This model of VCR is equipped with a "tamper-proof" setting which, based upon your question, has been turned on. While this feature is active, none of the controls on the VCR itself will function. To turn this feature off, you will need to hold down the "tamper proof" button (should be the upper right button) on the remote for 5 seconds-- the VCR and RECORD lights will flash while you are doing this. When the feature is disabled the lights will flash back to POWER and VCR. To re-activate the feature, hold the "tamper proof" button down for 5 seconds again--all 4 lights on the front of the VCR will light up when the feature has been turned on.
This is a great feature to prevent little fingers from disrupting your recording or viewing, the downside is you have to have the remote in order to turn this feature off and on. If you don't have the remote and it's been turned on, you're out of luck--sorry. (If this is the case, I may be interested in buying it from you--I'm currently looking for another one :) )
John
April 2005