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It is possible to connect your SeaView camera to more than one input.

This is known as the "loop thru" method. Plug the camera into the input of the first device (usually your VCR). Connect the output of that device to the input of the next device (usually the TV monitor). The video signal is passing through the first device and on to the next one. You can use the "loop thru" method to hook up several monitors or VCRs...but we recommend keeping the load to a minimum of three separate pieces of equipment. Otherwise, picture quality will suffer.

You can also use a Y-adapter to connect other TVs and VCRs. You will get adequate picture quality when using a single Y-adapter, but we do not recommend using more than one. If you need additional connections, use a Y-adapter in combination with the loop-thru method.

Note that this Y-adapter has one female input and two male outputs. Plug the SeaView video connector into the female end, and feed other devices (TV, monitor, VCR, etc.) with the two male plugs.

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Not all camcorders have this feature! We have learned that the latest Sony Video 8 and Hi-8 cameras do accept video from an external source. Other brands which offer this feature: Sharp ViewCam (video 8) and some JVC models (compact VHS-C and S-VHS-C). The JVC models may require a special A/V cable to enable the video-in function.

Generally speaking, these camcorders have a master switch that reads "camera" and "VTR." When using the video-in function, most of these units must be set to the "VTR" position. (The "camera" position will only record what comes through the camcorder's lens.) You set the switch to VTR and press the "record" button on the VTR panel (not the red button on the camcorder). You should be able to see the video from the SeaView camera, either in the eyepiece of the camcorder or the flip-out screen (if your camcorder has one).

Ask your camcorder dealer to explain the basics of VTR operation as they apply to your particular make and model of camcorder.

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You may be able to locate an accessory transmitter at some electronics stores, or from a hobby catalog. This small battery-powered box accepts a video input (plug the SeaView camera into this). The box then generates a very weak TV signal (usually UHF channel 14) which can be picked up by a standard TV-UHF antenna. View the picture by tuning to channel 14 (or whatever the box instructions tell you) and viewing just as you would watch a regular TV broadcast. Be aware that anybody else in your immediate area can tune in too! If you interfere with a neighbor's TV reception, they will complain, and you may be violating state or federal ordinances regulating transmitting devices.

A different version of this device uses 2 components, a transmitter (at the camera end) and a receiver (at the TV or VCR). These systems operate on 900mHz (like the newer cordless phones), or use infra-red technology (see picture of the Sony unit at right). On the plus side, you don't have to worry about interference and eavesdropping. On the minus side, you must purchase extra receivers for each room or viewing location. Picture quality is average. Infra-red units have a limited range--usually less than 20 feet.

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Although this device is similar to the accessory transmitter above, it does not broadcast over the air. Instead, it generates a TV signal (usually switchable between VHF channels 3 and 4), which is carried via twinlead or coaxial cable to your VCR or TV set. If you are using a satellite receiver or a cable box decoder unit, you may have to bypass or disconnect it from the TV or VCR in order to hook up the RF Modulator cable.

When using either an accessory transmitter or RF modulator, it may be possible to connect the RF cable to a VCR for recording. With either hookup, you need to set the VCR's tuner to the appropriate channel before taping. (Note: many of the transmitter/receiver 2-piece models cannot be hooked directly to your TV antenna. They require A/V inputs.) Consult your TV and VCR owner's manuals for specific locations of A/V and RF inputs and outputs.