Cannon HF10 User Manual

Instruction Manual

PUB. DIE-300

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Introduction

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING!

WARNING!

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

CAUTION:

DISCONNECT THE MAINS PLUG FROM THE SUPPLY SOCKET WHEN NOT IN USE.

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.

While using the compact power adapter, do not wrap it or cover it with a piece of cloth, and do not place it in
confined narrow spaces. Heat may build up, the plastic case may deform and it could result in electric shock or fire.

CA-570 identification plate is located on the bottom.

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

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELEC TRIC SHOCK, DO N OT EXPOSE THIS
PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Using any device other than the Compact Power Adapter CA-570 may damage the camcorder.

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2

European Union (and EEA) only.

This symbol indicates that this product is not to be disposed of with your household waste, according to
the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product should be handed over to a
designated collection point, e.g., on an authorized one-for-one basis when you buy a new similar
product or to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE).

Improper handling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and
human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time,
your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage of natural resources.
For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local
city office, waste authority, approved WEEE scheme or your household waste disposal service. For more
information regarding return and recycling of WEEE products, please visit www.canon-europe.com/environment.
(EEA: Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein)

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3

Enjoying High-Definition Video with Your

1

Camcorder

Preserve your most treasured memories, be it unforgettable scenery or cherished
moments spent with family and friends, with high-definition video recordings of a
quality second only to actually being there.

What is High-Definition Video?

1,080

lines

Capture the finest detail,
like the movement or shine
of a single strand of hair

Your camcorder features a full high-definition image sensor (Full HD CMOS) that captures
video at a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels1. This results in video recordings of
unparalleled high quality, fine detail and lifelike vivid colors.

How does full high definition compare with standard-definition TV broadcasts?

Approximately 5 times the number of pixels.

5

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Almost 90% more scanning lines.

1.9

“Full HD 1080” refers to Canon camcorders compliant with high-definition
video composed of 1,080 vertical pixels (scanning lines).

Video is recorded at this resolution only in FXP mode. In other recording modes, the picture is
resized to 1,440 x 1,080 pixels before being recorded. Even in that case, the picture captured is
detailed enough to render richly detailed recordings.

4

What is so special about recording on flash memory?

Your videos and photos are recorded in the built-in memory ( only) or on a memory
card (SD or SDHC card) using AVCHD specifications2. Recording on flash memory means
that there are no moving parts in the recorder unit of the camcorder. To you, it means a
camcorder that is smaller, lighter and faster. In fact, using the Quick Start function ( 34)
you can open the LCD panel and start recording within approximately one second.
If your high-definition TV features an SD memory card slot and supports AVCHD
specifications, you can easily play back your recordings directly from the memory card
(36).

What is Cinema Mode?

Give your recordings a cinematic look by using the [ CINE MODE] recording program
( 42). Combine this recording program with the 25 fps progressive frame rate
[PF25] to get the enhanced effect of the 25p Cinema Mode.

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2

AVCHD is the new standard for recording high-definition video. With AVCHD specifications the
video signal is recorded using MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 compression and the audio signal is
recorded in Dolby Digital.

5

Table of contents

Introduction ______________________________

4 Enjoying High-Definition Video with Your Camcorder
10 About this Manual

11 Getting to Know the Camcorder

11 Supplied Accessories
12 Components Guide
15 Screen Displays

Preparations _____________________________

18 Getting Started

18 Charging the Battery Pack
19 Preparing the Wireless Controller and Accessories
22 Adjusting the Position and Brightness of the LCD Screen

23 Basic Operation of the Camcorder

23 The Button: Mode or Flexible Recording
24 Operating Modes
24 Joystick and Joystick Guide
25 Using the Menus

27 First Time Settings

27 Setting the Date and Time

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28 Changing the Language
28 Changing the Time Zone

29 Using a Memory Card

29 Recommended Memory Cards
30 Inserting and Removing a Memory Card
30 Selecting the Memory for the Recordings
31 Initializing the Built-In Memory ( only) or Memory Card

6

Table of contents

Video ____________________________________

32 Basic Recording

32 Shooting Video
33 Selecting the Video Quality
34 Zooming
34 Quick Start Function
35 Reviewing and Deleting the Last Scene Recorded

36 Basic Playback

36 Playing Back the Video
37 Special Playback Modes
38 Selecting Scenes by Recording Date
39 Selecting the Playback Starting Point from the Movie Timeline
40 Deleting Scenes

42 Advanced Functions

42 Cinema Mode: Giving a Cinematic Look to your Recordings
42 Special Scene Recording Programs
44 Changing the Shutter Speed and Aperture
45 Mini Video Light
46 Self Timer
46 Automatic Backlight Correction and Manual Exposure

47 Manual Focus Adjustment
48 White Balance
49 Image Effects
50 Digital Effects
51 On-Screen Displays and Data Code
52 Audio Recording Level
53 Using Headphones or an External Microphone

55 Managing Scenes and the Memory

55 Creating a Playlist
56 Deleting Scenes from the Playlist
56 Moving Scenes in the Playlist
57 Copying Scenes

Adjustment

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7

Photos __________________________________

58 Basic Recording

58 Taking Photos
58 Selecting Photo Size and Quality
60 Erasing a Photo Right After Recording It

60 Basic Playback

60 Viewing Photos
62 Magnifying Photos during Playback
62 Erasing Photos

63 Additional Functions

63 Flash
64 Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting and Exposure Bracketing
65 Capturing a Still Image while Recording Movies

66 Light Metering Mode
66 Histogram Display
67 Capturing a Still Image from the Playback Scene
67 Protecting Photos
68 Copying Photos
69 Other Functions You Can Use when Taking Photos

69 Printing Photos

69 Printing Photos (Direct Print)
70 Selecting the Print Settings
73 Trimming Settings
73 Print Orders

(Simultaneous Recording)

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External Connections _______________________

75 Terminals on the Camcorder

77 Connection Diagrams
79 Playback on a TV Screen

80 Saving and Backing Up Your Recordings

80 Backing Up Your Recordings on a Computer

8

Table of contents

80 Authoring High-Definition (AVCHD) Discs and Photo DVDs
83 Copying your Recordings to an External Video Recorder
84 Transferring Photos to a Computer (Direct Transfer)
86 Transfer Orders

Additional Information ______________________

88 Appendix: Menu Options Lists

88 FUNC. Menu
90 Setup Menus
90 Camera Setup (Digital Zoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.)
92 Memory Operations (Initialization, etc.)
93 Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.)
94 System Setup (Speaker Volume, Beep, etc.)
96 Date/Time Setup

97 Trouble?

97 Troubleshooting
101 List of Messages

109 Do’s and Don’ts

109 Handling Precautions
112 Maintenance/Others
113 Using the Camcorder Abroad

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114 General Information

114 System Diagram
115 Optional Accessories
119 Specifications
122 Index

9

Introduction

About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Canon HF10/HF100. 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 Tro ub le sh oo ti ng ( 97).

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 or requirements regarding the function
described.

• : Reference page number within this manual.

To complete some operations you will need to refer also to other instruction
manuals. This will be indicated with the following icons and the name of the relevant
chapter or section.

DW-100

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

• The following terms are used in this manual:

• The photos included in this manual are simulated pictures taken with a still camera.
Unless indicated otherwise, illustrations and menu icons refer to the .

Refer to the

DVSD

When not specified as “memory card” or “built-in memory”, the term “memory” by
itself refers to both ( only).
“Scene” refers to one movie unit from the point you press the START/STOP button
to start recording until you press again to pause the recording.
“Photo” and “still image” are used interchangeably with the same meaning.

PDF file in the supplied DIGITAL VIDEO Solution Disk CD-ROM.

Refer to the instruction manual of the optional DW-100 DVD Burner.

“Digital Video Software” instruction manual, included as a

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

Brackets [ ] and capital letters are used to refer to
menu options as they are displayed on screen. In
tables in this manual the default value is shown in
boldface.
For example [ON], [OFF].

10

FUNC.

“button” frame.

FUNC.

(32)

FUNC.

[ M ]

ENU
[ DISPLAY SETUP]
[LANGUAGE ]
Desired language

FUNC.

Buttons and switches to be operated

Getting to Know the Camcorder

Supplied Accessories

WL-D88 Wireless Controller

IFC-400PCU USB Cable

CA-570 Compact Power

Adapter (incl. power cord)

CTC-100/S

Component Cable

Red • Green • Blue plugs

Lithium Button Battery

CR2025 for Wireless

Controller

Software CD-ROM1

and Installation Guide

PIXELA ImageMixer 3 SE

BP-809 Battery Pack

STV-250N

Stereo Video Cable

Yellow • Red • White plugs

(incl. ferrite core)

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WS-30 Wrist Strap

1

Software for saving, managing , editing and playing back movies on your computer ( 80).
The CD-ROM includes the instruction manual of the software (electronic version on PDF file).

2

Software for saving, managing , retouching and printing photos ( 84). The CD-ROM includes
the instruction manual of the software (electronic version on PDF file).

Software CD-ROM

DIGITAL VIDEO

Solution Disk

2

11

Introduction

Components Guide

Left side view

Right side view

Front view

button ( 23)/

(print/share) button ( 70, 84)

DISP. (on-screen display) button
( 51, 39)/
BATT. INFO button ( 17)

Speaker ( 38)
CARD OPEN switch (open the memory

card slot cover) ( 30)
Memory card slot ( 30)
COMPONENT OUT terminal ( 77)
Mode dial ( 24)
HDMI OUT mini terminal ( 77, 79)
USB terminal ( 78)
Instant AF sensor ( 90)
Flash ( 63)
Stereo microphone
Mini video light ( 45)

Names of buttons and switches other than the
joystick are indicated within a
(for example ).

FUNC.

“button” frame

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12

Back view

LCD panel

Top vie w

MIC terminal ( 54)
AV OUT/ terminal ( 77)
ACCESS (memory access) indicator

( 32, 58)/CHG (charge) indicator
(18)

Serial number
START/STOP button ( 32)
Strap mount ( 20)
DC IN terminal ( 18)
RESET button ( 99)
Remote sensor ( 20)
LCD screen ( 22)
Joystick ( 24)
FUNC. button ( 25, 88)

/ (play/pause) button ( 36)/

START/STOP button ( 32)

(fast reverse) button ( 36)/

Zoom out W (wide-angle) button ( 34)

(fast forward) button ( 36)/

Zoom in T (telephoto) button ( 34)

(stop) button ( 36)/

BLC (backlight correction) button ( 46)
Zoom lever ( 34)
PHOTO button ( 58)
Mini advanced shoe ( 54)

indicator

ON/OFF button

Names of buttons and switches other than the

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joystick are indicated within a
(for example ).

FUNC.

“button” frame

13

Introduction

B

ottom view

Wireless Controller WL-D88

Tripod socket ( 109)
BATTERY RELEASE switch ( 19)
Grip belt

START/STOP button ( 32)
FUNC. button ( 25, 88)
MENU button ( 26, 90)
PLAYLIST button ( 36)
Navigation buttons ( / / / )

(frame reverse) button ( 37)

(fast reverse) button ( 37)

(play) button ( 36)

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(pause) button ( 36)

(stop) button ( 36)
PHOTO button ( 58)
Zoom buttons ( 34)
SET button

(frame advance) button ( 37)

(fast forward) button ( 37)

DISP. (on-screen display) button
( 39, 51)

14

Screen Displays

Recording Movies

Playing Movies

(During Playback)

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Operating mode ( 24)
Recording program ( 42, 43)
White balance ( 48)
Image effect ( 49)
Digital effects ( 50)
Recording mode ( 33)
Still image quality/size

(simultaneous recording) ( 65)
Remote sensor off ( 95)

Instant AF ( 90),

MF Manual focus ( 47)
25F progressive frame rate ( 17)
Memory operation ( 17)
Time code/Playback time

(hours : minutes : seconds)
Remaining recording time

On the memory card

In the built-in memory

Remaining battery time ( 17)
Image stabilizer ( 91)
Wind screen off ( 92)
Headphones output ( 53)
Microphone attenuator ( 52)
Audio level indicator ( 52)
Level marker ( 93)
Mini advanced shoe ( 54)
Backlight correction ( 46)
Scene number
Data code ( 51)

15

Introduction

Recording Still Images

Viewing Still Images

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Zoom ( 34), Exposure ( 46)
Recording program ( 42, 43)
Light metering mode ( 66)
White balance ( 48)
Image effect ( 49)
Digital effects ( 50)
Drive mode ( 64)
Still image quality/size ( 58)

Instant AF ( 90),

MF Manual focus ( 47)
Remaining battery time ( 17)
Number of still images available

On the memory card

In the built-in memory
Self timer ( 46)
Image stabilizer ( 91)
AF frame ( 91)
Mini video light ( 45)
Camcorder shake warning ( 91)
Focus and exposure lock ( 58)
Flash ( 63)
Image number ( 95)
Current image / Total number of images
Histogram ( 66)
Image protection mark ( 67)
Date and time of recording
Manual focus ( 47)
Manual exposure ( 46)
Image size ( 58)
File size
Aperture value ( 43)
Shutter speed ( 43)

16

25F progressive frame rate

Select the 25F progressive frame rate ( 42) to
give your recordings a cinematic look. You can
combine this frame rate with the [ CINE
MODE] recording program to enhance the effect.

Memory operation

Record, Record pause,

Playback, Playback pause,

Fast playback,

Fast reverse playback,
Slow playback,
Slow reverse playback,
Frame advance,
Frame reverse

Remaining recording time

When there is no more free space on the
memory, “ END” (built-in memory,
only) or “ END” (memory card) will be
displayed and the recording will stop.

, Remaining battery time

100% 75% 50% 25% 0%

• The icon shows a rough estimate of the
remaining charge as a percentage of the full

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charge of the battery pack. The remaining
recording/playback time of the battery pack is
displayed, in minutes, next to the icon.

• When is displayed in red, replace the
battery pack with a fully charged one.

• When you attach an empty battery pack, the
power may turn off without displaying .

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

• When the camcorder is off, press
to display the charge status of a battery pack.
The Intelligent System will display the charge
status (as a percentage) and the remaining
recording time (in minutes) for 5 seconds. If the
battery pack is exhausted, the battery
information may not be displayed.

Number of still images available

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.

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”.

BATT.INFO

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 115-116.

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1 Turn off the camcorder.
2 Attach the battery pack to the

camcorder.

Press the battery pack softly into the
battery attachment unit and slide it
up until it clicks in place.

DC IN terminal

3 Connect the power cord to the

compact power adapter.

4 Plug the power cord into a power

outlet.

5 Connect the compact power

adapter to the camcorder’s DC IN
terminal.

• The CHG (charge) indicator starts
flashing. The indicator will stay on
when the charging is completed.

• If the indicator flashes quickly,
refer to Tr ou bl es ho ot in g ( 97).

ONCE THE BATTERY PACK IS FULLY CHARGED

1 Disconnect the compact power

adapter from the camcorder.

2 Unplug the power cord from the

power outlet and the compact
power adapter.

CHG (charge)
indicator

18

TO REMOVE THE BATTERY PACK

BATTERY RELEASE
switch

1 Slide in the

2 Slide the battery pack down and

• Turn off the camcorder before

• We recommend charging the battery

• Do not connect to the camcorder’s DC

• To prevent equipment breakdowns and

BATTERY RELEASE

direction of the arrow and hold it
pressed down.

then pull it out.

IMPORTANT

connecting or disconnecting the
compact power adapter. After pressing

to turn off the camcorder,

ON/OFF

important data is updated in the
memory. Be sure to wait until the

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indicator turns off.

pack in temperatures between 10 °C
and 30 °C. Outside the temperature
range of 0 °C to 40 °C, the charging will
not start.

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

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

• 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.

• 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.

Preparing the Wireless Controller and Accessories

First, insert the supplied lithium button
battery CR2025 into the wireless
controller.

Ta b

1 Press the tab in the direction of

the arrow and pull out the battery
holder.

2 Place the lithium button battery

with the + side facing up.

3 Insert the battery holder.

19

Preparations

TO USE THE WIRELESS CONTROLLER

Point the wireless controller at the
camcorder’s remote sensor when
you press the buttons.

You can rotate the LCD panel 180
degrees to use the wireless controller
from the front of the camcorder.

NOTES

• The wireless controller may not work
properly when the remote sensor is
situated under strong light sources or
direct sunlight.

• If the wireless controller does not work,
check that [WL.REMOTE] is not set to
[ OFF ] ( 95). Otherwise,
replace the battery.

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Accessories

Fasten the grip belt.

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

• You can remove the grip belt and
replace it with the supplied wrist
strap.

TO REMOVE THE GRIP BELT

1 Lift the padded handgrip's flap

and detach the strap from the
Velcro pad.

START/STOP

20

2 Pull the strap to remove it first

from the front bracket on the
camcorder, then to unthread it
from the handgrip and finally to
remove it from the rear bracket on
the camcorder.

TO ATTACH A WRIST STRAP

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.

You can also remove the grip belt and
attach the shoulder strap directly to the
rear bracket on the camcorder.

Pass the attaching end of the wrist
strap through the back bracket on
the camcorder, thread the wrist strap
through the loop and fasten.

You can also attach the wrist strap to
the strap mount on the grip belt to use
both for extra convenience and
protection.

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TO REATTACH THE GRIP BELT

1 Pass the end of the strap through

the rear bracket on the
camcorder.

2 Thread the strap through the

padded handgrip and then pass it
through the front bracket on the
camcorder.

3 Fasten the grip belt as necessary,

attach the strap to the Velcro pad
on the handgrip and close the flap.

21

Preparations

Adjusting the Position and Brightness of the LCD Screen

Rotating the LCD Panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.

• You can rotate the panel 90 degrees
downward.

• You can rotate the panel 180 degrees
toward the lens. Rotating the LCD
panel 180 degrees can be useful in
the following cases:

- When you wish to include yourself in

the picture when recording with the
self timer.

- To allow the camcorder to be operated

with the wireless controller from the
front.

180°

90°

180°

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NOTES

About the LCD screen: The screen is

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
screen to normal or bright.

DISP.

Hold 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 recording.

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

Subject can monitor the LCD screen

22

Basic Operation of the Camcorder

mode, the camcorder can help you with
the settings. For example, you can use
the Special Scene recording programs

42) to set at once all the optimal

(
settings to match special recording
conditions.

The Button: Mode or Flexible Recording

The camcorder offers two basic modes
for recording video or still images:
mode for beginners or if you just prefer
not to bother with detailed camcorder
settings, and flexible recording mode
which lets you change the camcorder's
settings to your preference.

Press the button to enter the

mode (the button's blue light will
be on). You do not need to worry about
any settings and can shoot video using
just the zoom lever

START/STOP

using just the zoom lever and

(58).

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( 34) and

( 32) or take photos

PHOTO

NOTES

In mode you cannot access the
menus but you can change the following
settings in advance, before setting the
camcorder to mode.

- Recording mode of movies

- Size/quality of still images

- Auto slow shutter

- All settings in the [ SYSTEM
SETUP] menu

Press the button again to return
to the flexible recording mode (the
button's light is off). You can access the
menus and change settings to your
preference. Even in flexible recording

23

Preparations

Operating Modes

The camcorder's operating mode is
determined by the position of the mode
dial. In this manual, indicates that
a function is available in the operating
mode shown and indicates that
the function is not available. When no
operating mode icons are given, the
function is available in all operating
modes.

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Operating mode Mode dial Icon display Operation

* /

(Green)

* /

(Blue)

* /

(Green)

* /

(Blue)

* only.

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

.

The joystick can also be used in
combination with the joystick guide to
operate additional functions. Press
to display/hide the joystick guide.
The functions that appear on the
joystick guide will change depending
on the operating mode. In the
illustrations of this manual, positions
other than those relevant to the function
explained are marked with a striped
pattern.

Recording movies in the built-in memory* /
on the memory card

Recording still images in the built-in
memory* / on the memory card

Playing movies from the built-in memory* /
memory card

Viewing still images from the built-in
memory* / memory card

32

58

36

60

24

Depending on the operating mode,
these positions may be empty or show a
different icon than the one on the
illustration.

NEXT

When the guide contains multiple
“pages”, [NEXT] and the page number
icon ( ) will appear at the bottom
position. Push the joystick ( ) toward
[NEXT] to display the next “page” of the
guide.

Selecting a FUNC. Menu Option

Using the Menus

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

FUNC.

( ). To access the menus set the
camcorder to flexible recording mode.
In mode, except for a few
exceptions, most menu settings will
return to their default values ( 23).
For details about the available menu
options and settings, refer to the
appendix Menu Options Lists ( 88).

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1 Press .

FUNC.

2 Select ( ) the icon of the

function you want to change from
the left side column.

Menu items not available will appear
grayed out.

3 Select ( ) the desired setting

from the available options at the
bottom bar.

• The selected option will be

highlighted in orange.

• 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.).

4 Press to save the settings

FUNC.

and close the menu.

You can press to close the
menu at any time.

FUNC.

25

Preparations

Selecting an Option from the Setup Menus

1 Press .

FUNC.

2 Select ( ) the icon and press

to open the setup menus.

You can also hold pressed
down for more than 1 second or

MENU

press on the wireless
controller to open directly the setup
menus screen.

FUNC.

3 Select ( ) 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.

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4 Select ( ) the setting you want

to change and press .

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

• Push the joystick ( ) to return to
the menu selection screen (step 3).

5 Select ( ) the desired option and

press to save the setting.

6 Press .

Abbreviation of Menu Selections in this Manual

In this manual, the arrow is used to
abbreviate menu selections. Below is
an example of changing a setting using
the setup menus.

FUNC.

FUNC.

For selections in the FUNC. menu, the
abbreviated form will always show the
initial default value. In recording mode,
its icon will appear on the left side
column when you first open the menu.
If the setting was changed, the icon of
the currently selected option will appear
instead.

FUNC.

FUNC.

FUNC.

You can press to close the
menu at any time.

[ MENU]
[ DISPLAY SETUP]
[LANGUAGE ]
Desired language

[ IMAGE EFFECT OFF]
Desired image effect

FUNC.

26

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. The [DATE/TIME] screen will
appear automatically when the
camcorder’s clock is not set.

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

1 Change ( ) the year and move

( ) to the month.

2 Change the rest of the fields

(month, day, hour and minutes) in
the same way.

3 Select ( ) [OK] and press to

COPY

start the clock and close the setup
screen.

IMPORTANT

• When you do not use the camcorder for
about 3 months, the built-in
rechargeable lithium battery may
discharge completely and the date and
time setting may be lost. In such case,
recharge the built-in lithium battery
( 111) 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 day-month-year
(for example, [1.JAN.2008 12:00 AM]).
You can change the date format ( 96).

• You can also change the date and time
later on (not during the initial setup). To
open the [DATE/TIME] screen:

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ DATE/TIME SETUP]
[DATE/TIME]

27

Preparations

Changing the Language

Options

[][MAGYAR][]
[DEUTSCH][MELAYU][]
[][POLSKI][]

[ENGLISH][] [ ]

[ESPAÑOL][TÜRKÇE][]
[FRANÇAIS][ ] [ ]
[ITALIANO][ ] [ ]

FUNC.

( 26)

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 displays and that
appear in some menu screens refer to
the name of buttons on the camcorder
and will not change, regardless of the
language selected.

COPY



Default value

Changing the Time Zone

Change the time zone to match your
location. The default setting is Paris.

FUNC.

( 26)

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 time at your destination*

FUNC.

* To adjust for daylight saving time, select the

area name marked with a .

28

Using a Memory Card

Recommended Memory Cards

You can use commercially available

SDHC (SD high capacity) memory
cards and SD memory cards with
this camcorder. However, depending on
its Speed Class, you may not be able to
record movies on the memory card.
Refer to the table below.

As of January 2008, the movie
recording function has been tested
using SD/SDHC memory cards made
by Panasonic, SanDisk and Toshiba.
We recommend using memory cards
with a Speed Class 4 or higher.

NOTES

• About SDHC Memory Cards: SDHC is the
new type of SD memory card with
capacities over 2 GB. Please note that
the specifications of SDHC memory
cards are different from those of regular
SD memory cards and you will not be
able to use memory cards of over 2 GB
with devices that do not support SDHC.
However, SDHC devices (including this
camcorder) are backward compatible
and support regular SD memory cards.

• About the SD Speed Class: The SD Speed
Class is a standard that indicates the
minimum guaranteed data transfer
speed of SD/SDHC memory cards.
When you buy a new memory card, look
for the Speed Class logo on the
package.

COPY

Memory card Capacity SD Speed Class

64 MB or less Not applicable –

SD

memory cards

SDHC

memory cards

1

Except for the [ HIGH QUALITY 17 Mbps] recording mode.

2

On some memory cards you may not be able to record movies.

128 MB or

more

Over 2 GB

Not compatible

or higher

or higher

Recording

movies

1,2

1

1

Recording

still images

29

Preparations

Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

Make sure to initialize all memory cards
before using them with this camcorder
(31).

1 Turn off the camcorder.
2 Open the LCD panel.
3 Slide toward the right

CARD OPEN

to open the memory card slot
cover.

4 Insert the memory card straight,

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

5 Close the memory card slot cover.

• Pull the cover down until it clicks.

• Do not force the cover closed if the

TO REMOVE THE MEMORY CARD

1 Slide toward the right

to open the memory card slot
cover.

COPY

memory card is not correctly
inserted.

CARD OPEN

2 Push the memory card once to

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

3 Close the memory card slot cover.

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.

Selecting the Memory for the

Recordings

You can select to record your movies
and still images in the built-in memory
or on the memory card. The built-in
memory is the default media for
recording both.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 26)

TO CHANGE THE MEDIA FOR RECORDING

MOVIES

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[MEDIA:MOVIES]*
The memory you want to use

FUNC.

* Select [MEDIA:IMAGES] to change the

media to be used for recording still images.

30

NOTES

When selecting the memory for the
recordings, information about the memory
currently selected (total capacity, amount
of memory in use, and available space) will
be displayed on the screen. Estimated
figures about available movie recording
time and available number of still images
are approximate and based on the
recording mode and still image quality/
size settings currently in use.

Initializing the Built-In Memory ( only) or Memory Card

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[INITIALIZE] The memory you
want to initialize
Initialization method
[YES]* [OK]

FUNC.

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[INITIALIZE]
Initialization method
[YES]* [OK]

FUNC.

Initialize memory cards when you use
them with this camcorder for the first
time. You can also initialize a memory
card or the built-in memory ( only)
to permanently delete all the recordings
it contains. Initializing the memory also
eliminates memory fragmentation.
Fragmentation becomes more serious
as recordings are repeatedly added and
deleted and can eventually result in
reduced performance.

Options

[INITIALIZE]
Clears the file allocation table but does not

physically erase the stored data.
[COMPL.INIT.]
Erases all data completely.

FUNC.

( 26)

COPY

* Press to cancel the complete

initialization while it is in progress. All
recordings will be erased and the memory
can be used without any problem.

IMPORTANT

• Initializing the memory will permanently
erase all recordings. The lost original
recordings cannot be recovered. Make
sure you back up important recordings
in advance using an external device
(80).

• While the initialization is in progress, do
not disconnect the power source or turn
off the camcorder.

31

Video

This chapter covers functions related to shooting movies, including
recording, playback, menu options, and memory operations.

Basic Recording

Shooting Video

1 Set the mode dial to .
2 Turn on the camcorder.

be used for recording movies
( 30).

3 Press to begin

recording.

• Recording starts; press

• You can also press on

COPY

You can select the memory to

START/STOP

START/STOP

recording.

the LCD panel.

again to pause the

START/STOP

( 24)

WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED RECORDING

1 Make sure that the ACCESS

indicator is off.
2 Turn off the camcorder.
3 Close the LCD panel.

IMPORTANT

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

- Do not open the memory card slot cover.

- Do not disconnect the power source or

turn off the camcorder.

- Do not change the position of the mode

dial.

NOTES

• About the Power Save mode: To save power

when the camcorder is powered by a
battery pack, the camcorder will
automatically shut off if left without any
operations for 5 minutes ( 95). Press

ON/OFF

• When recording in bright places it may

to turn on the camcorder.

be difficult to use the LCD screen. In
such case, change the brightness of the
LCD screen ( 22, 93).

32

Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode)

The camcorder offers 4 recording
modes. Changing the recording mode
will change the recording time available
on the memory. Select FXP or XP+
mode for better movie quality; select LP
mode for longer recording times. The
table below gives approximate
recording times.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ STANDARD PLAY 7 Mbps]
Desired recording mode

FUNC.

NOTES

• 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 camcorder retains the last setting
used even if you set the camcorder to

mode.

COPY

Approximate recording times

Recording mode FXP* XP+ SP

Memory

Built-in

memory

2 GB memory card 15 min. 20 min. 35 min. 45 min.
4 GB memory card 30 min. 40 min. 1 hr. 10 min. 1 hr. 30 min.
8 GB memory card 1 hr. 1 hr. 25 min. 2 hr. 20 min. 3 hr.

* Recorded in 1,920 x 1,080 resolution. Movies recorded using other recording modes are

recorded in 1,440 x 1,080 resolution.

2 hr. 5 min. 2 hr. 50 min. 4 hr. 45 min. 6 hr. 5 min.





Default value

LP

33

Video

Zooming

( 24)

mode: In addition to the optical
zoom, digital zoom is also available
( 90).

W

W

T

W Zoom out T Zoom in

12x Optical Zoom

Move the zoom lever toward W to
zoom out (wide angle). Move it
toward T to zoom in (telephoto).

Press gently for a slow zoom; press
harder for faster zooms. You can also
set [ZOOM SPEED] ( 90) to one of
three constant speeds (3 is the fastest,
1 the slowest).

COPY

T

NOTES

• Keep at least 1 m away from the
subject. At full wide angle, you can
focus on a subject as close as 1 cm.

• When [ZOOM SPEED] is set to
[ VARIABLE]:

- When you use the T and W buttons on

the wireless controller or LCD panel,
the zoom speed will be constant at
[ SPEED 3].

- The zoom speed will be faster in

record pause mode than when actually
recording.

Quick Start Function

When you close the LCD panel with the
camcorder on, the camcorder enters
the standby mode. In standby mode the
camcorder consumes only about half
the power used when recording, saving
energy when you are using a battery
pack. Additionally, when you open the
LCD panel, the camcorder is ready to
start recording in approximately
1 second, ensuring you do not miss
important shooting opportunities.

(24)

1 With the camcorder on and in a

recording mode, close the LCD
panel.

A beep will sound and the
indicator will change to orange to
indicate the camcorder entered the
standby mode.

34

2 When you wish to resume

recording, open the LCD panel.

Within less than 1 second, the
indicator will return to green and the
camcorder will be ready to record.

(24)

IMPORTANT

Do not disconnect the power source
during standby mode (while the
indicator is lit in orange).

NOTES

• If you close the LCD panel under some
circumstances (for example while
recording, while a menu is being
displayed, or while the memory card slot
is open), the camcorder may not enter
the standby mode. Check that the
indicator changes to orange.

• The camcorder will shut off if left in
standby mode for 10 minutes,
regardless of the [POWER SAVE] setting
( 95). Press to turn on the
camcorder.

• You can select the length of time until
shut-off or turn off the Quick Start
function with the [QUICK START] setting
( 95).

ON/OFF

COPY

Reviewing and Deleting the Last Scene Recorded

Even in mode you can play back
the last scene recorded in order to
check it. You can also delete the scene
while reviewing it.

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If does not appear on the joystick
guide, repeatedly push the joystick
( ) toward [NEXT] to display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

The camcorder plays back the last
scene (but without sound) and
returns to record pause mode.

Deleting a Scene After Recording It

After recording a scene:

1 Review the scene as described in

the previous section.

2 While reviewing the scene, select

( ) the icon and press .

3 Select ( ) [YES] and press .

NOTES

• Avoid any other operations on the
camcorder while the scene is being
deleted.

• You will not be able to delete the last
scene if after the scene was recorded
you changed the operating mode or
turned the camcorder off.

35

Video

Basic Playback

Playing Back the Video

( 24)

1 Set the mode dial to .
2 Turn on the camcorder.

The scene index screen appears
after a few seconds.

3 Move ( , ) the selection

frame to the scene you want to
play back.

When you have recorded a large
number of scenes, press or
to move between index screen
pages.

4 Press or to begin the

playback.

• Playback will start from the scene

• Press again to pause the

COPY

/

selected and continue until the end
of the last scene recorded.

/

playback.

• Press to stop the playback
and return to the scene index
screen.

TO SELECT WHICH SCENES TO PLAY BACK

After creating a playlist ( 55), you can
switch between the original movies and
the playlist you edited according to
your choice. You can also switch
between the scenes or playlist recorded
in the built-in memory and those
recorded on the memory card.

1 In the index screen, move ( ) the

orange selection frame to the tabs
on the top of the screen.

2 Select ( ) the location of the

scenes you want to play back.

3 Return ( ) to the index screen to

select the scene.

Original movies in the built-in memory*

Original movies on the memory card

Playlist in the built-in memory*
Playlist on the memory card

* only.

IMPORTANT

• Observe the following precautions while

the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing.
Failing to do so may result in permanent
data loss.

36

- Do not open the memory card slot
cover.

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

- Do not change the position of the
mode dial.

• You may not be able to play back with
another AVCHD device the movies you
recorded on the memory card with this
camcorder. In such case, play back the
movies on the memory card using this
camcorder.

Special playback modes

To enter the special playback modes, you can use the buttons on the LCD panel or
wireless controller ( 14). There is no sound during the special playback modes.

Special playback mode Initial mode

Fast playback Normal playback , : Press or

Slow playback Playback pause , : Press or

Frame-by-frame playback Playback pause : Press or to reverse/

Skipping Scenes:

COPY

To the beginning of the next scene Normal playback : Push the joystick ( )

To the beginning of the current scene : Push the joystick ( )

To the previous scene : Push the joystick ( ) twice

End special playback Any special

During some special playback modes, you may notice some anomalies (blocky video
artifacts, banding, etc.) in the playback picture.

* The speed indicated on the screen is approximate.

playback mode

• You may not be able to play back with
this camcorder movies recorded using
another AVCHD device.

NOTES

• Depending on the recording conditions,
you may notice brief stops in video or
sound playback between scenes.

• You can press on the wireless
controller to switch between the original
movies index screen and the playlist of
the respective memory.

Special Playback Modes

Operation on the camcorder ( )
or on the wireless controller ( )

Press again to increase the playback speed
5x → 15x → 60x the normal speed*

Press again to increase the playback speed

advance one frame or hold pressed for
continuous frame-by-frame playback

PLAYLIST

1/8 → 1/4 the normal speed

: Press

: Press

: Press twice
: Press

/

: Press

37

Video

ADJUSTING THE VOLUME

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

2 Adjust ( ) the volume.

• To turn off the volume, keep the
joystick pressed ( ) toward
until the volume icon changes to

.

• You can press again to hide
the joystick guide during playback.

Selecting Scenes by Recording Date

You can search for all the recordings
you made on a particular date, for
example, to find all the movies you shot
during a special event.

COPY

( 24)

1 Select the original movies index

screen.

You can select the original
movies in the built-in memory or on
the memory card.

2 Open the list of recordings.

FUNC.

[ SELECT DATE]

• The list of recordings displays all

dates in which recordings were
made. An orange selection frame
appears on the day.

• The thumbnail shows a still image

from the first scene recorded on
that day. Below it will appear the
number of scenes recorded and
the total recording time for the
same day.

3 Change ( ) the day and move

( ) to the month or year.

4 Change the other fields in the

same way to select the desired
date and press .

The index screen will appear with the
selection frame on the first scene
recorded on the selected date.

Selecting from the Calendar Screen

POINTS TO CHECK

Selecting scenes by recording date is
available only from the original movies
index screen.

Selecting from the List of Recordings

FUNC.

( 25)

38

1 Select the original movies index

screen.

You can select the original
movies in the built-in memory or on
the memory card.

2 Move the zoom lever toward W.

• The calendar screen appears.

• Dates that contain scenes (that is,
movies were recorded on that
date) appear in white. Dates
without recordings appear in
black.

3 Move ( , ) the cursor to the

desired date.

• When you move the cursor to a
date displayed in white, a
thumbnail showing a still image
from the first scene recorded on
that date will be displayed next to
the calendar. Below it will appear
the number of scenes recorded
and the total recording time for the
same day.

• You can select ( ) the year or
month field and change ( ) the
year or month to move faster
between calendar months.

• You can press or to skip
directly to the previous/next date
that contains scenes.

4 Press to return to the index

screen.

The orange selection frame will
appear on the first scene recorded

COPY

on the selected date.

Selecting the Playback Starting Point from the Movie Timeline

You can display a timeline of the scene
and select where to begin the playback.
This is very convenient when you want
to play back a long scene from a
specific point.

(24)

1 In the index screen select the

scene you want to view and press

DISP.

.

• The timeline screen appears. The
large thumbnail will show the first
frame of the scene. Below it, the
timeline ruler shows frames taken
from the scene at fixed intervals.

• Press again to return to the

DISP.

index screen.

NOTES

• You can change on what day to start the
week for the calendar display ( 94).

• You can press to return to the
index screen at any time.

FUNC.

39

Video

Interval between frames

Recording date and time

Current scene / Total number of scenes

Frame selected for start of playback

Page slidebar
Timeline ruler

Scene length

2 Select ( ) the playback starting

point from the timeline ruler.

3 Press to begin the playback.

TO SELECT ANOTHER SCENE

Move ( ) the orange selection
frame to the large thumbnail and
change ( ) the scene.

O MOVE BETWEEN TIMELINE RULER PAGES

T

Move ( ) the orange selection
frame to the slidebar below the ruler
and display ( ) the previous/next 5
frames in the scene.

TO CHANGE THE INTERVAL BETWEEN FRAMES

FUNC. FUNC.

COPY

Desired interval

Deleting Scenes

You can delete those scenes that you
are not interested in keeping. Deleting
scenes also allows you to free up space
on the memory.

(24)

Deleting a Single Scene or All Scenes from a Selected Date

Options

[ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)]

Deletes all the scenes recorded on the same day
as the selected scene.

[ONE SCENE]

Deletes only the selected scene.

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Select ( , ) the scene you

want to delete, or a scene
recorded on the date you want to
delete.

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to delete
scenes ( 36).

2 Delete the scene(s).

FUNC.

[ DELETE]

Desired option [YES] [OK]

FUNC.

40

Deleting All Scenes

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to delete scenes
( 36).

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[DEL.ALL MOVIES]
[YES]* [OK]

FUNC.

* Press twice to interrupt the operation

while it is in progress.

IMPORTANT

• Be careful when deleting original

recordings. Once deleted, an original
scene cannot be recovered.

• Back up important scenes before

deleting them ( 80).

• Observe the following precautions while

the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing
(while scenes are being deleted).

- Do not open the memory card slot
cover.

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

- Do not change the position of the
mode dial.

COPY

NOTES

• Deleting a scene from the original index
screen also deletes that scene from the
playlist.

• To delete all movies and make all
recordable space available again you
may prefer to initialize the memory
(31).

• You may not be able to delete scenes
recorded or edited using another
device.

41

Video

Advanced Functions

Cinema Mode: Giving a Cinematic Look to your Recordings

Give your recordings a cinematic look
by using the [ CINE MODE]
recording program. Combine this
recording program with the 25 fps
progressive frame rate [ PF25] to
get the enhanced effect of the 25p
Cinema Mode.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

TO SET THE [ CINE MODE] RECORDING

PROGRAM

FUNC.

[ PROGRAM AE]
[ CINE MODE]

FUNC.

COPY

TO CHANGE THE FRAME RATE

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ CAMERA SETUP]
[FRAME RATE]
[ PF25]

FUNC.

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 on page

43.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ PROGRAM AE]
[ PORTRAIT]
Press to display the Special
Scene (SCN) recording programs
Desired recording program

FUNC.

42

NOTES

•[ NIGHT]

- Moving subjects may leave a trailing
afterimage.

- Picture quality may not be as good as
in other modes.

- White points may appear on the
screen.

- Autofocus may not work as well as in
other modes. In such case, adjust the
focus manually.

• [ FIREWORKS]

- To avoid camcorder shake, we
recommend using a tripod. Make sure

to use a tripod especially in
mode, as the shutter speed slows
down.

• [ PORTRAIT]/[ SPORTS]/
[ BEACH]/[ SNOW]

- The picture may not appear smooth

during playback.

• [ PORTRAIT]

- The blur effect of the background

increases the more you zoom in (T).

• [ SNOW]/[ BEACH]

- The subject may become

overexposed on cloudy days or in
shaded places. Check the image on
the screen.

[ PORTRAIT]

The camcorder uses
a large aperture,
achieving a focus on
the subject while
blurring other distracting details.

[ SPORTS]

Use this mode to
record sports
scenes such as
tennis or golf.

[NIGHT]

Use this mode to
record in dimly lit
places.

[SNOW]

Use this mode to
record in bright ski
resorts. It prevents
the subject from
being underexposed.

COPY

[ BEACH]

Use this mode to
record on a sunny
beach. It prevents
the subject from
being underexposed.

[SUNSET]

Use this mode to
record sunsets in
vibrant colors.

[ SPOTLIGHT]

Use this mode to
record spotlit
scenes.

[ FIREWORKS]

Use this mode to
record fireworks.

43

Video

Changing the Shutter Speed and Aperture

Use the automatic exposure (AE)
program to use functions like the white
balance or image effects, or give
priority to the exposure value or the
shutter speed.
Use faster shutter speeds to record
subjects moving quickly; Use slower
shutter speeds to add motion blur,
emphasizing the feel of movement.
Use low aperture values (larger lens
opening) to softly blur the background
in a portrait; Use high aperture values
(smaller lens opening) to get a wider
depth of field, giving a sharp focus all
throughout a landscape.

( 24)

Options

[ PROGRAM AE]

The camcorder automatically adjusts the
aperture and shutter speed to obtain the optimal
exposure for the subject.

[ SHUTTER-PRIO.AE]

Set the shutter speed value. The camcorder
automatically sets the appropriate aperture
value.

[ APERTURE-PRIO.AE]

Set the aperture value. The camcorder
automatically sets the appropriate shutter speed.

FUNC.

( 25)



COPY



Default value

FUNC.

[ PROGRAM AE] Desired
recording program

FUNC.

TO SET THE SHUTTER SPEED OR APERTURE

VALUE

When you select [ SHUTTER­PRIO.AE] or [ APERTURE-PRIO.AE],
a numeric value will appear next to the
recording program icon.

1 If the joystick guide appears on

the screen, press to hide it.

2 Adjust ( ) the shutter speed or

aperture value to the desired
value.

Shutter speed guidelines

Note that on screen only the denominator
is displayed – [ 250] indicates a
shutter speed of 1/250 second, etc.

1/2*, 1/3*, 1/6, 1/12, 1/25
To record in dimly lit places.
1/50
To record under most ordinary conditions.
1/120
To record indoor sports scenes.
1/250, 1/500, 1/1000**
To record from within a moving car or train or to

shoot fast-moving subjects such as roller
coasters.

1/2000**
To record outdoor sports scenes on sunny days.

* mode only.
** mode only.

44

Available Aperture Values

[1.8], [2.0], [2.4], [2.8], [3.4], [4.0], [4.8],
[5.6], [6.7], [8.0]

NOTES

• When setting a numeric value (aperture
or shutter speed), the number displayed
will flash if the aperture or shutter speed
is not appropriate for the recording
conditions. In such case, select a
different value.

• [ SHUTTER-PRIO.AE]

- If you use a slow shutter speed in dark

places, you can obtain a brighter
image, but image quality may be
lower, and autofocus may not work
well.

- The image may flicker when recording

with fast shutter speeds.

• [ APERTURE-PRIO.AE]
The actual range of values available for
selection will vary depending on the
initial zoom position.

COPY

Mini Video Light

You can turn on the mini video light to
shoot video or take photos in dark
places.

( 24)

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If does not appear on the joystick
guide, push the joystick ( ) toward
[NEXT] to display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

• appears on the screen.

• Push the joystick ( ) again to turn
the mini video light off.

NOTES

We recommend not using the mini video
light while the optional Wide-converter or
Tele-converter is attached; its shadow can
appear on the screen.

45

Video

Self Timer

( 24)

FUNC.

( 26)

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[

CAMERA SETUP]

[SELF TIMER] [ON ]

FUNC.

appears.

mode:

In record pause mode, press

START/STOP

The camcorder starts recording after a
10-second countdown*. The
countdown appears on the screen.

Press , first halfway to
activate the autofocus and then fully.

The camcorder will record the still
image after a 10-second countdown*.
The countdown appears on the screen.

* 2 seconds when using the wireless

controller.

.

mode:

PHOTO

COPY

Automatic Backlight Correction and Manual Exposure Adjustment

At times, backlit subjects may appear
too dark (underexposed) or subjects
under very strong lights may appear too
bright or glaring (overexposed). To
correct this, you can manually adjust
the exposure or use the automatic
backlight correction.

( 24)

POINTS TO CHECK

Select a recording mode other than
[FIREWORKS].

Automatic Backlight Correction

When shooting subjects with a strong
light source behind them, you can have
the camcorder automatically correct for
the backlight with the press of a single
button.

NOTES

Once the countdown has begun, you can

START/STOP

press (when recording
movies), press fully (when
recording still images) or turn off the
camcorder to cancel the self timer.

46

PHOTO

BLC

Press .

• appears.

• Press again to end the backlight

BLC

correction mode.

Manual Exposure Adjustment

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If [EXP] does not appear on the
joystick guide, repeatedly push the
joystick ( ) toward [NEXT] to display
it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward

[EXP].

The exposure adjustment indicator

and the neutral value “±0”

appear on the screen.

3 Adjust the ( ) the brightness of

the image as required.

The adjustment range and the length
of the exposure adjustment indicator
will vary depending on the initial
brightness of the picture.

4 Press .

• The exposure adjustment indicator
will change to white and the
exposure will be locked.

COPY

• If you operate the zoom during
exposure lock, the brightness of
the image may change.

• During exposure lock, press
and push the joystick ( ) toward
[EXP] again to return the
camcorder to automatic exposure.

Manual Focus Adjustment

Autofocus may not work well on the
following subjects. In such case, focus
manually.

• Reflective surfaces

• Subjects with low contrast or without
vertical lines

• Fast moving subjects

• Through wet windows

•Night scenes

( 24)

POINTS TO CHECK

Adjust the zoom before you start the
procedure.

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If [FOCUS] does not appear on the
joystick guide, repeatedly push the
joystick ( ) toward [NEXT] to display
it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward

[FOCUS].

“MF” appears.

3 Push the joystick ( ) or ( ) once

to verify if the image is focused.

The center of the screen will be
magnified to help you focus more
easily. You can also turn off the focus
assist function ( 91).

47

Video

4 Adjust ( ) the focus as

necessary.

5 Press .

• The focus will be locked.

• During focus lock, press and
push the joystick ( ) toward
[FOCUS] again to return the
camcorder to autofocus.

Infinity Focus

Use this function when you wish to
focus on faraway subjects such as
mountains or fireworks.
Instead of step 2 in the previous
procedure:

Push the joystick ( ) toward
[FOCUS] and hold it for more than
2seconds.

• appears.

• Push the joystick ( ) toward
[FOCUS] again to return the
camcorder to autofocus.

• If you operate the zoom or joystick
( ), changes to “MF” and the
camcorder returns to manual focus.

White Balance

The white balance function helps you to
accurately reproduce colors under
different lighting conditions so that
white objects will always look truly
white in your recordings.

COPY

POINTS TO CHECK

Select a recording mode other than the
Special Scene recording programs.

Options

[AUTO]

Settings are automatically set by the camcorder.
Use this setting for outdoor scenes.

[ DAYLIGHT]
For recording outdoors on a bright day.
[SHADE]
For recording in shaded places.
[CLOUDY]
For recording on a cloudy day.
[ TUNGSTEN]
For recording under tungsten and tungsten type

(3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[ FLUORESCENT]
For recording under warm white, cool white or

warm white type (3-wavelength) fluorescent
lighting.

[ FLUORESCENT H]
For recording under daylight or daylight type

(3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[SET]
Use the custom white balance setting to make

white subjects appear white under colored
lighting.

FUNC.

( 25)





Default value

48

( 24)

FUNC.

[ AUTO]
Desired option*

FUNC.

* When you select [ SET], do not press

FUNC.

and continue instead with the

following procedure.

• Depending on the type of fluorescent
light, optimal color balance may not be
obtained with [ FLUORESCENT] or
[ FLUORESCENT H]. If the color looks
unnatural, adjust it using [ AUTO] or
[ SET].

TO SET THE CUSTOM WHITE BALANCE

1 Point the camcorder at a white

object, zoom in until it fills the
whole screen and press .

When the adjustment is completed,

stops flashing and stays on. The
camcorder retains the custom
setting even if you turn off the
camcorder.

2 Press to save the setting

• When you select the custom white balance:

• Custom white balance may provide

FUNC.

and close the menu.

NOTES

- Set the custom white balance in a
sufficiently illuminated place.

- Turn off the digital zoom ( 90).

- Reset the white balance when the
lighting conditions change.

- Depending on the light source,

COPY

may keep flashing. The result will still
be better than with [ AUTO].

better results in the following cases:

- Changing lighting conditions

- Close-ups

- Subjects in a single color (sky, sea or
forest)

- Under mercury lamps and certain
types of fluorescent lights

Image Effects

You can use the image effects to
change the color saturation and
contrast to record images with special
color effects.

( 24)

POINTS TO CHECK

Select a recording mode other than the
Special Scene recording programs.





Default value

Options

[ IMAGE EFFECT OFF]

Records with no image enhancing effects.
[ VIVID]
Emphasizes the contrast and color saturation.
[ NEUTRAL]
Tones down the contrast and color saturation.
[ LOW SHARPENING]
Records subjects with softened outlines.
[ SOFT SKIN DETAIL]
Softens the details in the skin tone area for a

more complimentary appearance. To obtain the
best effect, use this setting when recording a
person in close-up. Note that areas similar to the
skin color may lack in detail.

49

Video

[ CUSTOM]
Allows you to adjust the color depth, brightness,

contrast, and sharpness of the image.
[COL.DEPTH]: (–) Shallower colors,

[BRIGHTN.]: (–) Darker picture,

[CONTRAST]: (–) Flatter picture,

[SHARPNESS]: (–) Vaguer outlines,

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ IMAGE EFFECT OFF]
Desired option*

FUNC.

* When you select [ CUSTOM], do not

press and continue instead with the
following procedure.

(+) Richer color tonality

(+) Brighter picture

(+) More defined light and shade

(+) Sharper outlines

FUNC.

TO SET THE CUSTOM IMAGE EFFECT

1 Press and select ( ) the

custom setting options.

2 Adjust ( ) each setting as

desired.

3 When you finish all the

adjustments, press then

FUNC.

close the menu.

COPY

to save the setting and

Digital Effects

( 24)

Options

[ D.EFFECT OFF]

Select this setting when you do not intend to use
the digital effects.

[ FADE-T] (fade trigger), [ WIPE]
Select one of the faders to begin or end a scene

with a fade from or to a black screen.
[ BLK&WHT]*
Records images in black and white.
[ SEPIA]*
Records images in sepia tones for an “old” look.
[ ART]
Select this effect to add “flavor” to your

recordings.

* Only these digital effects are available in

mode.

Setting

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ D.EFFECT OFF]
Desired fader/effect*

FUNC.

**

* You can preview the digital effect on the

screen.

**The icon of the selected digital effect

appears.





Default value

50

Applying

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If does not appear on the joystick
guide, repeatedly push the joystick
( ) toward [NEXT] to display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

• The icon of the selected effect
turns green.

• Push the joystick ( ) again to
deactivate the digital effect (its
icon will turn white again).

TO FADE IN

Activate the selected fader in record
pause mode ( ), then press

START/STOP

fade in.

TO FADE OUT

to start recording with a

COPY

Activate the selected fader while
recording ( ), then press
to fade out and pause the recording.

START/STOP

NOTES

• When you apply a fader, not only the
picture but also the sound will fade in or
out. When you apply an effect, the
sound will be recorded normally.

• The camcorder retains the last setting
used even if you turn off the digital
effects or change the recording
program.

On-Screen Displays and Data Code

With every scene or still image
recorded, the camcorder keeps a data
code that includes the date, time and
information about the camera setup at
the time of recording. While viewing a
still image, all the data is displayed in
the form of information icons. During
movie playback you can select what to
display with the [DATA CODE] setting
( 93). You can also turn most on­screen displays on or off.

TO ACTIVATE AN EFFECT

mode: Activate the selected
effect while recording or in record
pause mode.

mode: Activate the selected effect
and then press to record the
still image.

PHOTO

Repeatedly press to turn the
on-screen displays on/off in the
following sequence:

, mode:

• All displays on

• Most displays off*

DISP.

51

Video

mode:

• All displays on

• Data code only

• All displays off

mode:

• All displays on

• Regular displays only (removes the
histogram and information icons)

• All displays off

* The following icons will appear even when

all other on-screen displays are turned off:
The icons and (in mode), the

icon and AF frames when the autofocus
is locked (in mode), screen markers
(both recording modes).

Audio Recording Level

You can adjust the audio recording level
for the built-in or for an external
microphone. You can display the audio
level indicator while recording.

( 24)

Manual Adjustment of the Audio Recording Level

COPY

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If [ MIC] does not appear on the
joystick guide, repeatedly push the
joystick ( ) toward [NEXT] to display
it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward

[MIC].

The manual adjustment icon will
appear to the left of the audio level
indicator and the manual adjustment
bar (green) will appear below it.

Manual audio level adjustment

Audio level indicator

Audio level adjustment bar

3 Adjust ( ) the audio level as

necessary.

• Push the joystick ( ) toward to
raise the audio recording level or
push it ( ) toward to lower it.

• As a guideline, adjust the audio
recording level so that the audio
level meter will go to the right of
the -12 dB mark only occasionally.

4 Press to save the setting and

hide the joystick guide.

• The audio level selected will be
locked and the audio level
adjustment bar will disappear from
the indicator.

• During manual adjustment, press

and push the joystick ( )
toward [ MIC] to return the
camcorder to automatic audio
level.

52

NOTES

• When the 0 dB mark turns red, the
sound may be distorted.

• If the audio level is too high and the
sound gets distorted, activate the
microphone attenuator ( 90).

• We recommend using headphones
( 53) to check the sound level while
adjusting the audio recording level or
when the microphone attenuator is
activated.

TO DISPLAY THE AUDIO LEVEL METER

Usually, the audio level indicator will be
displayed only after the manual
adjustment of the audio recording level.
You can choose to display it also when
the audio level is adjusted
automatically.

FUNC.

( 26)

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ DISPLAY SETUP]
[AUDIO LEVEL] [ON]

FUNC.

COPY

Using Headphones or an External Microphone

Using Headphones

Use headphones for playback or to
check the audio level while recording.
The headphones are connected to the
AV OUT/ terminal, which is used for
both the headphones and the audio/
video output. Before connecting the
headphones, follow the procedure
below to change the function of the
terminal from AV output to
(headphones) output.

(24)

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ SYSTEM SETUP]
[AV/PHONES] [PHONES]

FUNC.

appears.

53

Video

TO ADJUST THE VOLUME OF THE

HEADPHONES

In mode, adjust the volume of the
headphones with the [PHONES VOL.]
setting ( 94). In mode, adjust
the headphones volume the same way
you adjust the speaker’s volume
( 38).

IMPORTANT

• When using headphones, make sure
to lower the volume to an appropriate
level.

• Do not connect the headphones to
the AV OUT/ terminal if the icon
does not appear on the screen. If you
connect the headphones while the
terminal is set to AV output, only
noise will be output.

NOTES

• Use commercially available headphones
with a ∅ 3.5 mm minijack and a cable
no longer than 3 m.

• When you turn off the camcorder or
change the operating mode, the
[AV/PHONES] setting in mode will
return to [ AV].

COPY

Using the DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone

Retract the mini advanced shoe cover
and attach the optional DM-100
Directional Stereo Microphone to the
mini advanced shoe. For details, refer
to the instruction manual of the
microphone.

When a compatible accessory is
attached to the mini advanced shoe,

will appear on the screen.

Using other microphones

You can also use commercially
available microphones not compatible
with the mini advanced shoe, by
connecting the external microphone to
the MIC terminal. Use commercially
available condenser microphones with
their own power supply and a cable no
longer than 3 m. You can connect
almost any stereo microphone with a
∅ 3.5 mm plug but audio recording
levels may vary.

54

NOTES

• When an external microphone is

connected to the camcorder, [WIND
SCREEN] will automatically be set to
[ OFF ].

• Accessories designed

for the Advanced
Accessory Shoe cannot
be used with this
camcorder. Look for
video accessories bearing this logo to
ensure compatibility with the mini
advanced shoe.

• If the audio level is too high and the

sound gets distorted, activate the
microphone attenuator ( 90) or adjust
the audio recording level manually
(52).

COPY

Managing Scenes and the Memory

Creating a Playlist

Create a playlist to play back only the
scenes you prefer and in the order of
your choice. Moving or deleting scenes
in the playlist will not affect the original
recordings.

Options

[ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)]
Adds to the playlist all the scenes that were

recorded on the same day as the selected scene.
[ONE SCENE]
Adds only the selected scene to the playlist.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

1 In the original movies index

screen, select ( , ) the scene
you want to add to the playlist, or
a scene recorded on the date you
want to add to the playlist.

2 Add the scene(s) to the playlist.

FUNC.

[ ADD TO PLAYLIST]
Desired option [YES]

• When the operation is completed
[ADDED TO PLAYLIST] will be
displayed.

55

Video

• To check the playlist, select ( ,
) the playlist index screen from

the tabs on top of the index screen
( 36).

NOTES

• The playlist is created on the
same memory you are playing back
from. Select in advance the location of
the scenes to play back ( 36). You
can also copy scenes from the built-in
memory to the memory card ( 57) to
include in your playlist movies recorded
on both.

• You may not be able to add scenes to
the playlist if they were recorded or
edited using another device or if there is
not enough space available in the
memory.

Deleting Scenes from the Playlist

Deleting scenes from the playlist will
not affect your original recordings.

( 24)

Deleting a Single Scene

FUNC.

( 25)

COPY

1 Select ( , ) the playlist index

screen from the tabs on top of the
index screen.

You can select the playlist in
the built-in memory or the playlist on
the memory card ( 36).

2 Select ( , ) the scene you

want to delete.

3 Delete the scene.

FUNC.

[ DELETE]

[YES]

Deleting the Entire Playlist

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[DEL.PLAYLIST]
[YES]

FUNC.

Moving Scenes in the Playlist

Move the scenes in the playlist to play
them back in the order of your choice.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Select ( , ) the playlist index

screen from the tabs on top of the
index screen.

You can select the playlist in
the built-in memory or the playlist on
the memory card ( 36).

2 Select ( , ) the scene you

want to move.

3 Open the scene moving screen.

FUNC.

[ MOVE]

56

4 Move ( , ) the orange marker

to the desired position of the
scene and press .

The original position of the scene
and the current position of the
marker are displayed at the bottom
of the screen.

5 Select ( ) [YES] and press to

move the scene.

NOTES

You may not be able to move scenes in
the playlist if there is not enough space
available in the memory.

Copying Scenes

You can copy original movies or the entire
playlist from the built-in memory to the
corresponding location on the memory
card.

( 24)

Options for copying original movies

[ALL SCENES]
Copies all the scenes to the memory card.
[ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)]
Copies all the scenes that were recorded on the

same day as the selected scene to the memory
card.

[ONE SCENE]
Copies only the selected scene to the memory

card.

COPY

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Select one of the index screens of

movies recorded in the built-in
memory (original movies or
playlist).

Refer to To select which scenes to
play back

( 36).

2 Select ( , ) the scene you

want to copy to the memory card,
or a scene recorded on the date
you want to copy.

3 Copy the scene(s).

FUNC.

[ COPY]
Desired option* [YES]**
[OK]

* Only when copying original movies. From

the playlist index screen, only the entire
playlist can be copied so this step is not
necessary.

**Press twice to interrupt the operation

while it is in progress.

• Observe the following precautions while

the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing.
Failing to do so may result in permanent
data loss.

- Do not open the memory card slot

- Do not disconnect the power source

- Do not change the position of the

• If the memory card slot cover is open, or
the LOCK switch on the memory card is
set to prevent writing, you will not be
able to copy movies to the memory
card.

FUNC.

IMPORTANT

cover.

or turn off the camcorder.

mode dial.

57

Photos

Refer to this chapter for details on shooting photos – from capturing
and playing back images to printing them.

Basic Recording

Taking Photos

COPY

1 Set the mode dial to .
2 Turn on the camcorder.

You can select the memory to
be used for recording still images
( 30).

3 Press halfway.

PHOTO

• Once the focus is automatically

adjusted, will turn green and
one or more AF frames will appear.

• When you press on the

wireless controller, the still image is

PHOTO

( 24)

recorded after the autofocus is
activated and locked.

4 Press fully.

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

- Do not open the memory card slot cover.

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

- Do not change the position of the mode
dial.

• If the subject is not suitable for

• When the subject is too bright,

Selecting Photo Size and Quality

Still images are recorded as JPG files.
As a general rule, select a larger image
size for higher quality. Select the
[LW 1920x1080] size for photos with an
aspect ratio of 16:9.

PHOTO

The ACCESS indicator will flash as
the still image is being recorded.

IMPORTANT

NOTES

autofocus, turns yellow. Adjust the
focus manually ( 47).

“OVEREXP.” starts flashing. In such
case, use the optional FS-H37U ND
filter.

58

( 24)

Options

Image size options and the approximate
number of still images that can be
recorded on memory cards of various
sizes are given in the table below.

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ 2048x1536]
Desired image size*
Desired image quality*

FUNC.

* Press to move back and forth between

size and quality selection. The number
displayed on the right corner indicates the
approximate number of images that can be
recorded with the current quality/size
setting.

NOTES

• Depending on the number of images on
the memory card (Windows: 1,800
images or more; Macintosh: 1,000
images or more), you may not be able to
transfer images to a computer. Try using
a card reader.

• Connection to a PictBridge-compatible
printer will not work when the memory
card contains 1,800 images or more. For
best performance, we recommend
keeping the number of images on the
memory card under 100.

• The camcorder retains the last setting
used even if you set the camcorder to

mode.

Approximate number of still images on a memory card

Memory card 128 MB 512 MB 1 GB
Image quality1 →

COPY

Image size ↓

LW 1920x1080 85 130 260 350 525 1,035 705 1,055 2,080
L 2048x1536
M 1440x1080 115 175 345 470 700 1,365 940 1,400 2,740
SW 848x480
S 640x480 585 845 1,525 2,315 3,350 6,030 4,640 6,705 12,070

1
2

This size is only available for recording a still image at the same time you are recording
video (simultaneous recording) ( 65).

3

Approximate number of still images that can actually be recorded on the memory card.
(The maximum number of remaining still images displayed on the screen is 9999.)



2

: [SUPER FINE], : [FINE], : [NORMAL].

  

55 85 175 230 345 700 470 700 1,400

450 635 1,275 1,775 2,515 5,030 3,550 5,030 10,060



Default value

3

3

59

Photos

• When printing still images, use the
following guidelines as a reference for
selecting the print size.

Image size Recommended use

L 2048x1536 To print photos up to A4 size.
M 1440x1080 To print photos up to L size

S 640x480 To send images as e-mail

LW 1920x1080,
SW 848x480

Erasing a Photo Right After Recording It

You can erase the still image recorded
last while reviewing it within the time set
for the [REVIEW] option or immediately
after recording it, if [REVIEW] is set to
[OFF].

(9 x 13 cm) or postcard size
(10 x 14.8 cm).

attachments or to post on
the Web.

To print photos with a 16:9
aspect ratio. Wide-sized
photo paper is required.

COPY

( 24)

Basic Playback

Viewing Photos

( 24)

1 Set the mode dial to .
2 Turn on the camcorder.
3 Push the joystick ( ) to move

between images.

Push the joystick ( ) and hold it
down to run quickly through the still
images.

While reviewing the image immediately
after recording:

1 Push the joystick ( ) toward .
2 Select ( ) [ERASE] and press .

60

Image Jump Function

When you have recorded a large
number of still images, you can jump 10
or 100 still images at a time.

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

3 Select ( ) [ JUMP 10

IMAGES] or [ JUMP 100
IMAGES].

4 Jump ( ) the number of images

selected and press .

You can press again to hide the
joystick guide.

IMPORTANT

• Observe the following precautions while

the ACCESS indicator is on or flashing.
Failing to do so may result in permanent
data loss.

- Do not open the memory card slot
cover.

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

- Do not change the position of the
mode dial.

• The following may not be displayed
correctly.

- Images not recorded with this

COPY

camcorder.

- Images edited on or uploaded from a

computer.

- Images whose file names have been

changed.

Slideshow

You can play a slideshow of all the still
images.

1 Select ( ) the first still image of

the slideshow.

2 Press to play back the still

images one after another.

Press to stop the slideshow.

Index Screen

/

1 Move the zoom lever toward W.

The still images index screen appears.

2 Select ( , ) an image.

• Move the orange selection frame
to the image you want to view.

• Repeatedly press or to
extend the selection frame and
browse through whole index
pages.

3 Press .

The index screen closes and the
selected image is displayed.

TO SELECT WHICH STILL IMAGES TO

PLAY BACK

You can switch between the still images
recorded in the built-in memory and
those recorded on the memory card.

1 In the index screen, move ( ) the

orange selection frame to the tabs
on the top of the screen.

2 Select ( ) the location of the still

images you want to play back.

61

Photos

3 Return ( ) to the index screen to

select the still image.

Still images in the built-in memory

Still images on the memory card

Magnifying Photos during Playback

During playback, still images can be
magnified up to 5 times.

( 24)

COPY

1 Move the zoom lever toward T.

• The image is magnified by 2 times
and a frame appears indicating the
position of the magnified area.

• To further enlarge the image, move
the zoom lever toward T. To reduce
the magnification to less than 2
times, move it toward W.

• will appear for images that
cannot be enlarged.

2 Move ( , ) the frame to the

part of the image you want to see
enlarged.

To cancel the magnification, move
the zoom lever toward W until the
frame disappears.

Erasing Photos

You can erase those still images that
you are not interested in keeping.

( 24)

POINTS TO CHECK

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to erase the still
images ( 61).

Erasing a Single Image

1

If the joystick guide does not appear
on screen, press to display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .
3 Select ( ) [ERASE] and press .

Erasing All Images

FUNC.

( 26)

62

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[ERASE ALL IMAGES]
[YES]* [OK]

FUNC.

* Press twice to interrupt the operation

while it is in progress.

IMPORTANT

Be careful when erasing images. Erased
images cannot be recovered.

NOTES

Protected images cannot be erased.

COPY

Additional Functions

Flash

You can use the flash to record still
images in dark places. The flash
features the red-eye reduction function.

( 24)

Options



(auto)

The flash fires automatically according to the
brightness of the subject.

(red-eye reduction, auto)

The flash fires automatically according to the
brightness of the subject. The assist lamp lights
up to reduce the red-eye effect.

(flash on)

The flash always fires.

(flash off)

The flash does not fire.



Default value

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

If does not appear on the joystick
guide, push the joystick ( ) toward
[NEXT] to display it.

63

Photos

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

• Repeatedly push the joystick ( )
to cycle between the flash modes.

• The icon of the flash mode
appears. disappears after 4
seconds.

3 Press , first halfway to

• The flash will not fire in the following

• About the AF-Assist Lamp: While you press

• The practical range of the flash is

PHOTO

activate the autofocus and then
fully to record the still image.

NOTES

cases:

- When you manually adjust the
exposure in (auto) or (red-eye
reduction) mode.

- During auto exposure bracketing.

- In the [ FIREWORKS] recording
program.

PHOTO

halfway, if the subject is too
dark the assist lamp may light up briefly
in order to enable the camcorder to
focus more accurately (AF-assist lamp).

- You can also set [AF AST LAMP] to

[ OFF] so the assist lamp does not
light up ( 90).

- The camcorder may not be able to

focus even if the AF-assist lamp is on.

approx. 1 to 2 m. The actual range will
depend on the recording conditions.

COPY

• The range of the flash decreases in
continuous shooting mode.

• For red-eye reduction to be effective,
the subject needs to look at the assist
lamp. The degree of reduction depends
on the distance and on each individual.

• The flash mode cannot be selected
when the exposure is locked.

• We recommend not using the flash while
the optional Wide-converter or
Tele-converter is attached; its shadow
can appear on the screen.

Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting and Exposure Bracketing

Take a series of pictures of a moving
subject or record the same picture in 3
levels of exposure in order to choose
later the picture you like the best.

( 24)

POINTS TO CHECK

Select a recording mode other than
[

FIREWORKS].

Maximum number of continuous shots

Number of shots per second
Normal speed 2.5 frames
High speed 4.1 frames

Using the flash 1.7 frames

These figures are approximate and vary with the recording conditions and subjects.
The actual number of frames per second will be lower when the shutter speed is 1/25 or
slower.

64

Maximum number of continuous shots

60 images

Options

[SINGLE]

Records a single still image.
[ CONT.SHOOT.] (Continuous Shooting),

[ HISPEED CONT.SHOOT. ]
(High-Speed Continuous Shooting)

Captures a series of still images as long as you
hold pressed down. For the number of
shots per second, refer to the sidebar on
page 64.

[ AEB] (Auto Exposure Bracketing)
The camcorder records a still image in three

different exposures (dark, normal, light in 1/2 EV
steps), allowing you to choose the shot you like
the best.

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

FUNC.



PHOTO

[ SINGLE]
Desired option



Default value

AUTO EXPOSURE BRACKETING

PHOTO

Press , first halfway to
activate the autofocus and then fully
to record the still images.

Three still images in different exposures
will be recorded.

Capturing a Still Image while Recording Movies (Simultaneous Recording)

You can record still images even while
the camcorder is set to mode.
Moreover, you can capture the still
image at the same time you are
recording video.

Still images recorded with simultaneous
recording will have the same aspect
ratio of movies (16:9).

( 24)

CONTINUOUS SHOOTING/
H

IGH-SPEED CONTINUOUS SHOOTING

COPY

1Press halfway to activate

2 Press fully and hold it

PHOTO

the autofocus.

PHOTO

pressed down.

A series of still images will be
recorded as long as you hold the
button pressed.

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ STILL I.REC OFF]
Desired image size*
Desired image quality*

FUNC.

* Press to move back and forth between

size and quality selection. The number
displayed on the right corner indicates the
approximate number of images that can be
recorded with the current quality/size
setting.

65

Photos

While recording, or in record pause
mode, press to capture the
still image.

NOTES

• The still image cannot be recorded
simultaneously while the digital zoom or
a digital effect is activated.

• To record still images we recommend
using the mode, which offers the
best quality for still images.

• The still image will be recorded
to the memory selected for recording
still images ( 30).

Light Metering Mode

The camcorder measures the light
reflected from the subject in order to
calculate the optimal exposure settings.
Depending on the subject, you may
want to change the way the light is
measured and evaluated.

Options

[EVALUATIVE]

Appropriate for standard shooting conditions,
including backlit scenes. The camcorder divides
the picture into several areas and the light is
measured in all of them to achieve the optimal
exposure for the subject.

[ CENT.WEIGHT.AVERAGE]
Averages the light metered from the entire

screen, giving more weight to the subject in the
center.

PHOTO

( 24)

COPY





Default value

[SPOT]
Meters only the area within the spot AE point

frame. Use this setting to adjust the exposure to
match the subject in the center of the screen.

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ EVALUATIVE]
Desired option

FUNC.

Histogram Display

When viewing still images you can
display the histogram and the icons of
all the functions used at the time of
recording. Use the histogram as a
reference to verify the correct exposure
of the still image.

( 24)

The area to the right of the histogram
represents highlights and the left side
represents shadows. A still image
whose histogram skews to the right is
relatively bright; while one whose
histogram peaks to the left, is relatively
dark.

Pixel Count

Shadows

Highlights

66

NOTES

The histogram will appear also after
recording a still image, while reviewing it
within the time set for the [REVIEW] option
(or immediately after recording it, if
[REVIEW] is set to [ OFF]). You can
choose to turn off the histogram by
pressing ( 51).

Capturing a Still Image from the Playback Scene

You can capture as still images frames
from a scene. The size of the captured
still image will be LW 1920x1080 and it
cannot be changed, but you can select
the image quality.

DISP.

( 24)

TO CAPTURE THE STILL IMAGE

1 Play back the scene containing

the picture you want to capture.

2 Pause the playback at the point

you want to capture.

3Press fully.

• The data code of the still image will

• A still image captured from a scene with

• The still image will be recorded

Protecting Photos

PHOTO

NOTES

reflect the date and time of recording of
the original scene.

lots of fast movement may be blurred.

to the memory selected for recording
still images ( 30).

POINTS TO CHECK

Set [TV TYPE] to [ WIDE TV]
before using this function ( 95).

FUNC.

( 26)

FUNC.

FUNC.

* The number displayed at the bottom

indicates the approximate number of
images that can be recorded with the
current quality setting.

COPY

[ MENU]
[ SYSTEM SETUP]
[IMG QUALITY]
Desired image quality*

You can protect still images from
accidental erasure.

( 24)

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Open the image selection screen.

FUNC.

[ PROTECT]
[ PROTECT] appears on the
screen.

2 Select ( ) the still image you

want to protect.

67

Photos

3 Press to protect the still

image.

appears on the bottom bar and

the image cannot be erased. Press

again to cancel the image

protection.

4 Repeat steps 2-3 to protect

additional images or press
twice to close the menu.

IMPORTANT

Initializing the memory ( 31) will
permanently erase all recordings,
including protected still images.

Copying Photos

You can copy still images from the built­in memory to the memory card and vice
versa.

POINTS TO CHECK

Select in advance the memory from which
you want to copy the still images ( 61).

Copying a Single Image

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ COPY] [YES]

FUNC.

COPY

FUNC.

( 24)

Copying Images from the Index Screen

Options

[ALL IMAGES]
Copies all the still images.
[ONE IMAGE]
Copies only the selected still image.

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Move the zoom lever toward W.

The still image index screen appears.

2 Select the memory from which you

want to copy the still images.

Refer to To select which still images
to play back ( 61).

3 If you want to copy only one

image, select ( , ) the still
image you want to copy.

4 Copy the still image(s).

FUNC.

Desired option [YES]* [OK]**

FUNC.

* When copying all the still images, press

twice to interrupt the operation while it is in
progress.

**Only when copying all still images.

IMPORTANT

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

- Do not open the memory card slot cover.

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

- Do not change the position of the mode
dial.

[

COPY]

68

NOTES

• If there is not enough space on the
destination memory, the camcorder will
copy as many still images as possible
before stopping the operation.

• If the memory card slot cover is open, or
the LOCK switch on the memory card is
set to prevent writing, you will not be
able to copy still images to the memory
card.

Other Functions You Can Use when Taking Photos

You can also use the following
functions...

The following functions and features of
the camcorder can be used either for
shooting video or for taking photos.
The way to set and use them was
already explained in detail, so we refer
you to the relevant page in the “Video”
section.

• Zoom ( 34)

• Quick Start ( 34)

• Recording programs ( 42, 43)

• Mini video light ( 45)

• Self timer ( 46)

• Automatic backlight correction and manual
exposure adjustment ( 46)

• Manual focus adjustment ( 47)

• White balance ( 48)

• Image effects ( 49)

• Digital effects ( 50)

COPY

Printing Photos

Printing Photos (Direct Print)

The camcorder can be connected to
any PictBridge-compatible printer. You
can mark in advance the still images
you want to print and set the desired
number of copies as a print order
( 73).

Canon printers: SELPHY printers of the
CP, DS and ES series and inkjet printers
marked with the PictBridge logo.

( 24)

Connecting the Camcorder to the Printer

1 Insert the memory card containing

the still images you want to print.

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to print the still
images ( 61).

2 Turn on the printer.
3 Connect the camcorder to the

printer using the supplied USB
cable.

• Connection . Refer to

Connection Diagrams ( 77).

• If the device type selection screen

appears, select [ PC/PRINTER]
and press .

• appears and changes to .

69

Photos

• The (print/share) button lights
up and the current print settings
will be displayed for approx.
6 seconds.

IMPORTANT

• If continues to flash (for more than 1
minute) or if does not appear, the
camcorder is not correctly connected to
the printer. In such case, disconnect the
USB cable and turn off the camcorder
and the printer. After a short while, turn
them on again, set the camcorder to

mode and restore the connection.

• During the following operations, even if
you connect a printer to the camcorder
it will not be recognized.

- Erasing all still images

- Erasing all transfer orders

- Erasing all print orders

NOTES

• will appear for images that cannot be
printed.

• We recommend powering the
camcorder using the compact power
adapter.

• Refer also to the printer’s instruction
manual.

• If you have no intention to use the
optional DW-100 DVD Burner, you can
set [USB SETTING] to [ PC/PRINTER]

( 94) so the device type selection

screen does not appear every time you
connect the camcorder to a printer.

COPY

Printing with the (Print/Share) Button

You can print a still image without
changing the settings simply by
pressing .

1 Select ( ) the still image you

wish to print.

2 Press .

• Printing starts. The button
flashes and stays on when the
printing is completed.

• To continue printing, select ( )
another still image.

Selecting the Print Settings

You can select the number of copies
and other settings for printing. The
setting options vary depending on your
printer model.

( 24)

70

Options

[PAPER]
[ PAPER SIZE]: Available paper sizes vary

depending on the printer model.

[ PAPER TYPE]: Select [PHOTO], [FAST
PHOTO], [PLAIN] or [DEFAULT].

[ PAGE LAYOUT]: Select [DEFAULT],
[BORDERED] or one of the following page
layouts.
[BORDERLESS]: The image is enlarged and may
be slightly cropped at the edges to fit the paper.
[2-UP], [4-UP], [8-UP], [9-UP], [16-UP]: Refer to
the sidebar below.

[] (Date print)
Select [ON], [OFF] or [DEFAULT].
[ ] (Print Effect)
Available only with printers compatible with the

Image Optimize function. Select [ON], [OFF] or
[DEFAULT].
Canon inkjet/SELPHY DS printers: You can also
select [VIVID], [NR] and [VIVID+NR].

[ ] (Number of Copies)
Select 1-99 copies.

NOTES

Print setting options and [DEFAULT]
settings vary depending on the printer
model. For details, refer to the printer’s
instruction manual.

Printing after Changing the Print Settings

1 If the joystick guide does not

appear on screen, press to
display it.

2 Push the joystick ( ) toward .

The print settings menu appears.

Printing multiple images on the same sheet [2-UP], [4-UP], etc.

When using Canon printers you can print the same still image multiple times on the
same sheet of paper. Use the following table as a guideline for the recommended
number of copies depending on the [ PAPER SIZE] setting.

1
2

COPY

[ PAPER SIZE]→ [CREDITCARD] [9 x 13 cm] [10 x 14.8 cm] [A4]

Canon printer ↓

Inkjet printers
SELPHY DS

SELPHY CP/ES 2, 4 or 8

You can also use the special sticker sheets.
With the [8-UP] setting, you can also use the special sticker sheets.
SELPHY CP: When you use the wide-sized photo paper with the [DEFAULT] setting, you
can also use [2-UP] or [4-UP].

– – 2, 4, 9 or 16

2

2 or 4 2 or 4 –

1

4

71

Photos

Trimming settings ( 73)

Paper settings

Current paper settings (paper size, paper

type and page layout)

Number of copies
Print effect

Date printing

3 In the print settings menu, select

(, ) the setting you want to
change and press .

4 Select ( ) the desired setting

option and press .

5 Select ( , ) [PRINT] and

press .

•Printing starts. The print settings
menu disappears when the
printing is completed.

• To continue printing, select ( )
another still image.

TO CANCEL THE PRINTING

COPY

1 Press while printing.
2 Select ( ) [OK] and press .

PRINT ERRORS

If an error occurs while printing, an error
message, for example [NO PAPER], will
appear on the camcorder. Solve the
problem referring to the error message list

( 106) and to the printer's instruction

manual.

•

Canon's PictBridge-compatible printers: If

printing does not resume automatically
after you solved the problem, select
[CONTINUE] and press to resume
printing. If that option is not available,
select [STOP] and press and then
restart printing from the beginning.

• Other printers or if the error still persists with
a Canon printer: If printing does not
resume automatically, disconnect the
USB cable and turn off the camcorder.
After a short while, turn on the
camcorder and restore the USB
connection.

IMPORTANT

• You may not be able to print correctly
with a PictBridge-compatible printer still
images whose file names have been
changed or that were recorded, created,
edited or changed with any device other
than this camcorder.

• If [BUSY] does not disappear,
disconnect the USB cable and restore
the connection after a short while.

WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED PRINTING

Disconnect the cable from the camcorder
and printer and turn off the camcorder.

72

Trimming Settings

Set the paper size and page layout
before changing the trimming settings.

1 Open the print settings menu.

Refer to steps 1-2 in Printing after
Changing the Print Settings ( 71).

2 Select ( , ) [TRIMMING] and

press .

The trimming frame appears.

3 Change the size of the trimming

frame.

• Move the zoom lever toward T to
shrink the frame, and move it
toward W to enlarge it. Press
to change the orientation of the
frame (portrait/landscape).

• To cancel the trimming settings,
move the zoom lever toward W
until the trimming frame
disappears.

COPY

5 Press to return to the print

• The trimming settings apply to one

• The trimming settings are canceled in

• You may not be able to set the trimming

Print Orders

FUNC.

settings menu.

• The print area selected will be
indicated by a green frame within
the still image's thumbnail.

• To change other print settings and
print the area you selected refer to
steps 3-5 in Printing after
Changing the Print Settings
( 71).

NOTES

image only.

the following cases:

- When you turn off the camcorder.

- When you disconnect the USB cable.

- When you expand the trimming frame
beyond its maximum size.

- When you change the [PAPER SIZE]
setting.

settings for a still image not recorded
with this camcorder.

4 Move ( , ) the trimming

frame to the area of the picture
you want to print.

You can mark in advance the still
images you want to print and set the
desired number of copies as a print
order. Later, you can easily print out the
print orders by connecting the
camcorder to a PictBridge-compatible
printer ( 69). You can set print orders
for up to 998 still images.

( 24)

73

Photos

Selecting Still Images for Printing (Print Order)

POINTS TO CHECK

Set the print orders before connecting
the USB cable to the camcorder.

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Open the image selection screen.

FUNC.

[ PRINT ORDER]
appears on the screen.

2 Select ( ) the still image you

want to mark with a print order.

3 Press to set the print order.

The number of copies appears in
orange.

4 Set ( ) the number of copies

desired and press .

To cancel the print order, set the
number of copies to 0.

5 Repeat steps 2-4 to mark

additional images with print orders
or press twice to close the
menu.

FUNC.

COPY

Printing the Still Images Marked with Print Orders

2 Open the print settings menu.

FUNC.

[ MENU]

[ PRINT]

• The print settings menu appears.

• If there are no still images marked
with print orders, [SET PRINT
ORDER] appears.

3 Select ( , ) [PRINT] and

press .

Printing starts. The print settings
menu disappears when the printing
is completed.

NOTES

• Depending on the connected printer,
you can change some print settings
before step 3 ( 70).

• To cancel the printing, refer to page 72.

• Restarting Printing: Open the print
settings menu as explained in step 2. In
the print settings menu, select
[RESUME]* and press . The
remaining images will be printed.
Printing cannot be restarted when the
print order settings have been changed
or if you deleted a still image with print
order settings.

* In case the print order was interrupted

after the first still image, this menu option
will appear as [PRINT] instead.

Erasing All Print Orders

FUNC.

( 26)

1 Connect the camcorder to the

printer using the supplied USB
cable.

Connection . Refer to Connection
Diagrams ( 77).

74

FUNC.

( 25)

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[ERASE ALL ORD]
[YES]

FUNC.

External Connections

This chapter explains how to connect your camcorder to an external
device such as a TV, VCR, or computer.

Terminals on the Camcorder

COMPONENT OUT Terminal*

Access: Open the LCD panel and the terminal cover.
The component video terminal is for video only. When
you use connection do not forget the audio
connections using the AV OUT/ terminal.

AV OUT/ Terminal

Access: Open the rear terminal cover.
Sound from the built-in speaker will be muted while the
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable is connected to the
camcorder.

HDMI OUT Mini Terminal*

Access: Move the grip belt and open the terminal cover.
The HDMI OUT mini terminal offers a high-quality digital
connection that combines audio and video in a single
convenient cable.

USB Terminal

Access: Move the grip belt and open the terminal cover.

* When connecting a cable to the camcorder, make sure to align the triangle marks on the cable's

connector and on the camcorder's terminal ( ).

COPY

75

External Connections

Attaching the Ferrite Core

Attach the enclosed ferrite core before you connect the STV-250N Stereo Video
Cable to the camcorder.

Attach the ferrite core to the cable about 10 mm from
the plug end (the plug to be connected to the
camcorder) of the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable.

Pass the cable through the centre of the core and wrap it
around the core, then close the unit until it clicks shut.

10 mm

76

COPY

Connection Diagrams

Connections that can be used to connect the camcorder to a TV are listed in falling
order of picture quality. Connections that require cables or accessories not supplied
with the camcorder are marked with an asterisk; prepare the necessary equipment in
advance.

Connection *

Connection

COPY

Type: Digital Quality: High definition Output only

Connect to a high-definition TV (HDTV) with an HDMI input terminal.

HTC-100 HDMI Cable

(optional)

Type: Analog Quality: Depends on the settings Output only

Connect to a high-definition TV (HDTV) or a standard TV with component video input
terminals. Change the following settings on the camcorder:

- [COMP.OUT] according to the TV set (standard or high definition) ( 95)

- [AV/PHONES] to [ AV] ( 94)

Pr/Cr

Pb/Cb

AUDIO

Y

L

R

CTC-100/S Component Cable

(supplied)

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

(supplied)

Red

Blue

Green

White

Red

77

External Connections

Type: Analog Quality: Standard definition Output only

Connect to a standard TV or a VCR with audio/video input terminals. Change the

Connection

following settings on the camcorder:

- [TV TYPE] according to the TV set (widescreen or 4:3), if the TV cannot automatically
detect and change the aspect ratio ( 95)

- [AV/PHONES] to [ AV] ( 94)

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

(supplied)

Yellow
White

Red

VIDEO

AUDIO

L

R

Connection *

Connection

COPY

In all respects, exactly the same connection as connection above.

Connect to a standard TV or VCR with SCART input terminal. Requires a SCART adapter
(commercially available).

Red

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

(supplied)

Type: Digital data connection

Connect to a computer to transfer and back up your recordings, to the optional DW­100 DVD Burner to create DVD discs from them, or to a printer to print out photos.

USB Cable

(supplied)

White
Yellow

SCART adapter

(commercially available)

78

Playback on a TV Screen

Connect the camcorder to a TV to enjoy
your recordings with family and friends.
Playback on an HDTV using one of the
high-definition connections will ensure
the best playback quality.

( 24)

1 Turn off the camcorder and the TV.
2 Connect the camcorder to the TV.

Refer to Connection Diagrams
( 77) and select the most
appropriate connection for your TV.

3 Turn on the connected TV.

On the TV, select as the video input
the same terminal to which you
connected the camcorder. Refer to
the instruction manual of the
connected TV.

4 Turn on the camcorder and set it

to mode ( 36) or
mode ( 60).

Start the playback of movies or still
images.

NOTES

• We recommend powering the
camcorder using the compact power
adapter.

• Sound from the built-in speaker will be
muted while the STV-250N Stereo Video
Cable is connected to the camcorder.

• Connection or : When you play
back your 16:9 movies on standard TV
sets with a 4:3 aspect ratio, the TV set
will switch automatically to widescreen
mode if it is compatible with the WSS
system. Otherwise, change the aspect
ratio of the TV manually.

COPY

About the HDMI terminal

The HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connection ( ) is a convenient all­digital connection using a single cable for both video and audio. When you connect the
camcorder to an HDTV equipped with an HDMI terminal, you can enjoy video and audio
playback at the highest quality.

- The HDMI OUT mini terminal on the camcorder is for output only. Do not connect it to
an HDMI output terminal on an external device, as this may damage the camcorder.

- Correct operation cannot be guaranteed when connecting the camcorder to DVI
monitors.

- Depending on the HDTV, correct playback of personal video content may not be possible
using connection . Try one of the other connections.

- While the camcorder is connected to an HDTV using connection , there will no video
output from other terminals.

79

External Connections

Saving and Backing Up Your Recordings

Backing Up Your Recordings on a Computer

Movies recorded with this camcorder
are saved on the memory card or in the
built-in memory ( only). Because
space on the memory is limited, make
sure to back up your movies onto a
computer on a regular basis.

PIXELA ImageMixer 3 SE

With the software supplied on the
PIXELA ImageMixer 3 SE CD-ROM
you can select scenes and back them
up on your computer's hard disk, and
restore your backup files back to the
camcorder if necessary. On the
computer, you can neatly organize all
your video recordings into albums and
add comments for quick and easy
searches; you can also edit scenes,
convert and resize them to upload them
to your Web site or to take with you on
your portable video player and more.
For details about the functions
available, refer to the software's
instruction manual (PDF file). For details
about installing the software refer to

PIXELA ImageMixer 3 SE Installation
Guide.

COPY

Saving your Recordings without a Computer

The following options are also available
if you prefer to save your recordings
without having to use a computer.

• Use the optional DW-100 DVD Burner
to create high-definition (AVCHD)
discs of your movies and Photo DVDs
of your still images ( 80).

• Connect the camcorder to an external
recording device (DVD or HDD
recorder, VCR, etc.) to save standard­definition copies of your movies
( 83).

IMPORTANT

When the camcorder is connected to a
computer: Do not access, change or delete

folders and files in the camcorder directly
from the computer as this may result in
permanent data loss. Always back up your
recordings to the computer and restore
the backup files to the camcorder using
only the supplied software ImageMixer 3.

Authoring High-Definition (AVCHD) Discs and Photo DVDs

You can connect the camcorder to the
optional DW-100 DVD Burner to create
high-definition DVD discs (AVCHD
specifications). This way, you can
preserve your video recordings in the
highest video quality available. You can
also create Photo DVDs from your still
images that you can play back with
most standard DVD players.

80

Refer to this section along with the
relevant sections in the instruction
manual of the DW-100.

( 24)

Options for creating AVCHD discs
(mode)

[ALL SCENES]
Add all the scenes to the disc(s).
[REM.SCENES]
Add only those scenes that have not been

previously added to a disc.
[PLAYLIST]
Add only the scenes included in the playlist

( 55).

Options for creating Photo DVDs
(mode)

[ALL IMAGES]
Add all the still images to the slideshow on the

disc.
[TRANS.ORD]
Add only still images marked with transfer orders

( 86).

Preparations on the Camcorder

COPY

1 Turn on the camcorder and set it

to mode to create high­definition discs of your movies or

mode to create Photo DVDs

of your still images.

• Power the camcorder using the
compact power adapter.

• Select in advance the
memory from which you want to
add the scenes ( 36) or still
images ( 61).

2 Select the scenes or still images

you want to add to the disc.

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ SYSTEM SETUP]
[ADD TO DISC] Desired option

FUNC.

Connecting to the DW-100 DVD Burner and Creating a Disc

1 Turn on the DVD Burner.

Refer to Creating DVDs.

DW-100

2 Connect the camcorder to the

DVD Burner using the USB cable.

• Connection . Refer to

Connection Diagrams ( 77) and

• If the device type selection screen

appears, select [ DVD BURNER]
and press .

• When the connection is

completed, [NO DISC] will be
displayed.

DW-100

Connections.

3 Insert a brand new disc into the

DVD Burner.

• Use the OPEN/CLOSE button on

the DVD Burner to open and close
the disc tray.

• After the disc is recognized, an

information screen will display the
type of DVD you are creating and
the estimated time and number of
discs it will require (based on the
disc you inserted).

• If you inserted a DVD-RW disc that

already contains data, [THE DISC
CONTAINS DATA] will be
displayed. To overwrite the data
(erasing the previous content of
the disc), press , select [YES]
and press again.

81

External Connections

4 Press the start button on the DVD

Burner.

• A progress bar will be displayed on
the screen.

• After pressing the start button
(while the current disc is being
written) the operation cannot be
canceled.

WHEN THE DATA REQUIRES MULTIPLE DISCS

• After a disc is finalized it will be
ejected automatically and [INSERT A
NEW/BLANK DISC AND CLOSE THE
DISC TRAY] will appear. Insert the
next disc and close the disc tray.

• When the last disc is finalized, [TASK
COMPLETED] will be displayed. Take
out the disc and close the disc tray.

IMPORTANT

• While the camcorder is connected to the
DVD Burner, do not open the memory
card slot cover and do not remove the
memory card.

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

- Do not open the memory card slot

cover.

- Do not disconnect the USB cable.

- Do not disconnect the power source

or turn off the camcorder or the DVD
Burner.

- Do not change the position of the

mode dial.

• High-definition (AVCHD) discs created
using the optional DW-100 DVD Burner
can be played back only with AVCHD­compatible DVD players. Do not insert a
high-definition disc into a DVD player
that is not compatible with AVCHD
specifications as you may not be able to
eject the disc.

• For important information on handling
your discs, refer to Cautions
on handling.

DW-100

TO CREATE AN ADDITIONAL COPY OF THE

SAME DISC

After the operation is finished, [INSERT
A NEW/BLANK DISC] will be displayed
again. Insert a brand new disc and
close the disc tray.

82

COPY

Playing Back AVCHD Discs Using the DW-100 DVD Burner

You can use the optional DW-100 DVD
Burner and the camcorder also to play
back high-definition (AVCHD) discs on a
TV. This is very convenient, for example to
play back your discs even in a location
where an AVCHD-compatible DVD player
is not available.

( 24)

1 Connect the camcorder to the TV.

Refer to Connection Diagrams
(

77). Select connection or

to enjoy high-definition playback.

2 Turn on the DVD Burner and set it

to Disc Playback mode.

DW-100

Refer to Playing DVDs.

3 Connect the camcorder to the

DVD Burner using the USB cable.

• Connection . Refer to
Connection Diagrams ( 77) and

DW-100

• If the device type selection screen
appears, select [ DVD BURNER]
and press .

Connections.

4 Insert the disc you want to play

back into the DVD Burner.

• Use the OPEN/CLOSE button on
the DVD Burner to open and close
the disc tray.

• After the disc is recognized, the
disc's content will be displayed in
an index screen.

5 Select ( , ) the scene you

want to play back and press to
begin the playback.

TO PLAY BACK PHOTO DVDS

Photo DVDs are created using DVD-Video
specifications (standard definition) and
cannot be played back using the DVD
Burner. Play back your Photo DVDs using
standard DVD players.
If your computer has a DVD drive, you can
play back the slideshow as a DVD and you
can also access the individual still images
as JPG files.

COPY

IMPORTANT

While the camcorder is connected to the
DVD Burner, do not open the memory card
slot cover and do not remove the memory
card.

NOTES

• Only AVCHD discs created with the
DW-100 DVD Burner can be played
back using the DVD Burner.

• The FUNC. menu and setup menus
cannot be accessed while the
camcorder is connected to the DVD
Burner.

• Some of the special playback modes
(frame advance/reverse, slow playback,
fast playback at 60x speed, etc.) cannot
be used for disc playback.

Copying your Recordings to an External Video Recorder

You can copy your recordings by
connecting the camcorder to a VCR or
a digital video device. Video output will
be in standard definition, although the
original scenes are in high definition.

( 24)

Connecting

Connect the camcorder to the VCR
using Connection or . Refer to
Connection Diagrams ( 77).

83

External Connections

Recording

1 External device: Load a blank

cassette or disc and set the device
to record pause mode.

2 Camcorder: Locate the scene you

wish to copy and pause playback
shortly before the scene.

3 Camcorder: Resume the movie

playback.

4 External device: Begin recording

when the scene you wish to copy
appears. Stop recording when
copying is complete.

5 Camcorder: Stop playback.

NOTES

• We recommend powering the
camcorder using the compact power
adapter.

• By default, on-screen displays will be
embedded in the output video signal.
You can change the displays by
repeatedly pressing ( 51).

Transferring Photos to a Computer (Direct Transfer)

With the software supplied on the
DIGITAL VIDEO Solution Disk
CD-ROM you can transfer still images
to a computer simply by pressing

Refer also to the relevant sections in the
“Digital Video Software” instruction
manual (PDF file).

COPY

.

DISP.

Preparations

Install the software before you connect
the camcorder to the computer for the
first time. (Windows users only: you
also need to select CameraWindow's
auto-launch setting.) After that, just
connect the camcorder to the computer
(steps 2 and 3) and proceed directly to
transfer the still images (

85).

1 Install the supplied Digital Video

Software.

Refer to Installing the

DVSD

Software.

2 Set the camcorder to mode.

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to transfer still
images ( 61).

3 Connect the camcorder to the

computer using the USB cable.

• Connection . Refer to

Connection Diagrams ( 77).

• If the device type selection screen

appears, select [ PC/PRINTER]
and press .

• The direct transfer menu appears

on the camcorder screen and the

button lights up.

FIRST-TIME CONNECTION TO A COMPUTER

RUNNING WINDOWS

Windows users only: The first time you
connect the camcorder to the
computer, you need also to select the
CameraWindow auto-launch setting.

Camcorder to a Computer.

Refer to When Connecting the

DVSD

84

( 24)

IMPORTANT

• While the camcorder is connected to the
computer, do not open the memory card
slot cover and do not remove the
memory card.

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

- Do not open the memory card slot

cover.

- Do not disconnect the USB cable.

- Do not turn off the camcorder or the

computer.

- Do not change the position of the

mode dial.

• Operation may not work correctly
depending on the software and the
specifications/settings of your
computer.

• If you wish to use the image files on your
computer, make copies of them first.
Use the copied files, retaining the
originals.

• During the following operations, even if
you connect the camcorder to the
computer it will not be recognized.

- Erasing all still images

- Erasing all transfer orders

- Erasing all print orders

COPY

NOTES

• We recommend powering the
camcorder using the compact power
adapter.

• Refer also to the computer’s instruction
manual.

• Users of Windows Vista, Windows XP and
Mac OS X: Your camcorder is equipped
with the standard Picture Transfer
Protocol (PTP) allowing you to transfer
still images (JPEG only) simply by
connecting the camcorder to a

computer using the USB cable without
having to install the supplied software.

• If you have no intention to use the
optional DW-100 DVD Burner, you can
set [USB SETTING] to [ PC/PRINTER]
( 94) so the selection screen does not
appear every time you connect the
camcorder to a computer.

Transferring Still Images

( 24)

Automatic Transfer Options

All the relevant still images will be
transferred to the computer in one
batch and their thumbnails will be
displayed on the computer.

[ ALL IMAGES]
Transfers all still images.
[ NEW IMAGES]
Transfers only those still images that have not

yet been transferred to the computer.
[ TRANSFER ORDERS]
Transfers still images marked with transfer

orders ( 86).

Manual Transfer Options

You can select the still image(s) to
transfer.

[ SELECT & TRANSFER]
Select the still image(s) to transfer.
[ WALLPAPER]
Select a still image and set it as your computer’s

desktop background.

85

External Connections

NOTES

When the camcorder is connected to the
computer and the image selection screen
is displayed, press to return to the
transfer menu.

Tra n s f e r O r d e r s

You can mark in advance the still
images you want to transfer to the
computer as transfer orders. You can
set transfer orders for up to 998 still
images.

FUNC.

AUTOMATIC TRANSFER OPTIONS

Select ( ) a transfer option and
press .

• The camcorder returns to the transfer
menu once the transfer is completed.

• To cancel the transfer, select ( )
[CANCEL] and press , or press

FUNC.

.

MANUAL TRANSFER OPTIONS

1 Select ( ) a transfer option and

press .

2 Select ( ) the image you wish to

transfer and press .

• [ SELECT & TRANSFER]:

• The button will flash while the

3 Press to return to the

transfer menu.

86

COPY

Re pea t this step t o sele ct oth er stil l
images to transfer.

images are being transferred.

FUNC.

( 24)

Selecting Still Images to Transfer (Transfer Order)

Set the transfer orders before connecting
the camcorder to the computer.

Select in advance the memory
from which you want to transfer still
images ( 61).

FUNC.

( 25)

1 Open the image selection screen.

FUNC.

[ TRANSFER ORDER]

appears on the screen.

2 Select ( ) the still image you

want to mark with a transfer order.

3 Press to set the transfer order.

A checkmark appears in the box
next to the transfer order icon .
Press again to cancel the
transfer order.

4 Repeat steps 2-3 to mark

additional images with transfer
orders or press twice to
close the menu.

TO TRANSFER THE STILL IMAGES MARKED

WITH TRANSFER ORDERS

Connect the camcorder to the
computer and select [ TRANSFER
ORDERS] in the transfer menu ( 85).

Erasing All Transfer Orders

FUNC.

( 26)

FUNC.

[ MENU]
[ MEMORY OPER.]
[ERASE ALL ORD]
[YES]

FUNC.

FUNC.

COPY

87

Additional Information

This chapter contains troubleshooting advice, screen messages,
handling and maintenance tips, and other information.

Appendix: Menu Options Lists

Menu items not available appear grayed out in the FUNC. menu or in black in the
setup menus. For details about how to select an item, refer to Using the Menus
( 25). For details about each function, see the reference page. Menu options
without a reference page are explained below the tables.

FUNC. Menu

FUNC. Menu

FUNC. Menu - Recording Modes

Menu item Setting options

Recording programs [ PROGRAM AE],

Light metering mode [EVALUATIVE],

White balance [AUTO], [DAYLIGHT], [SHADE], [CLOUDY],

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Image effects [ IMAGE EFFECT OFF], [ VIVID],

Digital effects [ D.EFFECT OFF], [ FADE-T], [ WIPE],

Drive mode [SINGLE], [ CONT.SHOOT.],

[ SHUTTER-PRIO.AE], [ APERTURE-PRIO.AE]
[ CINE MODE] z –42
[ PORTRAIT], [ SPORTS], [ NIGHT], [ SNOW],

[ BEACH], [ SUNSET], [ SPOTLIGHT],
[ FIREWORKS]

[ CENT.WEIGHT.AVERAGE], [ SPOT]

[ TUNGSTEN], [ FLUORESCENT],
[ FLUORESCENT H], [ SET]

[ NEUTRAL], [ LOW SHARPENING],
[ SOFT SKIN DETAIL], [ CUSTOM]

[ BLK&WHT], [ SEPIA], [ ART]
[ D.EFFECT OFF], [ BLK&WHT], [ SEPIA] – z

[ HISPEED CONT.SHOOT.], [ AEB]

zz43

zz42

– z 66

zz48

zz49

z –50

– z 64

88

Menu item Setting options

Recording mode [ HIGH QUALITY 17 Mbps],

Still image simultaneous
recording

Still image size/quality [LW 1920x1080], [L 2048x1536], [M 1440x1080],

Setup Menus

FUNC. Menu - Playback Modes

Menu item Setting options

[COPY] Original movies:

[ADD TO PLAYLIST]

2

[MOVE]
[DELETE] Original movies:

[SELECT DATE]
[PROTECT] – – z 67
[PRINT ORDER] – – z 73
[TRANSFER ORDER] – – z 86

1

Option available only from the original movies index screen.

2

Option available only from the playlist index screen.

COPY

1

[ HIGH QUALITY 12 Mbps],
[ STANDARD PLAY 7 Mbps],
[ LONG PLAY 5 Mbps]

[ STILL I.REC OFF], [LW 1920x1080],
[SW 848x480]

[ SUPER FINE], [FINE], [ NORMAL]

[S 640x480]
[ SUPER FINE], [FINE], [ NORMAL]

[ALL SCENES], [ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)], [ONE SCENE],
[CANCEL]

Scenes in the playlist:
[NO], [YES]

From the index screen:
[ALL IMAGES], [ONE IMAGE], [CANCEL]

While displaying a single still image:
[NO], [YES]

1

[ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)], [ONE SCENE], [CANCEL] z –55
– z –56

[ALL SCENES (THIS DATE)], [ONE SCENE], [CANCEL]
Scenes in the playlist:

[NO], [YES]
– z –38

z –33

z –65

– z 58

z –57

– z 68

z –

z –56

40

89

Additional Information

Setup Menus

Camera Setup (DigitalZoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.)

CAMERA SETUP

Menu item Setting options

[SELF TIMER]
[D.ZOOM] [ OFF], [ 40X], [ 200X] z ––
[ZOOM SPEED] [VARIABLE], [ SPEED 3], [ SPEED 2],

[AF MODE] [ INSTANT AF], [ NORMAL AF] zz –
[FOCUS ASSIST] [ON], [ OFF] zz –
[AF AST LAMP] [AUTO], [ OFF] – z 64
[FOCUS PRI.] [ ON:AiAF], [ ON:CENTER], [ OFF] – z –
[IMG STAB] [ON], [ OFF] zz –
[FRAME RATE] [ 50i NORMAL], [ PF25] z ––
[A.SL SHUTTER] [ON], [ OFF] zz –
[REVIEW]* [ OFF], [2sec], [ 4 sec],

[WIND SCREEN]
[MIC ATT] [ ON ], [OFF] z –52

* Option available only when the drive mode is set to [ SINGLE].

[D.ZOOM]: Determines the operation of the
digital zoom. The color of the indicator
indicates the zoom.

• When activated, the camcorder will switch
automatically to the digital zoom when you
zoom in beyond the optical zoom range.

• With the digital zoom the image is digitally
processed, so the image resolution will
deteriorate the more you zoom in.

[AF MODE]: Select how fast the autofocus
will operate.

• With [ INSTANT AF] the autofocus adjusts quickly to a new subject. This is
convenient for example when changing the focus from a near subject to a far subject in
the background, or when recording fast-moving subjects.

• When the optional Wide-converter or Tele-converter is attached to the camcorder, it may
partially obstruct the Instant AF sensor. Set the AF mode to [ NORMAL AF].

COPY

[ ON ], [ OFF]

[ SPEED 1]

[6sec], [8sec], [10sec]

[ AUTO], [ OFF ]

Optical zoom Digital zoom

White Light

Up to 12x 12x -

zz46

zz34

– z –

z ––

40x

Dark
blue

40x ­200x

blue

90

[FOCUS ASSIST]

• The focus assist function magnifies the image that appears at the center of the screen to

help you focus manually ( 47).

• Using the focus assist function will not affect the recordings. The focus assist function

will be cancelled when you start recording.

[FOCUS PRI.]: When the focus priority is activated, the camcorder records a still image
only after the focus has been adjusted automatically. You can also select which AF frames
to use.
[ ON:AiAF]: One or more AF frames out of the nine frames available are automatically
selected and the focus is fixed on them.
[ ON:CENTER]: A single focusing frame appears in the center of the screen and the
focus is automatically fixed on it.
[ OFF]: No AF frame will appear and the still image will be recorded immediately after
you press .

• When the recording mode is set to [ FIREWORKS], focus priority is automatically set

[IMG STAB]: The image stabilizer compensates for camcorder shake even at full
telephoto.

• The image stabilizer is designed to compensate for a normal degree of camcorder

• We recommend setting the image stabilizer to [ OFF] when using a tripod.

[FRAME RATE]: Selects the frame rate to be used when recording.
[ PF25]: 25 frames per second, progressive. Using this frame rate will give your
recordings a cinematic look. When combined with the [ CINE MODE] recording
program ( 42), the cinematic look will be enhanced.

[A.SL SHUTTER]: The camcorder
automatically uses slow shutter speeds to
obtain brighter recordings in places with
insufficient lighting.

• The setting will not change even if

• In mode, set the flash mode to

• If a trailing afterimage appears, set the slow shutter to [ OFF].

• If (camcorder shake warning) appears, we recommend stabilizing the camcorder, for

[REVIEW]: Selects the time to display a still image after it has been recorded to the
memory.

• If you press while reviewing a still image it will continue to be displayed

PHOTO

to [ OFF].

shake.

Operating mode Shutter speed used
mode As low as 1/25
mode

COPY

you set the camcorder to
mode.

(flash off).

example, by mounting it on a tripod.

DISP.

indefinitely. Press halfway to return to the normal display.

PHOTO

with [ PF25] frame rate

mode

As low as 1/12

91

Additional Information

[WIND SCREEN]: The camcorder automatically reduces the background sound of wind
when recording outdoors.

• Some low-frequency sounds will be suppressed along with the sound of wind. When
recording in surroundings unaffected by wind or if you want to record low-frequency
sounds, we recommend setting the wind screen to [ OFF ].

Memory Operations (Initialization, etc.)

MEMORY OPER.

Menu item Setting options

[MEMORY INFO]
[CARD INFO] – zzzz –

[MEDIA:MOVIES]

[MEDIA:IMAGES]
[DEL.ALL MOVIES]
[DEL.PLAYLIST]
[ERASE ALL ORD] [NO], [YES] – – – z 74
[ERASE ALL ORD] [NO], [YES] – – – z 87
[ERASE ALL IMAGES] [NO], [YES] – – – z 62
[INITIALIZE] [BUILT-IN MEM], [CARD], [CANCEL] zzz1z 31

1

Option available only from the original movies index screen.

2

Option available only from the playlist index screen.

[MEMORY INFO]/[CARD INFO]: Displays a screen where you can verify how much of the
built-in memory ( only) or the memory card is currently in use (total recording time
and total number of still images) and how much memory remains available for recording.

• Estimated figures about available movie recording time and available number of still
images are approximate and based on the recording mode and still image quality/size
settings currently in use.

• In the [CARD INFO] screen you can also verify the Speed Class of the memory card.

2

COPY

– zzzz–

[BUILT-IN MEM], [CARD] zz ––30

[BUILT-IN MEM], [CARD] zzz –30

1

[NO], [YES] – – z –41
[NO], [YES] – – z –56

[INITIALIZE], [COMPL.INIT.], [CANCEL]

92

Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.)

DISPLAY SETUP

Menu item Setting options

[BRIGHTNESS] zzzz –

[AUDIO LEVEL] [ ON], [ OFF] z –––53
[TV SCREEN]
[DATA CODE] [ DATE], [ TIME],

[MARKERS] [ OFF], [ LEVEL(WHT)],

[LANGUAGE ] [ ],[DEUTSCH], [ ]

[START WEEK] [SATURDAY], [SUNDAY], [MONDAY] ––z ––
[DEMO MODE] [ON], [ OFF] zz –––

[BRIGHTNESS]: Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen.

• Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect the brightness of your

recordings or that of the playback image on a TV.

[TV SCREEN]

• When set to [ ON], the camcorder’s on-screen displays will appear also on the

[DATA CODE]: Displays the date and/or time when the scene was recorded.
[ CAMERA DATA]: Displays the aperture (f-stop) and shutter speed used when recording
the image.

[MARKERS]: You can display a grid or a horizontal line at the center of the screen. Use the
markers as a reference to make sure your subject is framed correctly (vertically and/or
horizontally).

• Using the markers will not affect the recordings.

COPY

screen of a TV or monitor connected using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable.

[ ON], [ OFF]

[ DATE & TIME], [ CAMERA DATA]

[ LEVEL(GRY)], [ GRID(WHT)],
[ GRID(GRY)]

[ENGLISH], [ESPAÑOL], [FRANÇAIS],
[ITALIANO], [MAGYAR], [MELAYU],
[POLSKI], [ ], [TÜRKÇE],
[ ], [ ], [ ],
[ ], [ ], [ ],
[ ], [ ], [ ]

zz –––

––z ––

zz –––

zzzz28

93

Additional Information

[START WEEK]: Select the day on which the week starts for the calendar display ( 38).

[DEMO MODE]: The demonstration mode displays the camcorder's main features. It

starts automatically when the camcorder is powered with the compact power adapter if
you leave it turned on for more than 5 minutes.

• To cancel the demo mode once it has started, press any button or turn off the
camcorder.

System Setup (Speaker Volume, Beep, etc.)

SYSTEM SETUP

Menu item Setting options

[BATTERY INFO] – zzzz –
[WL.REMOTE] [ON], [ OFF ] zzzz –
[BEEP] [ HIGH VOLUME],

[POWER SAVE] [ON], [ OFF] zzzz –
[QUICK START] [ OFF], [ 10 min],

[AV/PHONES] [ AV], [ PHONES] z – z –53
[PHONES VOL.] z – z –53
[SPEAKER VOL.] – – z ––
[IMG NUMBERS] [ RESET], [CONTINUOUS] zzzz –
[IMG QUALITY] [ SUPER FINE], [FINE],

[TV TYPE]* [ NORMAL TV], [ WIDE TV] ––z ––
[COMP.OUT]* [ 576i], [ 1080i] zzzz –
[HDMI STATUS] – zzzz –
[USB SETTING] [ DVD BURNER], [ PC/PRINTER],

[ADD TO DISC] [ALL SCENES], [REM.SCENES],

[FIRMWARE] – – – – z –

* Option not available when the camcorder is connected to an HDTV using the HDMI cable.

[BATTERY INFO]: Displays a screen where you can verify the battery charge (as a
percentage) and the remaining recording time ( , mode) or playback time ( ,

COPY

mode).

[ LOW VOLUME], [ OFF]

[ 20 min], [ 30 min]

[ NORMAL]

[ CONNECT&SET]

[PLAYLIST]
[ALL IMAGES], [TRANS.ORD] – – – z

zzzz –

zz –––

––z ––

––zz –

––z –80

94

[WL.REMOTE]: Allows the camcorder to be operated with the wireless controller.

[BEEP]: A beep will accompany some operations like turning on the camcorder, the self-

timer countdown, etc.

[POWER SAVE]: In order to save power when the camcorder is powered by a battery
pack, it will automatically shut off if left without any operation for 5 minutes.

• Approximately 30 seconds before the camcorder shuts off, [AUTO POWER OFF] will

appear.

• In standby mode, the camcorder will shut off after the time selected for the

[QUICK START] setting.

[QUICK START]: Select whether to activate the Quick Start function when you close the
LCD panel in a recording mode ( 34) and the length of time after which the camcorder
will end the standby mode and shut off automatically.

[SPEAKER VOL.]: Adjust ( ) the volume of the playback. You can also adjust the
volume using the joystick guide ( 54).

[IMG NUMBERS]: Select the image numbering method to be used on a new memory card.
Images are automatically assigned consecutive image numbers from 0101 to 9900, and
stored in folders containing up to 100 images. Folders are numbered from 101 to 998.
[ RESET]: Image numbers will restart from 101-0101 every time you insert a new
memory card.
[ CONTINUOUS]: Image numbers will continue from the number following that of the
last image recorded with the camcorder.

• If the memory card you insert already contains an image with a larger number, a new

image will be assigned a number one higher than that of the last image on the memory
card.

• We recommend using the [ CONTINUOUS] setting.

[IMG QUALITY]: Select the quality of a still image captured from a scene.

[TV TYPE]: In order to display the picture in full and in the correct aspect ratio, select the

setting according to the type of television to which you will connect the camcorder.
[ NORMAL TV]: TV sets with 4:3 aspect ratio.
[ WIDE TV]: TV sets with 16:9 aspect ratio.

• When the TV type is set to [ NORMAL TV], the picture displayed on the LCD screen

• When the TV type is set to [ NORMAL TV], still images cannot be captured from the

[COMP.OUT]: You can select the video specifications to use when connecting the
camcorder to a high-definition TV using the component video connection.
[ 576i]: To use the 576i specification (standard definition).
[ 1080i]: To use the full 1080i high definition specification.

[HDMI STATUS]: You can verify the specification of the video output signal from the HDMI
OUT mini terminal.

COPY

will be smaller than the full display area.

playback scene ( 67).

95

Additional Information

[USB SETTING]: Select the connection protocol to use when connecting the camcorder to
an external device using the USB cable.
[ DVD BURNER]: To connect exclusively to the optional DW-100 DVD Burner.
[ PC/PRINTER]: To connect to a computer, a printer or similar USB peripherals.
[ CONNECT&SET]: To make the selection from a screen that appears at the time of the
connection to the external device.

[FIRMWARE]: You can verify the current version of the camcorder's firmware. This menu
option is usually unavailable.

Date/Time Setup

DATE/TIME SETUP

Menu item Setting options

[T.ZONE/DST] List of world time zones. zzzz28
[DATE/TIME] – zzzz27
[DATE FORMAT] [Y.M.D (2008.1.1 AM 12:00)],

[M.D,Y (JAN. 1, 2008 12:00 AM)],

[D.M.Y (1.JAN.2008 12:00 AM)]

[D ATE FO RMAT] : Select the date format to be used for most on-screen displays, and (if
selected) for the date printed on photos.

zzzz –

96

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Trouble ?

Troubleshooting

If you have a problem with your camcorder, refer to this section. Sometimes what you
think is a malfunction of the camcorder may have the simplest of solutions - please
read the “CHECK THIS FIRST” box before going on to the more detailed problems
and solutions. Consult your dealer or a Canon Service Center if the problem persists.

CHECK THIS FIRST

Power supply

Is the battery charged? Is the compact power adapter correctly connected to the
camcorder? ( 18)

Recording

Did you turn the camcorder on and set the mode dial to or ? ( 24). If you are
recording to a memory card, is one correctly inserted into the camcorder? ( 30)

Playback

Did you turn the camcorder on and set the mode dial to or ? ( 24). If you are
playing back recordings from a memory card, is one correctly inserted into the
camcorder? ( 30) Does it contain any recordings?

Power source

The camcorder will not turn on or it turns off by itself.

- The battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack ( 18).

- Remove the battery pack and reattach it correctly.

Cannot charge the battery pack.

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- The battery pack is too hot. The charging will start once the battery pack temperature is below 40 °C.

- Charge the battery pack in temperatures between 0 °C and 40 °C.

- The battery pack is damaged. Use a different battery pack.

A noise can be heard from the compact power adapter.

- A faint sound can be heard while the compact power adapter is connected to a power outlet. This is not a
malfunction.

After using the camcorder for a long time, it becomes hot.

- The camcorder may become hot after using it continuously for long periods of time; this is not a malfunction.
If the camcorder becomes unusually hot or it becomes hot after using it only for a short while, it may indicate
a problem with the camcorder. Consult a Canon Service Center.

The battery pack is exhausted extremely quickly even at normal temperatures.

- The battery may have reached the end of its battery life. Buy a new battery pack.

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Additional Information

Recording

START/STOP

Pressing will not start recording.

- You cannot record while the camcorder is writing previous recording onto the memory (while the ACCESS
indicator is on or flashing).

- The memory is full or it already contains the maximum number of scenes. Delete some recordings
( 40, 62) or initialize the memory ( 31) to free some space.

The point where was pressed does not match the beginning/end of the recording.

- There is a slight interval between pressing and the actual start of recording. This is not a
malfunction.

The camcorder will not focus.

- Autofocus does not work on the subject. Focus manually (

- Lens or Instant AF sensor is dirty. Clean the lens or sensor with a soft lens-cleaning cloth (
tissue paper to clean the lens.

When a subject flits across in front of the lens, the image appears slightly bent.

- This is a phenomenon typical of CMOS image sensors. When a subject crosses very quickly in front of the
camcorder, the image may seem slightly warped. This is not a malfunction.

Changing the operating mode between recording ( )/record pause ( )/playback ( ) takes longer than
usual.

- When the memory contains a large number of scenes, some operations may take longer than usual. Back up
your recordings ( 80) and initialize the memory ( 31).

Reviewing the last scene recorded takes longer than usual.

- When the memory contains a large number of scenes, some operations may take longer than usual. Back up
your recordings ( 80) and initialize the memory ( 31).

Cannot record a still image.

- In mode: You cannot record a still image if simultaneous recording (FUNC. menu) is set to [STILL I. REC
OFF] ( 65), or if either the digital zoom ( 90) or a digital effect ( 50) is activated.

START/STOP

START/STOP

47).

112). Never use

Playback

Cannot add scenes to the playlist.

Cannot delete a scene.

Deleting scenes takes longer than usual.

Cannot erase a still image.

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- You cannot add more than 999 scenes to the playlist.

- You may not be able to add scenes to the playlist if they were recorded or edited using another device.

- You may not be able to delete scenes recorded or edited using another device.

- When the memory contains a large number of scenes, some operations may take longer than usual. Back up
your recordings ( 80) and initialize the memory ( 31).

- The still image is protected. Remove the protection ( 67).

Indicators and Onscreen Displays

lights up in red.

- Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack ( 18).

appears on the screen.

- The camcorder cannot communicate with the battery pack attached so the remaining battery time cannot be
displayed.

lights up in red.

- A memory card error occurred. Turn off the camcorder. Remove and reinsert the memory card. Initialize the
memory card ( 31) if the display does not change back to normal.

- The memory card is full. Replace the memory card or delete some recordings to free some space on the
memory card.

flashes in red on the screen.

- The camcorder has malfunctioned. Consult a Canon Service Center.

The CHG (charge) indicator flashes rapidly.

- (one flash at 0.5-second intervals)
Charging has stopped because the compact power adapter or the battery pack is faulty. Consult a Canon
Service Center.

The CHG (charge) indicator flashes very slowly.

- (one flash at 2-second intervals)
The battery pack is too hot. The charging will start once the battery pack temperature is below 40 °C.

- Charge the battery pack in temperatures between 0 °C and 40 °C.

- The battery pack is damaged. Use a different battery pack.

The CHG (charge) indicator does not turn on even though a battery pack is attached.

- The camcorder cannot communicate with the battery pack attached. Such battery packs cannot be charged
using this camcorder.

Picture and Sound

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Screen displays turn on and off repeatedly.

- The battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack ( 18).

- Remove the battery pack and reattach it correctly.

Abnormal characters appear on the screen and the camcorder does not operate properly.

- Disconnect the power source and reconnect it after a short time. If the problem still persists, disconnect the
power source and press the RESET button with a pointed item. Pressing the RESET button resets all settings.

Video noise appears on screen.

- When using the camcorder close to devices that emit strong electromagnetic fields (plasma TVs, cellular
phones, etc.), keep a distance between the camcorder and these devices.

Horizontal bands appear on the screen.

- This is a phenomenon typical of CMOS image sensors when recording under some types of fluorescent,
mercury or sodium lamps. To reduce the symptoms set the camcorder to mode. This is not a
malfunction.

99

Additional Information

Sound is distorted or is recorded at lower levels.

- When recording near loud sounds (such as fireworks, shows or concerts), sound may become distorted or it
may not be recorded at the actual levels. Activate the microphone attenuator or adjust the audio recording
level manually ( 52).

The picture is displayed correctly but there is no sound from the built-in speaker.

- Speaker volume is turned off. Adjust the volume ( 38).

- If the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable is connected to the camcorder, disconnect it.

A rattling can be heard from the camcorder.

- The internal lens fixture can move when the camcorder is turned off. This is not a malfunction.

Memory Card and Accessories

Cannot insert the memory card.

- The memory card was not facing the correct direction. Turn the memory card over and insert it ( 30).

Cannot record on the memory card.

- The memory card is full. Erase some recordings to free some space or replace the memory card.

- Initialize the memory card ( 31) when you use it with the camcorder for the first time.

- The LOCK switch on an SD or SDHC memory card is set to prevent accidental erasure. Change the position of
the LOCK switch ( 111).

- The folder and file numbers have reached their maximum value. Set [IMG NUMBERS] to [RESET] ( 95) and
insert a new memory card.

- The still image simultaneous recording setting in the FUNC. menu is set to [STILL I.REC OFF]. Change the
setting to take photos while recording video ( 65).

- Still images cannot be captured from the playback scene when [TV TYPE] is set to [NORMAL TV]. In such case,

appears. Set [TV TYPE] to [WIDE TV] ( 95).

The wireless controller will not work.

- Set [WL.REMOTE] to [ON].

- Replace the battery of the wireless controller.

Connections with External Devices

Video noise appears on the TV screen.

Playback looks fine on the camcorder but there is no image on the TV screen.

There is no sound from the TV.

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- When using the camcorder in a room where a TV is located, keep a distance between the compact power
adapter and the power or antenna cables of the TV.

- The video input on the TV is not set to the video terminal to which you connected the camcorder. Select the
correct video input.

- When connecting the camcorder to an HDTV using the CTC-100/S Component Cable, make sure to connect
also the audio connections using the white and red plugs of the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable.