Page 1
PUB.DIE-253
English
Mini
Digital
Video
Cassette
Digital Video Camcorder
Instruction Manual
English
Introduction
Basic
Functions
Advanced
Functions
Editing
PAL
Additional
Information
Page 2
Introduction
Important Usage Instructions
WARNING!
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR 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.
2
Page 3
Using this Manual
DATE
/TIM
E SETUPUP
T.ZO
NE/D
ST P
ARIS
Thank you for purchasing the Canon MV920/MV901/MV900/MV890. 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
Change the display language before you begin ( 59).
Symbols and References Used in This Manual
: Precautions related to the camcorder operation.
: Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.
: Reference page number.
: Option or feature that applies or is available only with this model.
Capital letters are used to refer to buttons on the camcorder.
[ ] are used to refer to menu items displayed on the screen.
“Screen” refers to the LCD and the viewfinder screen.
Please note that the illustrations mainly refer to the .
Operating modes (see below)
Menu item shown at its default
position
Buttons and switches to be operated
About the Joystick and the Joystick Guide
The mini joystick allows you to control many of the camcorder’s operations and to select
and change setting options in 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.
The functions assigned to the joystick change according to the operation mode. You can
display the joystick guide to remind you of the joystick’s functions in each operating mode.
Recording: Playback:
Troubleshooting
Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time
Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or when you
have replaced the backup battery.
Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time
MENU
(33)
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
The FUNC. menu will open. Continue the procedure with the
multi selector to open the setup menus.
2. With the multi selector select ( ) the icon and
press ( ).
3. Select ( ) the [DATE/TIME SETUP] menu and
press ( ). Then, select ( ) the [T.ZONE/DST]
option and press ( ).
DATE
/TIM
E SET
table ( 76).
T.ZO
NE/D
ST P
ARIS
E
Introduction
FOCUS
EXP
3
Page 4
About the Operating Modes
The operating modes are determined by the position of the switch.
Operating
Modes
Trademark Acknowledgments
• is a trademark.
• Windows
• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the United
• Other names and products not mentioned above may be registered trademarks or trademarks
®
States and/or other countries.
States and other countries.
of their respective companies.
is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United
Switch
CAMERA
PLAY
Icon
Display
Operation
Recording movies on a
tape
Playing movies from a
tape
: Function can be used in this mode.
: Function cannot be used in this mode.
18
26
4
Page 5
Table of contents
Introduction
Using this Manual ............................................................................................3
Checking the Supplied Accessories ................................................................7
Components Guide..........................................................................................8
Basic Functions
Preparations
Preparing the Power Supply..........................................................................10
Loading/Unloading a Cassette ......................................................................13
Preparing the Camcorder ..............................................................................14
Adjusting the LCD Screen .............................................................................15
Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time..........................................................16
Recording
Recording Movies on a Tape.........................................................................18
Zooming.........................................................................................................22
Tips for Making Better Videos........................................................................25
Playback
Playing Back a Tape ......................................................................................26
Adjusting the Volume.....................................................................................28
Playing Back on a TV Screen........................................................................29
Advanced Functions
Menus and Settings.......................................................................................33
Recording
Using the Recording Programs .....................................................................36
Adjusting the Exposure Manually ..................................................................40
Adjusting the Focus Manually........................................................................41
Setting the White Balance .............................................................................43
Selecting an Image Effect..............................................................................44
Setting the Shutter Speed..............................................................................45
Using the Self-Timer......................................................................................47
Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP) ........................................................48
Audio Recording............................................................................................49
Using Digital Effects.......................................................................................51
Widescreen TV Recording (16:9) ..................................................................54
Playback
Magnifying the Image ....................................................................................55
Displaying the Data Code..............................................................................56
End Search....................................................................................................57
Playing Back a Tape with Added Sound........................................................58
Other Functions
Changing the Display Language ...................................................................59
Other Camcorder Settings.............................................................................60
Editing
Recording to a VCR or Digital Video Device .................................................63
Recording from Digital Video Devices (DV Dubbing) ...................................65
Transferring Video Recordings to a Computer ..............................................67
Additional Information
Screen Displays.............................................................................................68
E
Introduction
5
Page 6
List of Messages............................................................................................70
Maintenance/Others ......................................................................................71
Troubleshooting.............................................................................................76
System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area) ................................79
Optional Accessories.....................................................................................80
Specifications.................................................................................................82
Index..............................................................................................................84
6
Page 7
Checking the Supplied Accessories
CA-570 Compact
Power Adapter
(incl. power cord)
STV-250N Stereo
Video Cable
* Europe only.
** Not included with the .
BP-2L5 Battery Pack Lithium Button Battery
PC-A10 SCART
Adapter*
CR1616
SS-900 Shoulder
Strap**
E
Introduction
7
Page 8
Components Guide
MV920/MV901/MV900/MV890
Left side view
Right side view
0
Lens cover switch ( 18)
( open, closed)
LCD BACKLIGHT button ( 15)
Speaker ( 28)
CHARGE indicator ( 10)
Terminal cover
switch ( 4)
Grip belt (
14)
AV terminal ( 29)
MIC (microphone) terminal ( 50)
DV terminal ( 63, 65)
Zoom lever ( 22)
Program selector ( 36)
Easy recording
Recording programs
8
Page 9
Front view
E
Rear view
Stereo microphone
Viewfinder ( 14)
Dioptric adjustment lever ( 14)
BATT. (battery release) button ( 10)
LCD screen ( 15)
Joystick ( 3)
FUNC. button ( 33)
D.EFFECTS button ( 51)
WIDE SCR button ( 54) /
DATA CODE button ( 56)
Bottom view
Backup battery compartment ( 12)
Start/stop button ( 18)
Battery attachment unit ( 10) /
Serial number
DC IN terminal ( 10)
Cassette compartment ( 13)
Cassette compartment cover ( 13)
OPEN/EJECT
Tripod socket ( 25)
switch ( 13)
Introduction
9
Page 10
Basic Functions
Preparations
Preparing the Power Supply
Attaching the Battery Pack
1. Turn the switch to .
2. Attach the battery pack to the
camcorder.
• Remove the terminal cover of the battery
pack.
• Press lightly and slide the battery pack in
the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
Charging the Battery Pack
1. Connect the power cord to the
adapter.
2. Plug the power cord into a power
outlet.
3. Connect the power adapter to the
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.
The CHARGE indicator starts flashing.
The indicator will stay on when the
charging is completed.
4. When the charging is completed,
disconnect the power adapter
from the camcorder. Unplug the
power cord from the power outlet
and disconnect it from the adapter.
5. Remove the battery pack after use.
Press the BATT. button to remove the battery.
CHARGE indicator
DC IN terminal
10
Page 11
Using a Household Power Source
Connect to a household power source 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 the switch to .
2. Connect the power cord to the
power adapter.
3. Plug the power cord into a power
outlet.
4. Connect the power adapter to the
camcorder’s DC IN terminal.
Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the power adapter.
If the adapter is used close to a TV, it may cause picture interference. Move the
adapter away from the TV or the antenna cable.
Do not connect any products that are not expressly recommended to the
camcorder’s DC IN terminal or to the power adapter.
You may hear some noise from the power adapter during use. This is not a
malfunction.
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.
When the power adapter or the battery pack is defective, the CHARGE
indicator flashes rapidly (at about 2 flashes/second) and charging stops.
The CHARGE indicator informs you about the charge status.
0-50%: Flashes once every second
More than 50%: Flashes twice every second
100%: Continuously on
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 charging will not
start. If the battery temperature goes outside this temperature range while
charging, the CHARGE indicator will start flashing rapidly and the charging will
stop.
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.
We recommend that you prepare battery packs 2 to 3 times longer than you
think you might need.
To conserve battery power, turn off the camcorder instead of leaving it in record
pause mode.
E
Basic Functions
Preparations
11
Page 12
Charging, Recording and Playback Times
The following times are approximate and vary according to the charging,
\
recording or playback conditions.
Battery Pack BP-2L5 NB-2L NB-2LH BP-2L12 BP-2L14
Charging Time 95 min. 110 min. 125 min. 195 min. 220 min.
Max. Recording Time
Viewfinder 90 min. 105 min. 125 min. 220 min. 270 min.
LCD normal 85 min. 100 min. 120 min. 215 min. 260 min.
bright 80 min. 90 min. 110 min. 200 min. 240 min.
Typical RecordingTime*
Viewfinder 50 min. 55 min. 65 min. 120 min. 150 min.
LCD normal 50 min. 55 min. 65 min. 120 min. 145 min.
bright 45 min. 50 min. 60 min. 110 min. 140 min.
Playback Time 90 min. 105 min. 125 min. 225 min. 275 min.
* Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop,
zooming, power on/off. Actual time may be shorter.
Installing the Backup Battery
The backup battery (lithium button battery CR1616) allows the camcorder to retain the
date, time (
Connect a power source to the camcorder when replacing the backup battery to retain the
settings.
16) and other camcorder settings while the power source is disconnected.
1. Open the backup battery cover.
2. Insert the backup battery with the + side
facing out.
3. Close the cover.
The backup battery has a life span of about a year. “ ” flashes in red to inform
you that it needs to be replaced.
12
Page 13
Loading/Unloading a Cassette
Use only videocassettes marked with the logo.
1. Slide the OPEN/EJECT switch
and open the cassette
compartment cover.
The cassette compartment opens
automatically.
2. Load/unload the cassette.
• Load the cassette with the window
facing the grip belt.
• Unload the cassette by pulling it straight
out.
3. Press the mark on the
cassette compartment until it
clicks.
4. Wait for the cassette compartment
to retract automatically and close
the cassette compartment cover.
Tape protection tab
E
Basic Functions
Preparations
Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing
automatically, or attempt to close the cover before the cassette compartment
has fully retracted.
Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment cover.
If the camcorder is connected to a power source, cassettes can be loaded/
unloaded even if the switch is set to .
13
Page 14
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.
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.
Attaching the Shoulder Strap
The optional shoulder strap is sold separately.
Pass the ends through the strap mount and adjust the length of the strap.
14
SS-900 Shoulder
Strap
Page 15
Adjusting the LCD Screen
Rotating the LCD Screen
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.
• You can rotate the panel by 90 degrees
outward.
• You can rotate the panel by 180 degrees
inward.
LCD Backlight
LCD BACKLIGHT button
You can switch the brightness of the LCD screen between normal and bright by pressing
the LCD BACKLIGHT button. This is useful for outdoor recordings.
Press the LCD BACKLIGHT button.
This setting does not affect the brightness of the recording or the viewfinder
screen.
When using a battery pack, the camcorder retains the setting even if you
change the position of the switch.
The battery usage time shortens when the LCD screen is set brighter ( 12).
E
Basic Functions
Preparations
15
Page 16
Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time
Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or when you
have replaced the backup battery.
Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time
MENU
( 33)
DATE/TIME SETUP T.ZONE/DST PARIS
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
The FUNC. menu will open. Continue the procedure with the
joystick to open the setup menus.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press
().
3. Select ( ) the [DATE/TIME SETUP] menu and
press ( ). Then, select ( ) the [T.ZONE/DST]
option and press ( ).
The time zone setting appears (see table on the next page). The default setting is
Paris or Singapore depending on the region.
4. Select ( ) your time zone and press ( ).
To adjust for daylight saving time, select the time zone with the “ ” next to the area.
Setting the Date and Time
MENU
( 33)
DATE/TIME SETUP
5. Select ( ) the [DATE/TIME] option and press ( ).
A selection frame will be displayed around the date and the
selection arrows around the day will flash.
6. With the joystick change ( ) the day as required
and move ( ) to the next field.
• The selection arrows will flash around the next field of the date/time.
• Set the month, year, hours and minutes in the same way.
• If you do not need to change all settings, you can use the joystick to move
the specific setting you want to change.
7. Press ( ) to start the clock.
DATE/TIME 1.JAN.2006
12:00AM
() to
16
Page 17
8. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
Time Zones and Difference from GMT/UTC.
London GMT/UTC Wellington (WELLINGTN) +12
Paris +1 Samoa -11
Cairo +2 Honolulu -10
Moscow +3 Anchorage -9
Dubai +4 Los Angeles (L.A.) -8
Karachi +5 Denver -7
Dacca +6 Chicago -6
Bankok +7 New York -5
Singapore +8 Caracas -4
Tokyo +9 Rio de Janeiro (RIO) -3
Sydney +10 Fernando de Noronha (FERNANDO) -2
Solomon +11 Azores -1
Once you have set time zone, date and time, you do not need to reset the clock
each time you travel to another time zone. Just set the time zone to the one of
your destination, and the camcorder automatically adjusts the clock.
E
Basic Functions
Preparations
17
Page 18
Recording
Recording Movies on a Tape
Before You Begin Recording
Make a test recording first to check if the camcorder operates correctly. If necessary,
clean the video heads (
72).
Recording
1. Open the lens cover (move the
lens cover switch down to ).
2. Set the camcorder to
mode.
Set the switch to CAMERA.
3. Open the LCD panel.
4. Press the start/stop button to
begin recording.
Press the start/stop button again to pause
the recording.
When You Have Finished Recording
1. Turn the switch to .
2. Close the LCD panel.
3. Close the lens cover (move the lens cover switch
to ).
4. Unload the cassette.
5. Disconnect the power source.
18
Page 19
About the LCD and viewfinder screen: The screens are produced with
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.
When powered by a battery pack, the camcorder shuts off to save power if
left without any operation for 5 minutes. Approximately 30 seconds before
the camcorder shuts off the message “ AUTO POWER OFF” will
appear. To continue recording, turn the switch to and then
back to CAMERA.
Wait until the tape counter stops completely before you start recording.
When you do not remove the cassette, you can record the next scene without
producing any noise or blank sections between the recordings even if you turn
the camcorder off.
Bright light may make it difficult to use the LCD screen. In such case, use the
viewfinder instead.
When recording near loud sounds (such as fireworks, drums or concerts),
sound may become distorted or may be recorded not in the actual sound level.
This is not a malfunction.
Allowing the Subject to Monitor the LCD Screen
You can rotate the LCD panel so that the screen faces in the
same direction as the lens. The viewfinder switches on allowing
you to use the viewfinder while the subject can monitor the
screen.
Displaying the Level Marker
Use the level marker as a horizontal guideline to frame subjects more accurately.
E
Basic Functions
Recording
MENU
( 33)
DISPLAY SETUP/ LEVEL MARKER OFF
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
3. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [LEVEL MARKER] option and press ( ).
4. Set it to [ON] and press ( ) to save the changes.
5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
The level marker will appear.
19
Page 20
Reviewing and Searching when Recording
Program selector
Joystick
Record Review
In record pause mode, this function allows you to review the last few seconds of your
recording to check if it has been recorded properly.
1. Set the program selector to .
2. If the joystick guide does not appear on screen,
press ( ) to display it.
3. Push the joystick ( ) momentarily towards and
release it.
The camcorder rewinds the tape, plays back the last few
seconds, and returns to record pause mode.
EXP
FOCUS
Record Search
In record pause mode, this function allows you to play back the tape (forward or reverse)
to locate the point where you wish to begin recording.
1. Set the program selector to .
2. If the joystick guide does not appear on screen,
press ( ) to display it.
3.
Hold the joystick pushed ( ) towards to search
back towards the beginning of the recording or
pushed ( ) towards to search forward towards
the end of the recording.
• Release the joystick at the point where you wish to begin recording.
• The camcorder returns to record pause mode.
20
EXP
FOCUS
Page 21
When the camcorder shuts off automatically, the record review and record search
functions will not work. To resume normal operation turn the switch to
and then back to CAMERA.
Screen Displays during Recording
Remaining battery charge
The battery symbol indicates the charge
status of the battery pack.
• “ ” starts flashing in red when the
battery pack is empty.
Time Code
Indicates the recording time in hours,
minutes and seconds.
Remaining tape
Indicates the remaining time of the tape
in minutes. “ ” moves during
recording. “ END” flashes when the
tape reaches the end.
• When the time left is less than 15
seconds, the remaining tape time may
not appear.
• Depending on the type of the tape, the
indication may not be displayed
correctly.
• When you attach an empty battery
pack, the power may turn off without
displaying “ ”.
• The actual battery charge may not be
indicated accurately depending on the
conditions under which the battery
pack and the camcorder are used.
Recording reminder
The camcorder counts from 1 to 10
seconds when you start recording. This
is helpful to avoid scenes that are too
short.
When “ ” flashes
“ ” flashes in red when the lithium
button battery is not installed, or when it
needs replacing.
E
Basic Functions
Recording
21
Page 22
Zooming
The camcorder is equipped with optical zoom and digital zoom.
Zoom out
Zoom in
Zoom lever
Optical Zoom
25x optical zoom 22x optical zoom
Move the zoom lever toward W to zoom out (wideangle). Move it toward T to zoom in (telephoto).
You can also change the zoom speed ( 24).
Keep at least 1 m to the subject. At wide-angle, you can focus on a subject as
close as 1 cm.
The zoom speed is slightly faster in record pause mode.
22
Page 23
Digital Zoom
When the digital zoom is activated, the camcorder automatically switches between optical
and digital zoom. With digital zoom, image resolution becomes lower the more you zoom
in.
100x/800x digital zoom 88x/700x digital zoom
E
MENU
( 33)
CAMERA SETUP D.ZOOM OFF
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press
().
3. Select ( ) the [CAMERA SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [D.ZOOM] option and press ( ).
4. Select either [100x] or [800x] ( ) or [88x] or [700x]
( ) and press ( ) to save the changes.
5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
Digital zoom cannot be used in the Night recording program.
A zoom indicator appears for 4 seconds. It extends in light blue when the digital
zoom is set to 100x ( ) or 88x ( ), and extends
further in dark blue when set to 800x ( ) or 700x
().
Basic Functions
Recording
23
Page 24
Selecting the Zoom Speed
You can set the zoom speed to variable or to one of 3 levels of fixed zoom speeds. When
set to [VARIABLE], the zoom speed depends on how you activate the zoom lever. Press
softly for a slower zoom or press more strongly for a faster zoom.
MENU
( 33)
CAMERA SETUP ZOOM SPEED VARIABLE
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press
().
3. Select ( ) the [CAMERA SETUP] menu and press
( ). Then, select ( ) the [ZOOM SPEED] option
and press ( ).
4. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
The fastest zoom speed can be achieved with the [VARIABLE] setting. Among the
fixed zoom speeds [SPEED 3] is the fastest, and [SPEED 1] the slowest.
24
Page 25
Tips for Making Better Videos
Holding the Camcorder
For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in 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 Put the camcorder on a table
Kneel on one knee Use a tripod
Lie on your elbow
Lighting
When recording outdoors, we
recommend recording with the sun at
your back.
E
Basic Functions
Recording
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 as it
may damage the camcorder. The
camcorder cannot be mounted on
tripods with fixed (non-retractable)
camera positioning pins.
Camera positioning pin
25
Page 26
Playback
Playing Back a Tape
If the playback picture is distorted, clean the video heads using a Canon Head Cleaning
Cassette or a commercially available digital video head-cleaning cassette (
72).
1. Set the camcorder to
mode.
Set the switch to PLAY.
2. Open the LCD panel.
You can also close the LCD panel with the
screen facing out.
3. If the joystick guide does not
appear on screen, press ( ) to
Joystick
display it.
4. Push the joystick ( ) towards
to rewind the tape.
5. Push the joystick ( ) towards /
to play back the tape.
Push ( ) again to pause the playback.
6. Push the joystick ( ) towards
to stop the playback.
To use the viewfinder, close the LCD panel.
About the screen display: During playback, the time code gives the hours,
minutes, seconds and frames. The remaining tape time may not appear when
the time left is less than 15 seconds.
26
Page 27
Special Playback Modes
Joystick
/ (Playback Pause)
During normal playback, push the joystick ( ) towards / .
(Fast Forward Playback) / (Rewind Playback)
Plays back the tape at 11.5 times normal speed (forward or reverse). During normal
playback, hold the joystick pushed ( ) towards or pushed ( ) towards .
Release the joystick to return to normal playback.
There is no sound during special playback.
The picture may become distorted during some special playback modes.
The camcorder stops the tape automatically after 5 minutes in playback pause
to protect the tape and video heads.
E
Basic Functions
Playback
27
Page 28
Adjusting the Volume
When you use the LCD screen for playback, the camcorder plays back the sound using
the built-in speaker. The sound will be muted when the LCD panel is closed.
Speaker
Joystick
MENU
( 33)
SPEAKER VOLUME
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the speaker volume
icon.
3. Adjust ( ) the volume as required.
4. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close
the menu.
If you turn off the volume completely the volume display will change to “ ”.
28
Page 29
Playing Back on a TV Screen
TVs with SCART Terminal
Refer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.
Open the terminal cover
Signal flow
STV-250N Stereo Video
Cable (supplied)
1. Turn off all the devices before starting the connections.
2. Connect the PC-A10 SCART Adapter to the TV or VCR’s SCART
terminal.
3. Connect the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to the camcorder’s AV
terminal and the audio terminals on the SCART Adapter.
Connect the white plug to the white AUDIO terminal L (left), and the red plug to the red
AUDIO terminal R (right) and the yellow plug to the yellow VIDEO terminal.
4. If connecting to a TV, set the input selector to VIDEO. If connecting to
a VCR, set the input selector to LINE.
PC-A10 SCART
Adapter
E
Basic Functions
Playback
29
Page 30
TVs with Audio/Video Terminals
Refer also to the TV or VCR instruction manual.
Open the terminal cover
Signal flow
STV-250N Stereo Video Cable
(supplied)
1. Turn off all the devices before starting the connections.
2. Connect the STV-250N Stereo Video Cable to the camcorder’s AV
terminal and the audio/video terminals on the TV/VCR.
Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal L (left), the red plug to the red audio
terminal R (right) and the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal VIDEO.
3. If connecting to a TV, set the input selector to VIDEO. If connecting to
a VCR, set the input selector to LINE.
30
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.
Page 31
Selecting the Type of TV
During playback set the [TV TYPE] option according to the TV set to which you connect
the camcorder.
E
MENU
( 33)
VCR SETUP TV TYPE WIDE TV
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press
().
3. Select ( ) the [VCR SETUP] menu and press ( ).
Then, select ( ) the [TV TYPE] option and press
().
4. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
• WIDE TV: TV sets with 16:9 aspect ratio.
• NORMAL TV: TV sets with 4:3 aspect ratio
5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
Playing back recordings made in the widescreen mode on a normal TV: If the
TV type is set to [NORMAL TV] the recording will be played back in “letterbox”
display. If the TV type is set to [WIDE TV] the image will appear horizontally
squeezed.
If you connect the camcorder to a TV with Video ID-1 system, recordings made
in the widescreen mode will be automatically played back in widescreen mode.
When the TV type is set to [NORMAL TV] the digital effects are not available in
mode.
Basic Functions
Playback
31
Page 32
Selecting the Audio Output Channel
You can select the output channels when playing back a tape with audio recorded on two
channels.
MENU
( 33)
AUDIO SETUP OUTPUT CH L/R
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press
().
3. Select ( ) the [AUDIO SETUP] menu and press
( ). Then, select ( ) the [OUTPUT CH] option and
press ( ).
4. Select ( ) a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
• L/R: Stereo: L+R channels, Bilingual: Main+Sub.
• L/L: Stereo: L channel, Bilingual: Main.
• R/R: Stereo: R channel, Bilingual: Sub.
5. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
The setting resets to the [L/R] setting when you turn the camcorder off.
32
Page 33
Advanced Functions
Menus and Settings
The camcorder’s functions and settings are controlled from a series of menus that appear
when you press the FUNC. button. Most basic functions appear on the first menu screen
- the FUNC. menu. For more advanced settings you have to open the setup menus by
selecting the [MENU] option from the FUNC. menu.
Joystick
FUNC. button
Selecting Menus and Settings
FUNC. menu:
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon of the function
you want to change.
3. Select ( ) a setting option from the bottom bar.
With some settings, you will need to press ( ) or make further selections with the
joystick. In such cases, a joystick icon (next to the bottom bar) or small arrows (around
the setting option) will be displayed as an additional operation guide.
4. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.
Setup menus:
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
3. Select ( ) a setup menu and press ( ).
4. Select ( ) a menu item and press ( ).
5. Select ( ) a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
6. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
E
Advanced Functions
Pressing the FUNC. button at any time closes the menu.
Items that are not available appear grayed out.
The menu will not appear when you press the FUNC. button while recording
movies.
You can open the menu directly on the setup menus screen by holding the
FUNC. button pressed for more than 2 seconds.
33
Page 34
Menu and Default Settings
Default settings are shown in boldface.
* The item will not appear in mode.
Submenu Menu Item Setting Options
FUNC. menu Recording Programs* PROGRAM AE, PORTRAIT,
White Balance AUTO, DAYLIGHT, TUNGSTEN,
Image Effect IMAGE EFFECT OFF, VIVID,
Self Timer SELF TIMER OFF, SELF TIMER ON 47
CAMERA SETUP SHUTTR SPEED* AUTO, 1/50, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,
VCR SETUP REC MODE STD PLAY, LONG PLAY 48
AUDIO SETUP WIND SCREEN* AUTO, OFF 49
DISPLAY SETUP
SYSTEM SETUP BEEP HIGH VOLUME, LOW VOLUME, OFF 60
DATE/TIME SETUP T.ZONE/DST See list of time zones. 16
Digital Effects D.EFFECT OFF, FADER, EFFECT 51
A.SL SHUTTER ON, OFF 46
D.ZOOM 23
ZOOM SPEED VARIABLE, SPEED 3, SPEED 2, SPEED 1 24
IMG STAB* ON, OFF 61
AUDIO MODE 16bit, 12bit 49
/ BRIGHTNESS 60
TV SCREEN ON, OFF 68
LEVEL MARKER ON, OFF 19
LANGUAGE See list of languages. 59
DEMO MODE ON, OFF 62
START-UP IMG ON, OFF 61
POWER SAVE ON, OFF 19
DATE/TIME - 16
DATE FORMAT Y.M.D : 2006.1.1 AM12:00
SPORTS, NIGHT, SNOW,
BEACH, SUNSET, SPOTLIGHT,
FIREWORKS
SET
NEUTRAL, SOFT SKIN DETAIL
1/2000
OFF, 100x, 800x OFF, 88x, 700x
M.D, Y : JAN. 1, 2006 12:00AM
D.M.Y : 1. JAN. 2006 12:00AM
36
43
44
45
59
34
Page 35
Submenu Menu Item Setting Options
FUNC. menu Speaker Volume 28
VCR SETUP REC MODE STD PLAY, LONG PLAY 48
AUDIO SETUP OUTPUT CH L/R, L/L, R/R 32
DISPLAY SETUP/
SYSTEM SETUP BEEP HIGH VOLUME, LOW VOLUME, OFF 60
DATE/TIME SETUP T.ZONE/DST See list of time zones. 16
Recording Pause - 65
End Search - 57
Digital Effects D.EFFECT OFF, FADER, EFFECT 51
TV TYPE NORMAL TV, WIDE TV 31
12bit AUDIO STEREO1, STEREO2, MIX/FIXED,
MIX BALANCE
AUDIO MODE 16bit, 12bit 49
BRIGHTNESS 60
TV SCREEN ON, OFF 68
DISPLAYS ON, OFF <PLAYBK> 68
6SEC.DATE ON, OFF 56
DATA CODE DATE, TIME, DATE & TIME 56
LANGUAGE See list of languages. 59
START-UP IMG ON, OFF 61
DATE/TIME - 16
DATE FORMAT Y.M.D : 2006.1.1 AM12:00
MIX/VAR.
ST-1 ST-2
M.D, Y : JAN. 1, 2006 12:00AM
D.M.Y : 1. JAN. 2006 12:00AM
E
58
58
59
Advanced Functions
35
Page 36
Recording
Using the Recording Programs
Easy Recording Program
The camcorder adjusts focus, exposure and other settings
automatically, allowing you to just point and shoot.
Recording Programs
Program AE
The camcorder adjusts focus, exposure and other settings
automatically. However, you have the option of adjusting the settings
manually.
Portrait
Use this mode to give accent to your subject by blurring the
background or foreground. The blur effect increases the more you
zoom to telephoto.
Sports
Use this mode to record sports scenes (such as tennis or golf) or
moving objects (such as roller coasters).
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.
36
Page 37
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.
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
37
Page 38
Joystick
Availability of Functions in Each Mode:
Program Selector
Recording
Program
Image Stabilizer (on)
Focus (A)
White Balance (A)
Wind Screen (A)
Shutter Speed (A) (A)
Exposure
Adjustment
Digital Effects
: Available : Not available A: Auto setting
(A)
Selecting the Easy Recording Program
Program selector
Set the program selector to .
“ ” appears.
38
Page 39
Selecting a Recording Program
MENU
( 33)
1. Set the program selector to .
2. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
3. With the joystick select ( ) the recording
programs icon.
4. Select ( ) the recording program from the options
on the bottom bar.
5. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.
The symbol of the recording program selected appears.
Do not change the recording program while recording as the brightness of the
image may change abruptly.
Portrait/Sports mode:
The picture may not appear smooth when played back.
Snow/Beach mode:
- The subject may become overexposed in dark surroundings. Check the
- The picture may not appear smooth when played back.
Night mode:
- 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
- The digital zoom cannot be used with this recording program.
Fireworks mode:
To avoid camcorder shake, we recommend using a tripod.
PROGRAM AE
image on the screen.
focus manually.
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
39
Page 40
Adjusting the Exposure Manually
Adjust the exposure when a backlit subject becomes underexposed, or overexposed due
to bright light.
Program selector
Joystick
1. Set the program selector to .
2. If the joystick guide does not appear on screen,
press ( ) to display it.
3. Push the joystick ( ) towards [EXP] to enter the
exposure lock mode.
[EXP] on the joystick guide will be displayed in light blue and the
exposure adjustment indicator and the neutral value “±0” appear on the screen.
4. Adjust ( ) the brightness of the image as necessary.
To return to the automatic exposure, push the joystick () towards [EXP] once more.
The exposure adjustment indicator will disappear and [EXP] will turn white again.
5. Push the joystick ( ) towards [BACK] to save the exposure setting.
• When you operate the zoom during exposure lock, the brightness of the image may
change.
• The adjustment range depends on the brightness at the time you locked the
exposure.
6. If necessary, press ( ) again to hide the joystick guide.
The manual exposure setting will reset to auto exposure when you turn the
camcorder off or change the recording program.
40
EXP
BACK
Page 41
Adjusting the Focus Manually
Autofocus may not work well on the following subjects. In such case, focus manually.
Reflective
surfaces
1. Set the program selector to .
Subjects with low
contrast or without
Joystick
vertical lines
Fast Moving
Subjects
Through dirty or
wet windows
Night Scenes
Program selector
Zoom lever
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
2. Adjust the zoom.
When you operate the zoom after adjusting the focus, the
subject may not stay in focus. Adjust the zoom before the focus.
3. If the joystick guide does not appear on screen,
press ( ) to display it.
4. Push the joystick ( ) towards [FOCUS] to activate
the manual focus.
[FOCUS] on the joystick guide will be displayed in light blue and “MF” appears on the
screen.
5. Adjust ( ) the focus as necessary.
• Push the joystick ( ) towards for a farther focal distance or push it ( ) towards
for a closer focal distance.
BACK
FOCUS
41
Page 42
• To return to autofocus, push the joystick ( ) towards [FOCUS] once more. “MF” will
disappear and [FOCUS] will turn white again.
6. Push the joystick ( ) towards [BACK] to save the focus adjustment.
7. If necessary, press ( ) again to hide the joystick guide.
The manual focus will reset to autofocus when you set the program selector to
.
Infinity Focus
Use this function when you wish to focus on faraway subjects such as mountains or
fireworks.
1. In the manual focus mode press ( ) to display the joystick guide.
2. Keep the joystick pushed ( ) towards [FOCUS] for more than 2
seconds.
• At first, “MF” will appear on the screen and then it will be replaced by the “ ”
symbol.
• In the infinity focus mode: If you operate the zoom or the joystick ( ) or if you turn
the camcorder off, the infinity focus will be canceled and the camcorder will return to
manual focus.
3. Push the joystick ( ) towards [BACK] to save the focus adjustment.
4. If necessary, press ( ) again to hide the joystick guide.
42
Page 43
Setting the White Balance
You can use the preset modes to reproduce colors more accurately, or set a custom white
balance to obtain the optimal setting.
AUTO
DAYLIGHT
TUNGSTEN
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 under tungsten and tungsten type (3-wavelength)
fluorescent lighting.
Use the custom white balance setting to make white subjects
appear white under colored lighting.
Program selector
Zoom lever
Joystick
FUNC. button
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
MENU
( 33)
AUTO
1. Set the program selector to .
2. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
3. With the joystick select ( ) the white balance icon.
4. Select ( ) the white balance setting from the options on the bottom
bar.
If you select a white balance setting other than [SET], continue to directly to step 6.
To set the custom white balance when you select [SET]:
5. Point the camcorder at a white object, zoom in until it fills the whole
screen and press ( ).
• Keep the camcorder zoomed in at the white object until step 6 is completed.
• The “ ” icon flashes and stops flashing when the adjustment is completed.
6. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.
43
Page 44
Use the auto setting for normal outdoor scenes.
When the program selector is set to , the white balance is preset to
[AUTO].
The camcorder retains the custom white balance setting even if you turn it off.
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 or certain types of fluorescent lights
Selecting an Image Effect
You can record with different color saturation and contrast effects.
IMAGE EFFECT OFF
VIVID
NEUTRAL
SOFT SKIN DETAIL
Records with no image enhancing effects.
Emphasizes the contrast and color saturation.
Tones down the contrast and color saturation.
Softens the details in the skin tone area for a more
complimentary appearance.
MENU
( 33)
IMAGE EFFECT OFF
1. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
2. With the joystick select ( ) the image effects icon.
3. Select ( ) the image effect from the options on the bottom bar.
4. Press the FUNC. button to save the setting and close the menu.
The image effects cannot be used when the program selector is set to .
[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.
44
Page 45
Setting the Shutter Speed
You can adjust the shutter speed manually to make stable shots of fast moving subjects.
Available shutter speed settings: AUTO, 1/50, 1/120, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000
E
MENU
( 33)
CAMERA SETUP SHUTTR SPEED AUTO
1. Set the program selector to .
2. Press the FUNC. button to open the FUNC. menu.
3. With the joystick select ( ) the recording program icon and select
( ) the [PROGRAM AE] program.
4. With the joystick select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
5. Select ( ) the [CAMERA SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [SHUTTR SPEED] option and press ( ).
6. Select ( ) a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
7. Press the FUNC. button to close the menu.
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.
The shutter speed resets to [AUTO] when you set the program selector to
or when you change the recording program.
Guidelines for Recording with High Shutter Speeds:
- Outdoor sports such as golf or tennis: 1/2000
- Moving objects such as cars or roller coasters: 1/1000, 1/500 or 1/250
- Indoor sports such as basketball: 1/120
Advanced Functions
Recording
45
Page 46
Auto Slow Shutter
In the Easy Recording mode or when the shutter speed is set to [AUTO] in the
Program AE recording program, the camcorder uses shutter speeds down to 1/25. This
allows you to obtain a brighter recording in places with insufficient lighting. However, you
can set the camcorder not to use a slow shutter speed.
MENU
( 33)
CAMERA SETUP A.SL SHUTTER ON
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [CAMERA SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [A.SL SHUTTER] option and press ( ).
3. Set ( ) it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
When set to [ON], moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.
46
Page 47
Using the Self-Timer
FUNC. button
E
Start/stop button
MENU
( 33)
SELF TIMER OFF
1. Open the FUNC. menu and select ( ) the self timer icon.
2. Set ( ) it to [SELF TIMER ON] and close the menu.
3. Press the start/stop button.
The camcorder starts recording after a 10-second countdown. The countdown
appears on the screen.
To cancel the self timer, select ( ) [SELF TIMER OFF] in step 2 above.
Once the countdown has begun, you can also press the start/stop button to
cancel the self-timer.
The self-timer will be canceled when you turn off the camcorder.
Advanced Functions
Recording
47
Page 48
Changing the Recording Mode (SP/LP)
You can choose between SP (standard play) and LP (long play). LP extends the tape
usage by 1.5 times.
MENU
( 33)
VCR SETUP REC MODE STD PLAY
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [VCR SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select ( )
the [REC MODE] option and press ( ).
3. Set ( ) it to [STD PLAY] or [LONG PLAY] and press ( ) to save the
changes, then close the menu.
Depending on the nature and usage condition of the tape, picture and sound
recorded in LP mode may be distorted. We recommend using the SP mode
for important recordings.
If you record in both SP and LP modes on the same tape, the playback picture
may become distorted and the time code may not be written correctly.
If you play back a tape that has been recorded in LP mode with another digital
device on this camcorder, or vice versa, picture and sound may become
distorted.
48
Page 49
Audio Recording
Changing the Audio Mode
You can record sound in two audio modes—16-bit and 12-bit. The 12-bit mode records
sound on two channels (stereo 1), leaving 2 channels free (stereo 2) for adding new
sound later with another editing device. Select the 16-bit mode for higher sound quality.
MENU
( 33)
AUDIO SETUP AUDIO MODE 12bit
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [AUDIO SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [AUDIO MODE] option and press ( ).
3. Set ( ) it to [16bit] or [12bit] and press ( ) to save the changes,
then close the menu.
The selected audio mode is displayed for approximately 4 seconds.
Wind Screen
The camcorder reduces the wind noise automatically (only when recording audio with the
built-in microphone). However, you can turn off the wind screen when recording indoors,
or when you want the microphone to be as sensitive as possible.
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [AUDIO SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [WIND SCREEN] option and press ( ).
3. Set ( ) it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
“ ” appears when you turn the wind screen off.
AUDIO SETUP WIND SCREEN AUTO
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
49
Page 50
Using an External Microphone
You can connect an external microphone to the MIC terminal. Use commercially available
condenser microphones with their own power supply.
MIC terminal
Open the terminal cover
You can connect almost any stereo microphone equipped with a Ø 3.5 mm plug
but the audio level will be different than with the built-in microphone.
50
Page 51
Using Digital Effects
Faders ( 52)
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)
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
Tide (TIDE)
51
Page 52
Effects ( 53)
Add flavor to your recordings.
Black and White
(BLK&WHT)
Mosaic (MOSAIC) Ball (BALL) Cube (CUBE)
Sepia (SEPIA) Art (ART)
Wave (WAVE)
Color Mask (COLOR.)
Mirror (MIRROR)
Selecting a Fader
In mode, set the program selector to .
*
* Not available if the TV type is set to [NORMAL TV].
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu and select ( ) the digital
effects icon.
2. Select ( ) the [FADER] option and press ( ).
3. Select ( ) a setting option, press ( ) and close
the menu.
The symbol of the selected fader will appear on screen.
4. Fade in: In record pause mode, press the
D.EFFECTS button and begin recording by pressing
the start/stop button.
D.EFFECT OFF
:
52
Page 53
Fade out: During recording, press the D.EFFECTS button and pause
recording by pressing the start/stop button.
The fader can be activated/deactivated by pressing the D.EFFECTS button.
:
4. Fade in: In playback pause mode, press the
D.EFFECTS button and begin playback by pushing
the joystick ( ) towards / .
Fade out: During playback, press the D.EFFECTS
button and pause playback by pushing the joystick
( ) towards / .
The fader can be activated/deactivated by pressing the D.EFFECTS button.
Selecting an Effect
In mode, set the program selector to .
*
* Not available if the TV type is set to [NORMAL TV].
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu and select ( ) the digital
effects icon.
2. Select ( ) the [EFFECT] option and press ( ).
3. Select ( ) a setting option, press ( ) and close
the menu.
The symbol of the selected effect will appear on screen.
4. Press the D.EFFECTS button.
• The symbol of the selected effect will turn green.
• The effect can be activated/deactivated by pressing the
D.EFFECTS button.
D.EFFECT OFF
E
Advanced Functions
Recording
Turn off the digital effect when you do not use it.
The camcorder retains the setting even if you turn it off or change the recording
program.
The image quality may be slightly lower with digital effects.
Digital effects cannot be used in the following cases:
- When the program selector is set to .
- During DV dubbing.
53
Page 54
Widescreen TV Recording (16:9)
The camcorder uses the full width of the CCD providing high-resolution 16:9 recording.
WIDE SCR button
Press the WIDE SCR button.
• “ ” disappears and the picture changes to 4:3 aspect ratio.
• On the LCD screen: Widescreen video will display normally; video in 4:3 aspect ratio
will appear with black side bars.
• On the viewfinder screen: Widescreen video will appear in “letterbox” display; video in
4:3 aspect ratio will display normally.
Playing back recordings made in the widescreen mode on a normal TV: If the TV
type is set to [NORMAL TV] the recording will be played back in “letterbox”
display. If the TV type is set to [WIDE TV] the image will appear horizontally
squeezed ( 31).
54
Page 55
Playback
Magnifying the Image
The playback image can be magnified up to 5 times.
E
Joystick
1. Move the zoom lever toward T.
• The image is magnified by 2 times.
• A frame appears indicating the position of the magnified area.
• To further enlarge the image, move the zoom lever toward T.
To shrink the image below 2 times magnification, move the
zoom lever toward W.
2. Select ( , ) the magnified area with the
joystick.
To cancel the magnification, move the zoom lever toward W until
the frame disappears.
While the magnification position frame is displayed it will replace the joystick
guide. Cancel the magnification to return to normal playback.
Zoom lever
Advanced Functions
Playback
55
Page 56
Displaying the Data Code
The camcorder maintains a data code containing the recording date and time. You can
select the data code combination and display it during playback.
Joystick
DATA CODE button
FUNC. button
MENU
( 33)
DISPLAY SETUP/ DATA CODE DATE & TIME
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [DATA CODE] option and press ( ).
3. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
4. To display the data code during playback: Press the DATA CODE
button.
The data code will not display the next time you turn on the camcorder.
Six-Second Auto Date
Date and time appear for 6 seconds when you begin playback, or to indicate that date or
time zone has changed.
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [6SEC.DATE] option and press ( ).
3. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
DISPLAY SETUP/ 6SEC.DATE OFF
56
Page 57
End Search
When you have played back a tape, you can use this function to locate the end of the last
recorded scene.
Joystick
FUNC. button
In stop mode:
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the end search icon and press
().
2. Select ( ) [EXECUTE] and press ( ) to start the search.
• “END SEARCH” appears.
• The camcorder rewinds/fast forwards the tape, plays back the last few seconds of
the recording and stops the tape.
• Operating the joystick ( , ) will cancel the search.
End search cannot be used once you unload the cassette.
End search may not work properly if a blank section exists on the tape.
E
Advanced Functions
Playback
57
Page 58
Playing Back a Tape with Added Sound
You can select to play back Stereo 1 (original sound), Stereo 2 (added sound), or adjust
the balance of both sounds.
MENU
( 33)
AUDIO SETUP 12bit AUDIO STEREO1
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [AUDIO SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [12bit AUDIO] option and press ( ).
3. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes.
• STEREO1: Plays back the original sound.
• STEREO2: Plays back the added sound.
• MIX/FIXED: Plays back Stereo 1 and Stereo 2 in the same level.
• MIX/VAR.: Plays back Stereo 1 and Stereo 2. The mix balance can be adjusted.
• If you select an audio setting other than [MIX/VAR.], close the menu.
To adjust the mix level when you select [MIX/VAR.]:
4. From the [AUDIO SETUP] menu select ( ) the [MIX BALANCE]
option and press ( ).
5. Adjust ( ) the mix level between ST-1 and ST-2 and press ( ) to
save the changes, then close the menu.
The camcorder resets to [STEREO1] when you turn the camcorder off.
However, the mix balance is memorized by the camcorder.
Audio dubbing cannot be performed with your camcorder.
58
Page 59
Other Functions
Changing the Display Language
The language used for screen display and menu items can be changed. The available set
of languages varies depending on the region. Follow the procedure below to check which
set of languages are provided with your camcorder.
Language Set A English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Polish, Russian,
Language Set B English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Thai
Simplified Chinese, Japanese
E
MENU
( 33)
DISPLAY SETUP/ LANGUAGE ENGLISH
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [LANGUAGE] option and press ( ).
3. Select a language and press ( ) to save the changes, then close the
menu.
If you have mistakenly changed the language, follow the mark next to the
menu item to change the setting.
The display “FUNC.” at the bottom of the screen refers to the button’s name on
the camcorder and will not change when you change the language.
Changing the Date Format
You can select between three date formats. For example, [1. JAN. 2006], [JAN. 1, 2006]
and [2006. 1. 1].
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DATE/TIME SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [DATE FORMAT] option and press ( ).
3. Select a setting option and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
DATE/TIME SETUP DATE FORMAT 1.JAN.2006
Advanced Functions
Other Functions
59
Page 60
Other Camcorder Settings
Beep
You will hear a beep upon camcorder operations such as power on/off, start/stop, selftimer countdown, and unusual conditions of the camcorder. If you turn off the beep, all
camcorder sounds will be turned off.
MENU
( 33)
To turn off the beep:
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [SYSTEM SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [BEEP] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close the
menu.
SYSTEM SETUP BEEP HIGH VOLUME
Adjusting the Brightness of the LCD Screen
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [BRIGHTNESS] option and press ( ).
3. Adjust ( ) the brightness level and press ( ) to save the changes,
then close the menu.
Changing the brightness of the LCD screen does not affect that of the viewfinder
or the recordings.
DISPLAY SETUP/ BRIGHTNESS
60
Page 61
Turning Off the Image Stabilizer
The image stabilizer compensates for camcorder shake even at full telephoto. It tries to
compensate for horizontal movements; therefore, you may decide to turn it off when you
mount the camcorder on a tripod.
E
MENU
( 33)
CAMERA SETUP IMG STAB ON
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [CAMERA SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [IMG STAB] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close the
menu.
“ ” disappears.
The image stabilizer cannot be turned off when the program selector is set to
.
The image stabilizer is designed to compensate a normal degree of camcorder
shake.
The image stabilizer might not be as effective when using the
recording program.
Night
Changing the Display of the Start-Up Image
You can set whether the Canon logo will be displayed or not when you turn on the
camcorder.
MENU
( 33)
To turn off the start-up image:
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [SYSTEM SETUP] menu and press ( ). Then, select
( ) the [START-UP IMG] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close the
menu.
SYSTEM SETUP START-UP IMG ON
Advanced Functions
Other Functions
61
Page 62
Demonstration Mode
The demonstration mode displays the camcorder’s main features. It starts automatically
when you leave the camcorder turned on (using the power adapter) without loading a
recording media for more than 5 minutes. However, you can set the camcorder not to
start the demonstration mode.
MENU
( 33)
To deactivate the demonstration mode:
DISPLAY SETUP/ DEMO MODE ON
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [DEMO MODE] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close the
menu.
To cancel the demo mode once it has begun, press any button, turn off the
camcorder or load a recording media.
62
Page 63
Editing
Recording to a VCR or Digital Video Device
You can copy your recordings by connecting the camcorder to a VCR or a digital video
device. If you connect a digital video device, you can copy recordings with virtually no
generation loss in image and sound quality.
Connecting the Devices
Connecting a VCR
See
Playing Back on a TV Screen
Connecting a Digital Video Device
Use the optional CV-150F (4 pin-4 pin) or CV-250F (4 pin-6 pin) DV Cable.
Refer also to the instruction manual of the digital video device.
Recording
( 29).
Signal flow
DV cable (optional)
E
Editing
1. Set the camcorder to mode and load a recorded cassette.
2. Connected device: Load a blank cassette and set the device to record
pause mode.
3. Locate the scene you wish to copy and pause playback shortly before
the scene.
4. Play back the tape.
5. Connected device: Begin recording when the scene you wish to copy
appears. Stop recording when copying is complete.
6. Stop playback.
63
Page 64
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.
When connecting a VCR, the quality of the edited tape will be slightly lower than
that of the original.
When connecting a digital video device:
- If the picture does not appear, reconnect the DV cable or turn the camcorder
off and back on again.
- Proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all digital video devices equipped
with a DV terminal. If operation does not work, use the AV terminal.
64
Page 65
Recording from Digital Video
Devices (DV Dubbing)
You can record from other digital video devices equipped with a DV terminal with virtually
no loss in picture and sound quality.
1. Connect the camcorder to the digital video device.
See
Connecting a Digital Video Device
2. Set the camcorder to mode and load a blank cassette.
3. Connected device: Load the recorded cassette or disc.
4. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the recording
pause icon and press ( ).
5. Select ( ) [EXECUTE] and press ( ).
In record pause and during recording, you can check the picture
on the screen.
6. Connected device: Play back the tape or disc.
7. If the joystick guide does not appear on screen,
press ( ) to display it.
8. Push the joystick ( ) towards / when the scene
you wish to record appears.
• Recording starts.
• Push the joystick ( ) towards
9. Push the joystick ( ) towards to stop recording.
10.Connected Device: Stop playback.
( 63).
/ again to pause/resume the recording.
E
Editing
Blank sections may be recorded as anomalous picture.
If the picture does not appear, reconnect the DV cable or turn the camcorder off
and back on again.
You can only record video signals from devices with the logo from
recordings in SD (standard definition) standard, in SP or LP recording mode.
Note that signals from identically shaped DV (IEEE1394) terminals may be in
different video standards.
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source.
65
Page 66
Concerning Copyright
Copyright Precaution
Certain pre-recorded video tapes, films and other materials, as well as some television
programmes are copyrighted. Unauthorised recording of these materials may violate
copyright protection laws.
Copyright Signals
During playback: If you try to play back a tape that contains copyright control signals for
protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED”
appears for a few seconds and the camcorder displays a blank blue screen. You cannot
playback the contents of the tape.
During recording: If you try to record from software that contains copyright control signals
for protection of software, “COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DUBBING RESTRICTED”
appears. You cannot record the contents of the software.
You cannot record copyright protection signals to a tape using this camcorder.
66
Page 67
Transferring Video Recordings to a Computer
Transferring Using a DV Cable
You can transfer recordings to a computer equipped with a IEEE1394 (DV) terminal or
IEEE1394 capture board. Use the editing software supplied with your computer/capture
board to transfer video recording from tape to computer. Refer to the instruction manual of
the software. A driver is preinstalled on Windows operating systems later than Windows
98 Second Edition and Mac operating systems later than Mac OS 9, and will be installed
automatically.
Use the optional CV-150F (4 pin-4 pin) or CV-250F (4 pin-6 pin) DV Cable.
IEEE1394 (DV) terminal
E
DV cable (optional)
Operation may not work correctly depending on the software and the
specifications/settings of your computer.
If the computer freezes while you have connected the camcorder, disconnect
and reconnect the DV cable. If the problem persists, disconnect the interface
cable, turn off camcorder and computer, turn camcorder and computer back on
and reconnect them.
We recommend powering the camcorder from a household power source while
it is connected to the computer.
Refer also to the instruction manual of the computer.
6-pin
4-pin
Editing
67
Page 68
Additional Information
Screen Displays
Hiding the Displays on the LCD Screen
You can hide the displays on the LCD screen to have a clear screen for playback.
MENU
( 33)
DISPLAY SETUP/ DISPLAYS ON
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [DISPLAYS] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [OFF <PLAYBK>] and press ( ) to save the changes, then
close the menu.
• Warning messages still appear, and the data code appears if turned on.
• The displays appear while a playback image is magnified or a digital effect is
activated.
• Tape operation displays appear for 2 seconds.
Hiding/Showing the Displays on the TV Screen
When you connect a TV for recording, you can select to hide the camcorder displays on
the TV screen. For playback, you can show the camcorder displays on the TV screen.
MENU
( 33)
1. Open the FUNC. menu, select ( ) the icon and press ( ).
2. Select ( ) the [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] menu and press ( ). Then,
select ( ) the [TV SCREEN] option and press ( ).
3. Set it to [ON] or [OFF] and press ( ) to save the changes, then close
the menu.
DISPLAY SETUP/ TV SCREEN ON
68
Page 69
Screen Displays during Recording/Playback
(see also 21)
Self-timer ( 47)
Digital effects (
Shutter speed ( 45)
Exposure lock ( 40)
Recording reminder ( 21)
Manual focus ( 41)
Image stabilizer (
Recording mode ( 48)
Tape operation
Time code ( 21)
Operating mode ( 4), Zoom ( 22),
Exposure adjustment ( 41)
Recording program ( 36) Audio mode (
White balance ( 43) Condensation warning ( 72)
Image effects ( 44) Level marker ( 19)
Remaining tape ( 21)
Widescreen mode ( 54)
Wind screen ( 49)
12 bit audio ( 58)
End search (
Tape operation
Joystick guide ( 3)
Data code ( 56)
: Recording
: Record
: Stop
: Eject
: Playback
: Fast
forward
: Rewind
51)
61)
49)
57)
pause
E
/: Fast
forward playback/
rewind playback
( 27)
: Playback pause
( 27)
Information
69
Additional
Page 70
List of Messages
Message Explanation
SET THE TIME ZONE,
DATE AND TIME
CHANGE THE BATTERY
PAC K
THE TAPE IS SET FOR
ERASURE PREVENTION
REMOVE THE
CASSETTE
CHECK THE INPUT DV cable is not connected, or the connected digital device is
CONDENSATION HAS
BEEN DETECTED
CONDENSATION HAS
BEEN DETECTED
REMOVE THE
CASSETTE
TAPE END Tape reached the end. Rewind the tape or replace the cassette. –
INCORRECT TAPE
SPECIFICATION
PLAYBACK IS
RESTRICTED
INPUT SIGNAL NOT
SUPPORTED
HEADS DIRTY, USE
CLEANING CASSETTE
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
PLAYBACK IS RESTRICTED
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED
DUBBING RESTRICTED
You have not set the time zone, date and time. This message
appears each time you turn the power on until you set the time
zone, date and time.
Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery pack.
Cassette is protected. Replace the cassette or change the
position of the protect switch.
Camcorder stopped operating to protect the tape. Unload and
reload the cassette.
turned off.
Condensation has been detected in the camcorder.
Condensation has been detected in the camcorder. Unload the
cassette.
You attempted to play back a tape recorded in HD standard.
You attempted to input video signal in HD standard through the
DV terminal.
Video heads are dirty. Clean the video heads.
You attempted to play back a copyright protected tape.
You attempted to dub a copyright protected tape.
16
10
75
13
65
72
72
–
65
72
66
66
70
Page 71
Maintenance/Others
Camcorder Handling Precautions
Do not carry the camcorder by the LCD panel.
Do not leave the camcorder in places subject to high temperatures, such as a sun-
heated car, and high humidity.
Do not use the camcorder near strong electric or magnetic fields such as above TVs,
near plasma TVs or mobile phones.
Do not point the lens or viewfinder at strong light sources. Do not leave the camcorder
pointed at a bright subject.
Do not use the camcorder in dusty or sandy places. Dust or sand getting inside the
cassette or camcorder may cause damage. Dust and sand can also damage the lens.
Attach the lens cap after use.
The camcorder is not waterproof. Water, mud or salt getting inside the cassette or
camcorder may cause damage.
Be careful of heat generated by lighting equipment.
Do not disassemble the camcorder. If the camcorder does not function properly,
consult qualified service personnel.
Handle the camcorder with care. Do not subject the camcorder to shocks or vibration
as this may cause damage.
Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Moving the camcorder rapidly between hot and
cold temperatures may cause condensation to form on its internal surfaces (
Storage
If you do not intend to use the camcorder for a long time, store it in a place free of dust,
in low humidity, and at temperatures not higher than 30 °C.
After storage, check the functions of your camcorder to make sure that the camcorder
is still working properly.
Cleaning
Camcorder Body and Lens
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camcorder body and lens. Never use chemically
treated cloth or volatile solvents such as paint thinner.
LCD Screen
Clean the LCD screen using a commercially available cleaning cloth for glasses.
Condensation may form on the surface of the screen when the temperature changes
suddenly. Wipe it with a soft dry cloth.
At cold temperatures, the screen may be darker than usual. This is not a malfunction.
The screen returns to normal when the camcorder warms up.
72).
E
Additional
Information
71
Page 72
Viewfinder
Wh
Wh
Clean the viewfinder screen using a blower brush or a commercially available cleaning
cloth for glasses.
Video Heads
When the playback picture becomes distorted, the video heads need to be cleaned.
To maintain the best picture quality, we recommend cleaning the video heads
frequently with the Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a
commercially available dry cleaning cassette.
Tapes already recorded with dirty video heads may not be played back correctly even
when you clean the video heads.
Do not use wet type cleaning cassettes as this may damage the camcorder.
Condensation
Moving the camcorder rapidly between hot and cold temperature may cause
condensation (water droplets) to form on its internal surfaces. Stop using the camcorder if
condensation is detected. Continued use may damage the camcorder.
Condensation may form in the following cases:
en the camcorder is moved from an
air-conditioned room to warm, humid
place
en the camcorder is moved from a
cold place to a warm room
When the camcorder is left in a humid
room
When a cold room is heated rapidly
How to avoid condensation:
Unload the cassette, place the camcorder in an airtight plastic bag and let it adjust to
temperature changes slowly before removing it from the bag.
72
Page 73
When condensation is detected:
The camcorder stops operating and the warning message “CONDENSATION HAS
BEEN DETECTED” appears for approx. 4 seconds and “ ” starts flashing.
If a cassette is loaded, the warning message “REMOVE THE CASSETTE” appears
and “ ” starts flashing. Remove the cassette immediately and leave the cassette
compartment open. Leaving the cassette in the camcorder may damage the tape.
A cassette cannot be loaded when condensation is detected.
Resuming use:
It takes about 1 hour until the water droplets evaporate. After the condensation warning
stops flashing, wait for 1 more hour before resuming use.
Battery Pack Handling Precautions
DANGER!
Treat the battery pack with care.
• Keep it away from fire (or it might explode).
• Do not expose the battery pack to temperatures higher than 60 °C. Do not leave it
near a heater or inside a car in hot weather.
• Do not try to disassemble or modify it.
• Do not drop or knock it.
• Do not get it wet.
Charged battery packs continue to discharge naturally. Therefore, charge them on the
day of use, or the day before, to ensure a full charge.
Attach the terminal cover whenever a battery pack is not in use. Contact with metallic
objects may cause a short circuit and damage the battery pack.
Dirty terminals may cause a poor contact between the battery pack and the camcorder.
Wipe the terminals with a soft cloth.
Since storing a charged battery pack for a long time (about 1 year) can shorten its
lifecycle or affect performance, we recommend to discharge the battery pack fully and
to store it in a dry place at temperatures no higher than 30 °C. If you do not use the
battery pack for long periods, charge and discharge it fully at least once a year. If you
have more than 1 battery pack, perform these precautions at the same time for all
battery packs.
Although the battery pack’s operating temperature range is from 0 °C to 40 °C, the
optimal range is from 10 °C to 30 °C. At cold temperatures, performance will
temporarily decline. Warm it in your pocket before use.
Replace the battery pack if the usable time after full charge diminishes substantially at
normal temperatures.
E
Information
73
Additional
Page 74
About the battery terminal cover
The battery terminal cover has a [ ]-shaped hole. This is useful when you wish to
differentiate between charged and uncharged battery packs. For example, with charged
battery packs, attach the terminal cover so that the [ ]-shaped hole shows the blue
label.
Back side of the
battery pack
Terminal cover attached
Charged Uncharged
Lithium Button Battery Handling Precautions
WARNING!
• The battery used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if
mishandled. Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 °C or incinerate the
battery.
• Replace the battery with a CR1616 made by Panasonic, Hitachi Maxell, Sony,
Toshiba, Varta or Renata. Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or
explosion.
• The used battery should be returned to the supplier for safe disposal.
Do not pick up the battery using tweezers or other metal tools as this will cause a short
circuit.
Wipe the battery with a clean dry cloth to ensure proper contact.
Keep the battery out of reach of children. If it is swallowed, seek medical assistance
immediately. The battery case may break and the battery fluids may damage stomach
and intestines.
Do not disassemble, heat or immerse the battery in water to avoid the risk of explosion.
Cassette Handling Precautions
Rewind tapes after use. If the tape becomes slack and damaged, it may cause picture
and sound distortion.
Return cassettes in the case and store them upright.
Do not leave the cassette in the camcorder after use.
Do not use spliced tapes or nonstandard cassettes as they may damage the
camcorder.
Do not use tapes that have been jammed as video heads may become dirty.
Do not insert anything into the small holes of the cassette, or cover them with
cellophane tape.
Handle cassettes with care. Do not drop or subject them to severe impact as this may
damage the cassettes.
Rewind tapes from time to time if they are stored for a long time.
With cassettes equipped with a memory function, metal plated terminals may become
dirty with use. Clean the terminals with a cotton swab after about 10 times of loading/
unloading. The memory function is not supported by the camcorder.
74
Page 75
Protecting Tapes from Accidental Erasure
To protect your recordings from accidental
erasure, slide the tab on the cassette to the
left. (This switch position is usually labeled
SAVE or ERASE OFF.)
If you load a protected cassette in CAMERA
mode, the message “THE TAPE IS SET FOR
REC
SAVE
REC
SAVE
ERASURE PREVENTION” appears for
approx. 4 seconds and “ ” starts flashing. If
you wish to record on that cassette, slide the tab back to the right.
Using the Camcorder Abroad
Power Sources
You can use the compact power adapter to operate the camcorder and to charge battery
packs in any country with power supply between 100 and 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Consult
the Canon Service Center for information on plug adapters for overseas use.
Playback on a TV Screen
You can only play back your recordings on TVs with PAL system. The PAL system is used
in the following countries/areas:
Algeria, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunei, China, Denmark, Finland,
Germany, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland,
Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Liberia, Malaysia, Malta, Mozambique, the Netherlands,
New Zealand, North Korea, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Portugal, Qatar, Serbia and
Montenegro, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Swaziland,
Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United
Kingdom, Yemen, Zambia.
E
Information
75
Additional
Page 76
Troubleshooting
If you have a problem with your camcorder, refer to this checklist. Consult your dealer or a
Canon Service Center if the problem persists.
Power Source
Problem Cause Solution
Camcorder will not turn on. Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
Battery pack is not correctly
The camcorder switches off
by itself.
Cassette compartment will
not open.
Cassette compartment
stopped during loading/
unloading.
LCD/viewfinder switches on
and off.
Battery pack will not charge. Battery packs will not charge
attached.
Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
Power save function has
been activated.
Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
Cassette compartment cover
is not fully open.
Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
The camcorder malfunctions. Consult a Canon Service
Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
outside the temperature
range of 0 °C and 40°C.
Battery packs become hot
with use and may not charge.
The battery pack is damaged. Use a different battery pack. –
pack.
Attach the battery pack
correctly.
pack.
Turn on the camcorder. 19
pack.
Open the cassette
compartment cover fully.
pack.
Center.
pack.
Charge the battery pack in
temperatures between 0 °C
and 40 °C.
Wait until the battery pack
temperature is below 40 °C
and retry charging.
Recording/Playback
Problem Cause Solution
Buttons will not work. Camcorder is not turned on. Turn on the camcorder. 18
“ ” flashes on the screen. Cassette is not loaded. Load a cassette. 13
“ ” flashes on the screen. Battery pack is exhausted. Replace or charge the battery
“ ” flashes on the screen. Condensation is detected. See reference page. 72
“REMOVE THE CASSETTE”
appears on the screen.
Cassette is not loaded. Load a cassette. 13
pack.
Camcorder stopped operating
to protect the tape.
Unload and reload the
cassette.
10
10
10
10
13
10
–
10
–
–
10
13
76
Page 77
Recording
Problem Cause Solution
Image will not appear on the
screen.
“SET THE TIME ZONE,
DATE AND TIME” appears on
the screen.
Pressing the start/stop button
will not start recording.
Camcorder will not focus. Autofocus does not work on
A vertical light bar appears on
the screen.
Viewfinder picture is blurred. Viewfinder is not adjusted. Adjust the viewfinder with the
Sound is distorted or
recorded in a lower volume
than the actual volume.
Camcorder is not set to
Time zone, date and time are
not set.
Backup battery is exhausted. Replace the backup battery
Backup battery is inserted the
wrong way.
Camcorder is turned off. Turn on the power. 18
Cassette is not loaded. Load a cassette. 13
Tape reached the end
(“ END” flashes on the
screen).
Cassette is protected (“ ”
flashes on the screen).
Camcorder is set to a mode
other than the
that subject.
Viewfinder is not adjusted. Adjust the viewfinder with the
Lens is dirty. Clean the lens. 71
Bright light in a dark scene
may cause a vertical light bar
(smear) to appear. This is not
a malfunction.
When recording near loud
sound (such as fireworks,
drums or concerts), sound
may become distorted or may
not be recorded in the actual
sound level. This is not a
malfunction.
mode.
mode.
Set the camcorder to
Set the time zone, date and
time.
and reset the time zone, date
and time.
Insert the backup battery with
the + side facing outward and
set the time zone, date and
time.
Rewind the tape or replace
the cassette.
Change the position of the
protect switch.
Set the camcorder to
Focus manually. 41
dioptric adjustment lever.
dioptric adjustment lever.
mode.
mode.
– – –
– – –
18
E
16
12
12
13
75
18
14
–
14
–
Information
77
Additional
Page 78
Playback
Problem Cause Solution
Pressing the playback button
does not start playback.
Tape is running, but image will
not appear on the TV screen.
No sound from the built-in
speaker.
Camcorder is turned off, or is
not set to mode.
Cassette is not loaded. Load a cassette. 13
Tape reached the end
(“ END” flashes on the
screen).
TV/VIDEO selector on the TV
is not set to VIDEO.
Video heads are dirty. Clean the video heads. 72
You attempted to play back or
dub copyright protected tape.
Speaker volume is turned off. Adjust the volume with the
Set the camcorder to
Rewind the tape. 26
Set the selector to VIDEO. 29
Stop playback/dubbing. –
[SPEAKER VOLUME] option
of the [AUDIO SETUP] menu.
mode.
26
28
78
Page 79
System Diagram (Availability differs from area to area)
WS-20 Wrist Strap
Shoulder Strap
MiniDV
Video Cassette
CBC-NB2
Car Battery Charger
SC-2000 Soft
Carrying Case
CB-2LTE
Battery Charger
NB-2L, NB-2LH,
BP-2L5, BP-2L12,
BP-2L14 Battery Pack
PC-A10 SCART
STV-250N
Stereo Video Cable
CV-150F/CV-250F
DV Cable
Adapter
CB-2LWE
Battery Charger
NB-2L, NB-2LH,
BP-2L5*, BP-2L12,
BP-2L14 Battery Pack
CA-570 Compact
Power Adapter
TV
VCR
Digital Device
E
* The BP-2L5 is not available as a separate optional accessory.
Information
79
Additional
Page 80
Optional Accessories
Use of genuine Canon accessories is recommended.
This product is designed to achieve excellent performance when used with genuine
Canon accessories. Canon shall not be liable for any damage to this product and/or
accidents such as fire, etc., caused by the malfunction of non-genuine Canon
accessories (e.g., a leakage and/or explosion of a battery pack). Please note that this
warranty does not apply to repairs arising out of the malfunction of non-genuine Canon
accessories, although you may request such repairs on a chargeable basis.
Battery Packs
When you need extra battery packs, select
from the following: NB-2L, NB-2LH, BP-2L12,
BP-2L14.
CB-2LTE/CB-2LWE Battery Charger
Use the battery charger for charging the
battery packs.
Battery Pack
BP-2L5 70 min.
NB-2L 80 min.
NB-2LH 90 min.
BP-2L12 150 min.
BP-2L14 170 min.
Charging time varies according to the charging condition.
Charging Time
CBC-NB2 Car Battery Charger
Use the car battery charger to charge battery
packs on the move. The car battery cable
plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter and runs
off a 12-24 V DC negative ground battery.
WS-20 Wrist Strap
Use this for extra additional protection for
active shooting.
80
Page 81
SC-2000 Soft Carrying Case
A handy camcorder bag with padded
compartments and plenty of space for
accessories.
This mark identifies genuine Canon video accessories. When you
use Canon video equipment, we recommend Canon-brand
accessories or products bearing the same mark.
E
Information
81
Additional
Page 82
Specifications
MV920/MV901/MV900/MV890
System
Video Recording System 2 rotary heads, helical scanning DV system (consumer digital VCR SD
Audio Recording System PCM digital sound: 16 bit (48 kHz/2 ch); 12 bit (32 kHz/4 ch)
Television System EIA standard (625 lines, 50 fields) PAL color signal
Image Sensor 1/6-inch CCD, approx. 800,000 pixels
Tap e F orma t Videocassettes bearing the “MiniDV” mark.
Tape Speed SP: 18.83 mm/s, LP: 12.57 mm/s
Maximum Recording Time
(80 min. cassette)
Fast Forward/Rewind Time Approx. 2 min. 20 sec. (with a 60 min. cassette)
LCD Screen 2.7-inch. wide, TFT color, approx. 112,000 pixels
Viewfinder 0.3-inch. TFT color, approx. 123,000 pixels
Microphone Stereo electret condenser microphone
Lens :
Lens Configuration 10 elements in 8 groups
AF System TTL autofocus, manual focusing possible
Minimum Focusing Distance 1 m; 1 cm on maximum wide angle
White Balance Auto white balance, pre-set white balance (DAYLIGHT, TUNGSTEN) or
Minimum Illumination 2.0 lx (Night recording program, shutter speed at 1/6)
Recommended Illumination More than 100 lx
Image Stabilization Electronic
system), digital component recording
Effective pixels: Tape: 16:9 (with image stabilizer): approx. 470,000
SP: 80 min., LP: 120 min.
custom white balance
16:9 (no image stabilizer): approx. 530,000
4:3 recording: approx. 400,000
f=2.6-65 mm, F/1.8-4.4, 25x power zoom
35 mm equivalent:
Tape: 16:9 (with image stabilizer): 43.6-1090 mm
16:9 (no image stabilizer): 41.0-1025 mm
: f=2.6-57.2 mm, F/1.8-3.9, 22x power zoom
4:3 recording: 49.8-1245 mm
35 mm equivalent:
Tape: 16:9 (with image stabilizer): 43.6-959 mm
16:9 (no image stabilizer): 41.0-902 mm
4:3 recording: 49.8-1096 mm
Input/Output Terminals
AV Terminal Ø3.5 mm minijack, output only
DV Terminal Special 4-pin connector (IEEE 1394 compliant)
MIC Terminal Ø3.5 mm stereo mini-jack
Video: 1 Vp-p/75 ohms unbalanced
Audio: –10 dBV (47 kohm load)/3 kohms or less
Input/Output
–57 dBV (with 600 ohm mic)/5 kohms or more
82
Output only
Page 83
Power/Others
Power supply (rated) 7.4 V DC
Power consumption (AF on) 2.4W (using viewfinder), 2.5 W (using LCD screen in normal brightness)
Operating temperature 0 – 40 °C
Dimensions (W x H x D) 49 x 92 x 115 mm excluding protrusions
Weight (camcorder body only) 375 g
CA-570 Compact Power Adapter
Power supply 100 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption 17W
Rated output 8.4 V DC, 1.5 A
Operating temperature 0 – 40 °C
Dimensions 52 x 90 x 29 mm
Weight 135 g
BP-2L5 Battery Pack
Battery type Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery
Rated voltage 7.4 V DC
Operating temperature 0 – 40 °C
Battery capacity 530 mAh
Dimensions 33.3 x 16.2 x 45.2 mm
Weight 40 g
Weight and dimensions are approximate. Errors and omissions excepted. Subject to
change without notice.
E
Information
83
Additional
Page 84
Index
* only
16:9 (Widescreen) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
6-second auto date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
A
Abroad, using the camcorder . . . . . . . . 75
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 80
Audio mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Audio output channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Auto slow shutter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Autofocus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
AV terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
B
Backup battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Beach (recording program) . . . . . . . . . 37
Beep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
C
Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Connection to a computer . . . . . . . . . . 67
Connection to a digital recording device 63
Connection to a TV or VCR . . . . . . . . . 29
Copyright signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
D
Data code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Date and time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Date format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Demo mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Digital effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Digital zoom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
DV dubbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
DV terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63, 67
E
Easy mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
End search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
G
Grip belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
H
Handling precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
I
Image effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Image stabilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Infinity focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
L
Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
LCD backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
LCD brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
LCD screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
LP mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
M
Magnification of playback image . . . . . 55
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Manual focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
MIC (microphone) terminal . . . . . . . . . . 50
N
Night (recording program) . . . . . . . . . . 36
O
On-screen displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Operating modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
P
Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Portrait (recording program) . . . . . . . . . 36
Power adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Program AE (recording program) . . . . . 36
Protecting tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
F
Faders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Fireworks (recording program) . . . . . . . 37
Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
84
Page 85
R
Record review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Record search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Recording mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Recording programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
S
Self timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Shutter speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Snow (recording program) . . . . . . . . . . 36
SP mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Speaker volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Sports (recording program) . . . . . . . . . 36
Spotlight (recording program) . . . . . . . . 37
Start-up image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Sunset (recording program) . . . . . . . . . 37
T
Time zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Transferring video to a computer . . . . . 67
Tripod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
V
Video heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Videocassettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Viewfinder, dioptric adjustment . . . . . . 14
Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
E
W
White balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Widescreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Wind screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Z
Zoom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Zoom speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Information
85
Additional
Page 86
CANON INC.
Canon Europa N.V.
P.O. Box 2262, 1180 EG Amstelveen, The Netherlands
Canon UK Ltd.
CCI Service Centre, Unit 130
Centennial Park, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 3SE, England
Telephone 0870-241-2161
Canon Australia Pty. Ltd.
Info-Line: 131383
www.canon.com.au
Canon New Zealand Ltd.
Customer Care: (09) 489 0470
www.canon.co.nz
Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd
1 HarbourFront Avenue, #04-01 Keppel Bay Tower, Singapore 098632
Tel: (65) 6799 8888
Fax: (65) 6799 8882
Canon Hongkong Company Ltd
19/F., The Metropolis Tower, 10 Metropolis Drive, Hunghom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Canon Latin America, Inc.
Sales & Enquiries: 703 Waterford Way Suite 400 Miami, FL 33126 USA
0056W487
PUB.DIE-253
00000/Ni0.0
Printed on 100% reused paper.
© CANON INC. 2006
PRINTED IN JAPAN
Loading...