I have a sony DirecTiVo that can automatically turn on and start recording on sony VCRs using the included IR blasters. When the program is over, it will automatically hit stop and turn off the power.

The Philips and Hughes DirecTivos include the blasters, but doesn't support automatic recording on any brand VCR.
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-Rob Riccardelli
80GB 16MB MK2 090000736