Canon CA-560 User Manual

Introduction

WARNING:

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

Important Usage Instructions

Digital Video Camcorder, OPTURAPi Aand Compact Power Adapter, CA-560 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Use of shielded cable is required to comply with class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual. If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment.

Canon U.S.A. Inc. One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A. Tel No. (516)328-5600

WARNING:

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

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

Important Warning

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

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

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

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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

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Introduction

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder OPTURA Pi Aand all its accessories.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock — Do not use this product near water or in rainy/moist situations.

9. Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

10. Power Sources — The CA-560 Compact Power Adapter should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. Regarding other power sources such as battery power, refer to instructions in this manual.

11. Polarization — The CA-560 Compact Power Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

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

13. Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna is connected to the product, be sure the antenna is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI / NFPANo. 70—1984, provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. See figure

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Introduction

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

15. Power Lines — An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

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

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

18. Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

19. Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this product from the wall outlet and all power sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions: a. When the power-supply cord or plug is

damaged.

b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or

objects have fallen into, the product.

c. If the product has been exposed to

rain or water.

d. If the product does not operate

normally even if you follow the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operation instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e. If the product has been dropped or the

cabinet has been damaged.

f. When the product exhibits a distinct

change in performance. This indicates a need for service.

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

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

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250. PART H)

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

GROUND CLAMP

Fig. 1

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Important Usage Instructions ....................2

IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS..................................3

Thank you for Choosing a Canon..............6

Introducing the OPTURA Pi ......................7

Finding Y our Way Around

OPTURA Pi ..........................................8

Powering Y our Camcorder ......................11

Loading a Cassette ..................................16

Basic Recording ......................................18

Zooming ..................................................22

Using the LCD Screen ............................23

Playing Back a Cassette ..........................27

Connections for Playback on a

TV Screen............................................30

Tips for Making Better Videos ................32

~ General

...

Turning the Optical Image Stabilizer

Off ......................................................34

Selecting from the Menus ........................35

Using the Wireless

Controller/Tally Lamp ........................38

~ For Recording ...~

Setting the Date and Time........................41

Recording in Progressive Scan Mode

(Digital Motor Drive) ..........................44

Taking Still Pictures ................................46

Using a Canon Speedlite for Flash

Photography (optional)........................48

Using the VL-3 Video Light (optional)....49

Using the DM-50 Microphone

(optional) ............................................50

Searching and Reviewing While

Recording ............................................51

Using the Various Recording

Programs..............................................52

Using Digital Effects ................................56

Using the Multi-Image Screen ................62

Audio Recording ......................................64

Setting the Self-Timer..............................66

~ When Making Manual Adjustments ...~

Adjusting Exposure Manually..................68

Adjusting Focus Manually ......................71

Setting the White Balance ........................72

~ For Playback ...~

Displaying Date, Time and Camera Data

(Data Code) ........................................74

Searching the Tape (Photo Search/

Date Search)........................................77

Returning to a Pre-Marked Position ........78

The Dubbing Function ............................79

Using the Dubbing Function for the

First Time ........................................81

Cut-In and Cut-Out Adjustments..........85

Simple Editing to a VCR ......................87

Dubbing with Digital Video

Equipment ..........................................88

Recording from a VCR, TV or Other

Camcorder (Analog Line-in) ..............90

Recording Over Existing Scenes

(A/V Insert Editing) ............................92

Audio Dubbing ........................................95

Setting the Audio Mix ..............................98

Preparing the Camera ............................100

Notes on Using the Batteries..................102

Maintenance ..........................................105

Troubleshooting......................................109

The OPTURA Pi System Diagram ........112

Optional Accessories..............................113

Screen Displays......................................117

Specifications ........................................122

Index ......................................................123

Introduction

Contents

Introduction

Editing

Using the Full Range of Features

Quick Overview

The serial number of this product may be found on the bottom of the camera. No others have the same serial number as yours. You should record the number and other vital information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.

Date of Purchase Dealer Purchased From Dealer Address Dealer Phone No. Model Name OPTURA Pi Serial No.

Additional Information

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Introduction

Thank you for Choosing a Canon

Your camcorder is supplied with the following accessories:

WL-D74 Wireless Controller

Two AAbatteries

SS-600 Shoulder Strap Lens cap and lens cap

cord

S-150 S-video Cable

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

Lithium button battery

CA-560 Compact Power Adapter (including AC power cable)

BP-511 Battery Pack

First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes it very easy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come.

To get the most out of your new camcorder, we recommend that you read this manual thoroughly — there are many sophisticated features which will add to your recording enjoyment.

Getting started

To get started we suggest that you master the basic operations of the camcorder first, before moving on to use its full range of features.

For quick reference (in addition to the contents and index) please refer to:

• Finding your way around OPTURA Pi ( 8)

• Screen displays ( 117)

• Troubleshooting — in case you run into any problems ( 109)

Symbols used in this Instruction Manual:

: Reference page numbers : Supplementary notes for

camcorder operation

‘ : Operation confirmation beeps

( 21)

• Capital letters are used to refer to settings displayed in the menus and buttons labeled on the camcorder itself, e.g. Press the MENU button.

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Quick Overview

Optical technology stabilizes your recordings even in long telephoto shots.

Introducing the OPTURA Pi

OPTURA Pi is a next generation digital video camcorder that conforms to the digital video D

standard and is equipped with the IEEE 1394 DV terminal to give you outstanding picture quality.

Advanced digital technology allows you to add special effects during recording or playback. Display 4, 9 or 16 still images at once with the multi-image screen.

Digital Video

Shoot both superb quality video and beautifully clear still pictures (Digital Motor Drive). Choose your favorite scenes from videos (taken using progressive scan) and display them as blurfree still pictures too!

Progressive Scan CCD

The OPTURA Pi has the technology to capture crisp, clear, digital still pictures.

Still Photos

Digital Effects

Optical Image Stabilizer

3.5” LCD Screen

A big LCD screen makes it easy for you to shoot colorful, well composed video. It is also great for playback.

Dubbing Function

OPTURA Pi’s dubbing function is easy to use. You can add digital effects during dubbing.

Audio Dubbing/A/V Insert Editing

Add new sound to original sound, or replace original sound and images on a prerecorded tape.

Analog Line-in Recording

Connect to a VCR or analog camcorder and record onto a DV tape in the OPTURA Pi.

12× Lens and 48× Digital

Zoom

PCM Digital Sound

Advanced Accessory Shoe

Allows the Canon Video Light VL-3 or the Directional Stereo Microphone DM-50 (both optional) to be easily attached and powered by the camera’s own power source. Also attach the Speedlite 550EX, 380EX or 220EX for EOS cameras (all optional).

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Quick Overview

Finding Your Way Around OPTURA Pi

MENU button (p. 36)

BATT (battery) RELEASE button (p. 12)

Selector dial (p. 36)

LCD panel open button (p. 23)

Strap attachment bar (p. 101)

Backup battery holder (p. 104)

LCD screen (p. 23)

REC PAUSE (LINE-IN) button (p. 88, 91)

STOP button (p. 27)

FF button (p. 27)

PLAY/PAUSE button (p. 27)

REW button (p. 27)

Digital effects ON/OFF button (p. 60)

D. EFFECTS (Digital effects) button (p. 60)

REC SEARCH button (p. 51)

–

REC SEARCH button (p. 51)/

Record review button (p. 51)

DV (in/out) terminal (p. 88)

m (LANC) terminal (p. 87)

Speaker (p. 26)

OPEN/EJECT switch (p. 16)

Infra-red signal transmitter (for dubbing) (p. 80)

Battery attachment unit (p. 12)

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Quick Overview

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Viewfinder (p.100, 106)

Viewfinder focusing lever (p. 100)

Viewfinder protect cover (p. 106)

Power indicator (p. 18)

Program selector (p. 19)

Program selector

Easy Recording (p. 54)

Program AE (p. 53)

EXP button (p. 68)

FOCUS/DATA CODE button (p. 71)/(p. 74)

Start/stop button (p. 19) POWER switch (P. 18)

POWER switch

•VCR

VCR mode

•OFF MOVIE

• P.SCAN

•

Camera mode

POWER

VCR

OFFOFF

MOVIEMOVIE

P.SCANP.SCAN

PHOTO button (p. 46)

Zoom controller (p. 22)

Grip belt (p. 100)

Strap attachment bar (p. 101)

Cassette compartment cover (p. 16)

Cassette compartment (p. 16)

Quick Overview

REW

PLAY

START /STOP

PHOTO

SELF

TIMER

SCREEN

DATA CODE

D.EFFECTS

AUDIO

MONITOR

REC

PAUSE

SELECT

ZERO SET

MEMORY

AUDIO

DUB.

STOP

MIX

BALANCE

ST-1

ST-2

ON/OFF

SET

ZOOM

A/V

INSERT

PAUSE

SLOW

REMOTE SET

–/

WIRELESS CONTROLLER WL-D74

× 2 button (p. 29)

START/STOP button (p. 19)

MENU button (p. 36)

TV SCREEN button (p. 117)

SELF TIMER button (p. 66)

DATA CODE button (p. 74)

REC PAUSE button (p. 88) ZERO SET MEMORY button

(p. 78)

Transmitter

Zoom buttons (p. 22)

SET button (p. 36)

D. EFFECTS (Digital effects) button (p. 61)

Digital effects ON/OFF button (p. 60) MIX BALANCE buttons (p. 98)

Controller buttons (p. 36)

Search buttons (p. 77) SEARCH SELECT button (p. 77)

AUDIO MONITOR button (p. 98)

AUDIO DUB. button (p. 96) A/V INSERT button (p. 93) REMOTE SET button (p. 39)

button (p. 29)

FF button (p. 27) PLAY button (p. 27)

STOP button (p. 27) SLOW button (p. 29)

REW button (p. 27)

PAUSE button (p. 28)

PHOTO button (p. 46)

Remote sensor (P. 39)

CHARGE indicator (p. 12)

Tally lamp (p. 40)

Advanced accessory shoe (p. 49, 50)

Terminal cover

Stereo microphone (p. 95)

Backup battery holder (p. 104)

Tripod socket (p. 32)

A/V IN/OUT

IN/OUT

MIC

DC IN

9.5V

Audio/video (in/out) terminal (p. 30)

S terminal (p. 30)

(phones) terminal (p. 26)

DC IN terminal (p. 11)

MIC terminal (p. 64, 95)

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Quick Overview

Powering Your Camcorder

Before operating your camera, you will need to use the power adapter to:

Provide power from an AC outlet

Charge a battery pack

• The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camera.

• If the adapter is used next to a TV, it may cause bars to appear on the TV — move the adapter away from the TV or the antenna cable.

Connecting the camera to an AC outlet

Use the power adapter to provide your camera with instant power from an AC outlet. Always turn the camera off before connecting/removing the power source.

1. Connect the power adapter to the camera’s DC IN terminal.

2. Connect the power cable to the power adapter.

3. Plug the adapter into an AC outlet.

4. Disconnect the power adapter after use.

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1,4

Quick Overview

Attaching and charging the battery packs

Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to check that your camera is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camera for more than a few minutes. Always turn the camera off and raise the viewfinder before connecting/removing the battery.

1. Set the POWER switch to OFF.

2. Attach the battery to the camera.

• Remove the battery pack’s terminal cover.

• Rotate the viewfinder upwards.

• With the triangle on the battery pack pointing downwards, align the edge of the battery pack with the line on the camera, press lightly and slide the battery down until it clicks into place.

3. Connect the power adapter to the camera.

4. Connect the power cable to the adapter and plug it into an AC outlet.

• The charge indicator flashes red to show that charging is in progress. Single

flashes mean that the battery pack is less than 50% charged. Double flashes mean that it is between 50% and 75% charged. Triple flashes mean that it is more than 75% charged. The indicator glows steadily when the battery pack is fully charged. If the indicator blinks twice a second, there is something wrong with the battery pack.

• Charging will also take place when the camera is in stop mode during VCR

mode, or the camera has turned itself off after being left in record pause mode for more than about 5 minutes.

POWER

OFF

MOVIEMOVIE

P.SCANP.SCAN

VCR

•VCR

•OFF

•

MOVIE

•

P.SCAN

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Quick Overview

5. When charging is complete, disconnect the power adapter.

6. Remove the battery pack after use.

• Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button while you slide the battery up.

• Never connect an unspecified product to the camera’s DC terminal. Likewise,

do not connect the power adapter to an unspecified product.

• You can find detailed notes for using the batteries in the “Notes on Using the

Batteries” ( 102). These notes include charging and recording times and how to install the backup battery.

Specifications

Power supply 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 34 W Rated output 9.5 V, 2.7 A DC Operating temperature range 32°F–104°F (0°C–40°C) Dimensions 2 1/4 × 1 1/8 × 4 1/8 in (57 × 28 × 104 mm) Weight 6 3/8 oz (180 g) (without power cable)

Weight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject to change without notice.

CA-560 Compact Power Adapter

When replacement of power supply is required, please return it to the responsible nearest Canon Service Center and please replace it with the same type number CA-560 or equivalent.

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

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Quick Overview

The Compact Power Adapter CA-560 included with the camera can be used along with the CR-560 Kit for 3 different ways to power the camera or charge battery packs:

1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery.

2. Operate the camera with power from your car battery.

3. Charge BP-500 Series battery packs from a household AC outlet.

Also refer to the CR-560 instructions.

The Charge Adapter/Car Battery Cable Kit CR-560 includes the following:

1. Charge the BP-500 Series battery packs with power from your car battery.

1 or 2 BP-500 Series battery pack(s) + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable→ your cigarette lighter

Using the Charge Adapter CR-560 Kit (optional)

• Fast charging for the high-capacity BP-522 (optional). Fifteen minutes of charging gives 60 minutes of recording (using the viewfinder).

Time required for full charge

from car battery or household outlet BP-511 1 hr. 20 min. BP-522 (optional) 1 hr. 40 min.

Charge Adapter

Car Battery Cable

DC Cable

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CHARGE

To your cigarette lighter

Quick Overview

3. Charge battery packs from a household AC outlet.

Charge Adapter + Compact Power Adapter

2. Operate the camera with power from your car battery.

Camera + DC Cable + Charge Adapter + Car Battery Cable → your cigarette lighter

• Fast charging for the high-capacity BP-522 (optional). Fifteen minutes of charging gives 60 minutes of recording (using the viewfinder).

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To your cigarette lighter

Quick Overview

Loading a Cassette

1. Make sure that you have attached a power source.

2. Slide the OPEN / EJECT 5 switch upwards to release the cassette

compartment cover.

• Pull the cover fully open (while holding the button upwards) and wait a couple of seconds for the cassette compartment to open automatically.

• The confirmation beep sounds when the cassette cover fully opens.

3. Load or unload the cassette.

• Insert the cassette gently with the window facing out, and the REC/SAVE tab on the outer lower corner.

• Remove the cassette by pulling it straight out.

4. Press the P mark on the compartment until it clicks, and wait for it to close.

5. Click the cover back into place.

* D is a trade mark.

• After loading a cassette, use record search ( 51) to find the point where you

want to start recording.

• Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing

automatically, or attempt to close the cover.

• Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover.

• Do not leave the cassette in the camera after use — return it to its case and store

it in a cool, clean, dry place.

• When you turn the camera’s power on, v flashes in the display until you load a

cassette.

• With some types of tapes, the remaining tape display may not give an accurate

reading ( 117).

OPEN/OPEN/ EJECTEJECT

PUSH

Only use videocassettes marked with the D logo.*

Loading and unloading

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Quick Overview

Protecting tapes from accidental erasure

To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF.) If you load this cassette and put the camera in record pause mode ( 18), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION” is displayed for approx. four seconds and then the v mark flashes in the display. The camera also shows the above phrase if you accidentally press the REC PAUSE button on the camera or the wireless controller with the camera switched to VCR mode. If you want to record on the cassette again, slide the tab back so the hole is closed.

SAVE

REC

SAVE

REC

Cassette Memory

You are unable to use the cassette memory function with this camcorder.

• To protect the tape heads, transfer cassettes directly from the tape case to the

camcorder — do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape itself.

• Do not use cassettes where the tape has been damaged or spliced — they may

damage the camcorder.

• Do not insert anything into the small holes on the cassette or cover them with

cellophane tape.

• Handle cassettes with care — dropping them or exposing them to external

shocks may cause internal damage.

• Store cassettes in the provided case, first rewinding them to the start of the tape

and then storing them upright.

• A cassette with metal plated terminals may become dirty with use, affecting

information transfer. Therefore, after using a tape about ten times, be sure to clean the terminals with a cotton swab.

Handling cassettes

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Quick Overview

Basic Recording

Have you completed the following steps?

• Attached a power source ( 11).

• Removed the lens cap and fastened the shoulder strap ( 100).

• Chosen the display: viewfinder ( 100) or LCD screen ( 23)

• When you’re using the viewfinder, fully close the LCD or rotate the LCD so that

it faces the same direction as the lens ( 23).

• When using the viewfinder with the BP-522 Battery Pack (optional) attached,

extend the viewfinder.

You may also want to install the backup battery ( 104) in order to set the date and time display ( 41).

POWER

OFFOFF

MOVIE

.SC

P.SCAN

VCR

4, 5

POWER

OFFOFF

MOVIE

P.SCAN

VCR

•VCR

•OFF

•

MOVIE

•

P.SCAN

Before you start recording

To record

1. Push the small button on the POWER switch and hold, turn the POWER switch to MOVIE.

• The camera automatically sets to record pause mode. PAUSE appears in the

display.

• The camera power indicator lights up.

• The confirmation beep sounds.

• The camera will turn itself off if you leave it in record pause mode for more

than about five minutes. To return to record pause mode, set the POWER switch to OFF and then back to MOVIE.

2. Load a cassette ( 16).

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Quick Overview

3. Slide the program selector to [.

• This selects the camera’s Easy Recording program. It allows you to simply

point and shoot without making any manual adjustments ( 54).

4. Press and release the start/stop button once to begin recording.

• The tally lamp flashes and REC appears in the display.

• To take still photographs, see p. 46.

5. Press and release the start/stop button again to pause recording.

• The camera returns to record pause mode and PAUSE reappears in the

display.

• You can stop and restart recording as often as you like by pressing the

start/stop button.

• After loading a cassette, start recording when the tape counter has stopped.

• Replace the lens cap.

• Return the viewfinder to its retracted position.

• Return the LCD screen flush to the camera body.

• Unload the cassette.

• Set the POWER switch to OFF.

• Disconnect the power source.

• To check that the camera is recording correctly, make a test recording first.

• Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

• To close the LCD panel, rotate it vertically until the screen faces you, then push it in flat against the side of the camera until it clicks securely.

• You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker when recording.

• For tips on how to make better videos, see p. 32.

• For extra recording time, set REC MODE in the camera menu to LP ( 20).

• The flashing of the tally lamp may be reflected into the lens during close-up recording, or when recording through glass. You may therefore decide to turn it off ( 40).

When you have finished recording

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Quick Overview

You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends tape usage by 1.5 times. To switch to LP mode, select REC MODE from the camera or VCR menu, select LP and then close the menu (for instructions on how to use the menus, see p. 35).

Changing the recording mode (SP/LP)

( 35, 36)

• When recording and playing back tapes in LP mode, the nature of the tape and usage conditions may affect recording, mosaic-like noise may appear in the image and the sound may be distorted during playback of tapes recorded in LP mode. For important recordings, therefore, set the camera to SP mode.

• If you record in both modes on the same tape, the picture may become distorted during playback and the time code may not be written correctly.

• A tape recorded in LP mode on other digital equipment may produce mosaiclike noise and the sound may become distorted when played back on this camcorder, and vice versa.

You can’t add sound (audio dubbing) or images (A/V insert) to a tape that has been recorded in LP mode. If you plan to use either of these functions later, record in SP mode.

16:9 (Widescreen TV recording)

Produces images in the 16:9 format for playback on widescreen TVs.

1. Select 16:9 from the camera menu and turn it ON/OFF.

2. Press the MENU button once more to close the menu.

• “16:9” is shown in the display when you switch the 16:9 effect on.

• You cannot use the 16:9 digital effect with the Easy Recording program.

• If you play back a recording made for 16:9 on a normal TV screen, the image will appear to be vertically “squashed” (compressed).

• If you connect the camera to a TV with an S1 terminal or the Video ID-1 system, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will automatically play back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.

16:9••••••••OFF

( 35)

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REC MODE••••SP

Quick Overview

Demonstration mode

Confirmation/Warning beeps

To see a demonstration of the camera’s main features, before loading the cassette, go to the DEMO MODE option in the camera menu. Select the ON setting and close the menu. The demo also starts automatically if the power has been on for 5 minutes without a cassette loaded into the cassette compartment. (You can avoid this by turning the DEMO MODE to OFF through the camera menu.) To cancel the demo mode once it has begun: press any button other than the ones below the LCD screen, turn off the power, or load a cassette.

The camera’s short operation confirmation beeps are indicated by ` in the

illustrations. Beeps sound upon certain camera operations such as when you turn the camera on, during the self-timer countdown, right before the camera’s automatic shut-off, and also upon any unusual condition of the camera. Beeps are not recorded on the tape. You can turn them OFF through the menu.

DEMO MODE•••OFF

( 35)

BEEP••••••••ON

( 35, 36)

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Quick Overview

48× digital zoom

Turn the digital zoom on by choosing D.ZOOM from the camera menu, to magnify the camera’s zoom range by 4×.

Zooming

The camera’s 12× zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene:

• Move the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle.

• Move it towards T to zoom in to telephoto. You can also control the speed of zooming:

• Move the control slightly to zoom slowly.

• Move it farther to zoom more quickly. (The farther you move the zoom control, the faster the zoom speed.)

The T and W buttons on the wireless controller adjust the picture angle, but not the zoom speed.

12× optical zoom

The zoom control continues to work as usual. You can freely zoom in and out between 1× and 48× magnification — the camera automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 12×) and digital zooming (12× to 48×). A zoom bar shows up in the display. The digital zoom area is in blue.

• When zooming, as a rule, keep at least 3 ft 33/8 in (1 m) between you and your subject. However when the zoom is at the wide-angle position, you can focus on a subject as close as 3/8 in (1 cm).

• Image resolution is slightly lower when the magnification is greater than 12×.

• You cannot use the digital zoom with the multi-image screen.

• When digital zoom is turned off, the zoom bar shortens to optical zoom length.

D.ZOOM••••••ON

( 35)

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Zoom in

Zoom out

Quick Overview

Using the LCD Screen

Push the LCD panel open button and open the panel by pulling it away from the camera. This automatically switches the LCD screen on and the viewfinder off. When you close the LCD panel, the LCD screen automatically switches off and the viewfinder switches back on.

Open the LCD screen

You can choose the angle of the screen that suits you best by opening and rotating the screen, also you can rotate the LCD screen so that faces in the direction of the lens ( 25).

Changing the angle of the LCD screen

You can also push the panel flat against the camera until it is flush with the side, with the screen facing outwards.

90°

180°

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Quick Overview

• Avoid touching the LCD screen when moving the LCD panel.

• Do not hold the camera by the LCD panel or the viewfinder.

• Make sure you open the LCD panel at 90°, before attempting to rotate it.

• Always rotate the LCD panel vertically into place, before closing it or pushing it flat against the side of the camera.

• Always fully close the LCD panel until it clicks securely.

• Be careful not to leave the LCD, viewfinder or lens exposed to direct sunlight outdoors or in a window. Doing so could cause damage.

• Bright light falling on the LCD screen may cause glare that makes it difficult for you to view the image. In this case, switch to using the viewfinder. You are also able to adjust the brightness of the screen (see “Adjusting the LCD screen” below).

Adjusting the LCD screen

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen. Adjust the level by choosing BRIGHTNESS from the menu.

A bar showing the level appears in the display for 4 seconds.

• Turn the selector dial up to make the display brighter.

• Turn the selector dial down to make the display darker.

• The camera will remember your brightness setting even after you turn it off.

• The brightness of the LCD does not effect that of the recorded images or the viewfinder.

About the LCD Screen

The LCD screen built into this camcorder is a high precision product. However, small black dots or bright points of light (red, blue or green) may appear constantly on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction of the LCD screen and they are not recorded on the tape. (Effective dots: more than 99.99%)

BRIGHTNESS••

–+

( 35, 36)

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Quick Overview

• These and all other indicators appear normally in the viewfinder.

Allowing the subject to monitor recording

When you turn the LCD panel so that it faces the same direction as the lens, you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording. The viewfinder is also activated when the panel is in this position.

• You can choose the display style, reversed (mirror on) or not (mirror off). The recording itself is unaffected regardless of which one you choose.

MIRROR••••••ON

( 35)

1. Open the camera menu and point the arrow at MIRROR.

2. Select the OFF setting and close the menu.

Indicators that appear when “mirror” is selected:

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REC REC PAUSE EJECT

Quick Overview

Built-in speaker and headphone terminal

Adjust the speaker and headphone volume by turning the selector dial.

• Turn the selector dial up to increase the volume, and down to lower the volume.

• A VOLUME bar appears in the display to indicate the current volume. It disappears in four seconds.

• You can turn off the volume completely by turning the selector dial down until OFF appears.

• You can also adjust the headphone volume separately from the built-in speaker, either during VCR mode or camera mode. The volume level is the same regardless of mode.

• The levels you adjust for the built-in speaker and headphones are memorized separately. The camera remembers your levels even if you turn the camera off and back on again.

• The speaker turns off when the camera is set to camera mode or when you use headphones.

• Sometimes audio may sound distorted when the volume is turned up high. If this happens, turn down the volume.

The camcorder has a built-in speaker and a headphone terminal so you can review the sound track alongside the picture during playback. The built-in speaker is monaural; use headphones for stereo sound.

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DC IN

9.5V A/V IN/OUT

MIC

Quick Overview

Playing Back a Cassette

You can use the LCD screen for instant, on-the-spot playback. The camera also plays back the sound track via the built-in speaker ( 26).

• When you play back a tape, you can also close the LCD panel with its screen side facing up.

• When you’re using the viewfinder to view playback, close the LCD panel.

To play back your recordings on a TV, see p. 30. To use the wireless controller, see p. 38.

• To avoid accidental recording, make sure that you slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole (the switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF).

1. Attach a power source and turn the POWER switch to VCR.

• The power indicator lights up.

2. Load the cassette.

3. Press the PLAY button to start playback.

• To end playback, press the STOP button.

• To wind the tape forwards, stop playback and press the FF (fast forward) button.

• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and press the REW (rewind) button.

• If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

POWER

OFFOFF

MOVIE

.SC

P.SCAN

VCR

REW

PLAY/PAUSE

FF STOP

REC PAUSE

(LINE IN)

•VCR

•OFF

•

MOVIE

•

P.SCAN

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Quick Overview

Playback pause

Press the PAUSE button. To resume normal playback, press it again, or press the PLAY button. The camera automatically goes into stop mode after about five minutes’ playback pause.

Fast forward playback

To play back the recording at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the FF (fast forward) button during normal playback or press and hold the FF (fast forward) button during normal fast forward.

Rewind playback

For reverse playback at about 9.5 times normal speed, press and hold the REW (rewind) button during normal playback or press and hold the REW (rewind) button during normal rewind.

Other playback modes

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Quick Overview

These can only be operated from the wireless controller ( 38).

Frame Advance

To play back frame by frame, press the +/ ae button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame advance.

Frame Reverse

To play back in reverse frame by frame, press the –/4a button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame reverse.

Slow Forward Playback

To play back at about 1/5 normal speed, press the SLOW M button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

• The camera automatically returns to playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.

Slow Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at about 1/5 normal speed, press the –/4a button and then the SLOW M button during normal playback. Press PLAY e to return to normal playback.

• The camera automatically returns to ×1 reverse playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.

Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback.

Forward ×2 Playback

Press the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

Reverse ×2 Playback

Press the –/4a button and then the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

• Mosaic-like noise appears on the screen during some of the special playback modes.

• There’s no audio during special playback.

Special playback

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REW

– /

PAUSE

PLAY

STOP

SLOW

+ /

×2

Quick Overview

Connections for Playback on a TV Screen

You can connect the camera to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. You will need to attach a power source to the camera ( 11). Power off all devices before starting the connections.

• Use the S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminals. Use the STV250N Stereo Video Cable to connect the AUDIO terminals. Connect the white plug to the white AUDIO terminal L (left). Connect the red plug to the red AUDIO terminal R (right). Do not connect the yellow plug.

• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.

• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

VIDEO

S(S1)-VIDEO

INPUT

AUDIO

S-150 S-video Cable

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

A/V IN/OUT

IN/OUT

MIC

DC IN

9.5V

If your TV (or VCR) has an S (S1) -video input terminal

See your TV or VCR instruction manual for further details.

For higher picture quality, we recommend playing back recordings on a TV with an S (S1) terminal. If you connect the camera to a TV with an S1 terminal or the Video ID-1 system, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will automatically play back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.

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Quick Overview

• If you are going to use the TV as a monitor while you are shooting, remember to keep the TV volume turned down as long as the camera’s audio terminals are connected. If the sound from the TV speakers is picked up by the microphone, an unpleasant high-pitched squeal, called feedback, may be produced.

• For TVs having the Video ID-1 system: If you connect the camera to the TV’s S terminal or video in terminal, recordings made in the 16:9 mode for wide screen TVs will automatically play back in wide screen mode on the TV screen.

If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals

• Connect the camera using the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white

plug to the white audio terminal L (left). Connect the red plug to the red audio terminal R (right). Connect the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal VIDEO.

• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.

• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

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IN/OUT

DC IN

9.5V A/V IN/OUT

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable

MIC

INPUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

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