Canon DC 410, DC420 User Manual

DVD Camcorder

Instruction Manual

PUB. DIM-890

DC410

Caméscope DVD

Manuel d’instruction

Videocámara DVD

Manual de Instrucciones

DC420

English

Français

Español

DC420

NTSC

Introduction

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING!

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

WARNING!

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

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

DVD Camcorder, DC420 A/DC410 A systems This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause

harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The cable with the ferrite core provided with the digital video camcorder must be used with this equipment in order to comply with

Class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of the FCC rules. Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual. If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment.

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

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

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

mportant Warning

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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

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

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

1 Read these instructions. 2 Keep these instructions. 3 Heed all warnings. 4 Follow all instructions. 5 Do not use this apparatus near water. 6 Clean only with dry cloth. 7 Do not install near any heat sources such as

radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

8 Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized

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

9 Protect the power cord from being walked on or

pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

10 Only use attachments/accessories specified by

the manufacturer.

11 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or

when unused for long periods of time.

12 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

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

13 Read Instructions — All the safety and operating

instructions should be read before the product is operated.

14 Retain Instructions — The safety and operating

instructions should be retained for future reference.

15 Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product

and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

16 Follow Instructions — All operating and

maintenance instructions should be followed.

17 Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall

outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as recommended in this manual.

18 Accessories — Do not use accessories not

recommended in this manual as they may be hazardous.

19 Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the

camera close to TV transmitters, portable communication devices or other sources of electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.

20 Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock

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

21 Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable

cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

22 Power Sources — The CA-570 Compact Power

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

23 Polarization — The CA-570 Compact Power

Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other).

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

24 Power Cord Protection — Power cords should be

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

25 Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside

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

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER NATIONAL

Fig. 1

ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

GROUND CLAMP

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

NEC - NATIONA L ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS POWER SERVICE GRO UNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250. PART H)

26 Lightning — For added protection of this product

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

27 Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and

extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

28 Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of

any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.

29 Servicing — Do not attempt to service this

product yourself as opening or removing covers

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

30 Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this

product from the wall outlet and all power sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

a. When the power-supply cord or plug is

damaged.

b. If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects

have fallen into, the product.

c. If the product has been exposed to rain or

water.

d. If the product does not operate normally even if

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

e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet

has been damaged.

f. When the product exhibits a distinct change in

performance. This indicates a need for service.

31 Replacement Parts — When replacement parts

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

32 Safety Check — Upon completion of any service

or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating order.

33 Heat — The product should be situated away

from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

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

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

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

How to Select a DVD Disc

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

DVD-R

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

DVD-R DL

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

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

DVD-RW

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

Disc specification on DVD-RWs

DVD-RW discs can be recorded using either one of two disc specifications: VIDEO mode or VR mode. When you first insert a brand new DVD-RW disc, the camcorder will automatically display the initialization screen where you can select the disc specification for the disc. VIDEO mode: Once finalized, discs recorded in VIDEO mode can be played back on most common DVD players offering the best compatibility. However, recordings cannot be edited (deleted, rearranged, etc.). VR mode: You can easily edit the recordings. However, discs recorded in VR mode can be played back only with DVD players compatible with DVD-RWs in VR mode.

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

Best for Compatibility

Best for Recording Time

Layer 2

Scene 2

Layer 1

Scene 1

Recording surface

Best for Reusability

Enjoying your DVDs

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

Enjoy Shooting Video ( 28)

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

Finalize the Disc ( 48)

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

FINALIZE

Play back your finalized disc on your DVD player ( 49)

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

Playback on external devices

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

For the highest compatibility with external DVD devices we recommend using

IDEO mode.

Available features depend on the DVD disc used

Disc type DVD-R

Disc specifications VIDEO VIDEO VR

DVD-R DL

DVD-RW

Editing scenes with this camcorder (deleting scenes, dividing scenes, etc.) ( 45)

Deleting a scene while reviewing it after recording it ( 33)

Initializing the disc in order to use it again for recording ( 47)

–––

––

Giving a title to the disc ( 47)

Finalizing the disc in order to play it with an external DVD device ( 48)

Adding recordings to a disc already finalized ( 49)

Recording more video on a single recording side ( 30)

Only scenes in the playlist can be divided.

To finalize a DVD-R DL disc, the camcorder has to process both layers. Therefore, and

depending on the amount of free space on the disc, this process may be lengthy.

You will need to unfinalize the disc first.

––

–––

Approved discs

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

* For the latest information, visit your local Canon Web site or contact your nearest

Canon office. The use of DVD-R DL discs that have not been tested by Canon may result in incorrect recording/playback or in not being able to remove the disc.

Table of contents

Introduction ____________________________________

5 How to Select a DVD Disc 6 Enjoying your DVDs 11 About this Manual

12 Getting to Know the Camcorder

12 Supplied Accessories 13 Components Guide 15 Screen Displays

Preparations ____________________________________

18 Getting Started

18 Charging the Battery Pack 20 Preparing the Accessories

20 Basic Operation of the Camcorder

20 Power Switch 21 Joystick and Joystick Guide 21 Using the Menus

23 First Time Settings

23 Setting the Date and Time 23 Changing the Language 24 Changing the Time Zone

24 Getting Ready to Start Recording

24 Opening the Lens Cover and Adjusting the LCD screen 25 Inserting and Removing a Disc 27 Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

Video _________________________________________

28 Basic Recording

28 Shooting Video 30 Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode) 30 Changing the Aspect Ratio of the Recordings (Widescreen / 4:3) 30 Zooming: Optical, Advanced and Digital Zoom 32 Quick Start Function 32 Reviewing and Deleting the Last Scene Recorded

8 • Table of contents

33 Basic Playback

33 Playing Back the Video 35 Deleting Scenes

36 Additional Functions

36 : Special Scene Recording Programs 38 Flexible Recording: Changing the Shutter Speed 39 LCD Video Light 39 Self Timer 40 Manual Exposure Adjustment 40 Manual Focus Adjustment 41 White Balance 42 Image Effects 42 Digital Effects 43 On-Screen Displays and Data Code 44 Using an External Microphone

45 Editing the Playlist and Disc Operations

45 Creating a Playlist 45 Deleting Scenes from the Playlist 46 Dividing Scenes in the Playlist 46 Moving Scenes in the Playlist 47 Initializing the Disc

47 Disc Playback on an External Device

47 Changing the Disc Title 48 Finalizing the Disc 49 Disc Playback on External Devices 49 Unfinalizing the Disc - Additional Recordings on a Finalized Disc

Photos ________________________________________

51 Basic Recording

51 Taking Photos 52 Selecting Photo Size and Quality 53 Erasing a Photo Right After Recording It

53 Basic Playback

53 Viewing Photos 54 Magnifying Photos during Playback 55 Slideshow 55 Erasing Photos

56 Additional Functions

56 Drive Mode: Continuous Shooting and Exposure

Bracketing

56 Histogram Display

Table of contents • 9

57 Protecting Photos 57 Initializing the Memory Card

58 Printing Photos

58 Printing Photos from the Memory Card 58 Direct Print 59 Selecting the Print Settings 61 Print Orders

External Connections _____________________________

63 Terminals on the Camcorder

64 Connection Diagrams 65 Playback on a TV Screen 65 Copying your Recordings to an External Video Recorder

Additional Information ____________________________

66 Appendix: Menu Options Lists

66 FUNC. Menu 68 Setup menus 68 Camera Setup (Advanced Zoom, Image Stabilizer, etc.) 69 Disc Operations (Initialization, Finalization etc.) 70 Still Image Operations (Card Initialization, etc.) 70 Display Setup (LCD Brightness, Language, etc.) 71 System Setup (Volume, Beep, etc.) 72 Date/Time Setup

73 Trouble?

73 Troubleshooting 76 List of Messages

80 Do’s and Don’ts

80 Handling Precautions 84 Using the Camcorder Abroad

86 General Information

86 System Diagram 87 Optional Accessories 90 Product Codes 91 Specifications 94 Index

10 • Table of contents

About this Manual

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

Conventions Used in this Manual

• IMPORTANT: Precautions related to the camcorder’s operation.

• NOTES: Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.

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

• : Reference page number.

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

• The following terms are used in this manual:

“Screen” refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen. “Scene” refers to one movie unit from the point you press to start recording until you press again to pause the recording. The terms “photo” and “still image” are used interchangeably with the same meaning.

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

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

73).

Start/Stop

The camcorder's operating mode is determined by the

switch and the position of the / switch. In this manual, indicates that a function is available and indicates that the function is not available. When no operating mode icons are given, the function is available in all operating modes.

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

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

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

“button” frame.

FUNC.

Additional Functions

: Special Scene Recording Programs

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

POINTS TO CHECK

Mode switch:

FUNC.

[ PROGRAM AE] [ PORTRAIT] Press to display the Special Scene (SCN) recording progr ams Desired recordi ng program

FUNC.

( 28)

Introduction • 11

Getting to Kn ow the Camcorde r

Supplied Accessories

CA-570 Compact Power

Adapter (incl. power cord)

IFC-300PCU USB Cable

( only)

NB-2LH Battery Pack

STV-250N Stereo Video

Cable

Yellow • Red • White plugs

Online product registration for U.S.A. Customers only. Register your product online at www.registercanon.com

Protect your product

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

Receive information on new products and promotions

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

The serial number of this product can be found at the battery attachment unit of the camcorder. Write down the number and other information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft. Date of Purchase: Model Name: DC420 A/DC410 A Purchased From: Serial No.: Dealer Address: Dealer Phone No.:

12 • Introduction

Components Guide

Left side view

Right side view

RESET button ( 75) Speaker CARD access indicator ( 51) Lens cover switch ( 28, 51)

( open, MIC terminal* ( 44) AV te rm inal ( 63) USB terminal** ( 63) DISC access indicator ( 28) Mode switch ( 29)

Disc compartment cover ( 25)

Lock button Strap mount ( 89) Grip belt ( 20) Stereo microphone

* only. ** only.

closed)

Easy recording Recording programs

switch ( 20)

Front view

Introduction • 13

Back view

Top vi e w

Bottom view

Joystick ( 21) FUNC. button ( 22, 66) DISP. button ( 43) Dioptric adjustment lever ( 29) Viewfinder ( 29) VIEWFINDER button ( 29) DISC COVER switch ( 25) PLAY indicator (green) ( 21) CAMERA indicator (green) ( 21)/

CHARGE indicator (red) ( 18) Start/Stop button ( 28) LCD screen ( 24) Battery attachment unit ( 18)/

Serial number DC IN terminal (18) Zoom lever ( 30)

/ (movies/still images) switch

(21) Memory card slot

(open the cover to access) ( 27) Memory card slot cover BATT. (battery release) switch ( 18) Trip o d soc k e t ( 80 )

14 • Introduction

Screen Displays

Recording movies

Playing movies (during playback)

Operating mode ( 21) / Disc specification ( 5)

Recording program ( 36, 38) White balance ( 41) Image effects ( 42) LCD video light ( 39) Digital effects ( 42) Recording mode ( 30) Disc type DVD-R, DVD-R DL,

DVD-RW ( 5)

Manual focus ( 40) Image stabilizer ( 68) Disc operation Time code/Playback time

(hours : minutes : seconds) Remaining recording time on the disc Remaining battery charge ( 17) Wind screen off ( 69) Recording reminder Level marker ( 70) Finalized disc mark ( 48) Scene number Joystick guide ( 21) Data code ( 43)

Speaker volume ( 34)

Introduction • 15

Recording still images

Viewing still images

Zoom ( 30), Exposure ( 40) Recording program ( 36, 38) White balance ( 41) Image effects ( 42) LCD video light ( 39) Digital effects ( 42)

Drive mode ( 56) Still image quality/size ( 52) Manual focus ( 40) Number of still images available on the

memory card Self timer ( 39) AF frame ( 69) Joystick guide ( 21) Focus/exposure automatically set and

locked ( 51) Camcorder shake warning ( 68) Image number ( 17, 71) Current image / Total number of images Histogram ( 56) Date and time of recording Image protection mark ( 57) Manual exposure ( 40) Image size ( 52) File size Aperture value Shutter speed ( 38)

16 • Introduction

Disc operation

Record, Record pause,

Playback, Playback pause,

, Fast playback,

, Fast reverse playback, Slow playback, Slow reverse playback

Remaining recording time

When there is no more disc space available, “ END” will be displayed and the recording will stop.

Remaining battery charge estimate

100% 75% 50% 25% 0%

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

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

Recording reminder

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

Number of still images available on the card

displayed in red: No card

in green: 6 or more images in yellow: 1 to 5 images in red: No more images can be recorded

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

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

Card access display

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

Image number

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

Introduction • 17

Preparations

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

Getting Starte d

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

The camcorder can be powered with a battery pack or directly using the compact power adapter. Charge the battery pack before use. For approximate charging times and recording/playback times with a full battery pack, refer to the tables on pages 87-88.

DC IN terminal

3 Connect the compact power

adapter to the camcorder’s DC IN terminal.

CHARGE indicator (red)

4 Attach the battery pack to the

camcorder.

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

5 Charging will start when the

switch is turned to (CHARGE).

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

1 Connect the power cord to the

compact power adapter.

2 Plug the power cord into a power

outlet.

18 • Preparations

TO REMOVE THE BATTERY PACK

BATT. switch

1 Slide in the direction of the

2 Slide the battery pack down and

• Turn off the camcorder before

• We recommend charging the battery

• Do not connect to the camcorder’s DC

• To prevent equipment breakdowns and

BATT.

arrow and hold it pressed down.

then pull it out

IMPORTANT

connecting or disconnecting the compact power adapter. After you turn the switch to , important file allocation data is updated on the disc. Be sure to wait until the CAMERA green indicator goes out.

pack in temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). Outside the temperature range of 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F), the charging will not start.

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

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

NOTES

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

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

• The CHARGE indicator also serves as a rough estimate of the charge status. Two quick flashes at 1-second intervals Battery pack at least 50% charged. If the indicator flashes quickly but not exactly in this pattern, refer to Troubleshooting (73). One flash at 1-second intervals pack less than 50% charged.

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

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

• USA and Canada only: The Lithium ion/polymer battery that powers this product is recyclable. Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information on how to recycle this battery.

: Battery

Preparations • 19

Preparing the Accessories

Fasten the grip belt.

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

Start/Stop

your thumb.

TO ATTACH A SHOULDER STRAP

Basic Operation of the Camcorder

Power Switch

Lock button

In addition to turning the camcorder on and off, the switch also toggles the camcorder’s operating mode. To turn on the camcorder: Hold the lock button pressed down and turn the switch to ON. To change the operating mode: From the ON position, turn the switch momentarily toward MODE and release it. This action will toggle the operating mode between recording (CAMERA indicator on) and playback (PLAY indicator on).

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

20 • Preparations

Joystick and Joystick Guide

Using the Menus

Use the joystick to operate the camcorder's menus.

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

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

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

Operating mode

indicator

switch

(movies)

(still images)

(movies)

(still images)

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

FUNC.

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

Icon display Operation

Recording movies on a disc

Recording still images on a memory card

Playing movies from a disc

Viewing still images from a memory card

Preparations • 21

Selecting an Option from the FUNC. menu

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

Selecting an Option from the Setup Menus

1 Press .

FUNC.

2 Select ( ) the icon of the function

you want change from the left side column.

Menu items not available will appear grayed out.

3 Select ( ) the desired setting

from the available options at the bottom bar.

• The selected option will be highlighted in light blue.

• With some settings, you will need to make further selections and/or press . Follow the additional operation guides that will appear on the screen (such as the icon, small arrows, etc.).

4 Press to save the settings

FUNC.

and close the menu.

You can press to close the menu at any time.

FUNC.

1 Press .

FUNC.

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

2 Select ( ) [ MENU] and press

to open the setup menus.

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

• In the index screen (DVD-RW discs in VR mode), push the joystick ( ) to select [ MENU].

FUNC.

3 Select ( ) the desired menu from

the left side column and press .

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

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

4 Select ( ) the setting you want to

change and press .

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

5 Select ( ) the desired option and

press to save the setting.

6 Press .

FUNC.

You can press to close the menu at any time.

FUNC.

22 • Preparations

First Time Setti ngs

First Time Settings

Setting the Date and Time

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

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

1 Change ( ) the year and move

( ) to the month.

2 Change the rest of the fields

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

3 Select ( ) [OK] and press to

start the clock and close the setup screen.

IMPORTANT

• When you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery may discharge completely and the date and time setting may be lost. In such case, recharge the built-in battery ( 83) and set the time zone, date and time again.

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

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

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

FUNC.

[ MENU]

DATE/TIME SETUP]

[ [DATE/TIME]

Changing the Language

Options

[][MELAYU][] [DEUTSCH] [NEDERLANDS] [ ] [ ] [POLSKI] [ ]

[ENGLISH]

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

FUNC.



[PORTUGUÊS] [ ]

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

FUNC.

NOTES

• If you changed the language by mistake, follow the mark next to the menu item to change the setting.

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



Default value

Preparations • 23

Changing the Time Zone

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

TO SET THE HOME TIME ZONE

FUNC.

[ MENU] [ DATE/TIME SETUP] [T.ZONE/DST] Your local time zone*

FUNC.

Getting Ready to Start Recording

Opening the Lens Cover and Adjusting the LCD screen

Before you start recording, open the lens cover.

WHEN YOU TRAVEL

FUNC.

[ MENU] [ DATE/TIME SETUP] [T.ZONE/DST] Local date and time in your destination*

FUNC.

* To adjust for daylight saving time, select the

area name marked with a .

24 • Preparations

Move the lens cover switch down to

to open the lens cover.

Rotating the LCD Panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.

You can rotate the panel 90 degrees downward.

180°

90°

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

(29)). Rotating

the LCD panel 180 degrees can be useful in the following cases:

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

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

180°

Subject can monitor the LCD screen

NOTES

About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The

screens are produced using extremely high-precision manufacturing techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Less than

0.01% of the pixels may occasionally misfire or appear as black, red, blue or green dots. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.

LCD Backlight

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

NOTES

• This setting does not affect the brightness of the recordings.

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

Inserting and Removing a Disc

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

logo. Refer also to Approved discs (7). Before inserting the disc, be sure to check that the recording surface is clean. If necessary, use a soft lenscleaning cloth to remove any fingerprints, dirt buildup or smudges from the disc surface.

Inserting the Disc

( 21)

DISP.

Hold pressed down for more than 2 seconds.

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

Pick up lens

1 Move the / switch to

(movies).

2 Turn the switch to ON to

set the camcorder in mode.

Preparations • 25

3 Slide fully toward

DISC COVER

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

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

4 Insert the disc and press its center

firmly until it clicks in place.

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

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

5 Close the disc cover.

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

NOTES

The process of recognizing a disc may take a moment. The display will move while the disc is being read. Wait until the camcorder finishes recognizing the disc ( stops moving and turns green) before you start recording.

WHEN USING DVD-RW DISCS

You need to initialize new discs before you can start recording. The disc initialization screen will appear when a new DVD-RW disc is first inserted if the

/ switch is set to (movies). If the disc is already initialized, you can start recording movies once the record pause indicator appears. Otherwise, perform the following steps to initialize the disc.

Select ( ) the desired disc specification and press . For a comparison between the VIDEO and VR specifications, see How to Select a DVD Disc (5). A confirmation message will appear on the screen. Select ( ) [YES] and press to start the disc initialization, or select [NO] and press

to return and select a different

disc specification.

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

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

Removing the Disc

WHEN USING DVD-R/DVD-R DL DISCS

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

26 • Preparations

1 Slide fully toward

DISC COVER

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

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

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

• It may take a moment after sliding

DISC COVER

open.

for the disc cover to

2 Grab the edge of the disc and

gently pull it out.

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

3 Close the disc cover.

IMPORTANT

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

Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

DISC COVER

1 Turn off the camcorder. 2 Open the memory card slot cover. 3 Insert the memory card straight,

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

4 Close the memory card slot cover.

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

TO REMOVE THE MEMORY CARD

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

You can use commercially available

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

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

IMPORTANT

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

NOTES

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

Preparations • 27

Video

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

Basic Recording

Shooting Video

Before You Begin Recording

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

( 21)

2 Turn the switch to ON to set

the camcorder in CAMERA mode.

The green CAMERA indicator will turn on.

3 Move the lens cover switch down

to to open the lens cover.

4 Press to begin recording.

WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED RECORDING

1 Make sure that the DISC access

2 Turn off the camcorder. 3 Close the lens cover and the LCD

4 Remove the disc.

Start/Stop

• Recording starts; press again to pause the recording.

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

indicator is off.

panel.

Start/Stop

1 Move the / switch to

(movies).

28 • Video

Using the viewfinder

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

VIEWFINDER

viewfinder along with the LCD panel. Close the LCD panel to use only the viewfinder.

Adjust the viewfinder as necessary with the dioptric adjustment lever.

to activate the

IMPORTANT

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

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

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

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

- Do not change the operating mode.

NOTES

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

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

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

- The time between turning on the

camcorder and being able to start recording.

- The time between turning the

switch to and the camcorder shutting off.

About the mode switch and recording programs

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

Set the mode switch to to select one of the recording programs. The Special Scene recording programs ( 36) offer a convenient way to select the optimal settings to match special recording conditions; and with the flexible recording programs ( 38) you can set the shutter speed manually, or enjoy the flexibility to change other settings.

Video • 29

Selecting the Video Quality (Recording Mode)

Changing the Aspect Ratio of the Recordings (Widescreen / 4:3)

The camcorder offers 3 recording modes. Changing the recording mode will change the recording time available on the disc. Select XP mode for better movie quality; select LP mode for longer recording times. The following table gives approximate recording times with a brand new DVD disc (on a single recording side).



Default value

Disc type

Recording mode



DVD-R,

DVD-RW

20 min. 36 min.

30 min. 54 min.

60 min. 108 min.

DVD-R DL

( 21)

FUNC.

[

STANDARD PLAY 6 Mbps]

Desired recording mode

FUNC.

NOTES

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

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

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

( 21)

FUNC.

[ MENU] [ CAMERA SETUP] [WIDESCREEN] [ OFF]

FUNC.

NOTES

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

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

Zooming: Optical, Advanced and Digital Zoom

The camcorder offers three types of zoom when recording movies: optical, advanced and digital zoom (In

zoom is available.) You can also change the zoom speed.

mode, only the optical

30 • Video

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