I can not get it to record at set times. - Sansui VRDVD4001 DVD Player/VCR

This is most likely a timed recording settings problem. Check all timer settings, one of the recording settings must be set at 40 seconds running time. If you don't require this recording function then change this setting to the appropriate (not applicable/zero setting), or conversely set this setting to maximum time possible.

Unfortunately on this model you don't have the channel option for recording. Only one channel at a time, sorry.

Be sure you have first set the clock correctly. After setting timer recorder time, channel, speed etc. hit enter to highlight the setting to be sure you have it. Press setup to put you back to tv screen. Then press t-Set button on remote. Unit will automatically shut off and there will be an amber symbol on the unit lcd along with the time. This indicated the unit is in the timer mode. It will automatically turn on and record the program at the set time.

Hi,
After programing/ feeding record time in VCR, press Timer button on VCR so it will go into standby mode with Timer indication. VCR will automatically turn On at set time and will record program of set channel.
Let me know if you have additional question.
Thanks.

You can schedule for automatic recording, specifying the start time
and end time of recording. When the timer-controlled recording
completes, the setting is released.
In Menu mode selection... SET, On, OFF→After selecting SET, press the PLAY button to set the time to start the recording.

Do you have the remote which came with it? Most VCRs of the last 10 years require the remote to setup a timed record, or for that matter, most of the advanced functions- beyond play/rewind/ffwd, etc.

Assuming you do have the remote, and the correct time is set, and the timed record properly setup, some VCRs require a the On-Timed-Record button to be pushed. This sets the VCR in a wait mode, until the time set for the recording to begin.

Consult your owners manual- an online manual may be available if the printed one is missing.

Does the unit not require to be in "Standby" for recording to commence.

the recorder must be off, otherwise timed recording doesn't work

Check your automatic clock setting. If it is on automatic, set it to manual, and set the date and time on the recorder. It may be picking up an unreliable time setting from a station that is not too accurate.
tom

Do you have your operation manual? It will tell you how to set up a timed recording. Recording options are set via the remote. Look for an option as "Scheduled recording" or similiar. Date, start & end time, channel, recording speed are all set. If you are missing your manual do a google search with your model number. A quick look at the Samsung website was not fruitful.