RJTech PVR1100 MPEG4 Mini Video Recorder Review

Making the Connection

Connecting the RJTech PVR1100 is something that has to be applauded for its simplicity. Even though the basic setup is quite easy, there are additional setups and issues which are not discussed in the manual which you should be aware of.


Here we have the standard connector for the RJTech PVR1100: the 3.5mm to composite connector. Basically, what this does is transmit the audio and video to and from the unit by way of a signal which is broken up into 3 distinct channels (audio left, audio right and picture) or combined into one signal going into the PVR. While it would have been nice to have seen an S-Video output; this connector choice makes sense considering the target market this recorder is geared towards. Unfortunately, if you have a high-definition TV, you will want to look somewhere else since this unit can only play and record standard definition signals (640x480 max).

RJTech has included two of these cables (one for input and one for output) with this unit and each one can be installed into each of the rear ports. Since they are interchangeable, you can’t go wrong with installation…yet.


So, if you need both cables installed this is what the finished installation will look like. Both 3.5mm jacks are plugged into their appropriate places on the PVR1100 with the composite connectors ready to be plugged into your TV and/or VCR, DVD player, Cable Box or Camcorder.


Connections for Only Viewing Media


This connection setup is used if you are only using the PVR1100 as a media player for your TV. All you would have to do is to connect the composite cable to the AV Out connector on the back of the unit and then hook the three separate connectors up to your TV. You can then use the recorder to play any media files you have on a memory card on your TV. Overall, this works quite well as you will see later but this mode means you are not getting the most out of your new recorder.


Connections for Viewing AND Recording Media


This is where the PVR1100 really comes into its own. In this mode, it acts as an intermediary between your VCR, DVD player / recorder or Camcorder and your TV and not only can you use it to play any media file you insert via memory card but you can also record TV or DVDs.

Since it does not have its own tuner or decoder, in order to record a TV program you will need to hook up the recorder to a VCR or DVD recorder which has its own built-in tuner (if you are on standard cable) or cable / satellite box. With standard cable you will then be able to record one program while watching another and with satellite you will have to record the program you are currently watching.

In this mode you will have to attach the composite cable from the VCR, DVD player/recorder to the AV In connector on the PVR1100 while the AV Out cable will be hooked up to the TV.