Canon DC 410, DC420 User Manual

0 (0)

PUB. DIM-890

DVD Camcorder

DC410

Instruction Manual

Caméscope DVD

DC420

Manuel d’instruction

 

 

Videocámara DVD

 

Manual de Instrucciones

 

 

 

 

English

Français

Español

NTSC

DC420

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING!

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

WARNING!

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND TO REDUCE ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.

COPYRIGHT WARNING:

Unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials may infringe on the rights of copyright owners and be contrary to copyright laws.

DVD Camcorder, DC420 A/DC410 A systems

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and use in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The cable with the ferrite core provided with the digital video camcorder must be used with this equipment in order to comply with Class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of the FCC rules.

Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual.

If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment.

Canon U.S.A. Inc.

One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A.

Tel No. (516)328-5600

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

The Mains plug is used as the disconnect device. The Mains plug shall remain readily operable to disconnect the plug in case of an accident.

Important Warning

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon DVD Camcorder DC420 A/DC410 A and all its accessories.

1Read these instructions.

2Keep these instructions.

3Heed all warnings.

4Follow all instructions.

5Do not use this apparatus near water.

6Clean only with dry cloth.

7Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

8Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

9Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

10Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

11Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

12Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

13Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

14Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

15Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

16Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance instructions should be followed.

17Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as recommended in this manual.

18Accessories — Do not use accessories not recommended in this manual as they may be hazardous.

19Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the camera close to TV transmitters, portable communication devices or other sources of electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.

20Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock

— Do not use this product near water or in rainy/ moist situations.

21Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product.

A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force,

and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

22Power Sources — The CA-570 Compact Power Adapter should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. Regarding other power sources such as battery power, refer to instructions in this manual.

23Polarization — The CA-570 Compact Power Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other).

The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

24Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to plugs and the point from which the cords exit the product.

3

25Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna is connected to the product, be sure the antenna is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI / NFPA No. 70—1984, provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See figure 1.

Fig. 1

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL

 

ELECTRICAL CODE

 

 

 

ANTENNA LEAD

 

 

IN WIRE

 

GROUND CLAMP

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC

 

 

 

 

SECTION 810-20)

ELECTRIC

 

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS

SERVICE

 

(NEC SECTION 810-21)

EQUIPMENT

 

 

 

 

GROUND CLAMPS

 

 

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL

ELECTRODE SYSTEM

CODE

 

(NEC ART 250. PART H)

26Lightning — For added protection of this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, disconnect it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

27Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

28Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.

29Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers

may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

30Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this product from the wall outlet and all power sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

a.When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.

b.If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects have fallen into, the product.

c.If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

d.If the product does not operate normally even if you follow the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operation instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e.If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.

f.When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance. This indicates a need for service.

31Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts that are specified by Canon or that have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.

32Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating order.

33Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

When replacement of the power supply is required, please return it to the responsible nearest Canon Service Center and please replace it with the same type number CA-570.

The Adapter can be used with a power supply between 100 and 240 V AC. For areas where 120 V AC power is not used, you will need a special plug adapter. Contact your nearest Canon Service Center for further information.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

4

How to Select a DVD Disc

There are many types of DVD discs but this camcorder uses only the following three types of 8 cm mini DVD discs: DVD-R, DVD-R DL and DVD-RW. Read the differences between them and select the disc that best fits your needs.

DVD-R

Best for Compatibility

DVD-Rs can be recorded only once – you cannot edit or delete the recordings. On the other hand, these discs are comparatively cheaper and can be played back on most DVD players.

DVD-R DL

Best for Recording Time

Dual-layered discs allow writing up to 80% more data (approx. 2.6 GB) on a single recording side. However, you cannot edit or delete the recordings.

Dual-layered discs have two recording layers. The camcorder will record on layer 1 and then continue to layer 2. During the playback of a recording spanning both layers, you may notice a brief stop (about 1 second) at the point where the camcorder switches to the second layer. The switch to layer 2 will break the recording into 2 separate scenes.

Layer 2

Scene 2

Layer 1

Scene 1

Recording surface

DVD-RW

Best for Reusability

Recordings made on a DVD-RW disc can be edited or deleted. Also, the disc can be initialized. Initializing a DVD-RW disc clears all the recordings and restores the free space on the disc to its initial value so you can use the same disc again.

Disc specification on DVD-RWs

DVD-RW discs can be recorded using either one of two disc specifications: VIDEO mode or VR mode. When you first insert a brand new DVD-RW disc, the camcorder will automatically display the initialization screen where you can select the disc specification for the disc.

VIDEO mode: Once finalized, discs recorded in VIDEO mode can be played back on most common DVD players offering the best compatibility. However, recordings cannot be edited (deleted, rearranged, etc.).

VR mode: You can easily edit the recordings. However, discs recorded in VR mode can be played back only with DVD players compatible with DVD-RWs in VR mode.

Note: DVD-R and DVD-R DL discs can be recorded only in VIDEO mode.

5

Enjoying your DVDs

After selecting the type of disc that is best for your needs, complete the rest of the preparations ( 18) to get your camcorder ready to start recording.

Enjoy Shooting Video ( 28)

Take it easy recording movies in mode or have fun trying out more advanced functions ( 36).

Finalize the Disc ( 48)

Do not forget to finalize your disc with this camcorder to play it back on a DVD player or other external device.

FINALIZE

Play back your finalized disc on your

DVD player ( 49)

You can also connect the camcorder to the TV and play back the disc with your camcorder ( 65).

Playback on external devices

Make sure to finalize discs ( 48) before you play them back on external DVD devices. The disc's type will affect its compatibility with external devices. Refer to the instruction manual of the external device and make sure it is compatible before inserting the disc.

For the highest compatibility with external DVD devices we recommend using VIDEO mode.

6

Available features depend on the DVD disc used

Disc type

 

 

DVD-R DVD-R DL

DVD-RW

 

Disc specifications

 

 

 

VIDEO

VIDEO

VR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Editing scenes with this camcorder (deleting

1

scenes, dividing scenes, etc.) (

 

45)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deleting a scene while reviewing it after recording it

 

 

(

 

33)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initializing the disc in order to use it again for

 

 

recording (

 

47)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Giving a title to the disc ( 47)

Finalizing the disc in order to play it with an external

DVD device ( 48)2

Adding recordings to a disc already finalized

 

3

(

 

49)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recording more video on a single recording side

 

(

 

30)

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 Only scenes in the playlist can be divided.

2To finalize a DVD-R DL disc, the camcorder has to process both layers. Therefore, and depending on the amount of free space on the disc, this process may be lengthy.

3 You will need to unfinalize the disc first.

Approved discs

The camcorder's performance was tested and its correct operation was verified using the following types of discs (as of November 2008*). Single-layered: HitachiMaxell HG-series discs; dual-layered: Canon DVD-R DL54 and Verbatim DVD-R DL discs. For further details, contact directly the customer support center of the disc's manufacturer. Note that attempting to record or play back with this camcorder DVD discs that were recorded, initialized or finalized with a device other than this camcorder can result in damage to the camcorder or in the permanent loss of the recordings.

*For the latest information, visit your local Canon Web site or contact your nearest Canon office. The use of DVD-R DL discs that have not been tested by Canon may result in incorrect recording/playback or in not being able to remove the disc.

7

Table of contents

Introduction ____________________________________

5 How to Select a DVD Disc

6 Enjoying your DVDs

11About this Manual

12Getting to Know the Camcorder

12Supplied Accessories

13Components Guide

15 Screen Displays

Preparations ____________________________________

18 Getting Started

18 Charging the Battery Pack

20 Preparing the Accessories

20Basic Operation of the Camcorder

20Power Switch

21Joystick and Joystick Guide

21 Using the Menus

23 First Time Settings

23Setting the Date and Time

23Changing the Language

24Changing the Time Zone

24 Getting Ready to Start Recording

24Opening the Lens Cover and Adjusting the LCD screen

25Inserting and Removing a Disc

27 Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

Video _________________________________________

28 Basic Recording

28 Shooting Video

30 Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode)

30 Changing the Aspect Ratio of the Recordings (Widescreen / 4:3) 30 Zooming: Optical, Advanced and Digital Zoom

32 Quick Start Function

32 Reviewing and Deleting the Last Scene Recorded

8 • Table of contents

33 Basic Playback

33 Playing Back the Video

35Deleting Scenes

36Additional Functions

36 : Special Scene Recording Programs

38 Flexible Recording: Changing the Shutter Speed

39LCD Video Light

39Self Timer

40Manual Exposure Adjustment

40Manual Focus Adjustment

41White Balance

42Image Effects

42Digital Effects

43On-Screen Displays and Data Code

44 Using an External Microphone

45Editing the Playlist and Disc Operations

45Creating a Playlist

45Deleting Scenes from the Playlist

46Dividing Scenes in the Playlist

46Moving Scenes in the Playlist

47Initializing the Disc

47Disc Playback on an External Device

47Changing the Disc Title

48Finalizing the Disc

49Disc Playback on External Devices

49 Unfinalizing the Disc - Additional Recordings on a Finalized Disc

Photos ________________________________________

51Basic Recording

51Taking Photos

52Selecting Photo Size and Quality

53Erasing a Photo Right After Recording It

53Basic Playback

53Viewing Photos

54Magnifying Photos during Playback

55Slideshow

55Erasing Photos

56Additional Functions

56

Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting and Exposure

 

Bracketing

56

Histogram Display

Table of contents • 9

57 Protecting Photos

57Initializing the Memory Card

58Printing Photos

58 Printing Photos from the Memory Card

58 Direct Print

59 Selecting the Print Settings

61Print Orders

External Connections _____________________________

63Terminals on the Camcorder

64Connection Diagrams

65Playback on a TV Screen

65 Copying your Recordings to an External Video Recorder

Additional Information ____________________________

66 Appendix: Menu Options Lists

66 FUNC. Menu

68 Setup menus

68Camera Setup (Advanced Zoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.)

69Disc Operations (Initialization, Finalization etc.)

70Still Image Operations (Card Initialization, etc.)

70Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.)

71System Setup (Volume, Beep, etc.)

72Date/Time Setup

73Trouble?

73 Troubleshooting

76 List of Messages

80 Do’s and Don’ts

80 Handling Precautions

84 Using the Camcorder Abroad

86General Information

86System Diagram

87Optional Accessories

90Product Codes

91

Specifications

94

Index

10 • Table of contents

About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Canon DC420/DC410. Please read this manual carefully before you use the camcorder and retain it for future reference. Should your camcorder fail to operate correctly, refer to Troubleshooting ( 73).

Conventions Used in this Manual

IMPORTANT: Precautions related to the camcorder’s operation.

NOTES: Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.

POINTS TO CHECK: Restrictions that apply if the function described is not available in all operating modes (the operating mode to which the camcorder should be set, the type of disc required, etc.).

: Reference page number.

: Text that applies only to the model(s) shown in the icon.

The following terms are used in this manual:

“Screen” refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen.

“Scene” refers to one movie unit from the point you press Start/Stop to start recording until you press again to pause the recording.

The terms “photo” and “still image” are used interchangeably with the same meaning.

The photos included in this manual are simulated pictures taken with a still camera.

Note that unless indicated otherwise, screenshots and illustrations in this manual refer to the model.

The camcorder's operating mode is determined by the switch and the position of the / switch. In this

manual, indicates that a function is available and indicates that the function is not available. When no operating mode icons are given, the function is available in all operating modes.

Brackets [ ] and capital letters are used to refer to menu options as they are displayed on screen. In menu option lists

and option tables the default value is shown in boldface. For example [ON], [OFF].

Names of buttons and switches other than the joystick are indicated within a buttonframe.

For example FUNC. .

In this manual, the arrow is used to abbreviate menu selections. For a detailed explanation refer to Using the Menus ( 21).

Additional Functions

: Special Scene Recording Programs

Recording in a very bright ski resort or capturing the full colors of a sunset or a fireworks display becomes as easy as selecting a Special Scene recording program. For details about the available options, refer to the sidebar below.

( 28)

POINTS TO CHECK

Mode switch:

FUNC.

[ PROGRAM AE]

[ PORTRAIT] Press to display the Special Scene (SCN) recording programs

Desired recording program

FUNC.

Introduction • 11

Supplied Accessories

CA-570 Compact Power

Adapter (incl. power cord)

IFC-300PCU USB Cable

( only)

NB-2LH Battery Pack

STV-250N Stereo Video

Cable

Yellow • Red • White plugs

Online product registration for U.S.A. Customers only.

Register your product online at www.registercanon.com

Protect your product

We will keep the model number and date of purchase of your new Canon product on file to help you refer to this information in the event of an insurance claim such as loss or theft.

Receive information on new products and promotions

Upon your request, we will send you information on Canon new products and promotions.

The serial number of this product can be found at the battery attachment unit of the camcorder. Write down the number and other information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.

Date of Purchase:

Model Name: DC420 A/DC410 A

Purchased From:

Serial No.:

Dealer Address:

 

Dealer Phone No.:

 

12 • Introduction

Canon DC 410, DC420 User Manual

Components Guide

Left side view

RESET button (

75)

 

 

Speaker

 

 

 

 

CARD access indicator (

51)

Lens cover switch (

28, 51)

(

open,

closed)

 

 

MIC terminal* (

44)

 

 

AV terminal (

 

63)

 

 

USB terminal** (

63)

 

 

DISC access indicator (

28)

Mode switch (

29)

 

 

 

Easy recording

 

 

 

Recording programs

Disc compartment cover (

25)

 

switch (

20)

 

 

Lock button

 

 

 

 

Strap mount (

 

89)

 

 

Grip belt (

20)

 

 

Stereo microphone

 

 

Right side view

 

 

 

 

 

*

only.

 

 

 

 

**

only.

 

 

 

 

Front view

Introduction • 13

Back view

Top view

Bottom view

Joystick ( 21)

FUNC. button ( 22, 66)

DISP. button ( 43)

Dioptric adjustment lever ( 29)

Viewfinder ( 29)

VIEWFINDER button ( 29)

DISC COVER switch ( 25)

PLAY indicator (green) ( 21)

CAMERA indicator (green) ( 21)/ CHARGE indicator (red) ( 18)

Start/Stop button ( 28)

LCD screen ( 24)

Battery attachment unit ( 18)/ Serial number

DC IN terminal ( 18)

Zoom lever ( 30)

/ (movies/still images) switch ( 21)

Memory card slot

(open the cover to access) ( 27) Memory card slot cover

BATT. (battery release) switch ( 18) Tripod socket ( 80)

14 • Introduction

Screen Displays

Recording movies

 

Operating mode (

21) /

 

 

Disc specification (

5)

 

 

Recording program (

36, 38)

 

White balance (

41)

 

 

 

Image effects (

 

42)

 

 

 

LCD video light (

39)

 

 

Digital effects (

 

42)

 

 

 

Recording mode (

30)

 

 

Disc type

DVD-R,

 

DVD-R DL,

 

DVD-RW (

5)

 

 

 

Manual focus (

 

40)

 

 

Playing movies

Image stabilizer (

68)

 

(during playback)

Disc operation

 

 

 

 

 

Time code/Playback time

 

 

(hours : minutes : seconds)

 

 

Remaining recording time on the disc

 

Remaining battery charge (

17)

 

Wind screen off (

69)

 

 

Recording reminder

 

 

 

Level marker (

 

70)

 

 

 

Finalized disc mark (

48)

 

 

Scene number

 

 

 

 

 

Joystick guide (

21)

 

 

 

Data code (

43)

 

 

 

Speaker volume (

34)

 

Introduction • 15

Recording still images

Viewing still images

16 • Introduction

Zoom ( 30), Exposure ( 40)

Recording program ( 36, 38)

White balance ( 41)

Image effects ( 42)

LCD video light ( 39)

Digital effects ( 42)

Drive mode ( 56)

Still image quality/size ( 52)

Manual focus ( 40)

Number of still images available on the memory card

Self timer ( 39)

AF frame ( 69)

Joystick guide ( 21)

Focus/exposure automatically set and locked ( 51)

Camcorder shake warning ( 68)

Image number ( 17, 71)

Current image / Total number of images

Histogram ( 56)

Date and time of recording

Image protection mark ( 57)

Manual exposure ( 40)

Image size ( 52)

File size

Aperture value Shutter speed ( 38)

Disc operation

Record, Record pause,

Playback, Playback pause,

, Fast playback,

, Fast reverse playback,

Slow playback,

Slow reverse playback

Remaining recording time

When there is no more disc space available,

END” will be displayed and the recording will stop.

Remaining battery charge estimate

100%

75%

50%

25%

0%

 

 

 

 

 

When is displayed in red, the battery pack is exhausted. Replace the battery pack with a

fully charged one.

Depending on the conditions under which the camcorder and the battery pack are used, the actual battery charge may not be indicated accurately.

Recording reminder

The camcorder counts from 1 to 10 seconds when you start recording. This is helpful to avoid scenes that are too short.

Number of still images available on the card

displayed in red: No card in green: 6 or more images

in yellow: 1 to 5 images

in red: No more images can be recorded

When viewing the still images, the display will always be in green.

Depending on the recording conditions, the number of available still images displayed may not decrease even after a recording has been made, or may decrease by 2 still images at once.

Card access display

is displayed next to the number of images available while the camcorder is writing on the memory card.

Image number

The image number indicates the name and location of the file on the memory card. For example, the file name of image 101-0107 is “IMG_0107.JPG”, stored under the folder “DCIM\101CANON”.

Introduction • 17

Preparations

This chapter describes basic operations, such as navigating the menus, and first time settings to help you learn more about your camcorder.

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

The camcorder can be powered with a battery pack or directly using the compact power adapter. Charge the battery pack before use.

For approximate charging times and recording/playback times with a full battery pack, refer to the tables on pages 87-88.

DC IN terminal

3Connect the compact power adapter to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal.

CHARGE indicator (red)

4Attach the battery pack to the camcorder.

Press the battery pack lightly and slide it up until it clicks.

5Charging will start when the switch is turned to (CHARGE).

The red CHARGE indicator starts flashing. The indicator goes out when charging is completed.

1Connect the power cord to the compact power adapter.

2Plug the power cord into a power outlet.

18 • Preparations

TO REMOVE THE BATTERY PACK

BATT. switch

1Slide BATT. in the direction of the arrow and hold it pressed down.

2Slide the battery pack down and then pull it out

IMPORTANT

Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the

compact power adapter. After you turn

the switch to , important file allocation data is updated on the disc. Be sure to wait until the CAMERA green indicator goes out.

We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). Outside the temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C

(32 °F to 104 °F), the charging will not start.

Do not connect to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal or to the compact power adapter any electrical equipment that is not expressly recommended for use with this camcorder.

To prevent equipment breakdowns and excessive heating, do not connect the supplied compact power adapter to voltage converters for overseas travels or special power sources such as those on aircraft and ships, DC-AC inverters, etc.

NOTES

The battery pack will be charged only when the camcorder is off.

If remaining battery time is an issue, you can power the camcorder using the compact power adapter so the battery pack will not be consumed.

The CHARGE indicator also serves as a rough estimate of the charge status. Two quick flashes at 1-second intervals: Battery pack at least 50% charged. If the indicator flashes quickly but not exactly in this pattern, refer to Troubleshooting

( 73).

One flash at 1-second intervals: Battery pack less than 50% charged.

Charged battery packs continue to discharge naturally. Therefore, charge them on the day of use, or the day before, to ensure a full charge.

We recommend that you prepare battery packs to last 2 to 3 times longer than you think you might need.

USA and Canada only: The

Lithium ion/polymer battery that powers this

product is recyclable. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for

information on how to recycle this battery.

Preparations • 19

Preparing the Accessories

Basic Operation of the

Camcorder

Power Switch

Fasten the grip belt.

Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach the zoom lever with your index finger, and the Start/Stop button with your thumb.

TO ATTACH A SHOULDER STRAP

Pass the ends of the shoulder strap through the strap mount on the grip belt and adjust the length of the strap.

Lock button

In addition to turning the camcorder on and off, the switch also toggles the camcorder’s operating mode.

To turn on the camcorder: Hold the lock button pressed down and turn the switch to ON.

To change the operating mode: From the ON position, turn the switch momentarily toward MODE and release it. This action will toggle the operating mode between recording (CAMERA indicator on) and playback (PLAY indicator on).

20 • Preparations

Joystick and Joystick Guide

Use the joystick to operate the camcorder's menus.

Push the joystick up, down, left or right (, ) to select an item or change settings.

Press the joystick itself ( ) to save the settings or confirm an action. On menu screens, this is indicated by the icon .

Press to display/hide the joystick guide. The functions that appear on the joystick guide will change depending on the operating mode.

Using the Menus

Many of the camcorder’s functions can be adjusted from the menus that open after pressing the FUNC. button

( FUNC. ).

For details about the available menu options and settings, refer to the appendix Menu Options Lists ( 66).

Operating mode

Operatingmode

/

Icon display

Operation

 

indicator

switch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recording movies

28

 

 

(movies)

 

on a disc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recording still

 

 

 

(still images)

 

images on a

51

 

 

 

memory card

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Playing movies

33

 

 

(movies)

 

from a disc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Viewing still images

53

 

 

(still images)

 

from a memory card

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preparations • 21

FUNC.

Selecting an Option from the FUNC. menu

Following is an example of selecting an option from the FUNC. menu in a recording mode.

1 Press .

2Select () the icon of the function you want change from the left side column.

Menu items not available will appear grayed out.

3Select ( ) the desired setting from the available options at the bottom bar.

The selected option will be highlighted in light blue.

With some settings, you will need to make further selections and/or

press . Follow the additional operation guides that will appear on the screen (such as the icon, small arrows, etc.).

4Press FUNC. to save the settings and close the menu.

You can press FUNC. to close the menu at any time.

Selecting an Option from the Setup Menus

1 Press FUNC. .

In the index screen (VIDEO mode) and still image index screen, the setup menus will open. Continue with step 3.

2Select () [ MENU] and press

to open the setup menus.

You can also hold FUNC. pressed down for more than 1 second to open directly the setup menus screen.

In the index screen (DVD-RW discs in VR mode), push the joystick

( ) to select [ MENU].

3Select () the desired menu from the left side column and press .

The title of the selected menu appears on top of the screen and under it the list of settings.

Push the joystick ( ) to return to the menu selection screen.

4Select () the setting you want to change and press .

The orange selection bar indicates the menu setting currently selected. Items not available appear in black.

5Select () the desired option and press to save the setting.

6 Press FUNC. .

You can press FUNC. to close the menu at any time.

22 • Preparations

First Time Settings

Setting the Date and Time

You will need to set the date and time of the camcorder before you can start using it. If the camcorder's clock is not set, the [DATE/TIME] screen will appear automatically when the camcorder is turned on.

When the [DATE/TIME] screen appears, the year will be displayed in orange and indicated with up/down arrows.

1Change () the year and move () to the month.

2Change the rest of the fields (month, day, hour and minutes) in the same way.

3Select () [OK] and press to start the clock and close the setup screen.

IMPORTANT

When you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery may discharge completely and the date and time setting may be lost. In such case,

recharge the built-in battery ( 83) and set the time zone, date and time again.

The date appears in a year-month-day format only in the first setup screen. In subsequent screen displays the date and time will appear as month-day-year

(for example, [JAN. 1, 2009 12:00 AM]). You can change the date format ( 72).

You can also change the date and time later on (not during the initial setup). Open the [DATE/TIME] screen from the

setup menus:

FUNC.

[

MENU]

[

DATE/TIME SETUP]

[DATE/TIME]

Changing the Language

Options

 

 

 

Default value

[

]

[MELAYU]

 

[

]

[DEUTSCH]

[NEDERLANDS]

[

]

[

]

[POLSKI]

 

[

]

[ENGLISH]

[PORTUGUÊS]

[

]

[ESPAÑOL]

[

]

[

]

[FRANÇAIS]

[TÜRKÇE]

 

[

]

[ITALIANO]

 

[

]

[

]

[MAGYAR]

 

[

]

 

 

FUNC.

[ MENU]

[ DISPLAY SETUP] [LANGUAGE ] Desired language

FUNC.

NOTES

If you changed the language by mistake,

follow the mark next to the menu item to change the setting.

The display that appears in some menu screens refers to the name of the button on the camcorder and will not change, regardless of the language selected.

Preparations • 23

Changing the Time Zone

In addition to your local date and time, the camcorder can keep a second clock (for example, the time at a travel destination). The default time zone is New York.

TO SET THE HOME TIME ZONE

FUNC.

 

[

MENU]

[

DATE/TIME SETUP]

[T.ZONE/DST] Your local time zone*

FUNC.

WHEN YOU TRAVEL

FUNC.

[

MENU]

[

DATE/TIME SETUP]

[T.ZONE/DST] Local date and time in your destination*

FUNC.

*To adjust for daylight saving time, select the area name marked with a .

Getting Ready to Start

Recording

Opening the Lens Cover and Adjusting the LCD screen

Before you start recording, open the lens cover.

Move the lens cover switch down to to open the lens cover.

Rotating the LCD Panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.

You can rotate the panel 90 degrees downward.

180°

90°

You can rotate the panel 180 degrees toward the lens (allowing the subject to monitor the LCD screen while you

use the viewfinder ( 29)). Rotating the LCD panel 180 degrees can be useful in the following cases:

24 • Preparations

-To allow the subject to monitor the LCD screen while you use the viewfinder.

-To include yourself in the picture when recording with the self timer.

180°

Subject can monitor the LCD screen

NOTES

About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The screens are produced using extremely high-precision manufacturing techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black, red, blue or green dots. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.

LCD Backlight

You can set the brightness of the LCD screen to normal or bright.

Hold DISP. pressed down for more than 2 seconds.

Repeat this action to toggle between the normal and bright settings.

NOTES

This setting does not affect the brightness of the recordings.

Using the bright setting will shorten the effective usage time of the battery pack.

Inserting and Removing a Disc

Use only 8 cm (3 in.) mini DVD discs marked with the DVD-R logo (including DVD-R DL) or the DVD-RW logo. Refer also to Approved discs ( 7).

Before inserting the disc, be sure to check that the recording surface is clean. If necessary, use a soft lenscleaning cloth to remove any fingerprints, dirt buildup or smudges from the disc surface.

Inserting the Disc

( 21)

Pick up lens

1Move the / switch to (movies).

2Turn theswitch to ON to set the camcorder in mode.

Preparations • 25

3Slide DISC COVER fully toward

OPEN and gently open the disc cover completely until it stops.

Retract the grip belt under the camcorder so it will not get in the way of the disc cover.

4Insert the disc and press its center firmly until it clicks in place.

Insert the disc with the recording side facing down (single sided discs – label side facing out).

Be careful not to touch the recording surface of the disc or the pick up lens.

5Close the disc cover.

Do not force the cover closed if the disc is not correctly inserted and firmly set in place.

NOTES

The process of recognizing a disc may take a moment. The display will move while the disc is being read. Wait until the camcorder finishes recognizing the disc

( stops moving and turns green) before you start recording.

WHEN USING DVD-R/DVD-R DL DISCS

You can start recording movies once the record pause indicator appears.

WHEN USING DVD-RW DISCS

You need to initialize new discs before you can start recording. The disc initialization screen will appear when a new DVD-RW disc is first inserted if the / switch is set to (movies). If the disc is already initialized, you can start recording movies once the record pause indicator appears. Otherwise, perform the following steps to initialize the disc.

Select () the desired disc specification and press . For a comparison between the VIDEO and VR specifications, see How to Select a DVD Disc ( 5).

A confirmation message will appear on the screen. Select () [YES] and press to start the disc initialization, or select [NO] and press

to return and select a different disc specification.

The disc initialization will take approximately one minute. Avoid moving the camcorder while the operation is in progress.

You can start recording movies once the record pause indicator appears.

Removing the Disc

26 • Preparations

1Slide DISC COVER fully toward

OPEN and gently open the disc cover completely until it stops.

Do not subject the camcorder to strong impacts while the DISC access indicator is on or flashing.

Retract the grip belt under the camcorder so it will not get in the way of the disc cover.

It may take a moment after sliding DISC COVER for the disc cover to

open.

2Grab the edge of the disc and gently pull it out.

Be careful not to touch the recording surface of the disc or the pick up lens.

3 Close the disc cover.

IMPORTANT

When you slide DISC COVER after making a recording, important file allocation data is updated on the disc before the disc cover opens. While the DISC access indicator is on or flashing do not subject the camcorder to shocks such as forcefully laying it on a table.

Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

You can use commercially available

SDHC (SD High Capacity) memory cards, SD memory cards or MultiMedia Cards (MMC) with this camcorder.

Make sure to initialize all memory cards before using them with this camcorder ( 57).

1 Turn off the camcorder.

2 Open the memory card slot cover.

3Insert the memory card straight, with the label facing up, all the way into the memory card slot until it clicks.

4Close the memory card slot cover.

Do not force the cover closed if the memory card is not correctly inserted.

TO REMOVE THE MEMORY CARD

Push the memory card once to release it. When the memory card springs out, pull it all the way out.

IMPORTANT

Memory cards have front and back sides that are not interchangeable. Inserting a memory card facing the wrong direction can cause a malfunction of the camcorder. Be sure to insert the memory card as described in step 3.

NOTES

Compatibility with all SD, SDHC or MMC memory cards cannot be guaranteed.

Preparations • 27

Video

This chapter covers functions related to shooting movies, including recording, playback, advanced manual adjustments and playlist and scene operations.

Basic Recording

2Turn the switch to ON to set the camcorder in CAMERA mode.

The green CAMERA indicator will turn on.

Shooting Video

Before You Begin Recording

Make a test recording first to check if the camcorder operates correctly. Since recordings made on a DVD-R or DVD-R DL disc cannot be deleted, we recommend you use a DVD-RW disc to make the test recordings.

3Move the lens cover switch down to to open the lens cover.

4 Press Start/Stop to begin recording.

Recording starts; press Start/Stop again to pause the recording.

The DISC access indicator will flash while recording and will stay on briefly after pausing while the scene is recorded on the disc.

WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED RECORDING

( 21) 1 Make sure that the DISC access indicator is off.

2 Turn off the camcorder.

3 Close the lens cover and the LCD panel.

4 Remove the disc.

1Move the / switch to (movies).

28 • Video

Using the viewfinder

When recording in bright places it may be difficult to use the LCD screen. In such case, change the brightness of the LCD screen ( 25) or use the viewfinder instead. Press VIEWFINDER to activate the viewfinder along with the LCD panel. Close the LCD panel to use only the viewfinder.

Adjust the viewfinder as necessary with the dioptric adjustment lever.

IMPORTANT

Observe the following precautions while the DISC access indicator is on or flashing. Failing to do so may result in permanent data loss.

-Do not subject the camcorder to vibrations or strong impacts.

-Do not open the disc cover and do not remove the disc.

-Do not disconnect the power source or turn off the camcorder.

-Do not change the operating mode.

NOTES

About the Power Save mode: If [POWER SAVE] is set to [ ON] ( 71), the camcorder will shut off automatically to save power when it is powered by a battery pack and is left without any operation for 5 minutes. To restore the

power, turn the switch toward MODE and release it, or turn the camcorder off and then on again.

When recording in very loud places (such as fireworks shows or concerts), sound may become distorted or it may not be recorded at the actual levels. This is not a malfunction.

The following may take longer with a disc in VR mode than a disc in VIDEO mode.

-The time between turning on the camcorder and being able to start recording.

-The time between turning the switch to and the camcorder shutting off.

About the mode switch and recording programs

Set the mode switch to to let the camcorder adjust all the settings for you, allowing you to just point the camcorder and start shooting.

Set the mode switch to to select one of the recording programs. The Special Scene recording programs ( 36) offer a convenient way to select the optimal settings to match special recording conditions; and with the flexible recording programs ( 38) you can

set the shutter speed manually, or enjoy the flexibility to change other settings.

Video • 29

Selecting the Video Quality

Changing the Aspect Ratio of the

(Recording Mode)

Recordings (Widescreen / 4:3)

The camcorder offers 3 recording modes. Changing the recording mode will change the recording time available on the disc. Select XP mode for better movie quality; select LP mode for longer recording times.

The following table gives approximate recording times with a brand new DVD disc (on a single recording side).

Default value

 

Disc type

 

Recording mode

 

 

DVD-R,

DVD-R DL

 

 

DVD-RW

 

 

 

 

 

 

20 min.

36 min.

 

 

 

 

30 min.

54 min.

 

 

 

 

 

60 min.

108 min.

 

 

 

( 21)

FUNC.

[ STANDARD PLAY 6 Mbps] Desired recording mode

FUNC.

NOTES

In LP mode, recordings are more liable to be affected by imperfections of the disc used or recording conditions and you may experience some anomalies (blocky video artifacts, banding, skipping audio, etc.) during playback. We recommend using XP or SP mode for important recordings.

The camcorder uses a variable bit rate (VBR) to encode video so the actual recording times will vary depending on the content of the scenes.

The default aspect ratio of movies is 16:9 (widescreen). Follow the procedure below to change it to 4:3.

( 21)

FUNC.

[ MENU]

[ CAMERA SETUP] [WIDESCREEN] [ OFF]

FUNC.

NOTES

Playing back a widescreen recording:

TV sets compatible with the Video ID-1 system will switch automatically to 16:9 mode. Otherwise, change the aspect ratio of the TV manually.

To play back on a TV with normal aspect ratio (4:3) change the [TV TYPE] setting accordingly ( 72).

Zooming: Optical, Advanced and Digital

Zoom

The camcorder offers three types of zoom when recording movies: optical, advanced and digital zoom (In mode, only the optical zoom is available.) You can also change the zoom speed.

30 • Video

Loading...
+ 68 hidden pages