english liquid crystal display camcorder...

VL-Z7E/hyou; 03/02/24/18:00

SHARP CORPORATION

VL

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LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY CAMCORDER

VL-Z7E

OPERATION MANUAL

Printed in Japan

TINSLA048WJZZ03P03-JWG

ENGLISHOPERATION MANUAL

WARNINGTO PREVENT SHOCKHAZARD, DO NOTEXPOSE THISAPPLIANCE TO RAINOR MOISTURE.This equipment should be usedwith the recommended ACadapter or battery pack.

CAUTIONTo prevent electric shocks andfire hazards, do NOT use anyother power source.

CAUTIONTo prevent shock, do not open thecabinet. No user serviceable partsinside. Refer servicing to qualifieddealer or service centre.

Important:Audio-visual material may consistof copyrighted works which mustnot be recorded without theauthority of the owner of thecopyright. Please refer to relevantlaws in your country.

Power supply:This unit can be operated byconnecting it to either the ACadapter or battery pack. The ACadapter incorporates the AUTOVOLTAGE (AC 110–240 V,50/60 Hz) function.

NOTEThe LCD panel of this camcorder is a very high technology product withmore than 215,000 thin-film transistors*, giving you fine picture detail.Occasionally, a pixel may appear on the screen as a fixed point of blue,green, red, or black. Please note that this does not affect theperformance of your camcorder.

Trademarks• Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.• DPOF is a trademark of CANON INC., Eastman Kodak Company, Fuji Photo Film

Co., Ltd. and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.• All other brand or product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their

respective holders.

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Before using the camcorder, please read this operation manual

carefully, especially page vi.

i

WARNING:This Camcorder must be supplied only with DC 7.4 volts from a BT-L226 battery or the AC adapter (UADP-A016WJZZ).CAUTION:As there are no user-serviceable parts inside the Camcorder or ACadapter, do NOT remove their cabinets as touching parts inside couldresult in electric shock. Please refer servicing to a qualified dealer ora Camcorder service centre approved by Sharp.

Information for Australia/New Zealand OnlyE

NG

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NOTEThis Camcorder is a high technology product.The LCD Panel comprises 215,280 TFT Transistors. Due to the highdensity of transistors, it is possible that some pixels may fail.

Important:Copyright may exist in material you wish to record.Copying such material without permission of the relevant licensees orowners of the copyright is prohibited by law.Sharp is not in a position to authorize the recording of copyright worksand nothing in this operation manual should be read or implied as givingthat authority.

VL-Z7E-E-*i-viii 03.3.3, 4:24 PM1

ii

Part Names ............................................................. 1Warning Indicators .................................................. 4

Operation References

Preparation

Basic Operations

Attaching and Removing the Battery Pack ............. 6Charging the Battery Pack ...................................... 8Powering the Camcorder from an AC Outlet .......... 9Inserting and Removing a Cassette ..................... 10Inserting and Removing a Card ............................ 11Installing the Lithium Batteries .............................. 12Setting the Date and Time .................................... 14Using the Lens Cap .............................................. 15Adjusting the Hand Strap .....................................16Using the Grip ....................................................... 16Detaching the Lens Hood .....................................17Using the Viewfinder ............................................. 17Using the LCD Monitor .........................................19Tips on Recording Positions ................................. 20

Camera RecordingSelecting the Camcorder Mode ............................ 21Easy Camera Recording on Tape in Full Auto Mode .. 22Zooming ................................................................23Power Standby Mode ........................................... 24Turning on/off the Backlight .................................. 24Auto Focus ............................................................25Macro Shots ..........................................................25Remaining Recording Time Display ..................... 26Remaining Battery Power Display ........................26

PlaybackTape Playback ......................................................27Volume Control ......................................................28Still ........................................................................ 28Video Search ......................................................... 28Using Earphones (Commercially Available) ......... 29Adjusting the Phones Volume ............................... 29Watching Playback on a TV .................................. 30

Contents

Supplied Accessories ......................................................................................... vOptional Accessories .......................................................................................... vPrecautions ........................................................................................................ vi

iii

Useful Features Control Buttons ..................................................... 31Using the Mode Screens ...................................... 31Using the Menu Screens .......................................32

Camera RecordingSetting the Digital Zoom .......................................33Backlight Compensation (BLC) ............................ 34Gain-up ................................................................. 35Fade In and Fade Out ........................................... 36Quick Return ......................................................... 37Edit Search ............................................................38Still Recording on Tape .........................................38Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) ........................... 39Self Recording ......................................................40Wide Screen (16:9) ...............................................42Recording in LP (Long Play Recording) Mode ..... 43Using the Zoom Microphone

(Optional Accessory) .........................................44Windbreak ............................................................. 45Selecting the 16-bit Audio Recording Mode......... 46

PlaybackUsing the Remote Control .....................................47Tape Playback Functions with the Remote

Control ................................................................48Selecting the Date and Time of Recording

Display ................................................................49Picture Effect Playback .........................................50Rotate Playback ....................................................51Copying an Image from Tape to Card .................. 52

Advanced Features Camera RecordingManual Focus ....................................................... 53Returning to Auto Focus .......................................54Displaying the Manual Setting Screen .................. 54White Balance Lock .............................................. 55Manual Iris ............................................................56Manual Gain ..........................................................57Setting the Camcorder to Full Auto Mode............. 58Scene Menu (Program AE) ................................... 59

iv

Advanced Features PlaybackUsing the Time Code ............................................ 60Editing ................................................................... 61Recording from an External Source ......................62Editing with the DV Terminal (IEEE1394) .............. 64Using the Camcorder as a Converter ................... 66Audio Dubbing Feature .........................................68Selecting the Audio Playback Mode ..................... 70

Digital Still CameraFeatures

Camera RecordingSelecting the Picture Quality and Image Size ....... 71Card Recording .................................................... 73Selecting the Flash Mode ..................................... 74Red-eye Reduction ...............................................75Recording with the Self-timer ................................ 76Formatting a Card .................................................77Setting the File Numbering Method ......................78

PlaybackCard Playback ......................................................79Playback Zoom ..................................................... 80Delete Protection ...................................................81Deleting Stored Images ........................................ 82Print Order ............................................................. 84Transferring Data on Card to Computer ............... 86

Installing the USB Driver ................................... 86Slide Show Playback ............................................ 89

Appendix Picture/Backlight Adjustments .............................. 90Turning off the Confirmation Sound ......................92Setting the Camcorder to Factory Presettings ...... 93Demonstration Mode ............................................ 94Useful Information .................................................95Troubleshooting ..................................................101Specifications ..................................................... 105On-screen Display Index .................................... 106

Note:• Before requesting service, please read “Troubleshooting” carefully. (See pages

101–104.)

Contents

v

Supplied Accessories

Battery packBT-L226 AC adapter

Audio/video/S-videocable

CR2025 typelithium battery

for remote control

CR1216 typelithium batteryfor camcorder Lens cap

CD-ROM8 MB SD Memory Card

Remote control

USB cable

Standard-lifebattery pack

BT-L226Zoom microphone

VR-8MC

Optional Accessories

Power cord

Note:• Some of these accessories may not be available in selected areas.

vi

Precautions

• Before recording an important scene,please perform the recording test, thenplayback to check if the scene was re-corded properly. If noise occurs, use acommercially available cleaning tape toclean the video heads (see page viii).

• When the camcorder is not in use, re-member to remove the cassette tape,turn off the power, and disconnect thecamcorder from the power source.

• Do not aim the lens at the sun.Do not allow direct sunlight to strike thecamcorder lens, whether or not recordingis in progress, as it may damage the CCDsensor. Be particularly careful when re-cording outside.

• Avoid magnetic sources.Using the camcorder nearstrong fluorescent lights,motors, televisions, orother magnetic sourcesmay adversely affect re-corded images.

• Using the camcorder near a broad-casting station or other powerful trans-mission source may cause buzzing orpicture deterioration.

• Avoid shocks and dropping.Do not drop or otherwise sub-ject the camcorder to hardshocks or strong vibrations.Bumping or striking the unitduring recording will gener-ate noise in the recorded im-age.

• Avoid placing thecamcorder in closeproximity to lightingequipment.The heat from in-candescent lightsmay deform thecamcorder, or cause itto malfunction.

• Always respect prohibitions or restric-tions on the use of electronic equipmenton commercial flights or in other sensi-tive areas.

• Be aware of the temperature and humid-ity.You can use your camcorder at 0°C toL40°C, and at 30% to 80% relative hu-midity. Do not store the unit in anunventilated car in the summer, in directsunlight, or nearstrong heatsources; this canresult in severedamage to the unitcasing and cir-cuitry.

• Avoid situations where water, sand, dustor other foreign matter could get on orinside the camcorder, and do not use orleave your camcorder in areas with ex-cessive smoke, steam or moisture.Such environments can cause malfunc-tions or cause mil-dew to form on thelenses. Be sure tokeep the unit in awell-ventilated loca-tion.

• Some small, portable tri-pods may be difficult toattach and may not besturdy enough to sup-port your camcorder. Besure to use only astrong, stable tripod.

• When using your camcorder in a coldenvironment, the LCD monitor screen of-ten appears less bright immediately af-ter the power is turned on. This is not amalfunction. To prevent the camcorderfrom becoming too cold, wrap it in athick cloth (a blanket, etc.).

vii

Dew Formation

• What is “dew formation”?

When cold water is poured into a glass,dew drops form on the glass. This clingingof water drops is called dew formation.

• When dew forms in your camcorder.

Dew will gradually form on the head drumof your camcorder and make the videotape stick to the head. This causesdamage both to the head and the tape.When dew forms, recording and playbackmay not function properly.

Dew is likely to form in the followingcircumstances:

—When moving the camcorder from acold place to a warm place.

—When placing the camcorder in a coldroom which is then heated rapidly.

—When moving the camcorder outdoorsfrom an air conditioned room or car.

—When placing the camcorder in thedirect path of airblowing from an airconditioner.

—When placing thecamcorder in ahumid room.

• How to prevent trouble.

When using the camcorder in a placewhere dew is likely to form, allow thecamcorder and the video tape toacclimatise to the surroundings for aboutone hour.

For example, when bringing thecamcorder indoors after skiing, place it ina plastic bag.

1Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bagcontaining the camcorder.

2Remove the bag when the air tem-perature inside it reaches the tempera-ture of the room.

• “Dew” warning feature

If dew forms, the word “DEW” flashes onthe screen, and the power will automati-cally turn off in approximately 10 seconds.

Plastic bag

1 If “DEW” flashes, remove the cassette,leave the cassette compartment open,and wait for a few hours to allow thecamcorder to acclimatise to thesurrounding temperature.

2To use the camcorder again, turn on thepower after waiting for a few hours. Besure that “DEW” has disappeared.

3Do not insert a cassette while “DEW” isflashing; this may result in damage tothe tape.

4Since dew forms gradually, it may take10 to 15 minutes before the dewwarning feature engages.

viii

Dirty Video HeadsWhen the video heads have becomeclogged with dirt (dust and tape coatingparticles),

• mosaic-like noise appears on theplayback picture. (See illustrations above.)

• playback pictures do not move.

• during playback, the whole screenbecomes blue.

Using a Cleaning Tape (Commer-cially Available)

Available mode:Tape Playback

You can clean the video head with acommercially available cleaning tape.

Notes:• Excessive use of the cleaning tape may

cause damage to the video heads. Pleaseread the instructions accompanying thecleaning tape carefully before using it.

• The fast forward and rewind functions cannotbe used when the cleaning tape is in thecamcorder.

• If the video heads again become cloggedwith dirt soon after cleaning, this might becaused by a damaged tape. In this case,stop using that cassette immediately.

1 Insert a cleaning tape into thecamcorder.

2 Set the camcorder to Tape Playbackmode.• The video head cleaning screen

appears.

3 Press m on the Operation button tobegin video head cleaning.• “NOW CLEANING” flashes during

cleaning.

• After about 20 seconds, video headcleaning automatically finishes, and“EJECT THE CASSETTE.” displays.

4 Remove the cleaning tape.

To cancel cleaning, press l.

Causes of video head clogging

• High-temperature and high-humidityenvironment

• A lot of dust in the air• Damaged tape• Worn tape• Long-time use• Dew formation

If the video heads become clogged, thev indicator appears on the screen. Contactthe nearest SHARP service centre or yourdealer for further advice.

Precautions

S T O PS T A R T

CL EAN I NG

CLE AN I NGNOW

Striped noise Mosaic noise


1


Part Names

For details on the use of each part, refer to the page number indicated inparentheses.

Front view

Zoom lens

DISPLAY button (p. 31)

Operation button (p. 31)

Flash (p. 74)

Zoom microphoneshoe* (p. 44)

Stereo microphone LCD LAMP button (p. 24)

Flash sensor (p. 74)

* The zoom microphone shoe is designed onlyfor the optional zoom microphone VR-8MC.Accessories, such as a video light, cannot beused.


2

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Lithium battery cover (p. 12)

Tripod socket*

Card slot cover (p. 11)

Left view

Diopter adjustment dial (p. 18)

Battery release (pp. 7, 12)

* When attaching a tripodwith a guide pin, do notattach the pin to the bottomof the camcorder.

LCD monitor(p. 19)

Earphones jack(p. 29)

DV terminal (pp. 64, 66)

USB terminal (p. 87)

DC IN jack (pp. 8, 9)

AV terminal(pp. 30, 61, 62, 66)Terminal cover

(pp. 29, 30, 61, 62, 64, 66, 87)


3

Viewfinder (pp. 17, 18)

Power Zoom Wide angle/Telephoto control (p. 23)/VOLume control (p. 28)

Media Selectionswitch (V Tapemode/u Cardmode selectionswitch) (p. 21)

Start/Stop button(p. 22)

PHOTO button(pp. 38, 52, 73)

Power switch (v CameraRecording mode/w Playbackmode select switch) (p. 21)

STANDBY button(p. 24)

STANDBY indicator(p. 24)

POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator

(pp. 8, 9, 22)

DC IN jack cover(pp. 8, 9)

Cassette holder (p. 10)

Cassette compartmentdoor release (p. 10)

Cassette compartment door (p. 10)

Right view

Hand strap (p. 16)

Speaker

Window cleaning cover (p. 99)


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Warning Indicators

If a warning indicator appears on the screen, follow the specified instructions.

Displayed for thefirst 3 seconds

Displayed after3 seconds Description of warning

There is no video cassette in the camcorder.Insert a cassette (see page 10).

I NSERTA CASSE T TE.

BAT TERY I STOO LOW.

PROT EC T. TAB

CHANGE THECASSE TTE.

E J E CT THECASSE TTE.

E J E CT THECASSE TTE.

CASSE TTE NOTRECORDABL E.

The video cassette is defective and should beremoved (see page 10).

The erasure protect tab on the video cassettehas been slid to the record-protect position,preventing recording (see page 96).

The tape is about to end. Prepare a newcassette.

THEENDS SOON.

TAPE

DEW

LAMP LAMP

DEW

The tape has reached the end. Replace it with anew cassette (see page 10).

The battery is almost depleted. Replace it witha fully charged battery pack (see pages 6 and7).

Dew has formed inside the camcorder. Wait afew hours for the dew to dry away (see page vii).About 10 seconds after this warning appears,the camcorder automatically turns off.

The video heads are clogged and should becleaned (see page viii).

The fluorescent lamp behind the LCD monitor isclose to the end of its service life. Call your localauthorized Sharp dealer to have it replaced.

TAPE END

TAPE END

The battery is almost depleted when thecamcorder transfers data through the USBcable. Use the AC adapter or fully chargedbattery pack as the power source (see pages6–9, 88).

U S B U S B


5 Note:• N indicates a flashing display.

Displayed for5 seconds Description of warning

The card is not inserted or is inserted improperly. Check that it isproperly inserted (see page 11).

The capacity of the card is full and cannot store any more images.Delete unnecessary images (see page 82) or replace the card witha new one (see page 11).

The card has no images recorded in the format the camcorder canrecognize.

The images in the card are corrupted or recorded in a formatwhich is not compatible with this camcorder. Format the card touse it with this camcorder (see page 77)*.

The card has not been formatted with this camcorder. Format thecard (see page 77)*.

The card is write-protected (see page 11).

You are trying to delete a protected image. Cancel the protectionsetting (see page 81).

The selected image cannot be read by this camcorder. Format thecard to use it with this camcorder (see page 77)*.

The card cannot record any data due to a problem with the card ordata on the card. Replace the card (see page 11).

NOMEMORY CARD

MEMORYFUL L

CARD

NO DATA ONMEMORY CARD

MEMORY CARDERROR

FORMATMEMORY CARD

MEMORY CARDPROT E C T ED

PROT E C T EDDATA

MEMORY CARDRE AD ERROR

CANNOTSTORE DATA

The camcorder cannot record with the Start/Stop button in CardRecording mode. Press the PHOTO button (see page 73).

PL EASE USEPHOTO BUT TON

The print order cannot be set to more than 999 images.MAX I MUM9 99 IMAGE S

You cannot record any image with a file number bigger than 999–9999. Set FILE NO. menu item to “RESET” (see page 78), thenformat the card (see page 77)* or replace the card with a new one(see page 11).

* Formatting a card erases all stored images, including delete-protected images. Be sure tobackup important data on your computer or other media before formatting the card.

MAX I MUMF I L E NUMBER

Preparation

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Preparation

Attaching andRemoving the BatteryPack

Attaching

1 Make sure that the Powerswitch is set to OFF.

2 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body.

3 Slide the battery pack in the directionof the arrow with the “m” mark facingout.

4 Push the battery pack in the directionof the arrow until it clicks.

90˚

Power switch “m” mark

Preparation

7

Removing

1 Make sure that the Power switch isset to OFF, then open the LCDmonitor to a 90° angle to thecamcorder body.

90˚

2 Slide the battery release in thedirection of the arrow.

3 Take the battery pack out.

Notes:• BEFORE REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAY-BACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.Removing the battery pack while shooting orduring playback may damage the tape bycausing it to wrap around the video headdrum or destroy the card, rendering itunreadable and unwritable.

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorderif you will not use the camcorder for a longperiod of time.

• Make sure that the battery pack is firmlyattached during operation. If it is not, thebattery pack may come off or camcorderoperation may fail because of the poorcontact pressure.

• To prevent damage to the battery pack whenremoving, be sure to firmly hold the batterypack while pressing the release.

• Use only SHARP model BT-L226 batterypacks with this camcorder. Use of otherbatteries may create a risk of fire orexplosion.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make surethe battery pack is properly attached to thecamcorder, otherwise the monitor may bedamaged.

Battery release

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Charging the BatteryPack

1 Attach the battery pack on thecamcorder, and make sure that thePower switch is set to OFF.

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

3 Connect the supplied power cordto the AC power socket on the ACadapter, and insert the AC pluginto a power outlet.

4 Insert the DC plug into the DC INjack of the camcorder.• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)

indicator lights up red.

• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)indicator turns off when the battery ischarged.

5 Remove the DC plug from the DC INjack, then remove the AC adapterfrom the power outlet.

Charging time and maximumcontinuous recording and playbacktimes in Tape modes

BT-L226

Chargingtime

Batterypack

Max.continuous

recording timeMax.

continuousplayback time

on LCD

120 115 100

LCDclosed

LCDopen

100

• The chart specifies the approximate times inminutes.

Notes:• Charge the battery pack between 10°C and

30°C. The battery pack may not chargeproperly at temperatures too low or toohigh.

• The battery pack and AC adapter becomewarm during charging. This is not amalfunction.

• Using the zoom (see page 23) and otherfunctions or turning the power on and offfrequently will increase power consump-tion. This may result in a decrease in theactual recording time compared to themaximum continuous recording time listedabove.

• The charging time and recording time mayvary depending on the ambient tempera-ture and the condition of the battery pack.

• See pages 98 and 99 for more information onusing the battery pack.

• Charge only SHARP model BT-L226 batterypacks. Other types of battery packs mayburst, causing personal injury and damage.

• When attaching the supplied audio/video/S-video cable or USB cable, remove the DCplug, open the terminal cover and connect it.

DC IN jack cover

DC plug

DC IN jack

POWER/CHARGE (RED)indicator

AC power socket

To poweroutlet

Preparation

9

Powering theCamcorder from anAC Outlet

You can also power the camcorder from apower outlet by using the supplied ACadapter.

Note:• The supplied AC adapter is specially

designed for use with this camcorder, andshould not be used as a power supply forother camcorders.

1 Make sure that the Power switch isset to OFF.

2 Open the DC IN jack cover.

3 Connect the supplied power cordto the AC power socket on the ACadapter, and insert the AC pluginto a power outlet.

DC IN jack

To poweroutlet

AC power socket

4 Insert the DC plug into the DC INjack of the camcorder.

5 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v or w.• The POWER/CHARGE (RED)

indicator lights up green.

Notes:• BEFORE REMOVING THE DC PLUG,

ALWAYS STOP RECORDING OR PLAY-BACK AND TURN THE POWER OFF.Removing the DC plug while shooting orduring playback may damage the tape bycausing it to wrap around the video headdrum or destroy the card, rendering itunreadable and unwritable.

• Disconnect the AC adapter from thecamcorder if you will not use the camcorderfor a long period of time.

DC IN jack cover

POWER/CHARGE (RED)indicator

DC plug

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Inserting andRemoving a Cassette

Inserting

1 Attach the power source to thecamcorder, then slide and hold thecassette compartment door releaseas you open the cassette compart-ment door.• After confirmation sound, the

cassette holder extends and opensautomatically.

2 Insert a commercially available MiniDV cassette fully with the windowfacing outwards, and with the erasureprotect tab facing upwards.

3 Press the “PUSH” mark gently untilthe cassette holder clicks into place.• The cassette holder retracts

automatically.

4 Wait for the cassette holder to fullyretract. Close the compartment doorby pressing its centre until it clicksinto place.

RemovingPerform step 1 above, then take out thecassette.

Notes:• Do not try to close the cassette compartment

door while the cassette holder is extending orretracting.

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught inthe cassette holder.

• Do not apply force to the cassette holderexcept when pressing the “PUSH” mark toclose it.

• Do not tilt the camcorder or hold it upsidedown when you are inserting or removing acassette. It may damage the tape.

• Remove the cassette if you will not use thecamcorder for a long period of time.

• If you do not correctly close the cassetteholder in step 3, the cassette protectionmechanism of the camcorder might eject thecassette. If this happens, repeat the insertionprocedure.

• Do not attempt to pick up the camcorder bythe cassette compartment door.

• If the battery power is too low, you may notbe able to eject the cassette. Replace thebattery pack with a fully charged one.

• You can only use Mini DV cassettes. LargeDV cassettes cannot be used. Be sure to useMini DV cassettes with the i mark.

• See page 96 for more information on thevideo cassette tapes intended for use withthis camcorder.

SAVE

REC

Cassette compartment door release

“PUSH” mark

Erasure protect tab

Preparation

11

Inserting andRemoving a Card

You can use an SD Memory Card (supplied)or a MultiMediaCard (commerciallyavailable) for storing still images.

Inserting


2 Open the card slot cover.

3 Insert a card into the slot as shownbelow, and push it in fully.

4 Close the card slot cover securely. Back view

Locked position

Unlocked position

Removing

Perform steps 1 and 2 above, push the cardand release slowly (1). Then pull the cardstraight out (2) as shown below.

Notes:• You can use only the SD Memory Card or the

MultiMediaCard (see page 97).• The supplied card is preformatted for

immediate use.• See page 97 for more information on the

cards intended for use with this camcorder.• Do not remove the card from the

camcorder while recording data on thecard (S indicator flashes during record-ing). This may delete the recorded imageor damage the card.

• You cannot insert or remove the card whenusing a tripod.

About the write-protectswitchSD Memory Card has a write-protect switch.When the switch is set to the lockedposition, you cannot record/delete data orformat the card. Set it to the unlockedposition to record/delete data or format thecard.

Card slot cover

Write-protectswitch

LabelClipped corner

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Installing the LithiumBatteries

Installing the Memory BatteryThe supplied CR 1216 type lithium battery isused to store the memory of the date andtime settings.



3 Slide the battery release in thedirection of the arrow, then take thebattery pack out.

4 Pull out the lithium battery cover inthe direction of the arrow.

5 Insert the smaller lithium battery intothe compartment with the H side ofthe battery facing out.

6 Close the lithium battery cover firmlyuntil it clicks into place.

Removing the MemoryBatteryPerform steps 1 to 4 above,then lift out the battery byusing a pointed object suchas the tip of a ballpoint pen.

Battery release

Lithiumbattery cover

CR 1216 typelithium battery

Preparation

13

2 Insert the larger lithium battery intothe battery holder with the H side ofthe battery facing the m side of theholder.

3 Insert the battery holder back intoposition.

Notes on the Use of the Lithiumbattery

• Do not short-circuit, recharge, disassemble,or heat the lithium battery.

• Should the lithium battery leak, wipe thebattery compartment clean, and then insert anew battery.

• The lithium batteries will last about one yearunder normal usage.

Installing the Battery toRemote Control

The supplied CR 2025 type lithiumbattery is used to power the remotecontrol unit.

1 Hold the remote control facing down,and pull out the battery holder whilepressing the tab toward the centre.

“m” side

H side, CR 2025 typelithium battery

Tab

CAUTION: Danger of explosion ifbattery is incorrectly replaced. Forcamcorder, replace only with same orequivalent type CR1216, for remotecontrol unit, replace only with same orequivalent type CR2025, both recom-mended by the equipment manufac-turer.X KEEP THIS BATTERYAWAY FROM CHILDREN. IF SWAL-LOWED, CONSULT A PHYSICIANIMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCYTREATMENT.Z BATTERY MAY EXPLODEIF MISUSED OR INSTALLED WITHPOLARITY REVERSED. DO NOTRECHARGE, DISASSEMBLE ORDISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

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4 Press m or l to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press the centre of the Operationbutton.

6 Press m or l to select “2” (day),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press m or l to select “6” (month),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

8 Press m or l to select “2004” (year),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

9 Press m or l to select “10” (hour),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

Setting the Date andTime

Available modes:Tape Camera, Card Camera

Example: Setting the date to 2 June 2004(2. 6. 2004) and the time to 10:30 am(10:30).

Note:• Before performing the steps below, make

sure that the CR1216 type lithium battery hasbeen installed (see page 12).

• The example screens shown are for TapeCamera mode.

1 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until themode screen appears.

3 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “MENU”, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

B L C G A I N/ O F FF A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

E X E C U T EF A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

B L C G A I N/

O T H E RS 2

R E T URN

T I ME C OD E O F FO F FT C O U T

S E T T I NG1 2 H 2 4 H/ 2 4 H

. 11 2 00 0 0:

0 3.

2.0 0 0:

1 2 0 0 3.SE T T I NG

SE T T I NG 2.0 0 0:

6 2 0 0 3.

SE T T I NG 2.0 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

SE T T I NG 2.01 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

Operation button

Power switch

DISPLAY button

Lock button

Preparation

15

Changing to the 12-hourTime Mode

1 After performing step 10 above, pressl or m to select “12H/24H”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

2 Press l or m to select “12H”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.

Notes:• The date and time, once set, are internally

recorded even when not displayed on thescreen.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if nosettings are made within 5 minutes.

Using the Lens Cap

Attach the strap of the lens cap to the handstrap as shown below.

When attaching or removing the lens cap,grasp the indents on both sides of the cap.

When recording, remove the lens cap andattach the lens cap cord to the fastener sothat the cap will not get in the way.

Note:• Always attach the lens cap over the lens

when not using the camcorder.

1 2H21 H 2 4H

10 Press m or l to select “30” (minute),then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

• The internal clock now startsoperating with the seconds display.


Note:• If the date and time have been set, the

SETTING 1 screen (T) appears in step 4.Select “SETTING” in the OTHERS 2 screen(~) using the Operation button.

SE T T I NG 2.01 3 0: 0 0:

6 2 0 0 4.

O T H E RS 2T I ME C OD ET C O U T

2 4H1 2H

R E T URNS E T T I NG1 2 H 2 4 H/

Indents

Fastener

Preparation

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16

Adjusting the HandStrap

1 Open the hand strap flap (1) and gripstrap (2).

2 Loosen the grip strap, pass your righthand through the hand strap, and putyour thumb close to the Start/Stopbutton and your middle finger on thePower Zoom control. Then, pull thegrip strap tight until it fits snugly.

3 Seal the Velcro® fasteners of the gripstrap and the hand strap flap.

Using the Grip

Rotate the grip 135° forward or 90°downward so that you can record imageseasily from high or low angle (see page 20).

Note:• The grip cannot rotate when a tripod is

attached.

Grip strap

Hand strap flap

135°

90°

Preparation

17

Using the Viewfinder

You can record the subject using theelectronic viewfinder. You can also watchplayback through the viewfinder.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.

2 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v orw.

Detaching the LensHood

Before using a commercially availableconversion lens, detach the lens hood asshown below.

(Continued on the next page)

Note:• You cannot attach the supplied lens hood or

lens cap to a conversion lens.

Power switch

Viewfinder

Lock button

Preparation

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18

Closing the viewfinder

Push in the viewfinder completely.

Notes:• Do not use excessive force when moving

the viewfinder.• Do not pick up the camcorder by the

viewfinder.• The viewfinder automatically turns off when

the LCD monitor is opened. If the verticalrotation of the monitor is 180° when in TapeCamera or Card Camera mode, however, theviewfinder is on and the subject is displayedboth in the viewfinder and on the monitor(see page 40).

• You can adjust the settings on the MENUscreen through the viewfinder by using theOperation button (see page 31 for use of theOperation button).

• Be sure to close the viewfinder after use.

Adjusting the diopterAdjust the diopter according to youreyesight when the picture in the viewfinderor the characters on the on-screen displayis not clear.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.2 Hold down the Lock button and set

the Power switch to v.

3 While looking through the viewfinder,turn the diopter adjustment dial untilthe indicators in the viewfinder areclearly visible.

Note:• For cleaning the viewfinder, see page 99.

Diopter adjustment dial

Preparation

19

Using the LCDMonitor

You can use the LCD monitor to play backrecordings that you have made or to watchthe subject during recording.


2 Adjust the LCD monitor to an anglethat allow easy viewing of the on-screen picture.• The LCD monitor rotates 270°

vertically.

Note: Do not try to rotate the LCDmonitor vertically until the monitor iscompletely opened.

• You can also fold the LCD monitorinto the camcorder with the screenfacing out for watching playback onthe monitor.

3 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to v orw.• A picture displays on

the LCD monitor.

Note:• Battery consumption is larger when the LCD

monitor is opened. Use the viewfinder insteadof the LCD monitor when you want to savethe battery power.

Closing the LCD monitor

Return the LCD monitor to the vertical 90°position with the screen facing in, and fold itinto the camcorder into place.

Notes:• Do not use excessive force when moving

the LCD monitor.• When closing the LCD monitor, do not tilt

it; otherwise the monitor may not closeproperly and may become damaged.

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the LCDmonitor.

• Do not place the camcorder with the LCDmonitor screen facing down.

• Close the LCD monitor completely with thescreen facing in when not in use.

• Before closing the LCD monitor, make surethe battery pack is properly attached to thecamcorder, otherwise the monitor may bedamaged.

90˚

180

9090

Lock buttonLCD monitorPower switch

Preparation

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20

Tips on RecordingPositions

Turn the LCDmonitor so that thescreen facesupward.Balance your

weight on bothlegs.

Turn the LCDmonitor so that the

screen facesdownward.

Place your elbowsagainst your sides.

To create images that are easy to watch during playback, try to record with an uprightposture and steady hands to prevent a shaky image.

Holding the camcorder

Put your right hand through the hand strap, and place your left hand under the camcorderfor support.

Basic posture

Place the viewfindereyecup firmly against

your eye.

Shooting from a low angle

Shooting from a high angle

Note:• Take care not to touch the microphone with your fingers during recording. It will cause noise on

the audio track. Also, take care not to touch the flash or flash sensor with your fingers duringCard Recording.

Basic Operations

21

Basic OperationsCamera Recording

Selecting the Camcorder Mode

This camcorder includes functions for use as both avideo camera for recording and playing back imageson tapes and as a digital still camera for recording andplaying back still images on cards. One of the followingcamcorder modes needs to be set before starting anyoperation.

Camcorder modes

Tape Playback mode

For playing back or editing motion and stillimages recorded on a tape.

1 Set the Media Selectionswitch to V.

2 Hold down the Lockbutton and set thePower switch to w.

Card Camera mode

For recording still images on a card.

1 Set the Media Selectionswitch to u.


Tape Camera mode

For recording motion and still images ona tape.

1 Set the MediaSelection switch to V.


Card Playback mode

For playing back still images recorded ona card.

1 Set the Media Selectionswitch to u.


Notes:• To turn the power off, set the Power switch to OFF without pressing the Lock button.• Do not change the camcorder mode by operating the Media Selection switch during recording

or playback, as this may cause damage to the tape or card.

Power switch

Media Selectionswitch

Lock button Lock button

Lock buttonLock button

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Easy CameraRecording on Tape inFull Auto Mode

Available mode:Tape Camera

• Before you start recording, perform theoperations described on pages 6 through20 to prepare your camcorder forrecording.

1 Remove the lens cap.2 Set the Media Selection

switch to V.

3 Hold down the Lock button and setthe Power switch to v.• The picture from the lens now

displays and the POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator lights up green.

• The camcorder is now ready torecord (Recording Standby mode).

Note:• If “AUTO” is not displayed at this time,

set the camcorder to Full Auto mode(see page 58).

AU T OAU T O

4 Press the Start/Stop button to beginrecording.

R E C

Note:• Before recording an important scene,

please perform the recording test, thenplayback to check if the scene wasrecorded properly. If noise occurs, use acommercially available cleaning tape toclean the video heads (see page viii).

Maximum continuous recording andactual recording times in TapeCamera mode

Note:• Using the zoom (see page 23) and other

functions or turning the power on and offfrequently will increase power consump-tion. This may result in a decrease in theactual recording time compared to themaximum continuous recording time listedabove.

Media Selection switch

Start/Stop button

Power switch

Lock button

BT-L226

Batterypack

Max. continuousrecording time

115

LCDclosed

LCDopen

100

POWER/CHARGE(RED) indicator

Actualrecording time

55

LCDclosed

LCDopen

50

Basic Operations

23

P A U S E

To pause recordingPress the Start/Stop button again. Record-ing pauses, and the camcorder entersRecording Standby mode.

To turn the power offSet the Power switch to OFF withoutpressing the Lock button.

Note:• If the camcorder remains in Recording

Standby mode for more than 5 minutes inTape Camera mode, the power will automati-cally turn off to save battery power and toprotect the tape from being damaged. Toresume recording, set the Power switch toOFF and then back to v. (The camcorderwill make a confirmation sound when it is leftin Recording Standby mode for about 4minutes.)

Zooming


Zooming allows you to move visually closerto or farther from a subject without physi-cally changing your position.When using the optical zoom, you canenlarge the subject up to 10K.

Zooming inPush the Power Zoom control to the T(telephoto) side to get a close-up view (1).Zooming outPush the Power Zoom control to the W (wideangle) side to get a wide field of view (2).

• The zoom range indicator shows you thecurrent zoom setting.

• The zoom speed depends on how far youpush the Power Zoom control.

Notes:• The camcorder is unable to focus when

zooming in on subjects within 1.5 m.• See page 33 for how to use the digital zoom.

Zooming in (when you want to centreattention on the subject)

Zooming out (when you want to includethe surroundings)

W T 3ZOOMPower Zoom

control

Zoom range indicator

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Power Standby Mode


Power Standby mode allows you to preventaccidental recording by locking alloperations except cancelling the mode.

Hold down the STANDBY button for morethan 2 seconds when you pause record-ing in Tape Camera mode.• The screen turns off and the STANDBY

indicator lights up.

Turning on/off theBacklight

Available modes:All modes

You can see the on-screen display outdoorson a sunny day or in a location with brightlighting even when the backlight turns off.Also, this function is useful when watchingplayback on a TV.

Hold down the LCD LAMP button formore than 2 seconds to turn off thebacklight.• “BACKLIGHT OFF” will flash for two seconds,

then H appears on the LCD screen.

To turn on the backlight

Press the LCD LAMP button.

Note:• The BACKLIGHT OFF mode will cancel when

you close the LCD monitor.

To resume operation

Press the STANDBY button again toreturn to the Recording Standby mode.• It takes about 2 seconds to be able to start

recording.

Notes:• Power Standby will cancel and the STANDBY

indicator will turn off in these situations below:— When the camcorder remains in Power

Standby mode more than 5 minutes— When the camcorder is set to Card

Camera, Tape Playback or Card Playbackmode

— When removing the battery pack— When removing a cassette

• The camcorder will turn off automatically in 5minutes after setting Power Standby mode ifit remains in Recording Standby mode aftercancelling Power Standby mode.— When Power Standby mode, for example,

is canceled after 3 minutes, thecamcorder will turn off if recording is notstarted within 2 minutes.

STANDBY indicator

STANDBY button

LCD LAMP button

Basic Operations

25

Auto Focus


The camcorder is preset to Auto Focusmode, which is designed to focus on mosttypes of subjects. In Auto Focus mode, thecamcorder automatically focuses on thesubject in the centre of the scene. Alwayskeep the subject in the centre of the scene.

Notes:• If no subject is in the centre of the scene, the

focus area will expand and the subjectnearest the centre will be focused on.

• Auto Focus may not work in the situationsdescribed on page 53. In these situations,use the manual focus function.

• The camcorder may not be able to focuscorrectly if the subject is closer thanapproximately 1.5 m. Set the zoom control towide angle, and try refocusing again.

• If the lens is dirty or fogged, the camcordermay not be able to focus correctly.

Macro Shots


This camcorder lets you shoot close-upimages of small objects such as flowers andinsects, or make title frames for your videos.When you want to record a magnified imageof a subject which is within approximately1.5 m of the camcorder, do not zoom in onit. Instead, zoom out all the way by pushingthe Power Zoom control to the W side, andthen move the camcorder closer to thesubject until you obtain the desired angle ofview. The camcorder will automaticallyfocus on the subject when the lens is set forthe widest angle.

Note:• When you are recording a macro shot, be

sure that the subject receives sufficientillumination.

Power Zoomcontrol

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3 0 min

Remaining BatteryPower Display


When using the camcorder with the batterypack as the power source, the remainingbattery power indicator is displayed. If thebattery power becomes very low, a warningindicator appears. Replace the batterypack.

Notes:• The remaining battery power indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators areturned on.

• Use the remaining battery power indicatoronly as an approximate indication.

• The remaining battery power indicator maychange to either a higher or lower level if youset the Power switch to OFF and then back tov or w.

• In cold environments, the red remainingbattery power indicator may appear sooner.

• Use of the zoom functions when the warningindicator is displayed may cause thecamcorder to suddenly lose power.

THEENDS SOON.

TAPE

TAPE END

Warning indicatorApprox. remaining

time

Less than 1 min.

Remaining RecordingTime Display


When the camcorder is recording in TapeCamera mode, an on-screen indicatordisplays the approximate remaining tapetime in minutes.

The tape has reachedthe end.

CHANGE THECASSE TTE.

TAPE END

BAT TERY I STOO LOW.

Remainingrecording timeindicator

Remainingbattery powerindicator

Notes:• The remaining recording time indicator

appears when the on-screen indicators areturned on.

• The remaining recording time indicatorappears 10 seconds after pressing theStart/Stop button to begin recording.

• The remaining recording time indicator onlyshows the approximate time left. Also, itvaries slightly depending on the length of thetape used. (This function is based on theDVM60 tape standard.)

When the remaining recording time reaches1 minute, a warning indicator will appear.Prepare a new cassette.

Warningindicator

(Green)

(Green)

(Red)

Basic Operations

27

Note:• If you press the Start/Stop button in Tape

Playback mode, the “g” mark appears andthe camcorder enters Recording Standbymode. If you do not intend to record, pressl to turn the “g” mark off, then press m tobegin playback. This will ensure yourprevious recording is not erased (see pages62–65).

To stop playbackPress l.

To turn the power offSet the Power switch to OFF withoutpressing the Lock button.

Note:• The tape automatically rewinds when

playback reaches the end of the tape.

Watching the playback inthe viewfinderYou can also watch the playback in theviewfinder by closing the LCD monitor withthe screen facing in. You cannot monitor thesound through the speaker when watchingthe playback in the viewfinder.

Tape Playback


The LCD monitor screen functions as ahandy playback monitor. Nothing needs tobe connected, allowing instant on-screenplayback with the sound through the built-inspeaker.

1 Set the Media Selectionswitch to V.


3 Press j (or k) on the Operationbutton to rewind (or fast forward) thetape to the desired point.

4 Press m to begin playback.

Basic OperationsPlayback

Power switchOperation button

Lock button

Media Selectionswitch


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28

VOLUME

Video Search


The video search function makes it easy tosearch for a desired scene on the tape.

Searching for a Scene Nearthe Current Tape Position

1 During Tape Playback, press k (orj) on the Operation button.• The playback picture fast forwards

(or reverses).

2 When you find the scene, press m toreturn to normal playback.

Searching for a Scene Farfrom the Current Tape Posi-tion

1 During fast forward (or rewind) inTape Playback mode, press and holdk (or j) on the Operation button.• The fast forward (or rewind) picture

displays.

2 If the scene is still rather far from thecurrent tape position, release theOperation button to normal fastforward (or rewind).

3 Repeat steps 1 and 2 above until youfind the scene.

4 Press m to begin normal playback.Notes:• The sound is off during search.• You may experience picture noise during

search. This is not a malfunction.

Still


The still function allows you to pause inTape Playback mode.

During Tape Playback, press m on theOperation button.

To return to normal playback, press magain.Notes:• The sound is off in Still mode.• To protect the tape, the camcorder automati-

cally returns to normal playback if it is left inStill mode for more than 5 minutes.

Volume Control


When the camcorder is in Tape Playbackmode, push the Volume control to the L or+ side to increase (1) or decrease (2) thevolume.The volume level indicator will appear onthe LCD screen during adjustment only.Once the Volume control is released, thevolume level indicator will disappear shortlyafterwards.

Volumecontrol

IncreaseDecrease

Basic Operations

29

O T H E RS 1E X E C U T EONON

O F F– +

B E E PR EMO T ED E F AU L T

PHON E S V O LD EMO MOD ER E T U RN

– +PHON E S V O L

Using Earphones(CommerciallyAvailable)

Available modes:Tape Playback, Tape Camera

You can monitor the sound via stereoearphones (commercially available) duringplayback or recording. Stereo earphoneswith a 3.5 mm diameter plug can be usedwith this camcorder.

Connect the plug of stereo earphones to theearphones jack on the camcorder as shownbelow.

Notes:• Before connecting stereo earphones, turn the

camcorder volume down to the lowestsetting.

• The built-in speaker automatically turns offwhen stereo earphones are connected to theearphones jack.

Adjusting the PhonesVolume


You can adjust the phones volume if soundthrough the earphones is difficult to hear.

1 Set the Media Selection switch to V,then hold down the Lock button andset the Power switch to v (see page21).

2 Press the DISPLAY button until themode screen appears (see page 31).


4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Opera-tion button.

5 Press l or m to select Z, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

6 Press l or m to select “PHONESVOL” , then press the centre of theOperation button.

7 Press j or k to adjust to the desiredvolume level, then press the centre ofthe Operation button.


Earphones jack

Decrease Increase


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Watching Playbackon a TV

Available modes:Tape Playback, Card Playback

You can connect the camcorder to a TV toallow a larger audience to enjoy playback.

1 Open the terminal cover on thecamcorder (see page 2).

2 Connect the camcorder to your TV (orVCR) with the supplied audio/video/S-video cable, as shown.

About the S-video socket

S-video sockets are used to separately passthe chroma (colour) and luminance(brightness) components of video signals.They serve to improve the picture quality inboth recording and playback.

Note:• Check that the camcorder, TV, VCR and

other equipment to be used are turnedoff before making any connections.Picture noise or malfunction may occurif any of the above is left on whilemaking a connection.

3 Turn on the TV and set it to the “AV”or “VIDEO” channel. (See theoperation manual of your TV.)• When connecting to a TV via a VCR,

turn on the VCR and set it to the “AV”or “LINE” input channel. Operate theTV as you normally do to view thesignal from the VCR. (See theoperation manuals of your TV andVCR.)

4 Set the Power switch on thecamcorder to w, and begin playback(see page 27).

Notes:• If your TV or VCR has only one audio input

jack, use the white plug for the audioconnection on the TV or VCR.

• If your TV or VCR has an S-video inputsocket, you do not need to connect theyellow video plug.

• Close the terminal cover after use.

VIDEOS-VIDEO

L-AUDIO-R(MONO)AV-IN

:

Terminal cover

To AVterminal

Black: To S-video input socketYellow: To video input jackWhite: To audio input (L) jackRed: To audio input (R) jack

Audio/video/S-video cable (supplied)

The arrow shows the signal flow.

TV or VCR

Useful Features

31

Operation button

Media Selection switch

DISPLAY buttonPower switch

Informationdisplay on

Mode screen

Informationdisplay off

Example

Example

Useful Features

Control Buttons

Operation buttonUse the Operation button to select and setthe desired setting.

Using the Mode Screens

In the mode screens, you can adjust thecamcorder settings by using the Operationbutton.

1 Set to the desired camcorder modeby using the Media Selection switchand the Power switch (see page 21).• See pages 106 to 109 for the mode

items you can select in eachcamcorder mode.

• Steps 2 to 4 show how to change theSCENE MENU setting in TapeCamera mode.


3 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select the desired modeitem (SCENE MENU), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

4 Press l or m to select the desiredmode setting (DUSK), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

To turn off the mode screenPress the DISPLAY button.

Note:• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

3 0minAU T O

3 0minAU T O

S E L E C T S E T

O F FF A D EM E NUS C E N E M E NU

B L C G A I N/

4002.203:01

6 .


F A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU OF F

B L C G A I N/

S C E N E M E NU

F A D EM E NU

DUS K

B L C G A I N/

DISPLAY buttonEach time you press the DISPLAY button,the screen changes as shown below.• The example screens shown are for Tape

Camera mode.

Useful Features

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DISPLAY button

Operation buttonMedia Selection switch

Power switch

Example

Example

Example

Using the Menu Screens

Use the menu screens to adjust the variouscamcorder settings.

1 Set to the desired camcorder modeby using the Media Selection switchand the Power switch (see page 21).• See pages 106 to 109 for the menu

items you can select in eachcamcorder mode.

• Steps 2 to 8 show how to change theDGTL ZOOM menu setting in TapeCamera mode.

2 Press the DISPLAY button until themode screen appears (see page 31).


4 Press l or m to select “EXECUTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

Note:• The menu screen does not appear

during recording.

5 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu screen (T), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

• You can press k, instead of thecentre of Operation button.

6 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu item (DGTL ZOOM), then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

• You can press k, instead of thecentre of the Operation button.

7 Press l or m to select the desiredmenu setting (40), then press thecentre of the Operation button.

• You can press j, instead of thecentre of the Operation button.

• To adjust another menu item, pressl or m to select “RETURN” andpress the centre of the Operationbutton, then perform steps 5 to 7.


Notes:• Certain menu items are common to all

camcorder modes. If the BEEP menu item, forexample, is set to “OFF” in Tape Cameramode, it will be automatically set to “OFF” inother modes.

• The menu screen automatically turns off if nosettings are made within 5 minutes.

• Items that are not selectable are greyed out.

S E T T I NG 1QK .DG T L

RE T URN

Z OOMT A P E S P E E DZ OOM M I C

R E T URN S T A R TOF FS PA U T O

S C E N E ME NUE X E C U T EM E NU

F A D EB L C G A I N/


RE T URNZ OOM M I C

Z OOMT A P E S P E E D

R E T URN S T AR TOF FS PA U T O


RE T URNZ OOM M I C


R E T URNOF F4 05 0 0

04DGTL ZOOM

Useful Features

33

Power Zoomcontrol

Digital zoom indicator

Useful FeaturesCamera Recording

5 Press l or m to select “DGTLZOOM”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “40” or “500”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.


The “D” digital zoom indicator is displayedduring digital zooming.

To use optical zoom only

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.

Setting the DigitalZoom


You can select three different zoom ranges:1–10K (optical zoom), 10–40K (digitalzoom) or 10–500K (digital zoom). Thedigital zoom allows you to record powerfulclose-up pictures with the same operationas normal zooming.

Notes:• The digital zoom is in addition to the optical

zoom giving a combined maximum zoomrange of 1–500K.

• As the image is enlarged digitally, thepicture quality decreases when higherdigital zoom settings are used.

1 In Tape Camera mode, press theDISPLAY button until the modescreen appears.



4 Press l or m to select T, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.



RE T URNZ OOM M I C


R E T URNOF F4 05 0 0

W T 52D-ZOOM

04DGTL ZOOM


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BacklightCompensation (BLC)


When the subject is backlit, the image willappear dark if it is recorded normally. Usethe backlight compensation (BLC) functionto improve the picture.


1 In Tape Camera or Card Cameramode, press the DISPLAY button untilthe mode screen appears.

2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “BLC/GAIN”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select “ON x”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.


BLC / GA I N ON

AU T OAU T O3 0min3 0min

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.• “x” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating thatthe backlight compensation is nowworking.

To cancel the backlight compensa-tion function


Useful Features

35

Gain-up


When you are recording in a dark or poorlyilluminated location, “LIGHT” is displayedon the screen. Use the gain-up function torecord a brighter picture.

Note:• At locations where lighting is adequate,

“LIGHT” will not appear. The gain-up functioncannot be used in this case.


1 In Tape Camera or Card Cameramode, press the DISPLAY button untilthe mode screen appears.

AU T O3 0minmin3 0min

BLC / GA I N ON

To cancel the gain-up function


Notes:• You may experience some picture noise in

Gain-up mode, which increases when thee appears.

• When the e indicator appears, you mayget a shadow image behind a subject that ismoving around a lot.

• Fine brightness adjustments are possiblewhen using manual iris (see page 56).

• The e indicator will disappear andGain-up mode will cancel if you aim thecamcorder in a bright location.

2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “BLC/GAIN”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

3 Press l or m to select “ON e”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

4 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe mode screen.• “e” appears when on-screen

indicators are turned on, indicating thatthe gain-up function is now working.



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Fade In and Fade Out


The fade function allows you to graduallybring the image and sound in or out at thebeginning or end of a scene for creatingscene transitions. This is especially effectivein creating a dramatic change in scenery.

4 Press the DISPLAY button until on-screen indicators appear.

5 Press the Start/Stop button to beginrecording.• The picture turns white, and the

image and sound fade in.

6 Press the Start/Stop button at thepoint where you wish to stoprecording.• The image and sound fade out as the

picture gradually turns white. Thecamcorder then returns to RecordingStandby mode.

To cancel Fade mode


To use Fade Out only

1 During camera recording in TapeCamera mode, press the DISPLAYbutton until the mode screen appears.

2 Perform steps 2 and 3 in “Using”.3 Press the Start/Stop button at the

point where you wish to stoprecording.

Note:• Fade mode automatically cancels after Fade

Out.

Using


2 Press l or m on the Operationbutton to select “FADE”, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.

3 Press l or m to select “ON”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

F A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU

OF FB L C G A I N/

R E C

3 0minminAU T O

F A D E I N

R E C

3 0minAU T O

F A D E I N

R E C

2 72 7minminAU T O

F A D E OUTOUT

minAU T O

F A D E

Fade in

Fade out

Operation button

DISPLAY buttonStart/Stop button

Useful Features

37

Quick Return


If while playing back your tape you want toquickly return to the last recorded sceneand start recording again, use the quickreturn function.

1 Set the camcorder to Tape Cameramode.

2 In Recording Standby mode, pressthe DISPLAY button until the modescreen appears.




6 Press l or m to select “QK.RETURN”, then press the centre ofthe Operation button.

7 Press l or m to select “START”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.• “SEARCH” flashes, and the tape

begins fast forwarding or rewindingto the end of the last recorded scene.

• When the tape reaches the end ofthe last recorded scene, “FINISHED”is displayed, and the camcorderenters Recording Standby mode.


Notes:• To cancel the quick return function while

“SEARCH” is flashing, press the centre ofOperation button twice.

• Quick return will not work if you remove thecassette and reload it after recording or ifnothing has been recorded since loading.


RE T URNZ OOM M I C


R E T URN S T AR TS T OP

SE A RC H


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Still Recording onTape


You can record continuous still images ofsubjects.


2 In Recording Standby mode,press the PHOTO button fully.• A still image of the subject is

displayed.

3 Press the Start/Stopbutton.• The still image of the

subject will be recorded.

To pause recording

Press the Start/Stop button.

To cancel the still image

Press the PHOTO button fully.

Notes:• Still Recording can also be used during

recording by pressing the PHOTO buttonfully.

• The picture quality in Still Recording functionwill be slightly lower than normal pictures.

Edit Search


The edit search function lets you search,without switching from Tape Camera modeto Tape Playback mode, for the point on thetape where you wish to start recording next.


2 In RecordingStandby mode,press and holddown j (reverseedit search) or k(forward editsearch) on theOperation button.

3 When you find the point where youwant to begin recording, release thebutton.

Notes:• The sound is off during search.• Forward edit search is performed at the same

speed as normal playback, and reverse editsearch at 6.5 times the normal playback.

• You may experience picture noise duringreverse edit search.

Operation button

Useful Features

39

Digital ImageStabilization (DIS)


The digital image stabilization (DIS) functionallows you to stabilize the image byelectronically compensating for relativelyminor image shaking that is often annoyingin close-up shots.




4 Press l or m to select Y, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select “DIS”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.


7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The DIS indicator only appears when

the on-screen indicators are turnedon.

To cancel DIS function

Select “OFF” in step 6 above. The zindicator will disappear.

Notes:• The DIS function cannot compensate for

excessive image shaking.• When image shaking does not occur (e.g.

when using the camcorder on a tripod), turnoff the DIS function. The picture will appearmore natural when the DIS function is off.

S E T T I NG 2D I S1 6 9:A UD I O MOD E

R E T URNW I N D

ONO F F

T A P E

OND I S

DIS indicator


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Self Recording

Normal self recordingAvailable modes:

Tape Camera, Card Camera

Open the LCD monitor and rotate it 180°vertically so that the screen faces the otherway and the subject can monitor the shotwhile you are recording with the viewfinder.

If the camcorder is steadied, you can recordyourself in the scene by watching yourselfon the LCD monitor. The remote control isuseful for such occasions.

1 Pull out the viewfinder completely.Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body (1), and thenrotate it 180° vertically (2).

180˚

90˚

2 Set the Media Selection switch to Vor u.

3 Set the Power switch to v.• The subject is displayed in the

viewfinder, and a mirror image of thesubject is displayed on the LCDmonitor.

4 Begin recording.

Notes:• Use the remote control to begin/stop

recording on tape.• You can play back images while the monitor

is in the self recording position. Set thecamcorder to Tape Playback or CardPlayback mode.

Useful Features

41

Self recording with reversedgripAvailable mode:

Tape Camera

Rotate the grip 90° and the LCD monitor180° vertically so that you can recordyourself while holding the grip.

3 Open the LCD monitor to a 90° angleto the camcorder body (1), and thenrotate it 180° vertically (2).

4 Set the Media Selection switch to V.5 Set the Power switch to v.6 Begin recording.Notes:• Do not rotate the monitor section to the self

recording position during recording orplayback.

• During self recording, the mode or menuscreen cannot be displayed.

• All of the manual settings are set to AUTOand some other settings will set to OFF in selfrecording.

• You may experience image noise when usingself recording.

• To operate self recording with reversed gripcorrectly, make sure to turn the grip and thelens section so that the Start/Stop button andthe tripod socket face upward, and the lensfaces toward you. The I indicator willappear.

• Be sure that the LCD monitor rotation isexactly 180°, otherwise the image recordedwill be rotated 180° upside-down.

• In self recording with reversed grip in CardCamera mode, the still images will berecorded rotated 180° upside down. The Jindicator will appear in this case.

• The viewfinder does not work in selfrecording with reversed grip.

1 Turn the camcorder downward asshown below.

2 Rotate the lens section 90° vertically asshown below.

180°

90°

90°


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Wide Screen (16:9)


The wide screen function lets you recordscenes with the wide-screen feel of a movieshown in a theatre. The top and bottom ofthe picture are masked with black bands toproduce an effective screen aspect ratio of16:9.





5 Press l or m to select “16:9”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

6 Press l or m to select “ON”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.• The picture is displayed with the top

and bottom portions masked.


To return to normal screen

Select “OFF” in step 6 above.B L C G A I N/ O F FF A D EM E NUSC E N E M E NU


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ONO F F

ON1 6 9:

Normal screen Wide screen

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Recording in LP (LongPlay Recording) Mode


This camcorder allows you to record in LP(Long Play Recording) mode for approxi-mately 50% more recording time with thesame picture quality as that in SP (StandardPlay Recording) mode.





5 Press l or m to select “TAPESPEED”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “LP”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The long play recording mode

indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

To return to SP mode

Select “SP” in step 6 above.

Notes on the use of LPmode

• To record in LP mode, be sure to use aMini DV cassette labelled for use with LPmode.

• Frozen images, mosaic-pattern picturenoise, audio interruptions or audio lossmay occur in the following cases:—When using a tape which is not

designated for use with LP mode.—When a tape recorded in LP mode

under high temperature conditions isplayed back.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode withthe camcorder is played back on a MiniDV player or camcorder from anothermanufacturer.

—When a tape recorded in LP mode isplayed back on a Mini DV player orcamcorder without an LP function.

• Audio dubbing is not possible with LPmode recording.



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R E T URN

S PL P

T A P ELP

LPT APE SPE ED

Long play recording mode indicator


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Using the ZoomMicrophone (OptionalAccessory)


With the optional zoom microphone VR-8MC, you can record audio according to themagnification of the zoom lens for produc-ing the optimum sound.

Mounting

1 After detaching the shoe cover, alignthe zoom microphone with the zoommicrophone shoe on the camcorder,and slide it in the direction of thearrow until it locks into place.

2 Turn the screw in the direction of thearrow to secure the microphone.

RemovingTurn the screw in the opposite direction thanwhen mounting, then pull off the zoommicrophone.

Notes:• Do not pick up the camcorder by the zoom

microphone, as this may damage theequipment.

• The zoom microphone shoe on thecamcorder is designed only for use withthe specified equipment.

• When not using the zoom microphone, besure to attach the shoe cover for protectingthe zoom microphone shoe.

Selecting the Zoom Micro-phone ModeSelect a zoom microphone mode when thezoom microphone is mounted.

Types

AUTO: The camcorder automaticallyselects the optimum sound accord-ing to the magnification of the zoomlens. When the zoom lens is at awide-angle setting, the built-inmicrophone is used to recordsounds. As the zoom magnificationincreases, the sounds from the zoommicrophone and built-in microphoneare mixed according to the zoomsetting.

TELE: The zoom microphone is fixedto record sounds at a distance. (Thebuilt-in microphone is turned off.)

OFF: The zoom microphone is turnedoff. (The built-in microphone is on.)

Note:• The zoom microphone is a monaural type, not

a stereo type, so it is useful for speechrecording, not music and live concert.

Zoom microphone shoe

Shoecover

Screw

Useful Features

45

Windbreak


The windbreak function allows you toreduce annoying noise from strong windswhen recording.

1 In Tape Camera mode, press theDISPLAY button until the modescreen appears (see page 31).




5 Press l or m to select “WIND”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.



To cancel Windbreak


Note:• Keep the windbreak function off during

normal recording. If left on, the recordedaudio may sound somewhat muffled whenplayed back.

1 Mount the optional zoom microphoneto the camcorder.





6 Press l or m to select “ZOOM MIC”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press l or m to select the desiredzoom microphone mode, then pressthe centre of the Operation button.


When the zoom microphone is active, thezoom microphone indicator appears andthe zoom range indicator changes as shownbelow.


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A UT OT E L EOF F

R E T URN

TEL EZOOM MIC


R E T URNW I N D O F F

ON

ONW I ND

W T 1 0Z OOM

Zoom range indicator

Zoom microphone indicator


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Selecting the 16-bitAudio RecordingMode


The camcorder normally records audio inthe 12-bit audio recording mode. For higher-quality audio recording, select the 16-bitaudio recording mode.





5 Press l or m to select “AUDIOMODE”, then press the centre of theOperation button.

6 Press l or m to select “16bit”, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

7 Press the DISPLAY button to turn offthe menu screen.• The 16-bit audio recording mode

indicator only appears when the on-screen indicators are turned on.

To return to 12-bit audio recordingmode

Select “12bit” in step 6 above.

Note:• When using Audio Dubbing with 16-bit audio

recordings, both the dubbed and originalsounds will be recorded in mono (see page68).

1 6 bitAUD I O MODE


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26

bitbit

T A P E16 bit

16-bit audio recording mode indicator

Useful Features

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Using the RemoteControl


Use the remote control to operate thecamcorder from a distance, such as whenyou want to record yourself in a scene, orwhen the camcorder is connected to a TVfor use as a VCR.

Activating• The example screens shown are for Tape

Playback mode.




4 Press l or m to select Z, thenpress the centre of the Operationbutton.

5 Press l or m to select “REMOTE”,then press the centre of the Operationbutton.



Useful FeaturesPlayback

Operating

Aim the remote control at the remote sensorof the camcorder, and press the controlbuttons to operate.

Notes:• Be careful not to expose the remote sensor to

direct sunlight or strong interior lighting, asthis may prevent the remote control fromoperating properly.

• Be sure that there are no obstacles betweenthe remote control and the remote sensor.

O T H E R S 1

B E E PR EMO T ED E F AU L T

R E T U RN

O NO F F

REMOT E ON

ZOOM (W/T) buttons

SLOW button

Remote sensor5 m

CARD PLAY/MULTI button

Advance/reverse buttons

Shift buttons

VOLUME +/L buttons

PLAY button

STOP button

PAUSE/STILLbutton

REW button

FF button

DATE button

T/C (TimeCode) button

CARD REC buttonTAPE REC START/STOP button

Useful FeaturesPlayback

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Tape PlaybackFunctions with theRemote Control


You can use the following playbackfunctions with the supplied remote control.(See page 47 for use of the remote control.)

The reverse playback function allows you toplay back images in reverse.

During Tape Playback, press thej button.

Slow

The slow function allows you to play backimages in slow motion.

During Tape Playback, press theSLOW button (f).Then, select the tape direction usingthe advance/reverse buttons (j orh).

To return to normal playback, press thePLAY button (t).

Note:• To protect the tape, the camcorder automati-

cally returns to normal playback if it is left inSlow mode for more than 10 minutes.

Frame AdvanceThe frame advance function allows you toplay back still images frame by frame.

1 During Tape Playback, pressthe PAUSE/STILL button (g)to pause playback.

2 Press the h (or j)button.• Each time you press the

button, the pictureadvances one frameforward (or backward).

To return to normal playback, press thePLAY button (t).

Notes:• The sound is off during reverse, slow, and

frame advance playback.• If you use the slow or frame advance function

with the tape recorded in LP mode, thepicture may advance several frames at atime.

• The reverse frame advance moves about 30frames.

To return to normal playback, press thePLAY but

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