This Beta portable has a ceramic heating element located inside a duct that directs heat to the video drum assembly. This function is requested by a switch on the back of the tuner/timer. When condensation (called DEW) is detected it will force moisture away to shorten the wait time before operation can resume. VCR functions will not be available until the DEW sensor located on top of the drum reaches a certain temperature, usually over 40° fahrenheit. It does not operate with the recorder separated from tuner/timer unit. ©Misterßetamax go to homepage