through the instruction, however mountainous they may be. When I set up something on my VCR, though, I set up the record program, input the details, then turn the VCR off. So, yes, it's possible you may need to turn it off before it actually does anything. Unless technology has changed behind my back.