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Please Note
- Do not remove the USB storage device while Time Machine is recording or saving data.
- Do not power off the TV during recording or while the TV is writing to the USB storage device.
- If the USB storage device becomes hot, stop recording and allow it to cool before continued use.
- Formatting or initializing USB storage can erase saved data; back up any important files first.
Time Machine recording on an LG TV may stop or fail in these situations
Time Machine recording availability and stability depend on the broadcast type, program rights, and USB storage health. It can also stop when the TV changes modes or when schedule/recording limits are reached.
1. The channel is not a digital broadcast channel
Time Machine recording is only available for digital broadcasting channels. If you are watching analog broadcasting or some external inputs, the Time Machine recording option may be unavailable or may not record as expected.
2. The program is copy-protected
Recording cannot be used for copy-protected programs. If the broadcaster or content provider restricts recording, Time Machine may stop or the recording option may be disabled.
3. USB storage device issues or data segment errors
If the USB storage device has file system errors, unstable power, or damaged data segments, Time Machine may not work properly or may stop unexpectedly.
4. Time Machine buffer is cleared by certain actions
Time Machine temporarily stores content on the USB storage device. Previously saved Time Machine content can be discarded automatically when you switch to External Input, run Auto Channel (Auto Tuning), power off the TV, start a different recording, play music/photos/videos, initialize settings, change modes, or use premium TV applications (apps).
5. Schedule creation or list limits prevent saving or recording
A schedule requires a duration of 2 minutes or more. If you select Exit without selecting Complete, the schedule will not be saved. If Schedule List reaches 30 items, additional schedules cannot be saved. If Recording List reaches 200 items, no more recording is allowed.
6. Channel change timing prevents a new schedule from being saved
If you switch the channel within 3 seconds after saving a new Time Machine schedule, the schedule may not be saved.
Check LG TV settings and usage conditions to restore Time Machine recording
Step 1. Confirm you are watching Live TV and a digital broadcast channel
Setting: Home > Live TV
Open Live TV and tune to a known digital broadcast channel. If you are using an external device (set-top box, HDMI input), Time Machine recording behavior may differ and the Time Machine buffer may be cleared when switching inputs.
Step 2. Avoid actions that clear the Time Machine buffer during use
While using Time Machine, avoid switching to External Input, running Auto Tuning, launching premium TV apps, changing modes, playing media files, initializing settings, or powering off the TV. These actions can discard the temporary Time Machine content and may appear as if recording stopped.
Step 3. Check USB storage condition and reconnect it securely
Disconnect and reconnect the USB storage device firmly, then try again. If recording still fails, test with a different USB storage device to rule out device errors. If the USB storage has file system issues, Time Machine may stop or fail to start.
Step 4. Create schedules correctly and confirm list limits
When creating a schedule, set the duration to at least 2 minutes and select Complete to save it. After saving a schedule, wait at least 3 seconds before changing channels. If you have many items saved, delete older entries if Schedule List is at 30 or Recording List is at 200.
Step 5. Run Auto Tuning if channels or guide data appear incorrect
Setting: Settings > General > Channels > Channel Tuning > Auto Tuning
If digital channels are missing or the channel list is inconsistent, run Auto Tuning. After tuning completes, return to Live TV and test Time Machine recording again on a digital broadcast channel.
FAQ
- Q. Why does Time Machine recording work on some channels but not others?
- A. Time Machine recording is only available on digital broadcasting channels, and it cannot record copy-protected programs. If a channel is analog, not recognized as digital broadcast, or the program is protected, recording may be unavailable or may stop.
- Q. Why did my Time Machine recording disappear after I opened an app or changed inputs?
- A. Time Machine uses temporary storage on the USB device. The temporary content can be discarded automatically when you switch to External Input, power off the TV, run Auto Tuning, start another recording, play media files, change modes, initialize settings, or use premium TV applications (apps).
Still Need Help?
If the steps above did not resolve your issue, please visit the LG Electronics Support website. You can chat with our virtual assistant or schedule a service repair for further assistance.
※ Please note that service fees may apply for engineer visits if your product is out of warranty.