The DR-MV79B is tuner-free, but includes JVC's Timer Link, a quick and easy solution for recording TV programs by connecting to a cable or satellite set-top box using an AV cable. The user selects the desired program using the set-top box electronic program guide and timer function. JVC's new Timer Link feature senses the signal, automatically powers up the recorder and begins recording. Recording automatically stops and the recorder shuts off when the program ends. JVC research shows that the vast majority of set-top boxes come equipped with a timer.