Edit Sharp Digital TV Channels: A Simple How-To

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey everyone! Ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through hundreds of TV channels on your Sharp digital TV, most of which you never watch? Or maybe your favorite channels are scattered all over the place, making it a pain to find them? If you're nodding along, then you've landed in the right spot! Today, we're diving deep into how to edit digital TV channels on Sharp TVs. It's a super useful skill that can totally transform your viewing experience, making it smoother, faster, and much more enjoyable. Forget about the endless channel surfing; with a few simple steps, you can organize your channels exactly how you want them. Let's get your Sharp TV perfectly tuned!

Why Edit Your Sharp Digital TV Channels? Boost Your Viewing Experience!

So, guys, why bother editing your Sharp digital TV channels in the first place? You might think, "My TV finds the channels automatically, isn't that enough?" Well, while automatic scanning is super convenient for initially getting all available channels, it rarely organizes them in a way that makes sense for you. Imagine turning on your TV and immediately finding your top five channels, one after another, without having to flick through dozens of religious broadcasts or shopping channels you never watch. That’s the power of taking control and editing your digital TV channels on Sharp TVs.

First off, it’s all about personalization and efficiency. When your Sharp TV automatically scans for digital channels, it usually lists them in the order they're broadcast or detected. This often means your favorite sports channel might be channel 25, your news channel at 103, and that great movie channel somewhere around 500. It's a mess, right? By editing your Sharp digital TV channels, you can move these frequently watched programs to lower, more memorable numbers. Think about it: hitting "1", "2", "3" to get to your go-to channels versus remembering "25", "103", "500". It's a game-changer for quick access and significantly reduces the frustration of navigating through irrelevant content. This personalized setup enhances your daily interaction with your Sharp TV, making every viewing session more pleasant. You're not just watching TV; you're interacting with a system tailored precisely to your preferences. This level of customization truly elevates the entire home entertainment experience, turning what could be a chore into a seamless delight. It saves precious minutes every single day, minutes that add up over time to a substantial amount of enjoyable, uninterrupted viewing.

Another huge benefit of editing your Sharp digital TV channels is decluttering your channel list. Digital broadcasting often brings in a massive number of channels, many of which are duplicates, test patterns, or channels broadcasting in languages you don't understand, or simply content that doesn't appeal to you. Having these unwanted channels cluttering your list can make it feel overwhelming. With editing functions, you can easily hide or delete these unnecessary channels, effectively streamlining your viewing options. This means less time scrolling and more time actually watching what you love. It’s like cleaning out your digital closet – getting rid of the stuff you don’t need makes it easier to find the items you genuinely value. This not only improves your personal viewing experience but also makes it easier for other family members to find their preferred programs without getting lost in a sea of obscure channels. Imagine handing the remote to a guest or a child, and they immediately find something suitable without getting bogged down by hundreds of channels they'll never watch. It truly simplifies the interface for everyone.

Furthermore, editing your Sharp digital TV channels can be crucial for maintaining channel order after rescans or updates. Sometimes, after a power outage, a firmware update, or even a regional broadcast change, your TV might perform an automatic rescan. This can often revert your carefully organized channel list back to its factory default or a new, jumbled order. Knowing how to edit digital TV channels on Sharp TVs empowers you to quickly restore your preferred setup, minimizing downtime and ensuring you're back to enjoying your favorite shows as soon as possible. It gives you control and autonomy over your TV's functions, rather than being at the mercy of automatic settings. This proactive approach ensures a consistently enjoyable viewing experience. You won't be caught off guard by a sudden reordering; you'll have the knowledge and tools to swiftly restore order, making sure your entertainment flow remains uninterrupted and precisely as you like it. This level of preparedness is invaluable for long-term TV satisfaction.

Lastly, for families with kids, editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs can also play a role in parental control and content management. While most Sharp TVs have dedicated parental lock features, organizing channels can complement these. For instance, you might move kid-friendly channels to the beginning of the list and hide channels you deem inappropriate or simply want to restrict access to. This creates a safer and more curated viewing environment for younger audiences, giving parents greater peace of mind. It's about creating a harmonious and functional entertainment hub for everyone in the household. By placing educational or family-friendly channels prominently, you encourage positive viewing habits. Conversely, by making less suitable channels less accessible, you subtly guide viewing choices without needing constant oversight. So, whether it's for efficiency, decluttering, post-rescan recovery, or family management, learning how to edit your Sharp digital TV channels is absolutely worth your time and effort. It transforms your TV from a passive receiver into a truly personalized entertainment system that serves the needs of every member of your family.

Essential Tools & Preparations Before You Start Editing Sharp Digital TV Channels

Alright, before we dive headfirst into the nitty-gritty of editing your Sharp digital TV channels, let's make sure you've got everything you need and that your setup is ready to go. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist. A little preparation goes a long way, guys, and it ensures the entire process is smooth, stress-free, and successful. Nobody wants to get halfway through organizing their channels only to realize they're missing something crucial or overlooked a simple step! Proper preparation can save you a ton of time and frustration down the line, so don't skip this important phase.

First and foremost, your absolute most important tool for editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs is your TV remote control. Seriously, don't underestimate it! Make sure you have the original remote that came with your Sharp TV, or a fully compatible universal remote that has all the necessary function buttons. You’ll be using buttons like "Menu," "Input," directional arrows (up, down, left, right), "OK" or "Enter," "Exit," and possibly dedicated "Program" or "Channel" buttons. Check that the batteries are fresh and working correctly. A remote with dying batteries can be incredibly frustrating, causing commands to register intermittently or not at all, which can make editing your channels feel like an impossible task. So, give those batteries a quick check or swap them out if you have any doubts. A fully functional remote is the key to unlocking your TV's settings. Without it, you might as well be trying to navigate a spaceship with a broken joystick. Ensure it has a clear line of sight to your TV's infrared receiver, typically a small window on the bottom bezel.

Next up, while not strictly "essential" in every case, having your Sharp TV's user manual handy can be a lifesaver. Even though I'm going to walk you through the general steps for editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs, specific menu layouts and button labels can vary slightly between different Sharp TV models. The manual will provide precise, model-specific instructions and diagrams, which can be super helpful if you get stuck or if your TV's menu system looks a bit different from what I describe. If you don't have the physical manual anymore, don't sweat it! Most Sharp TV manuals are readily available for download as PDFs on the official Sharp support website. Just type your TV's model number into their search bar, and you should be able to find it in no time. Having this resource can clarify any ambiguities and act as your personalized guide, especially if your Sharp model has a unique interface or advanced features. It's a small step that can prevent large headaches.

Beyond the physical tools, let's talk about some preparatory steps that are good practice before you start fiddling with your channel list.

  • Ensure your TV is receiving a digital signal. This might seem obvious, but if you're trying to edit channels for an analog signal or a disconnected antenna, you won't find the options we're looking for. Make sure your antenna is properly connected and positioned, or your cable/satellite box is fully operational and selected as the correct input if you're using one (though editing internal digital TV channels primarily applies to over-the-air or direct cable connections to the TV's tuner). Confirming this early on avoids frustration later when you can't find the relevant menu options.
  • Do a quick mental (or physical) inventory of your current channels. Before you start editing your Sharp digital TV channels, it’s a good idea to know which channels you want to keep, which ones you want to move, and which ones you definitely want to delete or skip. Jotting down a quick list of your favorite channels and their current numbers, along with your desired new numbers, can serve as a fantastic roadmap. This prevents you from randomly moving channels around and then forgetting your plan, potentially making things more disorganized than before. A clear objective makes the editing process much more efficient and ensures you achieve the precise order you desire without guesswork. Take a few minutes to think about the optimal flow for your daily viewing.
  • Be aware of your TV's current settings. Sometimes, a "factory reset" option exists within the menu. It's usually a last resort if you completely mess things up, but it's good to know it's there. However, our goal here is to edit digital TV channels on Sharp TVs without resorting to a full reset, as that would wipe all your custom settings, including picture and sound preferences. So, approach this task with a bit of patience and confidence – you've got this! Knowing this option exists can provide a safety net, but it's always best to proceed carefully to avoid losing other personalized adjustments.

By taking these simple steps – grabbing your remote, possibly your manual, and doing a bit of planning – you'll set yourself up for a smooth and successful channel editing experience. Preparation is key to unlocking the full potential of your Sharp digital TV and getting those channels perfectly organized! You're laying the groundwork for a truly customized and enjoyable viewing setup.

Step-by-Step Guide: Editing Channels on Your Sharp Digital TV – Master Your Channel List!

Alright, guys, this is where the magic happens! We're finally getting into the practical steps of how to edit digital TV channels on Sharp TVs. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll have your channel list perfectly curated in no time. Remember, while the general process is similar across many Sharp models, slight variations in menu names or button labels might exist. Don't panic if your screen doesn't look exactly like what you imagine – just look for similar options or refer to your manual if you need to. Let's get those channels sorted and make your TV truly yours!

H3: Accessing the Main Menu and Channel Setup

The very first thing you need to do to edit your Sharp digital TV channels is to open up your TV's main menu. Grab that remote we talked about!

  1. Power On Your Sharp TV: Make sure your TV is on and you're watching a digital TV channel (not an HDMI input or other source). This ensures you're in the correct mode for channel management. If you're on a different input, switch to "TV" or "Antenna" using your remote's "Input" or "Source" button. This step is crucial because channel editing options are usually tied to the TV's internal tuner.
  2. Press the "Menu" Button: Look for a button on your remote typically labeled "Menu," "Home," or sometimes a house icon. Press it. This action will bring up the main on-screen menu interface of your Sharp TV. This menu is your gateway to all the TV's settings, from picture adjustments to sound preferences, and crucially, channel management.
  3. Navigate to "Channel" or "Setup": Once the menu is open, you’ll see a list of options. Using the directional arrows (up/down/left/right) on your remote, navigate through these options. You're looking for something that clearly relates to channels or setup. Common labels include:
    • "Channel"
    • "Broadcasting"
    • "Setup"
    • "Settings"
    • "Program"
    • "Tuning"
    • Select this option by pressing the "OK" or "Enter" button in the center of your directional pad. This takes you deeper into the channel management settings, which is exactly where we want to be to begin editing your Sharp digital TV channels.

H3: Finding the Channel Editing Options

Once you're in the "Channel" or "Setup" sub-menu, you'll likely find several options related to channel management. This is where you'll discover the specific functions for editing your Sharp digital TV channels.

  1. Locate "Channel Program," "Channel Edit," or "Channel Manager": Within the channel setup menu, look for an option that explicitly mentions editing, organizing, or managing programs. Again, use your directional arrows to highlight the correct option. Common names include:
    • "Channel Program"
    • "Channel List Edit"
    • "Program Edit"
    • "Channel Manager"
    • "Edit Channels"
    • Press "OK" or "Enter" to select it. At this point, you might be prompted for a PIN if you have one set up for parental controls. If so, enter your four-digit PIN. This security measure is there to prevent unauthorized changes, especially in households with children. After entering the PIN (if required), you'll finally see the list of all detected digital channels, ready for you to start editing your Sharp digital TV channels with precision and purpose. This interface usually displays the channel number, channel name, and sometimes a few other details, providing a clear overview before you make any changes.

H3: Understanding and Using Channel Editing Functions (Move, Delete, Skip, Rename)

Now, you should be on the main channel editing screen for your Sharp digital TV. Here, you'll see a list of all detected digital channels. This is where you'll perform the actual editing of your Sharp digital TV channels. You'll typically have several powerful options at your disposal, often indicated by on-screen legends that correspond to colored buttons on your remote (e.g., Red for Move, Green for Delete).

  • Move Channels: This is probably the most frequently used function. It allows you to reorder your channels to your personal preference. Say goodbye to scrolling past dozens of irrelevant channels to find your favorite news or sports broadcast.
    • Highlight the channel you want to move using your up/down arrows. Pay close attention to the channel name and number to ensure you're selecting the correct one.
    • Look for an on-screen prompt or a remote button that signifies "Move" (often a colored button, typically red, or a text instruction like "Move: RED"). Select this function to initiate the move.
    • Now, use your up/down arrows to shift the highlighted channel to its desired new position in the list. The TV will often show a placeholder or move the channel in real-time as you navigate.
    • Once it's in the right spot, press "OK" or "Enter" to confirm the move. This is fantastic for grouping your favorite channels together at the beginning of the list, creating an incredibly intuitive channel lineup. You can even create thematic blocks, such as all news channels first, then sports, then entertainment, making your TV navigation extremely efficient.
  • Delete/Erase Channels: If there are channels you absolutely never watch and want to remove from your list entirely, use the delete function. This helps significantly declutter your channel guide.
    • Highlight the unwanted channel with your navigation arrows. Be sure it's a channel you're confident you won't miss.
    • Look for a "Delete" or "Erase" prompt (again, possibly a colored button, often green, or on-screen text like "Delete: GREEN").
    • Select "Delete."
    • The TV might ask for confirmation ("Are you sure you want to delete?"). Confirm your choice to proceed. Be careful with this, as deleted channels might require a full rescan to get back! Deleting is more permanent than skipping, so use it for truly unwanted content like duplicate channels or obscure broadcasts.
  • Skip Channels: This is a great alternative to deleting and offers more flexibility. Skipping a channel means it will still be in your list, but your TV will skip over it when you're channel surfing with the CH+/CH- buttons. You can still access it by directly typing its number if you ever need to.
    • Highlight the channel you wish to skip. This is perfect for channels you might occasionally watch but don't want to regularly encounter during casual surfing.
    • Look for a "Skip" or "Hide" option (often a yellow or blue button, or a specific menu option).
    • Select it, and an indicator (like an asterisk, a crossed-out eye icon, or a different font color) might appear next to the channel name, showing it's skipped. This is ideal for channels you want to keep but don't want to regularly encounter while browsing. It provides a cleaner browsing experience without permanently removing content.
  • Rename Channels (Less Common for Digital, but Possible): Some advanced Sharp TV models might offer an option to rename digital channels. This is less common because digital channels broadcast their names, but if available, it lets you personalize the display name. For instance, you could shorten a long channel name or give a generic channel a more descriptive title.
    • Highlight the channel you wish to rename.
    • Look for a "Rename" option (sometimes a blue button or a menu item).
    • Use the on-screen keyboard (navigated with directional arrows) to type a new name. This can be a bit slow, but it allows for maximum customization.
    • Confirm your choice. This feature truly personalizes the channel identification process, making your Sharp digital TV channels even more user-friendly.

As you perform these editing actions on your Sharp digital TV channels, pay attention to the on-screen instructions. Sharp's interface is usually quite intuitive, guiding you through each step with clear prompts and visual cues. Take your time, and don't rush. The goal is to make your channel list work for you, creating a truly personalized viewing experience that enhances your daily entertainment.

H3: Applying Changes and Exiting the Menu

Once you've finished editing all your Sharp digital TV channels to your liking – moving favorites, deleting unwanted ones, and skipping others – it's crucial to properly save your changes and exit the menu. Neglecting this step could mean all your hard work goes to waste!

  1. Save Your Changes: Most Sharp TVs will automatically save changes as you make them in the channel edit menu. However, some might require you to explicitly "Save" or "Apply" your changes before exiting. Look for a button or on-screen prompt (e.g., "Save," "Apply," or a specific colored button associated with saving, like "RED: Save") to confirm or save. If you don't see one, don't worry, it likely auto-saves, but a quick check never hurts. It's always a good practice to ensure your customized Sharp digital TV channels are permanently stored.
  2. Exit the Menu: Press the "Exit" or "Menu" button on your remote repeatedly until you return to normal TV viewing. This is a very important step! Do NOT just turn off the TV without exiting the menu, as this could sometimes prevent changes from being saved properly. Exiting gracefully ensures all your edits are finalized and your TV's operating system registers the new channel order. You should then see your newly organized channel list reflected as you surf through channels.

Congratulations! You've successfully learned how to edit digital TV channels on Sharp TVs and now have a perfectly customized channel list. Enjoy your streamlined viewing experience! This detailed process empowers you to take full control and truly personalize your Sharp TV, ensuring that every time you sit down to watch, it's a seamless and enjoyable experience. You've transformed your TV into a finely tuned entertainment machine, precisely configured to your preferences. Revel in the simplicity and efficiency of your newly organized channel lineup!

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Editing Sharp TV Channels: What If Something Goes Wrong?

Okay, guys, you've gone through the steps to edit your Sharp digital TV channels, and for most of you, things probably went smoothly. But let's be real, technology can sometimes throw a curveball. What if you encounter an issue? Don't stress! It's completely normal for a hiccup or two to occur. This section is all about troubleshooting common problems you might face while editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs and how to fix them so you can get back to enjoying your perfectly organized entertainment. Knowing how to troubleshoot can save you a lot of time and prevents unnecessary calls to customer support or costly repair visits. Let's tackle these potential frustrations head-on!

One of the most frequent issues people face is "I can't find the 'Channel Edit' or 'Program' option in the menu!" This can be super frustrating, especially when you're keen to get those channels sorted. First, double-check that you're in the correct input mode. If your Sharp TV is currently displaying an HDMI input (like a game console or a streaming box), the internal TV tuner settings, including channel editing, might not be accessible. Switch your TV's input to "TV" or "Antenna" mode before trying to access the menu. Additionally, remember that menu names can vary. Instead of "Channel Edit," look for "Broadcasting," "Tuning," "Program Setup," "Channel Manager," or even just "Settings" with a sub-menu for channels. Persevere with your navigation, checking all relevant sub-menus. The options might be nested a bit deeper than expected. If you're still stuck, this is where that user manual (or its online PDF version) for your specific Sharp model becomes invaluable – it will explicitly state the menu path. A quick search with your TV's model number on Sharp's support website can often yield the digital manual instantly, pinpointing the exact location of the editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs function.

Another common problem: "My changes aren't saving!" You've moved channels around, deleted others, and then exited the menu, only to find everything reverted. This is a classic head-scratcher and can be incredibly disheartening after putting in the effort. The most likely culprit here is either not properly exiting the menu or a temporary software glitch. After making all your edits, ensure you press the "Exit" or "Menu" button repeatedly until you are completely out of the menu system and back to watching TV. Don't just power off the TV while still in the menu, as this can interrupt the save process. If you did exit properly and changes still aren't saving, try a soft reset of your TV. Unplug your Sharp TV from the power outlet, wait for about 60 seconds (this allows residual power to dissipate and often clears temporary memory errors), and then plug it back in. This often clears minor software bugs that might prevent settings from being saved. Then, try the editing digital TV channels on Sharp TVs process again from the start. Sometimes, simply restarting the TV can resolve many inexplicable issues.

You might also encounter the scenario where "Some channels are missing after editing or rescanning!" This is particularly annoying if it's one of your favorites. If you accidentally deleted a channel you wanted to keep, or if a rescan didn't pick up all available channels due to a weak signal at the time of scanning, the solution is usually straightforward: perform a full automatic channel scan again. Go to your TV's "Channel" or "Setup" menu, and look for an option like "Auto Scan," "Auto Tuning," or "Scan for Channels." Ensure your antenna connection is secure and, if possible, try adjusting its position for better reception before initiating the scan. This process will search for all available digital broadcast channels in your area and add them to your TV's memory. Once the scan is complete, you'll need to go back and re-do your custom channel editing, as the new scan will likely overwrite your previous organization. It's a bit of extra work, but it ensures you get all available channels back before you reorganize them. Always rescan if you suspect channels are missing – it’s the most reliable way to refresh your TV's channel database. Consider doing this at a time when broadcast signals are typically strong, perhaps late at night or early morning, if signal strength is a consistent issue.

Finally, what if "The remote isn't responding or some buttons don't work in the menu?" This can halt your Sharp digital TV channel editing efforts dead in their tracks. First, check the batteries. Seriously, a fresh set of batteries can solve about 90% of remote issues. Replace them with new ones, even if you think they're fine. If batteries aren't the problem, try pointing the remote directly at the TV's IR receiver (usually a small dark panel on the front, often near the power light). Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the TV. Try to clean the remote's sensor window if it appears dusty. If you're using a universal remote, verify that it's programmed correctly for your specific Sharp TV model. Sometimes, universal remotes might not have full functionality for all advanced menu options, especially for less common settings. If all else fails and you suspect the remote itself is faulty, try borrowing another Sharp TV remote from a friend (if compatible) or consider purchasing a replacement. A fully functional remote is non-negotiable for smooth navigation and editing, and sometimes the simplest solution is the correct one. You can even try using a smartphone app as a remote if your Sharp TV supports it, as a temporary workaround to confirm if the issue is with your physical remote or the TV itself.

Remember, troubleshooting is often a process of elimination. Start with the simplest solutions and work your way up. With a little patience and these tips, you'll be able to overcome most hurdles you face while editing your Sharp digital TV channels and get back to enjoying a perfectly tailored viewing experience. Don't let minor technical glitches deter you from achieving your ideal TV setup!

Pro Tips for Optimal Channel Management on Sharp TVs: Go Beyond Basic Editing!

Now that you've mastered the art of editing your Sharp digital TV channels by moving, deleting, and skipping, let's talk about some pro tips to take your channel management to the next level. These strategies aren't just about initial setup; they're about maintaining an organized, efficient, and enjoyable viewing experience on your Sharp TV for the long haul. Think of these as ways to really fine-tune your TV habits, ensuring you get the most out of your digital broadcasts, guys. Going the extra mile here will truly make your Sharp TV a joy to use every single day.

First up, a fantastic pro tip is to create thematic groups for your channels. Instead of just having a random assortment of favorites at the top, consider grouping them logically. For example, dedicate channels 1-10 for your absolute must-watch local news and major networks, 11-20 for sports channels (ESPN, Fox Sports, etc.), 21-30 for movie channels (HBO, Showtime if you have them, or free movie channels), and so on. You could even have a block for kids' channels or educational content. This makes navigation incredibly intuitive. When you want to watch sports, you know exactly where to go without even thinking. When editing your Sharp digital TV channels, be intentional about these groupings. It requires a bit more planning upfront, perhaps a quick jot-down on paper, but the long-term benefits in terms of ease of use are immense. This structured approach moves beyond simple ordering to a truly thoughtful and personalized channel architecture, maximizing convenience for everyone who uses the TV.

Another powerful strategy is to periodically review and refine your channel list. Digital broadcasting landscapes can change. New channels might appear (hello, new obscure shopping channel!), old ones might cease broadcasting, or your viewing preferences might evolve (maybe you're suddenly into cooking shows!). Don't just set it and forget it! Every few months, or whenever you notice things feeling a bit cluttered again, take 15-20 minutes to re-enter the channel editing menu on your Sharp TV. Are there new channels you want to add to your favorites? Old ones you now never watch and can delete or skip? Regularly revisiting the process of editing your Sharp digital TV channels keeps your list fresh, relevant, and optimized for your current viewing habits. It's like regular maintenance for your car – it keeps everything running smoothly and prevents digital clutter from accumulating. This proactive management ensures your TV remains a highly efficient entertainment device tailored to your current lifestyle.

Consider using the "Favorite Channels" feature if your Sharp TV model offers it. Many Sharp TVs, especially newer ones, have a dedicated "Favorites" list or function that's separate from the main channel list. Instead of meticulously reordering the main channel list, you can simply mark your most-watched channels as favorites, and then switch to viewing only the favorites list. This provides an instant, clutter-free access point to your go-to programs without altering the main, comprehensive channel list. It's a fantastic complementary tool to editing your Sharp digital TV channels directly, offering a quick way to switch between a full overview and a highly curated selection. It’s particularly useful if different family members have vastly different viewing preferences, as each can quickly jump to their own set of essentials. Explore your TV's menu for a "Favorites" or "Preferred Channels" option – it's often a shortcut button on the remote as well.

Here's a less common but very effective tip: document your channel order. Especially if you've put a lot of effort into your personalized channel list, jot down your final order (channel number and channel name) in a notebook or a digital document (like a note on your phone or a spreadsheet). Why? Because sometimes, despite your best efforts, a full factory reset might be necessary (e.g., for a major TV issue that requires it), or a strong power surge might wipe settings. Having a record of your ideal channel configuration means you won't have to start from scratch trying to remember where everything was. It provides a quick reference guide to rapidly restore your preferred edited digital TV channels on your Sharp TV if something unforeseen happens. This acts as your personal backup plan for ultimate peace of mind, ensuring your customized setup is never truly lost, no matter what technical glitches come your way.

Finally, educate other users in your household. If you're the tech-savvy one who edits the Sharp digital TV channels, make sure other family members know why the channels are organized the way they are and how to navigate them. A quick walkthrough can prevent confusion or accidental changes. Show them where the news channels are, where the kids' shows are, and how to use the