How To Turn Tv On Older Cybex Elliptical Machine

If you’re staring at a blank screen on your older Cybex elliptical, you’re not alone. Figuring out how to turn tv on older cybex elliptical machine can be confusing, but it’s usually a simple fix. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to get your entertainment system running so you can enjoy your workout.

Many of these machines have integrated TVs that require a specific sequence to activate. Don’t worry if the buttons seem unresponsive at first. We’ll cover the most common models and solutions, from basic power cycles to audio-video input checks.

This main section provides the core step-by-step process. Before you begin, ensure your elliptical is plugged into a working electrical outlet. The console and TV often draw power seperately, so a good power source is step one.

Step 1: Power On the Entire Elliptical Console

First, you need to wake up the machine’s main computer. Locate the primary power button on the console. It’s often a large, round button labeled “On/Off” or “Start.”

Press and hold this main power button for 2-3 seconds.
Wait for the main workout display to light up and show data like time, distance, and resistance.
The TV screen might remain dark at this stage, which is normal for many models.

Step 2: Locate the Dedicated TV Controls

On older Cybex ellipticals, the TV is controlled independently. You need to find the specific TV buttons. They are typically clustered together on the console.

Look for buttons labeled “TV,” “Video,” “AV,” “Source,” or “Input.”
They are usually smaller than the main workout buttons.
Sometimes they are on the sides of the screen or on a seperate panel near the speakers.

Step 3: Turn On the TV Module

Now, use the buttons you just found. There is often a dedicated TV power button.

Press the button labeled “TV” or “Power” within the TV control group.
You should hear a click or see a small indicator light turn on near the screen.
If the screen shows “No Signal,” that’s actually progress! It means the TV is on but not receiving a source.

Step 4: Set the Correct Video Input (AV Source)

This is the most common stumbling block. The internal video player is usually connected to a specific input channel.

Press the button labeled “Source,” “Input,” or “AV” repeatedly.
Cycle through the options like “AV1,” “AV2,” “Video 1,” or “Composite.”
Stop on each one for a few seconds to see if the video player’s menu or a test pattern appears.
The correct input is often “AV1” on Cybex machines.

Step 5: Activate the Internal Video Player

Many machines have a built-in VCR or DVD player. You need to turn this component on seperately.

Look for controls labeled “VCR,” “DVD,” “Player,” or “Mode.”
Press the power or play button for this unit. You may need to open the disc tray door to see its controls.
Once the player is on, it should automatically display a menu or blue screen on the TV.

What If the Screen is Still Black?

If you’ve followed the steps and see nothing, try a full system reset. This clears any temporary glitches.

Turn off the main elliptical console using the primary power button.
Unplug the entire machine from the wall outlet.
Wait for a full 60 seconds. This allows all capacitors to discharge.
Plug the machine back in firmly.
Turn on the main console, then follow Steps 2-5 again.

Checking External Connections and Hardware

For machines where the TV worked before but now doesn’t, hardware could be the issue. Safety first: always unplug the machine before inspecting cables.

Internal Cable Check

Loose internal cables are a common culprit. If you’re comfortable, you can perform a basic check.

Unplug the elliptical.
Carefully open the rear cover of the console, usually held by screws.
Locate the video cable running from the player to the TV screen (a single cable with yellow, red, and white ends).
Gently press on each end to ensure it’s seated snuggly in its port.

Fuse Inspection

Some models have a fuse dedicated to the entertainment system. Consult your owner’s manual for its location. A visual inspection can reveal if the thin metal strip inside is broken. Replacing it with an identical-rated fuse might solve the problem.

Using External Devices with Your Cybex TV

You might want to connect a streaming stick or game console. Older Cybex TVs usually have standard AV input ports on the back of the console or player.

Find the set of yellow (video), red, and white (audio) ports.
Connect your device’s AV cables to the matching colors.

You will need an HDMI to AV converter for modern devices. Remember to set the TV input to the correct AV channel you plugged into, as described in Step 4.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Keeping your machine clean helps prevent issues. Dust can interfere with buttons and connections.

Wipe the console and screen with a dry, soft cloth regularly.
Use compressed air around button edges to blow out dust.
Avoid spraying liquids directly on the console; use a lightly dampened cloth instead.
If the machine is in a cold garage, let it warm to room temperature before use, as extreme cold can affect screen performance.

When to Contact Support

If you’ve tried everything and the TV still won’t turn on, the component may have failed. Common failures include the backlight in the screen, the internal power supply for the TV, or the video player itself.

Have your machine’s model and serial number ready (usually on a sticker near the base or console).
Contact Cybex customer support or a local, authorized fitness equipment repair technician.
They can often diagnose the issue over the phone or schedule a service visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where are the TV buttons on a Cybex elliptical?

They are typically on the main console, separate from the workout buttons. Look for a cluster labeled “TV,” “Video,” or “Source.” Sometimes they’re on the side of the screen housing.

Why is my Cybex elliptical TV saying ‘No Signal’?

A “No Signal” message means the TV is on but not receiving video. Cycle through the AV input sources using the “Input” or “Source” button until you see the video player menu. Also, ensure the internal DVD/VCR player is turned on.

Can I connect my phone to an older Cybex elliptical TV?

Yes, but you’ll need adapters. You require a lightning or USB-C to AV adapter for your phone, plus an HDMI to AV converter if the adapter outputs HDMI. Then, plug it into the machine’s AV ports and set the correct input source.

What does the AV button do on my machine?

The AV button switches the video input source between different channels, like AV1, AV2, etc. You need to select the channel that the internal video player or your external device is physically connected to.

The main console works but the TV is completely dead. What now?

Perform a full power reset (unplug for 60 seconds). If that fails, check for a dedicated fuse. If the screen remains dead with no sound or lights from the TV module, the internal power supply or screen likely needs professional repair.

Getting your older Cybex elliptical’s TV working again enhances your workout experience. By following this logical sequence—main power, TV power, correct input source, player power—you can usually solve the problem. Remember, patience is key, as these older systems can be slow to respond between button presses. With this guide, you should be back to watching your favorite shows while you train in no time.