Canon DC 20, DC 10 User Manual

PUB.DIE-244

English

DVD Camcorder

Instruction Manual

English

Introduction

Preparations

Basic
Functions

Advanced
Features

Editing
Functions

Disc
Finalization

External
Connections

Please read also the following instruction manual.

• Digital Video Software

Digital Video Software

Instruction Manual

This instruction manu al explai ns how to install t he softwa re, conne ct the
camcorder to a comput er, and dow nload sti ll images from a d isc or a
memory card to a compu ter.

If you are using Windows operating system, use the supplied
DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Windows.
If you are using Macintosh operating system, use the supplied
DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK For Macintosh.

PAL

PUB. DIE-245

Version 19

Printing

E

Trouble?

Do’s & Don’ts

Additional
Information

Introduction

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING!

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

WARNING!

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

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.

CA-570 identification plate is located on the bottom.

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

This product has been classified under IEC60825-1:1993 and EN60825-1:1994.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

2

An Introduction to DVDs

You have probably heard of DVD discs and they come in various types and in two sizes ­the more common 12 cm DVDs and 8 cm Mini DVDs. This camcorder uses 8 cm DVD-R
discs (like the supplied one) or DVD-RW discs (commercially available).

So... what disc to choose?

DVD-R

Can be recorded only once.

You cannot edit or delete the

recordings.

You can record it many times.

You can delete scenes or initialize the

DVD-RW

disc and start recording again.

Now that I have the
disc... What disc
standard do I choose
to initialize it?

VR* modeVIDEO mode

Once finalized, a disc recorded in

VIDEO mode will play in most

common DVD players. However,

you cannot edit the recordings.

• Recommended Discs: This camcorder’s performance was tested using the supplied
discs and Hitachi-Maxell HG-series DVD discs. For use of other DVD media, contact
directly the manufacturer’s customer support center.

• Attempting to record or play in this camcorder DVD discs that were recorded,
initialized, edited or finalized with other digital devices can result in lost data.

• You need to initialize newly bought DVD-RW discs with this camcorder before using
them for the first time.

You can easily edit the recordings.

However, you will be able to play

the disc only with DVD-RW

compatible DVD players.

* Video Recording

3

The Advantages of DVDs

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For inquiries regarding Roxio MyDVD for Canon, please contact directly the customer
support centers of Sonic Solutions ( 104).

* Finalization is a process required to make the DVD discs you recorded in VIDEO mode

playable on common DVD players ( 96).

5

Table of contents

Introduction

An Introduction to DVDs ..................................................................................3

The Advantages of DVDs ................................................................................4

About this Manual............................................................................................9

Checking the Supplied Accessories ..............................................................11

Components Guide........................................................................................12

Screen Displays.............................................................................................16

Preparations

Step 1: Preparing the Power Supply..............................................................19

Step 2: Preparing the Camcorder..................................................................22

Step 3: Using the Wireless Controller............................................................23

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD Screen.................................................................24

Step 5: Changing the Display Language .......................................................25

Step 6: Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time..............................................26

Step 7: Inserting a Memory Card...................................................................28

Step 8: Loading a Disc...................................................................................29

Basic Functions

Recording

Recording Movies..........................................................................................31

Recording Still Images...................................................................................33

Zooming.........................................................................................................35

Tips for Better Recording...............................................................................36

Playback

Playing Back Movies .....................................................................................37

Viewing Still Images.......................................................................................39

Adjusting the Volume.....................................................................................41

Magnifying the Image ....................................................................................42

Displaying Additional Recording Data ...........................................................43

Advanced Features

Recording Programs

Using the Recording Programs .....................................................................44

Selecting the Recording Program..................................................................45

Using the Program AE Mode .....................................................................46

Using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode .........................................................47

Using the Aperture-Priority AE Mode.......................................................48

More Recording Options

Manually Adjusting the Exposure ..................................................................49

Manually Adjusting the Focus and Changing the Focusing Mode.................50

Recording in Widescreen (16:9 Aspect Ratio)...............................................52

Using the Mini Video Light .................................................................53

Using the Flash..................................................................................54

Using the Self-Timer......................................................................................56

Changing the FUNC. Settings

Changing Settings with the FUNC. Button ....................................................57

Available Settings List (FUNC.) .....................................................................58

Changing the Metering Method .....................................................................60

Setting the White Balance .............................................................................61

Applying Image Enhancing Effects................................................................63

6

Continuous Shooting and Exposure Bracketing ............................................64

Creating Panoramic Images..........................................................................66

Using the Digital Effects.................................................................................68

Selecting the Size and Quality of Still Images ...............................................74

Capturing a Still Image while Recording Movies ...........................................76

Changing the MENU Settings

Changing Settings with the MENU Button.....................................................77

Available Settings List (MENU) .....................................................................78

Camera Setup (Digital Zoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.).............................78

Still Image Operations (Card Initialization, Disc-Card Copy, etc.)..........80

Disc Operations (Photomovie, Finalize, etc.).........................................80

Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.) ..................................81

System Setup (Volume, Beep, Media select

Date/Time Setup....................................................................................82

, etc.) ...........................81

Editing Functions

Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Creating a Playlist..........................................................................................83

Dividing a Scene............................................................................................84

Deleting Scenes ............................................................................................85

Converting Still Images into Photomovie Scenes..........................................87

Protecting the Disc ........................................................................................88

Initializing the Disc.........................................................................................89

Still Image Options

Copying Still Images Between the Disc and Memory Card ...........................90

Erasing Still Images.......................................................................................92

Protecting Still Images on the Memory Card .................................................94

Initializing the Memory Card..........................................................................95

Disc Finalization

Preparing your Disc for Playing on a DVD Player .........................................96

Playing Back your Disc on a DVD Player or a Computer’s DVD Drive .........98

Recording Additional Movies on a Finalized Disc..........................................99

External Connections

Connecting to a TV and VCR

Playing Back on a TV Screen......................................................................100

Recording to a VCR.....................................................................................102

Connecting to a Computer

Transferring Recordings to a Computer ......................................................103

Roxio MyDVD for Canon......................................................................103

Transferring Still Images to a Computer (Direct Transfer) ...........................108

Transferring Images with Transfer Order Settings....................................... 111

Printing

Printing Still Images.....................................................................................113

Selecting Print Settings ...............................................................................116

Selecting Trimming Settings........................................................................119

Printing with Print Order Settings ................................................................120

Trouble?

Troubleshooting...........................................................................................122

List of Messages..........................................................................................127

E

Introduction

7

Do’s & Don’ts

Handling Precautions ..................................................................................131

Maintenance/Others ....................................................................................136

Additional Information

System Diagram ..........................................................................................137

Optional Accessories...................................................................................138

Specifications...............................................................................................140

Index............................................................................................................142

8

About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Canon DC20/DC10. 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 the Troubleshooting table ( 122).

Conventions Used in the Manual

 : Precautions related to the camcorder operation.
 : Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.
 : Reference page number.
 Capital letters are used to refer to buttons on the camcorder or the wireless controller.
 [ ] are used to refer to menu items displayed on the screen.
 “Screen” refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen.
 Illustrations and screenshots in the manual refer mainly to the DC20.

Menu item showing at its default position

Button and switches to be operated

About the Omni Selector

Use the omni selector to select options in a menu and change
settings.
Push the omni selector like a joystick up, down, left or right ( / /

/ ) to select an item. In most places, press the omni selector

itself ( ) to make a selection or change a setting.

E

Introduction

9

About the Operating Modes

The camcorder’s operating mode is determined by the positions of the power switch and
the / switch.

Operating Mode

* Depending on whether you choose to save the still images on the disc or memory card.

Power
Switch

CAMERA

PLAY

CAMERA

PLAY or *

Trademark Acknowledgements

• miniSD™ is a trademark of SD Card Association.

•Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.

• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the
United States and other countries.

• is a trademark of DVD Format/Logo Licensing Corporation.

• Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
“Dolby” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

• Other names and products not mentioned above may be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.

/

Switch

(MOVIES)

(STILLS)

Icon

Display

or *

Operation

Recording movies
on the disc

Playing movies
from the disc

Recording still images on
the memory card or disc

Viewing still images from
the memory card or disc

31

37

33

39

10

Checking the Supplied Accessories

CA-570 Compact
Power Adapter
(incl. power cord)

MTC-100 Multi Cable IFC-300PCU USB

DIGITAL VIDEO
SOLUTION DISK

* Not included in China and Oceania.

BP-208 Battery Pack WL-D86 Wireless

Cable

Roxio MyDVD for
Canon Software Disc

Controller

PC-A10 SCART
Adapter*

Lithium Button Battery
CR2025 for Wireless
Controller

Blank DVD-R Disc
(8 cm Mini DVD)

E

Introduction

11

Components Guide

Left side view

Right side view

(record review) button ( 32) /

(rewind) button ( 38) /

– button ( 37) /

(flash) button ( 54)

DRIVE MODE button ( 64) /

(fast forward) button ( 38) /
+ button ( 37) Memory card slot ( 28)
D.EFFECTS button ( 68) /

/ (play/pause) button ( 37)

LIGHT button ( 53) /

(stop) button ( 37)
FINALIZE button ( 96) / (Movies/Stills) switch ( 10)
DISPLAY button ( 43) Battery attachment unit ( 19)
BACKLIGHT button ( 24) Serial number
WIDE SCR button ( 52) /
PLAYLIST button ( 83)
Lens cover switch ( 31, 33)
( - open, - closed)

Speaker ( 41)
FUNC. button ( 57)
MENU button ( 77)
Omni Selector ( 9) /
EXP button ( 49) /
FOCUS button ( 50)

Card access indicator ( 33) /
Charge indicator ( 19)

(print/share) button ( 105, 108,

114 )

Reset button ( 122)
Disc compartment cover ( 29)
Grip belt ( 22)

12

Front view

E

Back view

Flash ( 54) USB terminal ( 103, 108, 113)

Mini video light ( 53) DC IN terminal ( 19)
Remote sensor ( 23) AV terminal ( 100)
Stereo microphone Terminal cover
Viewfinder ( 22) Disc access indicator ( 31)
Dioptric adjustment lever ( 22) Start/stop button ( 31)
Power switch ( 10) Terminal cover
LCD screen ( 24)

Introduction

13

Top view

Bottom view

Mode switch ( 44) BATT. button ( 19)
Zoom lever ( 35) Strap mount ( 139)
PHOTO button ( 33) OPEN switch ( 29)
Tripod socket ( 36)

14

Wireless Controller WL-D86

START/STOP button ( 31) PAUSE button ( 37)
FUNC. button ( 57) STOP button ( 37)
MENU button ( 77) PHOTO button ( 33)
PLAYLIST button ( 83) Zoom buttons ( 35)
Navigation buttons ( / / / ) SET button
Scene skip buttons (PREV./NEXT) ( 37) Forward SEARCH button ( 38) /

Forward SLOW button ( 38)Reverse SEARCH button ( 38) /
Reverse SLOW button ( 38) DISP. (on-screen display) button ( 43)
PLAY button ( 37)

E

Introduction

15

Screen Displays

Recording Movies

Recording Stills

Operating mode ( 10), Zoom ( 35),

Exposure ( 49)

Recording program ( 44)

Metering mode ( 60)

White balance ( 61)

Image effect ( 63)

Drive mode ( 64)

Digital effects ( 68)

Recording mode ( 58)

Still image quality/size ( 74)

Disc type

DVD-R, DVD-RW ( 3)
Disc specification
(VIDEO mode, VR mode) ( 3)
Finalized disc mark ( 96)
Self-timer ( 56)
Recording reminder
Manual focus ( 50)
Image stabilizer ( 79)
Disc operation
Time code
Remaining recording time on disc ( 31)
Widescreen mode ( 52)
Wind screen ( 79)
Number of still images available

on the card, on the disc
Remaining battery charge
Remote sensor mode ( 23)
Camcorder shake warning ( 78)

Mini video light ( 53)

Flash ( 54)
AF/AE locked during still image recording
(51)
AF frame ( 51)

16

Recording reminder

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

Disc operation

Record, Record pause,

Playback, Playback pause,

Fast reverse playback,

Fast playback,

Slow reverse playback,

Slow playback

Time Code

Indicates the recording time in hours,
minutes and seconds.

Remaining recording time

Indicates the remaining time on the disc
in minutes. When there is no more disc
space available, “ END” will be
displayed and the recording will stop. The
camcorder uses a variable bit rate (VBR)
when encoding the video data so the
actual recording times will vary
depending on the content of the scenes
and may differ from the remaining time
displayed.

Number of still images available on

the card

flashing 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 still images available
displayed may not decrease even after
a recording has been made, or may
decrease by 2 still images at once.

Card Access Display

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

Remaining battery charge

• When “ ” starts flashing 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.

E

Introduction

17

Playing Movies (Index Screen)

Current scene number/Total number of
scenes ( 37)
Date and time of recording
Disc operation
Playback time
Scene number
Data code ( 43)

Playing Movies (During Playback)

Viewing Stills

Image number ( 82)
Current image / Number of images

Still image size
Protect mark ( 94)
Data code ( 43)

recorded on the card,

recorded on the disc

18

Preparations

Step 1: Preparing the Power Supply

The camcorder can be powered by a battery pack or be connected to a household power
outlet. Charge the battery pack before use.

Attaching and Charging the Battery Pack

1. Turn off the camcorder.

2. Attach the battery pack to the
camcorder.

• Open the LCD panel.

• Slide in the connector end of the battery

in the direction of the arrow and press it
gently until it clicks.

3. Connect the power cord to the
adapter.

4. Plug the power cord into a power
outlet.

5. Open the terminal cover and
connect the power adapter to the
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.

The charge indicator starts flashing. The
indicator will stay on when charging is
complete.

Once the battery is fully charged:

1. Disconnect the power adapter from the camcorder.

2. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet and the adapter.

To remove the battery pack:

Hold the BATT. button pressed down to release it, and pull out the battery
from the ridge on its bottom part.

Charge indicator

DC IN terminal

BATT.
button

Remove the battery terminal cover
before attaching the battery

E

Preparations

19

Charging, Recording and Playback Times with the BP-208 Battery Pack

The charging time of the BP-208 battery pack is 165 min.
The following recording and playback times are approximate and vary according
to the charging, recording or playback conditions.

Recording Mode

Max.

Recording Time

Typ ical

Recording Time*

Playback Time

Viewfinder 65 min. 35 min.

XP

75 min.LCD (normal) 60 min. 30 min.
LCD (backlight) 60 min. 30 min.
Viewfinder 70 min. 35 min.

SP

80 min.LCD (normal) 70 min. 35 min.
LCD (backlight) 65 min. 30 min.
Viewfinder 80 min. 40 min.

LP

90 min.LCD (normal) 75 min. 35 min.
LCD (backlight) 75 min. 35 min.

Recording Mode

Max.

Recording Time

Typ ical

Recording Time*

Playback Time

Viewfinder 75 min. 35 min.

XP

80 min.LCD (normal) 70 min. 35 min.
LCD (backlight) 70 min. 35 min.
Viewfinder 80 min. 40 min.

SP

90 min.LCD (normal) 80 min. 40 min.
LCD (backlight) 75 min. 40 min.
Viewfinder 95 min. 45 min.

LP

100 min.LCD (normal) 90 min. 45 min.

LCD (backlight) 85 min. 40 min.

* Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop, zooming,

power on/off.

20

Using a Household Power Outlet

Connect to a household power outlet to use the camcorder without worrying about the
battery power. You can keep the battery pack attached; the battery power will not be
consumed.

1. Turn off the camcorder.

2. Connect the power cord to the
power adapter.

3. Plug the power cord into a power
outlet.

4. Open the terminal cover and
connect the power adapter to the
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.

 Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the power adapter.
 Do not connect to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal or to the power adapter any

electrical equipment that is not expressly recommended for use with this
camcorder.

 You may hear some noise from the power adapter during use. This is not a

malfunction.

 To prevent equipment breakdowns and excessive heating, do not connect the

supplied compact power adapter to voltage converters for overseas travels or
special power sources such as those on aircraft and ships, DC-AC inverters, etc.

 Do not disconnect and reconnect the power cord while charging a battery pack.

Charging may stop. The battery pack may not be charged correctly even if the
charge indicator is continuously on. The battery pack may also not be charged
correctly when a power outage occurs during charging. Remove the battery
pack and attach it back to the camcorder.

 If you connect a faulty power adapter or battery pack, the charge indicator

flashes rapidly (approx. twice per second) and charging stops.

 The charge indicator also serves as a rough estimate of the battery charge

status.
Continuously on: Battery fully charged.
Flashes rapidly (approx. twice per second): Battery over 50% charged.
Flashes slowly (approx. once per second): Battery less than 50% charged.

 We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between 10 °C and

30 °C. Outside the temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C, the charge indicator
flashes rapidly and charging stops.

 A lithium ion battery pack can be charged at any charge state. Unlike

conventional battery packs, you do not need to completely use or discharge it
before charging.

 To conserve battery power, turn off the camcorder instead of leaving it in record

pause mode.

 We recommend that you prepare battery packs 2 to 3 times longer than you

think you might need.

E

Preparations

21

Step 2: Preparing the Camcorder

Adjusting the Viewfinder (Dioptric Adjustment)

1. Turn on the camcorder and keep
the LCD panel closed.

2. Adjust the dioptric adjustment
lever as necessary.

Fastening the Grip Belt

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

22

Step 3: Using the Wireless Controller

Inserting the Battery (Lithium Button Battery CR2025)

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.

Ta b

Using the Wireless Controller

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

 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 the remote sensor is not set

to [OFF ] ( 81).

 When the camcorder cannot be operated with the wireless controller, or when it

can only be operated at a very close range, replace the battery.

E

Preparations

23

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD Screen

Rotating the LCD Panel

Subject can monitor the LCD screen

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.

• You can rotate the panel downward by 90 degrees.

• You can rotate the panel by 180 degrees toward the lens (allowing the subject to

monitor the LCD screen while you use the viewfinder).

Rotating the panel by 180 degrees is also useful if you wish to include yourself
when recording with the self-timer.

LCD Backlight

You can switch the brightness of the LCD screen between normal and bright by pressing
the BACKLIGHT button. This is useful when recording outdoors.

BACKLIGHT button

Press the BACKLIGHT button.

Repeatedly pressing the BACKLIGHT button will toggle the LCD brightness on and off.

 This setting does not affect the brightness of the recording or the viewfinder

screen.

 Using the brighter LCD setting will shorten the effective usage time of the

battery.

24

Step 5: Changing the Display Language

The language used in the camcorder displays and menu items can be changed to
German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese,
Korean or Japanese.

E

MENU

(77)

1. Turn on the camcorder (CAMERA or PLAY).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [DISPLAY
SETUP] menu and press ( ).

4. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the
[LANGUAGE ] option and press ( ).

5. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the
language desired and press ( ) to select it.

6. Press the MENU button to save the setting and close the menu.

 If you changed the language by mistake, follow the mark next to the menu

item to change the setting.

 The displays and that appear on screen while changing the print

and direct transfer settings will not change regardless of the language selected.

DISPLAY SETUP LANGUAGE

Preparations

25

Step 6: Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time

Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time

MENU

(77)

1. Turn on the camcorder (CAMERA or PLAY).

2. Press the MENU button to open the menu.

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [D/TIME
SETUP] menu and press ( ).

4. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [T.ZONE/
DST] option and press ( ).

The time zone setting appears. The default setting is Paris.

5. Use the omni selector ( ) to select your time zone and press ( ) to
save the setting.

To adjust for daylight saving time, select the time zone with the mark next to the
area.

Setting the Date and Time

MENU

(77)

D/TIME SETUP T.ZONE/DST

D/TIME SETUP DATE/TIME

6. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [DATE/
TIME] option and press ( ).

The year is displayed in orange.

7. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the year and
push it to ( ) to move to the month setting.

• The next part of the date/time is displayed in orange.

• Set the month, day, hours and minutes in the same way.

• If you do not need to change all settings, you can use the omni selector ( ) to

move to a specific setting you want to change.

8. Press the MENU button to close the menu and start
the clock.

26

 When you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in

rechargeable lithium battery may become discharged, and the date/time setting
may be erased. In such case, recharge the built-in lithium battery ( 133) and
set the time zone, date and time again.

 You can also change the date format ( 82).

Time Zones

Once you have set the time zone, date and time, you do not need to reset the clock every
time you travel to another time zone. Select the time zone referring to the date and time
displayed on the screen.

Time Zones and Difference from GMT/UTC

London GMT/UTC Wellington (WELLGTN) +12
Paris +1 Samoa -11
Cairo +2 Honolulu (HONOLU.) -10
Moscow +3 Anchorage (ANCHOR.) -9
Dubai +4 Los Angeles (L.A.) -8
Karachi +5 Denver -7
Dacca +6 Chicago -6
Bangkok +7 New York (N.Y.) -5
Hong Kong (H. KONG) +8 Caracas -4
Tokyo +9 Rio de Janeiro (RIO) -3
Sydney +10 Fernando de Noronha (FERNAN.) -2
Solomon +11 Azores -1

E

Preparations

27

Step 7: Inserting a Memory Card

Only miniSD cards can be used with this camcorder.

Inserting the Card

1. Turn off the camcorder.

Make sure the card access indicator is not
flashing before you turn the camcorder off.

2. Open the cover.

3. Insert the memory card straight all
the way into the memory card slot.

4. Close the cover.

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

To remove the memory card:

First push the memory card once to
release it, and then pull the card out.

 Make sure to initialize all memory cards before using them with this camcorder

(95).

 Performance cannot be guaranteed for all miniSD cards.

Card access
indicator

28

Step 8: Loading a Disc

Preparations:

Use only 8 cm mini DVD discs marked with the DVD-R or DVD-RW logo.
Use a soft lens-cleaning cloth to remove any fingerprints, dirt buildup or smudges from
the disc surface.

1. Holding the lock button pressed
down, move the power switch to
CAMERA.

2. Move the / switch to the
(MOVIES) position.

3. Push the OPEN button and gently
open the disc cover fully until it
stops.

• Retract the grip belt under the

camcorder so it will not get in the way of
the disc cover.

• When there is already a disc in the

camcorder it may take a moment after
you press the OPEN button for the disc
cover to open. Do not force the cover
open.

4. Insert the disc with the label side
facing out and press its center
firmly until it clicks in place.

• When loading a double-sided disc, insert

the disc with the side you want to record
on facing down.

• Be careful not to touch the recording

surface of the disc or the pick up lens.

• To remove the disc, grab its edges with your fingers and gently pull the disc out.

5. Close the disc cover.

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

When using DVD-R discs (including the supplied blank disc):

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

E

Preparations

29

When using a DVD-RW:

You need to initialize the disc before you can start recording. The Disc Initialization screen
will appear when a DVD-RW is first inserted. It will not appear when inserting a disc
already initialized. In that case, you can start recording once the record pause
indication appears.

Use the omni selector ( ) to select the disc specification desired and press ( ) to
make the selection. For a comparison between the specifications “VIDEO” and “VR”
see An Introduction to DVDs (3).
You will be asked to confirm the disc specification you selected. Use the omni selector
( ) to select [YES] and press ( ) to continue, or select [NO] and press ( ) to
return and select a different disc specification.
A confirmation message will appear on the screen. Use the omni selector ( ) to
select [YES] and press ( ) to start the disc initialization.
The disc initialization will take approximately one minute. Avoid moving the camcorder
while the operation is in progress.
When the disc initialization is completed the camcorder will automatically enter the

indication appears.

 The Disc Initialization screen may not appear automatically if you operated the

 The process of recognizing a disc may take a moment. The display will

mode. You can start recording movies once the record pause

camcorder’s buttons while the disc recognition was in progress. In that case,
initialize the disc using the MENU option ( 89).

move while the disc is being read. Wait until the camcorder finishes recognizing
the disc before you start recording.

30

Basic Functions
Recording

Recording Movies

Before You Begin Recording

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

1. Holding the lock button pressed
down, move the power switch to
CAMERA.

2. Move the / switch to the
(MOVIES) position.

3. Open the LCD panel and the lens
cover (move the lens cover switch
down to ).

4. Press the start/stop button to
begin recording.

• Press the start/stop button again to

pause recording.

• During the recording and immediately

after pausing it, the disc access indicator
may go on while the scene is being
written on the disc.

When You Have Finished Recording:

1. Remove the disc.

2.

Close the LCD panel and the lens cover (move the lens cover switch to )

3. Turn off the camcorder.

4. Disconnect the power source.

E

Basic Functions

Recording

.

Do not turn off the camcorder, change the position of the / switch,
disconnect the power source, open the memory card/disc cover or remove the
memory card/disc while the card access or the disc access indicator is flashing.
Doing so could result in data damage.

 The process of recognizing a disc may take a moment. The display will

move while the disc is being read. Wait until the camcorder finishes recognizing
the disc before you start recording.

 About the recording time: The recording mode is set by default as SP

(standard play). By changing the recording mode you can change the recording
time available on the disc ( 58).

 When recording in bright places it may be difficult to use the LCD screen. In

such case, use the viewfinder instead.

 When recording in very loud places (such as fireworks shows or concerts),

sound may become distorted or it may not be recorded at the actual levels. This
is not a malfunction.

31

 In order 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 ( 82). Approximately 30 seconds before the camcorder shuts
off, “ AUTO POWER OFF” appears in the center of the screen. If the
camcorder shuts off, move the power switch to OFF and then back to
CAMERA or PLAY.

 About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The screens are produced using

extremely high-precision manufacturing techniques, with more than

99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than 0.01% of the
pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black or green dots. This has
no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.

Reviewing the Last Scene Recorded

In record pause mode:

Press and release the (record review) button.

• The camcorder plays back the last scene and returns to record

pause mode.

• While reviewing the scene, use the omni selector ( ) to select

the icon and press ( ) to return to the recording mode. You
can also delete the scene by selecting ( ) the icon ( 85).

The last scene review is only available if you have not changed operating modes
or turned off the camcorder after making the recording.

32

Recording Still Images

Before using a memory card for the first time, be sure to initialize it with this camcorder
(95).

1. Holding the lock button pressed
down, move the power switch to
CAMERA.

2. Move the / switch to the
(STILLS) position.

3. Open the LCD panel and the lens
cover (move the lens cover switch
down to ).

4. If necessary, change the media for
recording the still images using
the procedure described in the
next page ( 34).

• You can record still images on the

memory card or the disc. The default
media for still images is the memory
card.

• As long as you do not change the

recording destination, still images will be
recorded to the last selected media.

5. Press the PHOTO button halfway.

• Once the focus is automatically adjusted, the camcorder will beep, the mark will

turn green and one or more green AF frames appear.

• When you press the PHOTO button on the wireless controller, the still image is

recorded immediately.

6. Press the PHOTO button fully.

The mark and the AF frame(s) disappear and you hear a shutter sound.

Recording

E

Basic Functions

Do not turn off the camcorder, change the position of the / switch,
disconnect the power source, open the memory card/disc cover or remove the
memory card/disc while the card access or the disc access indicator is flashing.
Doing so could result in data damage.

 About the focusing frame:

This camcorder uses the 9-point artificial intelligence autofocus (9-point AiAF)
that will automatically select the best focusing frames out of nine available,
allowing you to focus on subjects even if they are not in the center of the picture
(51).

 If the subject is not suitable for autofocus, turns yellow. Keep the PHOTO

button pressed halfway and adjust the focus manually with the omni selector
().

 In step 5 above, the image may appear out of focus for a moment while the

camcorder is focusing.

33

 When the subject is too bright, “OVEREXP.” starts flashing. In such case, use

the optional FS-H27U ND filter.

 In order 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
( 82). “ AUTO POWER OFF” appears 30 seconds before shutoff. To
continue recording, turn the power switch to OFF and then back to CAMERA.

Selecting the Media for the Still Images

You can record still images on the memory card or the disc. The default media for still
images is the memory card.

1. Set the camcorder to record or view still images ( or

).

2. Press the MENU button. Using the omni selector ( ) select the
[SYSTEM SETUP] menu and press ( ).

3. Select ( ) the [MEDIA SEL. ] option and press ( ).

4. Change ( ) the setting to [DISC] or [CARD] and press ( ) to save
the selection and close the menu.

When recording, the operating mode symbol will change to (DISC STILLS) or
(CARD STILLS), depending on the media selected. In playback mode, the operating
mode symbol will change to (DISC STILLS) or (CARD STILLS), respectively.

34

Zooming

The zoom is available when recording movies or stills. When recording movies
( ), in addition to the 10x optical zoom you can also use the 200x digital zoom
( 78).

Zoom out

Zoom in

E

10x Optical Zoom

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

Press the zoom lever slightly for a slow zoom. Press harder for a
faster zoom.

 You can also use the T and W buttons on the wireless controller. However, in

that case you cannot control the zoom speed.

 The zoom speed will be faster in record pause mode.
 Keep a distance of at least 1 m to the subject. At wide-angle, you can focus on

a subject as close as 1 cm.

Recording

Basic Functions

35

Tips for Better Recording

Holding the Camcorder

For maximum stability, hold the camcorder firmly with your right hand and
keep your right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary, support the
camcorder with your left hand. Be careful that your fingers do not touch the
microphone or lens.

For More Stability

 Lean against a wall  Place the camcorder on a table

 Lie on your elbow
 Kneel on one knee

Lighting

When recording outdoors, we
recommend recording with the sun at
your back.

 When using a tripod, do not leave the viewfinder exposed to direct sunlight as it

may melt (due to concentration of the light by the lens).

 Do not use tripods with fastening screws longer than

5.5 mm. Doing so may damage the camcorder. The
camcorder cannot be mounted on tripods with fixed (non­retractable) camera positioning pins.

36

 Use a tripod

Camera
positioning pin

Playback

Playing Back Movies

1. Open the LCD panel.

2. Holding the lock button pressed
down move the power switch to
PLAY and slide the / switch
to the (MOVIES) position.

The scene index screen appears with the
selection frame on the first scene.

3. Use the omni selector ( , )
to move the selection frame to the
scene you want to play back.
Press the / button to begin
the playback.

• Playback of the scenes recorded on the

disc will start from the scene selected.

• When the end of the last movie recorded

is reached, playback will stop and the
camcorder will return to the scene index
screen.

• Press the + or - button on the camcorder

or the NEXT/PREV. buttons on the wireless controller to move to the next or
previous index page, respectively.

During Playback:

4. Press the / button again to pause the playback.

5. Press the button to stop the playback and return to the scene index
screen.

E

Basic Functions

Playback

 To use the viewfinder, close the LCD panel.
 About the screen display: During playback, the recording’s time code will be

displayed at the upper right corner of the screen in hours : minutes : seconds.
You can also choose to display instead the date and time when the scene was
recorded and additional recording data ( 43).

 Depending on the recording, you might occasionally notice a brief stop of the

picture or sound at the point where the scene changes.

37

Special Playback Modes

/ (Playback Pause)

During normal playback, press the / button on the camcorder or the PAUSE on
the wireless controller.

Skipping Scenes

During normal playback, push the omni selector ( ) to skip to the beginning of the next
scene. Push ( ) to return to the beginning of the current scene. Push ( ) again to skip
to the beginning of the previous scene.

Fast Forward Playback / Fast Reverse Playback

During playback, press the or button on the camcorder or the SEARCH or

SEARCH button on the wireless controller. Repeatedly press the button to increase
the playback speed. Fast forward playback will start at 1.5x the normal playback speed
and will increase to 5x, 15x and 25x normal speed with each press of the button. Fast
reverse playback will start at 2.5x the normal playback speed and will increase to 5x, 15x
and 25x normal playback speed with each press of the button. Press the / button to
return to normal playback.

SLOW Slow Forward Playback / SLOW Slow Reverse Playback

During playback pause, press the or button on the camcorder or the SLOW
or SLOW button on the wireless controller. Repeatedly press the button to increase
the playback speed. Playback will start at 1/16 the normal playback speed and will
increase to 1/8, 1/4 and 1/2 the normal speed with each press of the button. Press the

/ button to return to playback pause.

38

 Except for fast playback at 1.5x the normal speed, there is no sound during

special playback modes.

 The picture may become distorted during some special playback modes.
 Slow playback is not available with discs recorded in VIDEO mode (DVD-R or

DVD-RW).

 During the playback of a Photomovie scene, even though the display may

change according to the fast forward/reverse playback, the actual playback
speed will not change.

Viewing Still Images

1. Open the LCD panel.

2. Holding the lock button pressed

down move the power switch to
PLAY and slide the / switch
to the (STILLS) position.

3. If necessary, change the media

for the still images using the
procedure described in the
Recording Still Images section
( 34).

• You can show the still images on the
memory card or the disc. The default
media for still images is the memory
card.

• As long as you do not change the
media selection, the camcorder will
show the still images recorded on the
media that was selected last.

4. Use the omni selector ( ) to move between images.

Slide Show

E

Basic Functions

Playback

(57)

SLIDE SHOW

1. Press the FUNC. button.

2. Use the omni selector ( ) to select [ SLIDE SHOW] and press ( )
to make the selection.

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to select [START] and press ( ) to start
the slideshow.

• Images are played back one after another.

• Press the button to stop the slide show.

Index Screen

1. Move the zoom lever toward W.

The stills index screen appears with the first six still images.

2. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select an image.

• Move the “ ” to the image you wish to view.

• You can switch between index pages by pressing the + or – button.

3. Move the zoom lever toward T.

The index screen closes and the selected image is displayed.

39

Image Jump Function

You can also quickly locate a specific image without having to browse all of them one by
one. The number in the upper right of the screen indicates the number of the current
image out of the total number of images.

Push the omni selector ( ) and keep it pressed down.

Image numbers will quickly run in sequence. When you release the omni selector the
image corresponding to the number selected will be displayed.

 The following may not be displayed correctly: Images not recorded with this

camcorder, images edited on or uploaded from a computer (except for the
sample images for the Card Mix function), and images whose file names have
been changed.

 Do not turn off the camcorder, change the position of the / switch,

disconnect the power source, open the memory card/disc cover or remove the
memory card/disc while the card access or the disc access indicator is flashing.
Doing so could result in data damage.

40

Adjusting the Volume

While playing a movie ( ): If you use the LCD screen for playback the
camcorder will play the sound using the built-in speaker. If you close the LCD panel the
sound will be muted.

MENU button

E

Speaker

From the scene index screen or during playback:

Omni Selector

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [SYSTEM
SETUP] menu and press ( ).

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [VOLUME]
option and press ( ).

4. Adjust ( ) the volume as desired and press ( ).

The menu symbol will show the volume level selected. When you turn off the volume
completely will appear instead.

5. Press the MENU button to save the setting and close the menu.

Basic Functions

Playback

41

Magnifying the Image

While viewing a still image ( ), the playback image can be magnified up to 5
times.

Zoom lever

Omni Selector

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 2x, move the zoom lever toward W.

• will appear for images that cannot be enlarged.

2. Select the part of the image to be magnified with the omni selector.

• Use the omni selector ( , ) to 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.

42

Displaying Additional Recording Data

The camcorder keeps a data code containing the recording date and time and other
camera data such as shutter speed and exposure (f-stop). You can select the data to be
displayed when playing back a movie ( ) or viewing a still image ( ).

MENU button

DISPLAY button

Omni Selector

Selecting the Date/Time Display Combination

MENU

(77)

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [DISPLAY SETUP] menu and
press ( ).

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the [DATA CODE] option and
press ( ).

4. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the data combination desired and
press ( ) to select it.

In mode you can only choose to display the recording date, the time or
both.

5. Press the MENU button to save the setting and close the menu.

6. While playing back a movie or viewing a still image, press the
DISPLAY button to turn on the data code display.

Repeatedly pressing the DISPLAY button will turn the on-screen displays on and off in
the following sequence:

DISPLAY SETUP DATA CODE

on-screen displays on

E

Basic Functions

Playback

data code display on

on-screen displays off

43

Advanced Features
Recording Programs

Using the Recording Programs

Auto

The camcorder adjusts focus,
exposure and other settings
automatically, allowing you to just point
and shoot.

Program AE ( 46)

Shutter-Priority AE ( 47)
Aperture-Priority AE ( 48)

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.

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.

44

Selecting the Recording Program

Mode switch

Set the camcorder to a recording mode (
or ) and use the mode switch to choose
one of the following recording program categories:

: Automatic mode

: Program AE (P) ( 46), Shutter-Priority AE (Tv) ( 47) or

Aperture-Priority AE (Av) ( 48) can be selected.

(Scene): Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, or Fireworks can be

selected ( 44).

To select a specific recording program after choosing or :

1. Press the FUNC. button.

2. Select ( ) the symbol of the program currently activated from the
left side column.

3. Select ( ) the recording program desired.

4. Press the FUNC. button to make the selection and close the menu.

The symbol of the selected recording program will appear.

 Do not change the recording program during recording as the brightness of the

image may change abruptly.

 Portrait:

- The blur effect of the background increases the more you zoom in (T).

- The picture may not appear smooth when played back.

 Spor ts:

The picture may not appear smooth when played back.

 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.

 Snow/Beach:

- The subject may become overexposed on cloudy days or in shaded places.
Check the image on the screen.

- The picture may not appear smooth when played back.

 Fireworks:

To avoid camcorder shake, we recommend using a tripod. Make sure to use a
tripod especially when recording still images, as the shutter speed slows down.

E

Recording Programs

Advanced Features

45

Using the Program AE Mode

The camcorder automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed according to the
subject to achieve the best exposure conditions. In Program AE mode, you can point and
shoot as in Auto mode, while still enjoying the option to manually adjust some settings.

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode
( or ) and move the mode
switch to .

2. From the FUNC. menu, select the (PROGRAM AE)
mode ( 45).

If the optimal exposure cannot be obtained, try the following actions.

 Manually adjust the exposure ( 49).
 Change the metering method ( 60).
 Use the flash ( 54).
 Use the mini video light ( 53).

46

Using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode

You can select a shutter speed, and the camcorder automatically sets the aperture setting
most appropriate for the subject.

Select a high shutter speed for recording fast moving subjects, and a slow shutter speed
to add a motion blur to moving objects, enhancing the feel of movement of the image.

Guidelines for selecting the shutter speed

E

1/6, 1/12, 1/25 1/2, 1/3, 1/6,

1/50 1/50 For general recordings.
1/120 1/120 For recording indoor sports scenes.
1/250, 1/500,

1/1000
1/2000

1/12, 1/25

1/250, 1/500 For recording from within a car or trains, or

-

For recording subjects in dark places.

recording moving subjects such as roller coasters.
For recording outdoor sports such as golf or tennis

on sunny days.

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode
( or ) and move the mode
switch to .

2. From the FUNC. menu, select the Tv (SHUTTER­PRIO. AE) mode ( 45).

3. Press ( ).

The denominator of the current shutter speed will be displayed with a blue
background.

4. Change ( ) the shutter speed and press ( ) to save the setting.

• The denominator of the shutter speed selected will be displayed.

• The aperture value is adjusted automatically.

 The shutter speed denominator flashes when the selected shutter speed is not

appropriate for the recording condition. In such case, readjust the shutter
speed.

 When using a slow shutter speed in dark places, you can obtain a brighter

image, but the image quality may be lower, and the autofocus may not work
well.

 Do not point the camcorder directly at the sun when the shutter speed is set to

1/1000 or higher.

 The image may flicker when recording with high shutter speeds.

Recording Programs

Advanced Features

47

Using the Aperture-Priority AE

Mode

You can select an aperture value, and the camcorder automatically sets the shutter speed
most appropriate for the subject. Use low aperture values (large aperture) to blur the
background for a portrait, or high aperture values (small aperture) to achieve a broad
depth of field for recording landscapes.

Aperture values: 1.8, 2.0, 2.4, 2.8, 3.4, 4.0, 4.8, 5.6, 6.7, 8.0, 9.5, 11, 14, 16

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode
( or ) and move the mode
switch to .

2. From the FUNC. menu, select the Av (APERTURE­PRIO. AE) mode ( 45).

3. Press ( ).

The current aperture value will be displayed with a blue background.

4. Change ( ) the aperture value and press ( ) to save the setting.

• The aperture value selected will be displayed.

• The shutter speed is adjusted automatically.

• The aperture becomes smaller the bigger the aperture value.

 The aperture value flashes when the selected aperture is not appropriate for the

recording condition. In such case, readjust the aperture.

 Available aperture values vary depending on the zoom position.

48

More Recording Options

Manually Adjusting the Exposure

Adjust the exposure when a subject is underexposed (for example, when backlit subjects
appear too dark in the image) or overexposed (for example, when recording subjects
under very strong light and they appear too bright or glaring in the image).

Mode switch

Omni Selector/EXP button

Exposure Lock

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or )
and move the mode switch to a position other than .

Exposure cannot be adjusted in the Fireworks recording program (SCN).

2. Push the omni selector ( ) towards EXP.

• The exposure adjustment indicator and the neutral value “±0” appear on

the screen.

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

change.

• Pushing the omni selector ( ) again will cancel the exposure lock and return the

camcorder to the previous setting.

Exposure Adjustment

During exposure lock:

Adjust ( ) the brightness of the image as required.

The adjustment range depends on the brightness of the picture at the time you locked the
exposure.

E

Advanced Features

More Recording Options

49

Manually Adjusting the Focus and Changing the Focusing Mode

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

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or )
and move the mode switch to a position other than .

2. Adjust the zoom.

3. Push the omni selector ( ) towards FOCUS.

“MF” appears.

4. Adjust ( ) the focus as required until the image appears focused.

Pushing the omni selector ( ) again will return to autofocus.

Through

dirty or wet

windows

Mode switch

Zoom lever

Omni Selector/FOCUS button

Night Scenes

 The camcorder will automatically return to autofocus when you move the mode

switch to .

 Readjust the focus when you have turned off the camcorder.

Infinity Focus

Use this function when you wish to focus on faraway subjects such as mountains or
fireworks.

After step 2 above, hold the omni selector pushed ( ) towards FOCUS
for more than 2 seconds.

“ ” appears.

If you operate the zoom or the omni selector ( ) during infinity focus, “ ”
changes to “MF” and the camcorder returns to manual focusing mode.

50

Changing the Focusing Mode

You can change the AF (autofocus) frame selection mode.

9 Point AiAF
(Auto selection)

Center point Out of the nine frames available, the center AF frame is

1. Set the camcorder to record still images ( ) and move the
mode switch to a position other than .

• The setting differs depending on the position of the mode switch.

: 9 Point AiAF

, : 9 Point AiAF or Center point

• The focusing mode cannot be changed in the Fireworks recording program (SCN).

2. Select ( ) the focusing mode.

• 9 Point AiAF: four framing corners will appear on the screen when making the

selection; the frame corners do not appear in the regular recording mode.

• Center point: a single focusing frame appears in the center of the screen when

making the selection; the frame will appear in white in the regular recording mode.

You cannot select the AF frame while recording in Stitch Assist mode.

Depending on the shooting conditions, one or more AF
frames out of the nine frames available are automatically
selected and focused on.

selected to focus. This is convenient for making sure the
focus is exactly where you want it.

E

Advanced Features

More Recording Options

51

Recording in Widescreen (16:9 Aspect Ratio)

The camcorder uses the full width of the CCD providing high-resolution 16:9 recording.

WIDE SCR button

1. Set the camcorder to record movies ( ).

2. Press the WIDE SCR button.

• “ ” appears and the screen changes to the “letterbox” display.

• Repeatedly pressing the WIDE SCR button will toggle the screen between the

Widescreen (16:9) and 4:3 aspect ratios.

 Widescreen is not available when recording in LP mode if the disc specification

is VIDEO mode (DVD-R or DVD-RW). Selecting the LP recording mode will
cancel the 16:9 aspect ratio.

 If you turn off the image stabilizer, you can achieve a wider horizontal angle of

view.

52

Using the Mini Video Light

You can turn on the mini video light (assist lamp) at any time regardless of the recording
program.

LIGHT button

Mini video light

Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or ) and
press the LIGHT button.

• “ ” appears on the screen.

• Repeatedly pressing the LIGHT button will turn the mini video light on and off.

 Do not point the mini video light at people while they are driving.
 Do not stare at the mini video light for a long time.
 Do not use the mini video light close to people’s eyes.

E

Advanced Features

More Recording Options

53

Using the Flash

You can use the built-in flash for recording still images in dark places. The flash is
equipped with the red-eye reduction function.

(auto) The flash fires automatically according to the brightness

(red-eye reduction, auto) The flash fires automatically according to the brightness

(flash on) The flash always fires.

(flash off) The flash does not fire. Use this setting in places where

PHOTO button

1. Set the camcorder to record still images ( ) and select a
recording program other than Fireworks (SCN).

2. Press the (flash) button.

• Repeatedly pressing the button will cycle between the flash modes.

• The symbol of the selected flash mode appears on the screen. “ ” disappears after

4 seconds.

3. Press the PHOTO button, first halfway to activate the autofocus and
then fully to record the still image.

The flash fires according to the flash mode selected and the recording conditions.

of the subject.

of the subject. The assist lamp lights up to reduce the
red-eye effect.

flash photography is prohibited.

(flash) button

Assist lamp

Flash

54

 Do not fire the flash close to people’s eyes.
 Do not fire the flash at people while they are driving.
 Do not fire the flash with the flash bulb covered with your hand.

 The practical range of the flash is approx. 1 to 2 m. The range depends upon

the recording conditions.

 The range of the flash decreases in continuous shooting mode.
 For the 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 will not fire in the following cases:

- When you press the EXP button in (auto) or (red-eye reduction) mode.

- During auto exposure bracketing.

 We recommend not using the flash when the optional Wide-converter or Tele-

converter is attached. Their shadows appear on the screen.

 The flash mode cannot be selected when the exposure is locked, or after the

first still image in Stitch Assist mode.

 The red-eye reduction mode cannot be used in Stitch Assist mode.
 About the AF-Assist Lamp:

While you press the PHOTO button 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).

- The camcorder may not be able to focus even though the AF-assist lamp is
on.

- The brightness of the AF-assist lamp could be an inconvenience. Consider
turning off the AF-assist lamp in public places such as restaurants or theaters.

E

Advanced Features

More Recording Options

55

Using the Self-Timer

The self-timer can be used when recording still images or movies.

MENU button

PHOTO button

Start/stop button

Omni Selector

MENU

(77)

CAMERA SETUP SELF TIMER

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or ).

When recording movies set the camcorder to record pause.

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Using the omni selector ( , ) select the [CAMERA SETUP] menu
and then select the [SELF TIMER] option.

4. Set ( ) it to [ON] and press ( ) to save the setting.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

“ ” appears.

When recording a still image:

6. Press the PHOTO button, first halfway to activate the autofocus and
then fully to record the still image.

The camcorder will record the still image after a 10-second countdown (2 seconds
when using the wireless controller). The countdown appears on the screen.

When recording a movie:

6. Press the start/stop button.

The camcorder starts recording after a 10-second countdown (2 seconds when using
the wireless controller). The countdown appears on the screen.

 To cancel the self-timer, set the [SELF TIMER] option in the [CAMERA SETUP]

menu to [OFF]. Once the countdown has begun, you can also press the start/
stop button (when recording movies) or the PHOTO button (when recording still
images) to cancel the self-timer.

 The self-timer will be canceled if you turn off the camcorder.

56

Changing the FUNC. Settings

Changing Settings with the FUNC. Button

Many of the camcorder’s functions can be adjusted from the menu that opens after
pressing the FUNC. button. For a list of the settings that can be changed using this menu,
see Available Settings List (FUNC.) (58).

FUNC. button

Omni Selector

1. Press the FUNC. button.

• The menu appears.

• The symbols of the current settings are displayed on the left

side column.

In the recording modes ( or ):

2. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the function
you want to change.

3. Use the omni selector ( ) to move through the
available options at the bottom bar.

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

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

• The symbol of the selected option will be displayed.

• Refer to the following pages for further details on setting the

[SET] option for the white balance function ( 61), the
[CUSTOM] option for the image effect function ( 63), or the [MULTI-S] option for
the digital effect function ( 71).

 The symbols of functions not available appear grayed out on the left side

column.

 Pressing the FUNC. button at any time closes the menu.
 Refer to the relevant sections of Editing Functions ( 83) for further details on

the available functions when playing back movies ( ) or viewing still
images ( ).

57

Available Settings List (FUNC.)

Available menu items vary depending on the operation mode. Default settings are in
boldface text. For details on each function, see the reference page.

Menu Items

Recording
programs

Light metering
mode

White balance

Image effect

Drive mode

Digital effects

Recording
mode

Still image
recording

PROGRAM AE, SHUTTER PRIORITY AE,

APERTURE PRIORITY AE

PORTRAIT, SPORTS, NIGHT, SNOW,
BEACH, SUNSET, SPOTLIGHT,
FIREWORKS

EVALUATIVE, CENT.WEIGHT.AVERAGE,
SPOT

AUTO, DAYLIGHT, SHADE, CLOUDY,
TUNGSTEN, FLUORESCENT,
FLUORESCENT H, SET

IMAGE EFFECT OFF, VIVID, NEUTRAL,
LOW SHARPENING, SOFT SKIN DETAIL,

CUSTOM
SINGLE, CONT.SHOOT.,

HISPEED CONT.SHOOT., AEB,

STITCH AST

D.EFFECT OFF, FADER, EFFECT,
MULTI-S, CARD MIX

D.EFFECT OFF, BLK&WHT

HIGH QUALITY, STANDARD PLAY,
LONG PLAY

STILL I. REC OFF,

S

Still image size/
quality

SUPER FINE, FINE, NORMAL

1

This option is available only when recording still images on the memory card .

Setting Options

S

NORMAL/640x480

L

1632x1224, M1280x960, S640x480

L

1280x960, S640x480

FINE/640x480,

CAMERA PLAY

1

44

60

61

63

64
66

68

76

74

Recording mode: You can choose between XP (high quality), SP (standard play) or LP
(long play).

 Recording in LP mode gives you a longer recording time; however, depending on the

condition of the disc (long usage, imperfections, etc.) the picture and sound recorded in
LP mode may be distorted. We recommend using the XP or SP mode for important
recordings.

 Approximate recording times with the supplied DVD-R blank disc are as follows:

XP (high quality): 20 min., SP (standard play): 30 minutes, LP (long play): 60 minutes.
The camcorder uses a variable bit rate (VBR) when encoding the video data so the
actual recording times will vary depending on the content of the scenes.

 Depending on the recording mode, you might occasionally notice a brief stop of the

picture or sound at the point where the scene changes.

–

58

Menu Items

Setting Options

CAMERA PLAY

Image erase
Slide show
Convert to

–
CANCEL, START
–

1

scene
Divide
Delete
Move
Add
Copy

[]
Copy

[]
Protect
Print order
Transfer order

1

This option appears only when pressing the FUNC. button immediately after recording a still

image.

2

This option is available only from the playlist index screen.

3

This option is available only from the original movies index screen.

4

This option is available only for still images recorded on the memory card .

5

This option is available only for still images recorded on the disc .

–
–
–
ALL SCENES, ONE SCENE, CANCEL
–

–

OFF, ON
0 ~ 99 COPIES
OFF, ON

2

3

4

5

1 4

4

4

92
39

87

84
85
83
83

90

90

94
120
111

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

59

Changing the Metering Method

You can select the light metering mode.

EVALUATIVE

CENT.WEIGHT.AVERAGE

SPOT

Appropriate for standard shooting conditions, including
backlit scenes. The camcorder divides images into
several zones for light metering and evaluates complex
lighting conditions in order to achieve the optimal
exposure of the subject.

Averages the light metered from the entire screen, giving
more weight to the subject in the center.

Meters the area within the spot AE point frame. Use this
setting for adjusting the exposure to match the subject in
the center of the screen.

(57)

EVALUATIVE

1. Set the camcorder to record still images ( ) and move the
mode switch to .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current light metering symbol from the left side
column and then select ( ) the desired option from the bottom bar.

4. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

If you select [ SPOT], the spot AE frame “ ” will appear in the center of the
screen.

60

Setting the White Balance

You can choose one of the preset settings to reproduce colors more accurately, or set a
custom white balance to obtain the setting best suited to your specific recording
conditions.

AUTO
DAYLIGHT
SHADE
CLOUDY
TUNGSTEN

FLUORESECENT

FLUORESCENT H

SET

White sheet or paper
(if you select SET)

Settings are automatically set by the camcorder.
For recording outdoors on a bright day.
For recording in shaded places.
For recording on a cloudy day.
For recording under tungsten and tungsten type (3-wavelength)

fluorescent lighting.
For recording under warm white, cool white or warm white type

(3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
For recording under daylight or daylight type (3-wavelength)

fluorescent lighting.
Use the custom white balance setting to make white subjects

appear white under colored lighting.

Mode switch

Zoom lever
FUNC. button

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

Omni Selector

(57)

AUTO

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or )
and move the mode switch to .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current white balance symbol from the left side
column and then select ( ) the desired option from the bottom bar.

4. If you select the custom white balance [ SET]: Point the camcorder
at a white object, zoom in until it fills the whole screen and press ( ).

• Keep the camcorder zoomed at the white object until step 5 is completed.

• flashes and stops flashing when the adjustment is complete.

61

5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

The symbol of the selected setting appears.

 In general, we recommend using the [AUTO] setting for outdoor scenes.
 Depending on the type of fluorescent light, optimal color balance may not be

obtained with [FLUORESCENT] or [FLUORESCENT H]. If the color looks
unnatural on the screen, adjust it using [AUTO] or [SET].

 The camcorder retains the custom white balance setting even if you turn it off.
 If you want to use again the last customized white balance setting, after

selecting the option [ SET] in step 3 above, skip step 4 and press the FUNC.
button without pressing ( ).

 When you have set the custom white balance:

- Depending on the light source, “ ” may keep flashing. The result will still be
better than with the auto setting.

- Reset the white balance when the lighting condition changes.

- Turn off the digital zoom.

 Custom white balance may provide 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

62

Applying Image Enhancing Effects

You can record with different color saturation and contrast effects.

IMAGE EFFECT OFF
VIVID
NEUTRAL
LOW SHARPENING

SOFT SKIN DETAIL

CUSTOM

Records with no image enhancing effects.
Emphasizes the contrast and color saturation.
Tones down the contrast and color saturation.
Records subjects with softened outlines.
Softens the details in the skin tone area for a more

complimentary appearance.
Allows you to adjust the brightness, contrast and sharpness

of the image.

E

(57)

IMAGE EFFECT OFF

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or )
and move the mode switch to .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current image effect symbol from the left side
column and then select ( ) the desired option from the bottom bar.

4. If you select the custom image effect [ CUSTOM]:
Press ( ). Select ( ) the custom setting option (brightness,
contrast, sharpness and color depth) and adjust ( ) each setting
as desired. Press ( ) again to save the customized adjustments.

5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

The symbol of the selected setting appears.

[SOFT SKIN DETAIL]: To obtain the best effect, use this function when recording a
person in close-up. Note that areas similar to the skin color may lack in detail.

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

63

Continuous Shooting and Exposure Bracketing

Single

Continuous Shooting

High-Speed Continuous
Shooting

AEB (Auto Exposure
Bracketing)

Records a single still image when you press the PHOTO
button.

Captures a quick series of still images while you press the
PHOTO button. For the number of frames per second,
refer to the table on the next page.

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.

Mode switch

PHOTO button

DRIVE MODE button

1. Set the camcorder to record still images on the card ( / )
and move the mode switch to a position other than .

If you are recording stills on the disc ( ), change the media for the still images
(34).

2. Press the DRIVE MODE button repeatedly to cycle between the drive
modes.

3. Press the PHOTO button halfway.

4. Continuous Shooting/High-Speed Continuous Shooting: Press the
PHOTO button fully and hold it pressed down.

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

Auto Exposure Bracketing: Press the PHOTO button fully.

Three still images in different exposures are recorded on the memory card.

64

 The drive mode can also be selected from the FUNC. menu ( 57).
 When the FUNC. menu is being displayed, the DRIVE MODE button cannot be

used.

 Maximum number of continuous shots at one time:

Frames per Second Maximum

Still Image Size

only

L

1632x1224

M

1280x960

L

1280x960

S

640x480 2.5 frames 4.2 frames 2.1 frames 60 images

These figures are approximate and vary with the recording conditions and subjects.
Sufficient space on the memory card is required. Continuous shooting stops when the
card is full.

Normal speed High speed

2.1 frames 2.5 frames 1.8 frames 10 images

2.5 frames 4.2 frames 2.1 frames 10 images

Using the Flash

Number of

Continuous

Shots

 The actual number of frames per second will be lower when “ ” (camcorder

shake warning) is displayed on the screen.

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

65

Creating Panoramic Images

You can shoot a series of overlapping images and merge them on a computer into one
large panoramic image using the supplied software (PhotoStitch).

FUNC. button

PHOTO button

Omni Selector

When Recording in Stitch Assist Mode:

PhotoStitch detects the overlapping portion of adjoining images and merges them. Try to
include a distinctive item (landmark, etc.) in the overlapping portion.

(57)

SINGLE

1. Set the camcorder to record still images on the card ( / )
and move the mode switch to a position other than .

If you are recording stills on the disc ( ), change the media for the still images
(34).

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current drive mode symbol from the left side
column and then select ( ) the [ STITCH AST] option from the
bottom bar and press ( ).

• The Stitch Assist screen appears.

• The manual focus and manual exposure adjustment cannot be used with the Stitch

Assist mode; these modes will be canceled when the Stitch Assist screen appears.

4. Select ( ) the direction in which you will take the sequence of still
images.

5. Select the recording program and zoom on the subject.

Once the sequence has started, you cannot change the recording program, exposure,
zoom or focus.

6. Press the PHOTO button to record the first image.

The number of images recorded so far and the direction and number of the next image
appear below the image.

66

7. Record the next image so that it overlaps a portion of the previous
one. Repeat this step until you complete the panoramic image.

• Minor discrepancies in the overlapping area can be corrected with the software.

• You can retake an image using the omni selector ( ) to cancel the last recorded

image and return to the previous one.

• Up to 26 images can be recorded.

8. Press the FUNC. button after the last image.

For details on how to merge these images, refer to the Digital Video Software
instruction manual.

 Compose each image so that it overlaps 30 to 50% of the adjoining image. Try

to keep the vertical misalignment within 10%.

 Do not include a moving subject in the overlapping portion.
 Do not try to stitch images that include both distant and close subjects. They

may appear warped or doubled up.

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

67

Using the Digital Effects

The Digital Effects include faders, video effects, multi-image screen and card mix. All
digital effects are available only when recording movies ( ), except for the
BLK & WHT (Black and White) effect, which is available also when recording still images
().

Faders ( 70)

Begin or end scenes with a fade to or from black.

Fade Trigger (FADE-T) Wipe (WIPE)

Corner Wipe (CORNER) Jump (JUMP)

Flip (FLIP) Puzzle (PUZZLE)

Zigzag (ZIGZAG) Beam (BEAM)

68

Tide (TIDE)

Effects ( 70)

Add flavor to your recordings.

Black and White

(BLK & WHT)

Mosaic (MOSAIC) Ball (BALL) Cube (CUBE)

Sepia (SEPIA) Art (ART)

E

Wave (WAVE)

Color Mask (COLOR M.)

Mirror (MIRROR)

Multi-Image Screen ( 71)

Captures moving subjects as a sequence of 4, 9 or 16 still images and displays them as
one split screen. Sound will be recorded normally.

4 split images 9 split images 16 split images

Card Mix ( 72)

Combines a still image from the memory card with your recording.

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

69

Selecting a Fader

(57)

D.EFFECT OFF

1. Set the camcorder to record movies ( ) and move the mode
switch to a position other than .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current digital effects symbol
from the left side column and then select ( ) the
[ FADER] option from the bottom bar and press
().

4. Select ( ) a fader from the list.

The selected fader will be demonstrated on the current screen and will also be shown
in a small animation at the right corner of the bottom bar.

5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

The symbol of the selected fader appears.

6. Press the D.EFFECTS button.

• The symbol changes to green.

• Pressing the D.EFFECTS button again deactivates the fader.

7. Fade in: Press the start/stop button in record

pause mode.

Fade out: Press the start/stop button in record

mode.

Selecting an Effect

(57)

1. Set the camcorder to a recording mode ( or )
and move the mode switch to a position other than .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

70

D.EFFECT OFF

3. First, select ( ) the current digital effects symbol
from the left side column and then select ( ) the
[ EFFECT] option from the bottom bar and press
().

When recording still images on the memory card, only the [
BLK&WHT] effect is available. Select it and skip step 4 below.

4. Select ( ) an effect from the list.

The selected effect will be demonstrated on the current screen and will also be shown
in a small animation at the right corner of the bottom bar.

5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

The symbol of the selected effect appears.

6. Press the D.EFFECTS button.

• The symbol turns green, and the effect is activated.

• Pressing the D.EFFECTS button again deactivates the effect.

Using the Multi-Image Screen

E

(57)

D.EFFECT OFF

1. Set the camcorder to record movies ( ) and select a
recording program other than or .

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current digital effects symbol
from the left side column and then select ( ) the
[ MULTI-S] option from the bottom bar and press
().

4. Select ( ) the [S.SPEED] option and set ( ) the
transition speed.

• Manual: For capturing images manually.

• Fast: Every 4 frames

• Moderate (MOD.): Every 6 frames

• Slow: Every 8 frames

5. Select ( ) the [S.SPLIT] option and set ( ) the number of split
images to capture.

6. Press ( ) to save the setting and press the FUNC. button to close the
menu.

“ ” appears.

Changing the FUNC. Settings

71

Advanced Features

7. Press the D.EFFECTS button.

• The symbol turns green.

• FAST, MODERATE, SLOW: The number of images selected

will be captured at the set speed. To cancel the multi-image
screen, press the D.EFFECTS button.

• MANUAL: Images will be captured every time you press the D.EFFECTS button.

The blue frame indicating the next split image in the sequence disappears after the
last image. Holding the D.EFFECTS button pressed down for more than 1 second
cancels the images one after another.

8. Press the start/stop button to begin recording.

The multi-image screen is recorded on the disc.

Combining Images (Card Mix)

You can choose one of the sample images (including picture frames, backgrounds and
animations) from the collection on the supplied DIGITAL VIDEO SOLUTION DISK and
combine it with your live video recording to add a note of playfulness to your movies.

Card Chroma Key (CARD CHROMA)

Combines frames with your recordings. The live video recording will
appear instead of the blue area of the card mix image.

Mix level adjustment: blue area of the still image.

Card Luminance Key (CARD LUMI.)

Combines illustrations or titles with your recordings. The live video
recording will appear instead of the light area of the card mix image.

Mix level adjustment: light area of the still image.

Camera Chroma Key (CAM. CHROMA)

Combines backgrounds with your recordings. Record your subject
in front of a blue background and any part of your subject that is not
blue will appear superimposed on the picture with the card mix
image serving as background.

Mix level adjustment: blue area of the live video recording.

Card Animation (C. ANIMATION)

Combines animations with your recordings. You can choose from
three types of card animation effects.

• Corner: The animation appears on the upper left and the lower

right corner of the screen.

• Straight: The animation appears on the top and bottom of the

screen and moves right and left.

• Random: The animation moves randomly on the screen.

Mix level adjustment: blue area of the card animation image.

72

Mode switch

FUNC. button

Omni Selector

(57)

D.EFFECT OFF

1. Set the camcorder to record movies ( ).

2. Upload a sample image from the supplied disc to the memory card.

Refer to Adding Still Images from Your Computer to the Memory Card in the Digital
Video Software instruction manual.

3. Move the mode switch to a position other than .

4. Press the FUNC. button.

5. First, select ( ) the current digital effects symbol from the left side
column and then select ( ) the [ CARD MIX] option from the
bottom bar and press ( ).

6. Select ( ) the [IMAGE SELECT] option, and then select ( ) the
still image you want to combine.

• The still image will be displayed briefly.

• Only still images recorded on the memory card can be selected for the Card Mix

function, regardless of the current media selection for still images.

7. Select ( ) the [MIX TYPE] option, and set ( ) a mix type
appropriate for the image you selected.

If you selected [C.ANIMATION], select ( ) [ANIMAT.TYPE] and set ( ) the
animation type preferred.

8. If you want to adjust the mix level, select ( ) [MIX LEVEL] and set
( ) the level preferred.

9. Press ( ) to save the settings and press the FUNC. button to close
the menu.

“ ” appears.

10.Press the D.EFFECTS button.

“ ” turns green and the combined image appears.

E

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

 Turn off the digital effects [D.EFFECT OFF] when you are not using them.
 The camcorder retains the setting last used even if you turn off the digital effects

or change the recording program.

 The image quality may be slightly lower with digital effects.

73

Selecting the Size and Quality of Still Images

Still images are recorded on the memory card or the disc using the JPEG (Joint
Photographic Experts Group) compression.

You can select the size and quality of still images. As a general rule select a larger image
size for higher quality stills (for example for printing and enlarging); or a smaller image
size if you want to record more images on the memory card or want smaller file sizes (for
example for e-mail attachments or for web pages).

The actual number of still images that can be recorded on a memory card or disc will vary
depending on the subject and the recording conditions. The estimated figures are as
follows:

Number of still images that can be recorded on a memory card:

Image Size Image Quality

only

L

1632X1224

M

1280X960

L

1280X960

S

640X480 Super Fine 75 690 1380

Super Fine 9 85 175
Fine 14 135 275
Normal 25 250 500
Super Fine 15 140 280
Fine 20 215 430
Normal 40 395 795

Fine 105 955 1900
Normal 170 1525 3040

Number of still images that can be recorded on a disc:

Image Size Image Quality

only

L

1632X1224

M

1280X960

L

1280X960

S

640X480 Super Fine 7945 8085

* This number is the number of images that can be recorded on the disc; however, the

maximum number of remaining images displayed on the screen will be 9999.

Super Fine 1025 1045
Fine 1585 1615
Normal 2910 2960
Super Fine 1630 1660
Fine 2495 2540
Normal 4595 4675

Fine 9999 (11860)*
Normal 9999 (19765)*

VIDEO MODE

Number of Images

16MB 128MB 256MB

Number of Images

(DVD-R/-RW)

VR MODE
(DVD-RW)

74

 Depending on the number of images on the memory card or disc (Windows:

more than 1800 images; Macintosh: more than 1000 images), you may not be
able to download images to a computer. Try using a card reader to download
the still images recorded on the memory card.

 Connection to a PictBridge compliant printer will not work when the memory

card contains more than 1800 images. For best performance, we recommend
to keep the number of images on the memory card under 100.

E

(57)

L 1632x1224/FINE

1. Set the camcorder to record still images ( ).

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current image size and quality symbol from the
left side column and then select ( ) the desired image size from the
bottom bar.

The number on the right indicates the approximate number of images that can be
recorded on the memory card or disc at the current image size/quality setting.

4. If you want to change also the image quality: Press ( ) and select
( ) the desired image quality from the bottom bar.

• The number on the right indicates the approximate number of images that can be

recorded on the memory card or disc at the current image size/quality setting.

• You can press ( ) again to go back to select the image size (step 3).

5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

Advanced Features

Changing the FUNC. Settings

75

Capturing a Still Image while Recording Movies

While you are recording a movie on the disc you can simultaneously capture the same
picture as a still image on the memory card without interrupting your recording to change
modes. The size of the still image will be S 640x480 and cannot be changed, but the
image quality can be selected.

(57)

STILL I. REC OFF

1. Set the camcorder to record movies ( ).

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the current image recording symbol from the left
side column and then select ( ) the desired image quality from the
bottom bar.

4. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.

5. While you are recording a movie, press the PHOTO button.

The still image is recorded on the memory card while the screen continues to show
the video recording.

 The quality of the still image is slightly lower than a still image of the same size

recorded in the mode.

 The still image cannot be recorded on the memory card while recording in

widescreen or while a digital effect is activated.

 The still image cannot be recorded simultaneously on the disc. Make sure that

the memory card is selected as the media for still images ( 34).

76

Changing the MENU Settings

Changing Settings with the MENU Button

You can modify many aspects of how your camcorder operates from the various setup
menus that open after pressing the MENU button. For a list of the settings that can be
changed using these setup menus, see Available Settings List (MENU) (78).

MENU button

Omni Selector

Selecting Menus and Settings

1. Press the MENU button.

The menu opens.

2. Use the omni selector ( ) to select the setup
menu from the left side column and press ( ).

3. Select ( ) the setting you want to change and
press ( ) to make the selection.

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

5. Press the MENU button.

The menu closes.

E

Changing the MENU Settings

Advanced Features

 Pressing the MENU button at any time closes the menu.
 Menu items not available appear grayed out.

77

Available Settings List (MENU)

Available menu items vary depending on the operation mode. Default settings are in
boldface text. For details on each function, see the reference page. Functions without a
reference page are explained below the tables.

Camera Setup (Digital Zoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.)

CAMERA SETUP

Menu Items

Setting Options

CAMERA PLAY

A.SL SHUTTER ON, OFF ­D.ZOOM OFF, 40X, 200X -
IMG STAB ON, OFF -

only

AF AST LAMP
FOCUS PRI. ON, OFF
REVIEW OFF, 2sec, 4sec, 6sec,

AUTO, OFF

8sec, 10sec

55

-

1

-

WIND SCREEN ON , OFF -
SELF TIMER ON, OFF 56

1

Available only when recording still images on the memory card .

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

 The camcorder uses shutter speeds down to 1/25 (1/12 when recording still images).
 When recording still images, set the flash mode to (flash off).
 If a trailing afterimage appears, set the slow shutter to [OFF].
 If “ ” (camcorder shake warning) appears, we recommend stabilizing the camcorder,

for example, by mounting it on a tripod.

D.ZOOM: Determines the operation of the digital zoom.
 When the digital zoom is 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 image resolution will

deteriorate the more you zoom in.

 The digital zoom indicator will appear in light blue from 10x up to 40x and dark blue

from 40x to 200x.

 The digital zoom cannot be used in the following cases:

- In the Night recording program (SCN)

- With the Multi-Images Screen

78

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

shake.

 The image stabilizer may not be effective when recording in dark places using the

Night recording program (SCN).

 The image stabilizer cannot be turned off when the mode switch is in the position.
 We recommend turning off the image stabilizer when using a tripod.

FOCUS PRI.: The camcorder records the still image only after the focus has been
adjusted.

 Set it to [OFF] if you wish to record a still image as soon as you press the PHOTO

button.

 When set to [OFF], no focusing frame appears.
 Focus priority cannot be turned off when the mode switch is in the position.
 In the Fireworks recording program (SCN) the setting is automatically turned off.

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

 You can erase ( 92) or protect ( 94) the image if you press the FUNC. button

while you are reviewing the image.

 This menu item will not be available (will appear grayed out) when (continuous

shooting), (high-speed continuous shooting) or (auto exposure bracketing) is
selected.

WIND SCREEN: When activated the camcorder will reduce the background sound of
wind when recording outdoors.

 Set the camcorder to record movies ( ) and move the mode switch to a

position other than .

 Some low-frequency sounds will be suppressed along with the sound of wind. We

recommend to leave the wind screen off (the default setting) for most recording
environments.

E

Changing the MENU Settings

Advanced Features

79

Still Image Operations (Card Initialization, Disc-Card Copy, etc.)

STILL IMAGE OPERATIONS

Menu Items

ORD. ALL

Setting Options

NO, YES

CAMERA PLAY

ERASE

ORD. ALL

NO, YES

ERASE
ERASE ALL

NO, YES

IMAGES
CARD

NO, YES

INITIALIZE
ALL COPY

NO, YES

[]
ALL COPY

NO, YES

[]

PROTECT

PRINT ORDER

TRANSFER ORDER

1

This option is available only when viewing a single still image on the memory card .

2

This option is available only when viewing a single still image on the disc .

3

This option is available when viewing a single still image on the disc or card.

4

This option is available only when viewing still images on the memory card in the index
screen.

Disc Operations (Photomovie, Finalize, etc.)

DISC OPERATIONS

Menu Items

DISC

VIDEO, VR

Setting Options

INITIALIZE
FINALIZE NO, YES
UNFINALIZE NO, YES
PLAYLST ALL

NO, YES

DEL
MOVIES ALL

NO, YES

DEL
DISC

NO, YES

PROTECT
PHOTOMOVIE NO, YES
DISC TITLE 96

1

This option is available only when recording still images on the disc , or when viewing still
images recorded on the disc .

2

This option is available only in the playlist mode.

3

This option is available only in the original movies mode.

CAMERA PLAY

1 1

1 1

1 1

80

1

121

1

112

3

93

1

95

1

90

2

90

4

94

4

120

4

111

89

96
99

2

85

3

85

1

88

1

87

Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.)

DISPLAY SETUP

Menu Items

Setting Options

CAMERA PLAY

BRIGHTNESS ­LCD MIRROR ON, OFF

-

DATA CODE DATE, TIME, DATE & TIME,

CAMERA DATA, CAM. & D/T

43

DATE, TIME, DATE & TIME

LANGUAGE DEUTSCH, ENGLISH, ESPAÑOL,

FRANÇAIS, ITALIANO, ,

25

, , ,

DEMO MODE ON, OFF -

BRIGHTNESS: Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen.

 Use the omni selector ( ) to adjust the brightness to your preference.
 Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect that of the viewfinder or the

recordings.

LCD MIRROR: When you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to face the subject, the
picture displayed will be a mirror image (right and left reversed) so that the image on the
display will match that of the subject. All on-screen displays will also be reversed.

DEMO MODE: The demonstration mode displays the camcorder’s main features. It starts
automatically when the camcorder is powered with the power adapter if you leave it
turned on without loading a recording media for more than 5 minutes.

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

load a recording media.

System Setup (Volume, Beep , Media select, etc. )

SYSTEM SETUP

E

Changing the MENU Settings

Advanced Features

Menu Items

Setting Options

CAMERA PLAY

MEDIA SEL. CARD, DISC 34
WL. REMOTE ON, OFF ­VOLUME
BEEP HIGH VOLUME, LOW VOLUME,

OFF
POWER SAVE ON, OFF ­FILE NOS. RESET, CONTINUOUS

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. It also serves as a warning beep under unusual conditions.

41

-

-

81

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 five minutes.
Approximately 30 seconds before the camcorder shuts off, “ AUTO POWER OFF”
appears in the center of the screen.

FILE NOS.: Select the image numbering method to be used on a new memory card or
disc.

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 numbering will start anew from 101-0101 every time you insert a new
memory card or disc. If it already contains image files, a new image will be given the
number following that of the last image on the memory card or disc.

[CONTINUOUS]: Image numbering will start from the number following that of the last
image recorded with the camcorder. If the memory card or disc already contains an image
with a larger image number, a new image will be given the number following that of the
last image on the recording media.

 The [CONTINUOUS] image numbering method is useful for organizing images on a

computer as it minimizes the chance of two images being assigned the same image
number. We recommend using this setting.

 The [FILE NOS.] setting is common to the memory card and the disc.

Date/Time Setup

D/TIME SET

Menu Items

Setting Options

CAMERA PLAY

T. ZO N E/ D S T
DATE/TIME
DATE FORMAT Y.M.D (2005.1.1 AM12:00),

M.D,Y (JAN. 1, 2005 AM12:00),

D.M.Y (1.JAN.2005 AM12:00)

DATE FORMAT: Changes the displayed date format (including the date format for

printing).

82

26

Editing Functions
Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Creating a Playlist

Create a playlist to easily edit your movies (for example, change the order in which the
scenes you recorded will be played back or edit scenes including only the best parts and
cutting out the rest) without affecting your original recordings. After you create a playlist
you will have two index screens: that of your original recordings (the scene index screen)
and the one you edit as a playlist (the playlist index screen).

Available only with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode.

Adding Scenes to the Playlist

1. Set the camcorder to play movies ( ).

2. From the index screen, select ( , ) the scene you want to add to
the playlist and press the FUNC. button.

To add all the movies to the playlist there is no need to select any particular scene.

3. Select ( ) the (ADD TO PLAYLIST) icon and press ( ).

To add all scenes to the playlist:

4. Select ( ) [ALL SCENES] and press ( ).

• Select [CANCEL] to go back to the index screen.

• When the operation is completed “ADDED TO PLAYLIST” will be displayed.

To add only the selected scene to the playlist:

4. Select ( ) [ONE SCENE] and press ( ).

Select [CANCEL] to go back to the index screen.

5. Select ( ) [YES] and press ( ).

When the operation is completed “ADDED TO PLAYLIST” will be displayed.

Moving Scenes in the Playlist

1. Set the camcorder to play movies ( ).

2. Press the PLAYLIST button to open the playlist index screen.

3. Select ( , ) the scene you want to move.

The scene to be moved will be marked by the orange selection frame.

4. Press the FUNC. button.

5. Select the (MOVE) icon and press ( ).

6. Move ( , ) the red marker to indicate where you want to move
the scene and press ( ).

7. Select [YES] and press ( ) to move the scene to the selected
destination.

E

Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Editing Functions

83

Dividing a Scene

You can divide your recordings in order to leave only the best parts and later cut out the
rest. Remember that when you divide scenes in the playlist, you do not affect your original
recordings allowing you to easily try out different “director cuts”.

Available only with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode.

Dividing Scenes

1. Set the camcorder to play movies ( ).

2. From the index screen, select ( , ) the scene you want to divide
and press the FUNC. button.

3. Select ( ) the (DIVIDE) icon and press ( ).

• The scene will be played back.

• You can also press the FUNC. button while playing back a scene.

4. At the place where you want to divide the scene, press the /
button to pause the playback.

5. If necessary, in order to bring the scene to a precise point select ( )
the / icon and press ( ) to respectively, reverse or advance one
frame at a time.

If you want to select a different scene, select the / icon and press ( ) to skip
to the next or previous scene. Press the / button to resume normal playback and
return to step 4 above.

6. Select ( ) the icon and press ( ).

7. Select [YES] and press ( ) to divide the scene.

The second part of the scene (starting from the dividing point) will be added as a
separate scene immediately after the original one.

To Divide a Scene only in the Playlist

After Step 1 above, press the PLAYLIST button to open the playlist index screen and
continue the procedure as described.

84

 Photomovie scenes and scenes created by converting single still images

cannot be divided.

 Scenes shorter than 5 seconds cannot be divided.

Deleting Scenes

You can delete those scenes that you are not interested in keeping. Remember that when
you delete scenes in the playlist, you do not affect your original recordings allowing you to
easily try out different “director cuts”.

This option is only available with DVD-RW discs (VIDEO or VR mode). However, with
DVD-RW discs recorded in VIDEO mode only the last scene can be deleted and only
while reviewing it immediately after recording the scene ( 32).

Be careful when deleting original recordings. Once deleted, an original scene
cannot be recovered.

 When a disc is protected ( 88), original recordings cannot be deleted.
 You may not be able to delete scenes shorter than 5 seconds long.

Deleting a Single Scene

This option is only available with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode.

1. Set the camcorder to play movies ( ).

2. From the index screen, select ( , ) the scene you want to delete
and press the FUNC. button.

You can also press the FUNC. button while playing back a scene. After pressing the
FUNC. button, press the / button to pause the playback.

3. Select ( ) the (DELETE) icon and press ( ).

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to delete the scene.

Deleting an original recording, will also delete the scene from the playlist.

To Delete a Scene only from the Playlist

After Step 1 above, press the PLAYLIST button to open the playlist index screen and
continue the procedure as described.

Deleting a Scene After Recording

As long as you haven’t turned the camcorder off or changed the operation mode after
recording a scene, you can delete it while reviewing it. This option is only available with
DVD-RW discs (VIDEO or VR mode).

1. Immediately after recording a scene, press the (record review)
button.

2. While reviewing the scene, use the omni selector ( ) to select the

icon and press ( ).

3. Select ( ) [YES] and press ( ) to delete the scene.

E

Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Editing Functions

85

Deleting All Scenes

This option is only available with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode.

MENU

(77)

DISC OPERATIONS MOVIES ALL DEL

1. Set the camcorder to play movies ( ).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [MOVIES ALL DEL] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to delete all the scenes.

• Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and return to the menu.

• Deleting all the original scenes will also delete the whole playlist.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

To Delete the Whole Playlist

After Step 1 above, press the PLAYLIST button to open the playlist index screen and in
Step 3 select the [PLAYLST ALL DEL] option. Continue the procedure as described.

86

Converting Still Images into Photomovie Scenes

Still images are recorded using JPEG compression, but a DVD player only recognizes the
MPEG standard. That is why in order to display your still images as one more scene in
your DVD, first you have to create a Photomovie scene that will be added as one more
scene along with your movies.

A Photomovie is a slide show of all still images on the disc, where each image will be
displayed for approx. 3 seconds. If you want to add still images recorded on the memory
card to your Photomovie scene, copy them to the disc in advance ( 90).

This option is only available with DVD-RW discs (VIDEO or VR mode).

Converting a Single Image

E

(57)

CONVERT TO SCENE

1. Set the camcorder to view still images recorded on the disc
(/).

2. Select ( ) the still image you want to convert to a scene and press
the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the [ CONVERT TO SCENE] symbol and press
().

4. Select ( ) the [EXECUTE] option and press ( ) to convert the still
image.

5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.

Converting All Images

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images recorded on the disc
(/).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [PHOTOMOVIE] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to create the Photomovie.

• Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and return to the menu.

• Depending on the number of still images, this operation may take some time.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

 Even after being converted to Photomovie scenes, the original still images will

remain recorded on the disc without change.

 If during the creation of a Photomovie scene the disc becomes full, the

operation will be canceled.

DISC OPERATIONS PHOTOMOVIE

Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Editing Functions

87

Protecting the Disc

You can protect the whole disc in order to prevent the accidental erasure of important
recordings.

Available only with DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode.

Initializing the disc ( 89) will permanently erase all recordings, even if the disc is
protected.

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to play movies or view still images recorded on the
disc ( or / ).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [DISC PROTECT] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to protect the disc.

Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and return to the menu.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

DISC OPERATIONS DISC PROTECT

88

Initializing the Disc

You need to initialize a DVD-RW disc when first inserting it into the camcorder and you
may have to initialize a disc if you get the “DISC ERROR” message. You can also choose
to initialize the disc if you wish to erase all the recordings on the disc or in order to change
the disc specification.

When initializing a disc, all the recorded data will be lost.

 Initializing the disc will permanently erase all recordings, even if the disc is

protected.

 Once the disc is initialized, the original recordings cannot be recovered.
 Except for the included disc, initialize all discs before using them with this

camcorder.

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder either to record or play movies or to record or view
still images on the disc ( , , / or

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [DISC INITIALIZE] option.

4. Select ( ) the disc specification and press ( ).

• [VIDEO] mode: Most DVD players will play the disc, but except for the disc title, the

recordings cannot be edited with the camcorder.

• [VR] mode: You will have the option to edit the recordings with the camcorder, but

the disc can only be played in VR-compatible DVD players and computer DVD
drives.

5. You will be asked to confirm the disc specification you selected. Use
the omni selector ( ) to select [YES] and press ( ) to continue.

Select [NO] and press ( ) to return and select a different disc specification.

6. Select [YES] and press ( ) to initialize the disc.

• Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and press MENU to close the

menu.

• The disc initialization will take approximately one minute. Avoid moving the

camcorder while the operation is in progress.

DISC OPERATIONS DISC INITIALIZE

/).

E

Disc Options (DVD-RW in VR mode only)

Editing Functions

89

Still Image Options

Copying Still Images Between the Disc and Memory Card

You can copy still images recorded on the memory card to the disc (for example, to add
them to a Photomovie scene ( 87)), or from the disc to the memory card (for example,
to set print orders for a DPOF compatible printer ( 120)).

Copying a Single Image

(57)

COPY [ ]

COPY [ ]

1. Set the camcorder to view still images ( ).

Select as the media for the still images, the media from where you want to copy
images.

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the [COPY [ ]] symbol and press ( ).

If you are copying still images from the memory card to the disc, [COPY [ ]]
will appear instead.

4. Select ( ) the [EXECUTE] option and press ( ) to copy the still
image.

5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.

Copying All Images

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images ( ).

Select as the media for the still images, the media from where you want to copy
images.

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [STILL IMG OPER.]
menu and then select the [ALL COPY [ ]] option.

• If you are copying still images from the memory card to the disc, [ALL COPY

[ ]] will appear instead.

• The total size of all image files and the available space on the destination media will

be displayed.

STILL IMG OPER. ALL COPY [ ]

ALL COPY [ ]

90

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to copy the still images.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

 Still images not recorded with this camcorder may not be copied correctly.
 When the available space on the copy destination is not enough, the copy

operation will be canceled without copying all images.

 The copy operation may take a while to complete depending on the number and

total size of the image files.

E

Editing Functions

Still Image Options

91

Erasing Still Images

You can erase still images recorded on the memory card or on the disc (DVD-RW only),
one at a time or all at once.

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

Protected images on the memory card and images on a protected disc cannot be
erased.

Erasing a Single Image

Still images recorded on the disc: This option is only available with DVD-RW discs
recorded in VR mode.

(57)

IMAGE ERASE

1. Set the camcorder to view still images ( ).

2. Press the FUNC. button.

3. First, select ( ) the [ IMAGE ERASE] symbol and press ( ).

4. Select ( ) the [ERASE] option and press ( ) to erase the still
image.

5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.

Erasing a Single Image After Recording

You can erase the still image you recorded last while you are reviewing it immediately
after recording it. Still images on the disc: This option is only available with DVD-RW discs
(VIDEO or VR mode).

(57)

1. While reviewing the image immediately after recording it press the
FUNC. button.

2. First, select ( ) the [ IMAGE ERASE] symbol and press ( ).

3. Select ( ) the [ERASE] option and press ( ) to erase the still
image.

4. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.

IMAGE ERASE

92

Erasing All Images

Still images recorded on the disc: This option is only available with DVD-RW discs
recorded in VR mode.

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images ( ).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [STILL IMG OPER.] menu
and then select the [ERASE ALL IMAGES] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to erase the still images.

All the non protected still images on the media currently selected, will be erased.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

STILL IMG OPER. ERASE ALL IMAGES

E

Editing Functions

Still Image Options

93

Protecting Still Images on the Memory Card

You can protect still images recorded on the memory card from accidental erasure while
displaying a single image or from the index screen.

Initializing the memory card ( 95) will permanently erase all recorded still
images, even the protected ones.

Protecting a Single Image

(57)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images recorded on the memory card
(/).

2. Press the FUNC. button.

The option is also available while recording still images ( ) but only if you
press the FUNC. button while reviewing the still image ( 79) immediately after
recording.

3. First, select ( ) the [ PROTECT] symbol and press ( ).

4. Select ( ) the [ON] option and press ( ) to protect the still image.

5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.

• “ ” appears, and now the image cannot be erased.

• To cancel the protection, select [OFF] in step 4.

PROTECT

Protecting Still Images from the Index Screen

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images recorded on the memory card
(/).

2. Move the zoom lever toward W.

The stills index screen appears with up to six still images.

3. Press the MENU button and use the omni selector ( , ) to select
the [STILL IMG OPER.] menu and then select the [ PROTECT]
option.

4. Bring ( , ) the cursor to the image you want to protect and
press ( ).

• “ ” appears on the image.

• To cancel the protection, press ( ) again.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

STILL IMG OPER. PROTECT

94

Initializing the Memory Card

Initialize a new memory card when first inserting it into the camcorder. You may have to
initialize a card if you get the “CARD ERROR” message or you may choose to do so to
erase all data recorded on it.

 Initializing the card will permanently erase all the recorded still images, even the

protected ones.

 Once the card is initialized, the original images cannot be recovered.
 Initialize all memory cards before using them with this camcorder.

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to view still images recorded on the memory card
(/).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [STILL IMG OPER.] menu
and then select the [CARD INITIALIZE] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ).

A confirmation screen will appear.

5. Select [YES] again and press ( ).

The card initialization will take a moment.

6. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

STILL IMG OPER. CARD INITIALIZE

E

Editing Functions

Still Image Options

95

Disc Finalization

Preparing your Disc for Playing on a DVD Player

In order to play the disc you recorded on a DVD player, a computer’s DVD drive or other
digital device, you need to finalize it first. Refer also to the instruction manual of the DVD
player/recorder or the computer’s DVD drive.

 When finalizing a disc, always power the camcorder directly from a power

outlet. The finalization process cannot be started if the camcorder is powered
only with the battery pack.

 Do not disconnect the power adapter while the disc finalization is in progress.

Doing so can interrupt the process and result in lost data.

 Depending on the type of disc and the disc specification, after finalizing the disc

you may not be able to initialize the disc, edit your recordings or add new
recordings to the disc.

 Do not finalize with the camcorder discs that were not recorded using this

camcorder.

 A finalized DVD-RW in VIDEO mode can be unfinalized to allow recording

additional scenes and other limited editing options ( 99).

 Once finalized, you cannot add recordings to a DVD-R disc.
 The time required to complete the disc finalization will vary depending on the

scene recording conditions and the amount of free space remaining on the disc.

Restrictions after Disc Finalization

Additional

Recordings

DVD-R
in VIDEO mode

DVD-RW
in VIDEO mode

DVD-RW
in VR mode

Edit Recordings Initializing the Disc

Changing the Disc Title

Before you finalize your disc, you can give it a title. The disc title will not be displayed on
the camcorder but will be displayed on the index screen when playing the finalized disc in
most DVD players or a computer’s DVD drive (depending on the DVD playing software).

MENU

(77)

1. Set the camcorder to play movies or view still images recorded on the
disc ( or / ).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [DISC TITLE] option.

96

DISC OPERATIONS DISC TITLE

4. Select ( , ) one character at a time and press ( ) to add it to
the title.

• Select [BACKSPACE] and press ( ) to delete the last character in the title.

• You can set a title up to 20 characters long.

5. Once you finish editing the title, select [SET] and press ( ).

6. Select [YES] and press ( ) to save the title.

Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and return to the menu.

7. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

Finalizing the Disc

FINALIZE button

1. Set the camcorder either to record or play movies or to record or view
still images on the disc ( , , / or

/).

2. Press the FINALIZE button.

3. Select [YES] and press ( ) to start the disc finalization.

• Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation.

• The disc finalization progress bar and the remaining time are displayed.

• Depending on the size of the non-recorded area of the disc, the finalization process

may be lengthy.

• Avoid moving the camcorder while the disc finalization is in progress.

• When using a finalized disc, the finalization mark “ ” will appear next to the disc

type and disc specification displays.

E

Disc Finalization

The disc finalization can also be selected from the [DISC OPERATIONS] menu
using the MENU button ( 80).

97

Playing Back your Disc on a DVD Player or a Computer’s DVD Drive

After you finalized your disc, you can play it on a DVD-R or DVD-RW compatible DVD
player, DVD recorder or DVD drive on a computer. On most DVD players look for the
DVD-R/RW compatibility logo . Refer also to the instruction manual of your DVD
player or DVD recorder.

Playing the Disc on a DVD Player

1. Turn on the TV and DVD player.

2. Insert a finalized disc in the DVD player.

3. Select the scene you want to play from the index screen.

Playing the Disc on a Computer’s DVD Drive

1. Insert a finalized disc in the computer’s DVD drive.

To play back movies:

2. If your DVD playback software does not lunch automatically when
inserting a DVD, run the DVD playback software.

Refer also to the instruction manual and help modules of your DVD playback software.

To view still images recorded on the disc:

2. If your DVD playback software is running, close it.

3. Select the DVD drive with the File Manager software installed in your
computer (for example “My Computer” in Windows operating
systems, etc.) and select the still images you want to display.

You can alternatively use your preferred Image Management software or any other
software for cataloguing, browsing or editing digital images installed in your computer.

You need to have DVD playback software installed in your computer to play the
DVD.

 DVD-RW discs recorded in VR mode can only be played on VR compatible

DVD players. Depending on your DVD player/recorder you may not be able to
play the disc.

 In order to view the still images recorded on the disc in a DVD player, you have

to convert individual images to scenes, or create a Photomovie scene - a
slideshow scene of all the still images on the disc ( 87) before you finalize
the disc.

 The resolution of Photomovie scenes will be lower than that of the original still

images.

98

Recording Additional Movies on a Finalized Disc

Recording additional scenes on a disc already finalized can be done only with DVD-RW
discs. A finalized DVD-RW in VIDEO mode can be unfinalized to allow recording
additional scenes and other limited editing options. With a DVD-RW recorded in VR mode
you can record additional scenes without the need to unfinalize it. DVD-R discs cannot be
unfinalized.

This option is only available with DVD-RW discs in VIDEO mode.

 When unfinalizing a disc, always power the camcorder directly from a power

outlet. The unfinalization process cannot be started if the camcorder is powered
only with the battery pack.

 Do not disconnect the power adapter while the disc unfinalization is in progress.

Doing so can interrupt the process and result in a disc that cannot be
recognized.

 Only discs that were finalized using this camcorder can be unfinalized with this

camcorder.

E

MENU

(77)

DISC OPERATIONS UNFINALIZE

1. Set the camcorder either to record or play movies or to record or view
still images on the disc ( , , / or

/).

2. Press the MENU button.

3. Use the omni selector ( , ) to select the [DISC OPERATIONS]
menu and then select the [UNFINALIZE] option.

4. Select [YES] and press ( ) to start the disc unfinalization.

• Select [NO] and press ( ) to cancel the operation and return to the menu.

• Avoid moving the camcorder while the disc unfinalization is in progress.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

Disc Finalization

99

External Connections
Connecting to a TV and VCR

Playing Back on a TV Screen

TVs without SCART terminal

Signal flow

MTC-100
Multi Cable
(Supplied)

STV-250N Stereo Video Cable
(supplied)

Open the terminal cover

TVs with S (S1)-Video
Input Terminal

INPUT

S(S1)-VIDEO

VIDEO

AUDIO

Signal flow

L

R

TVs with Audio/Video
Terminals

INPUT

VIDEO

AUDIO

L

R

1. Turn off all devices before starting the connections.

2. Connect the MTC-100 Multi Cable to the camcorder’s AV terminal and
the audio terminals on the TV or VCR.

Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left) and the red plug to the red
audio terminal R (right).

3. Connect the MTC-100 Multi Cable to the video terminal on the TV or
VCR.

If your TV or VCR has an S-VIDEO or (S1)-VIDEO input, connect the black plug to the
S(S1)-VIDEO terminal and do not connect the yellow plug. Otherwise, connect the
yellow plug to the yellow video terminal (VIDEO).

4. If connecting to a TV, set the input selector to VIDEO. If connecting to
a VCR, set the input selector to LINE.

100

 We recommend powering the camcorder from a household outlet.
 Picture quality is better when connecting to a TV with an S (S1) terminal.