Canon XA55 Users Guide

4K Camcorder

Instruction Manual

NTSC

PUB. DIE-0532-000B

Introduction

Highlights of the Camcorder

The Canon XA55 / XA50 4K Camcorder is a high-performance camcorder whose compact size makes it ideal in
a variety of situations. The following are just some of the many functions featured in the camcorder.

2

4K Recording

Advanced sensor and image processor

At the heart of the camcorder is the 1.0 in. single
plate CMOS sensor with an 8,290,000 effective pixel
count, and the DIGIC DV 6 imaging platform.
Thanks to its advanced high-sensitivity and noise
reduction technology, the camcorder can shoot
nuanced images with little noise even in low-light
situations.

XF-AVC and MP4 formats

You can choose the video format according to your
workflow needs. You can record in XF-AVC format
or MP4 format. Both formats use the MPEG-4 AVC/
H.264 codec, but XF-AVC clips are recorded as
Material eXchange Format (MXF files), compatible
with all major non-linear (NLE) editing software.

Wide zoom lens

The camcorder features a 15x optical zoom lens
with a focal length at full wide angle of 25.5 mm*
(35 mm equivalent), offering superb wide-angle
shooting capability.

* Except when using Dynamic IS.

Convenience and Functionality

Emphasis on versatility

This camcorder has features to make it usable as a
main camera but is also small enough to be very
portable. The advanced image stabilization (A 60)
will let you shoot in a variety of situations in the field.
The handle unit is removable so you can attach it to
enjoy additional audio options and infrared
functionality, or remove it when you need improved
portability.

Manual controls at your fingertips

The focus/zoom ring helps you achieve the focus
you are looking for. You can easily change the ring's
functionality so that you can operate the zoom. You
can also assign certain frequently used functions to
a customizable button and adjust those functions
with the accompanying dial (A 93). Additionally,
the camcorder also features 5 assignable buttons
on the camcorder and one onscreen assignable
touch button to which you can assign a variety of
functions to access them with ease (A 94).

Infrared recording

Record in darkness using infrared recording
(A 88). With the built-in infrared light on the handle
unit, you can record nocturnal animals in their
natural environment or other such scenes.

SD card recording options

The camcorder can record 4K video in MP4 or
XF-AVC format on an SD card. It is equipped with 2
SD card slots, allowing you to use dual recording to
record the same clip on two SD cards, or relay
recording to automatically switch to the other SD
card when the one being used is full (A 34).

Time code options (A 74)

The time code generated by the camcorder can be
output from the SDI OUT terminal (u only) or
HDMI OUT terminal in order to synchronize it with
other external devices. A user bit code (A 76) can
also be output with the output signal.

Dual Pixel CMOS AF

The camcorder features Dual Pixel CMOS AF
technology for improved autofocus functions
(A 47). In addition to continuous AF, AF-boosted
MF lets you focus manually most of the way and let
the camcorder finish focusing automatically. With
AF-boosted MF the camcorder does not perform
unreliable focus adjustments, resulting in a more
stable focusing operation than with continuous AF.
The camcorder can also focus automatically on
people's faces and track moving subjects while
keeping them in focus (A 53). Furthermore, the
camcorder can be in manual focus but switch to
autofocus when a face is detected (face-only AF),
ensuring that important subjects are in focus
(A 54).

Dual Pixel Focus Guide (A 49)

The focus guide serves as a visual, intuitive guide
that you can use to check if the image is in focus
and the required adjustment, if it is not. This can be
very helpful to ensure you always get amazingly
sharp 4K video.

Software for aiding production workflow

Canon XF Utility (A 113) lets you copy the clips you
recorded from an SD card to a computer, play back
the clips and organize them. You can also use the
Canon XF plugins to work with the clips directly from
Avid non-linear editing (NLE) software.
Additionally, MP4 Join Tool (A 113) is a small
application that lets you join MP4 clips that were
split into multiple files.

Creativity and Artistic Expression

Special recording modes

When you make recordings, you can change the
recording frame rate to achieve a fast or slow motion
effect (A 46). Alternatively, you can use pre­recording to record 3 seconds before you press the
button, helping you capture those hard-to-catch
opportunities (A 87).

A 73)

Looks (

You can adjust various aspects of the picture, such
as the color depth, sharpness and brightness, to
create a desired "look". If you prefer, you can use
one of the preset looks offered. The [ Neutral]
look for example produces a more natural perceived
resolution, while the [ Wide DR] look applies a
gamma curve with a very wide dynamic range and
an appropriate color matrix.

Other Features

• Battery packs compatible with Intelligent System
for better remaining usage time information.

• Compatibility with the optional GP-E2 GPS
Receiver to geotag your recordings (A 90).

• Compatibility with the optional RC-V100 Remote
Controller when you need a professional level of
remote operation (A 89).

3

4

Tabl e o f C o n t e n t s

5

1. Introduction 7

About this Manual 7

Conventions Used in this Manual 7
Before Using the Camcorder 8

Supplied Accessories 9
Names of Parts 10

Camcorder 10
Handle Unit 15
WL-D89 Wireless Controller 16

2. Preparations 17

Preparing the Power Supply 17

Attaching the Ferrite Core 17
Charging a Battery Pack 17

Preparing the Camcorder 20

Attaching the Handle Unit 20
Attaching the Lens Hood 21
Using the LCD Screen 22
Using the Viewfinder 22
Adjusting the Grip Belt and Using Straps 23
Wireless Controller 24

Basic Operation of the Camcorder 25

Turning the Camcorder On and Off 25
Changing the Camcorder's Operating Mode 26

Date, Time and Language Settings 27

Setting the Date and Time 27
Changing the Language 28
Changing the Time Zone 28

Using the Menus 29

Setup Menus 29
FUNC Menu 30

Using SD Cards 32

Compatible SD Cards 32
Inserting and Removing an SD Card 33
Initializing an SD Card 33
Selecting the SD Card for Recordings 34
Dual Recording and Relay Recording 34
Recovering Clips 35

3. Recording 37

Recording Video and Photos 37

Recording 37
Reviewing the Latest Clip Recorded 39
Setting the File Name for XF-AVC Clips 39
Onscreen Displays 41

Video Configuration: Video Format, Resolution, Bit

Rate and Frame Rate 44

Selecting the Video Format 44
Selecting the Resolution and Bit Rate 44
Selecting the Frame Rate 44

Slow & Fast Motion Recording 46
Adjusting the Focus 47

Manual Focus 47
AF-Boosted MF 51
Continuous AF 52
Changing the AF Frame Size 52
Face Detection & Tracking 53

Zooming 55

Using the Focus/Zoom Ring 55
Using the Grip Zoom Rocker 55
Using the Handle Zoom Rocker 57
Using the Supplied Wireless Controller or an

Optional Remote Controller 57
Using the Touch Screen’s Zoom Controls 58
Digital Tele-Converter 58

Image Stabilization 60

Dynamic IS or Standard IS 60
Powered IS 60

Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Limit 62
Shooting Modes 63

Special Scene Modes 63

Adjusting the Exposure 65

Manual Exposure (n)65
Automatic Exposure: Programmed AE (’)66
Automatic Exposure: Shutter Priority (‚)66
Automatic Exposure: Aperture Priority (“)66
Touch Exposure 67
Exposure Lock (AE Lock) 67
Exposure Compensation 68
Backlight Correction 68
Zebra Pattern 69

ND Filter 70
White Balance 71

6

Using Looks 73
Setting the Time Code 74

Selecting the Time Code Mode 74
Selecting Drop Frame or Non-Drop Frame 75

Setting the User Bit 76
Recording Audio 77

Selecting the Audio Format of MP4 Clips 77
Audio Settings and Recorded Audio Channels 78
Connecting an External Microphone or External

Audio Input Source to the Camcorder 79

Recording Audio from the INPUT Terminals to

CH1/CH2 79

Recording Audio from the Built-In Microphone or

MIC Terminal to CH1/CH2 80
Adjusting the Audio Recording Level 81
Advanced Audio Input Settings 83

Using Headphones 85
Color Bars/Audio Reference Signal 86

Color Bars 86
Audio Reference Signal 86

Pre-Recording 87
Infrared Recording 88
Using the Optional RC-V100 Remote

Controller 89

Using the Optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver 90

4. Customization 93

CUSTOM Dial and Button 93
Assignable Buttons 94

Assignable functions 95

Saving and Loading Menu Settings 96

Saving Menu Settings 96
Loading Menu Settings 96

5. Playback 97

Playback 97

The Playback Index Screen 97

Changing the Index Screen 97
Playing Back Recordings 98
Playback Controls 99
Adjusting the Volume 99
Displaying Clip Information 100

Clip and Photo Operations 101

Deleting Clips and Photos 101
Trimming MP4 Clips 102
Copying Clips and Photos 103

6. External Connections 105

Video Output Configuration 105

Video Output Configuration (Recording) 105
Video Output Configuration (Playback) 106

Connecting to an External Monitor 107

Connection Diagram 107
u Using the SDI OUT Terminal 107
Using the HDMI OUT Terminal 108
Selecting the Video Output’s Scan Mode 109

Audio Output 110

Selecting the Audio Channels for Headphone or

Speaker Output 110

Selecting the Audio Channels for HDMI

Output 111

7. Saving Clips 113

Working with Clips on a Computer 113

Saving MP4 Clips 113
Saving XF-AVC Clips 113

8. Additional Information 115

Menu Options 115

FUNC menu in mode 115
FUNC menu in mode 116
Setup Menus 116

Troubleshooting 123

List of Messages 126

Safety Instructions and Handling Precautions 129
Maintenance/Others 133
Optional Accessories 134
Specifications 136
Reference Tables 139

Approximate Recording Time on an SD Card 139
Charging Times 139
Approximate Usage Times with a Fully Charged

Battery Pack 139

Index 142

Introduction

Operating modes:

Position of the power switch: shooting (CAMERA) or playback (MEDIA) mode.
For details, refer to Turning the Camcorder On and Off (A 25).

Position of the mode switch. For details refer to
Changing the Camcorder's Operating Mode (A 26).

Video format (MP4 or XF-AVC). For details,
refer to Selecting the Video Format (A 44).

1

About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Canon XA55 / XA50. Please read this manual carefully before you use the
camcorder and retain it for future reference. Should the camcorder fail to operate correctly, refer to
Troubleshooting (A 123).

Conventions Used in this Manual

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

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

• A: Reference page number within this manual.

• u: Text and/or illustrations that apply only to the model indicated in the icon.

• The following terms are used in this manual:
“Screen” refers to the LCD screen and the viewfinder screen.
“Card” refers to an SD, SDHC or SDXC card.
“Clip” refers to a single movie unit recorded with a single recording operation (for example, from the point when
the REC button is pressed to start recording until it is pressed again to stop).

• Photographs in the manual are simulated pictures taken with a still camera. Unless indicated otherwise,
illustrations refer to the u.

• Some screenshots in this manual have been simplified to make them easier to read.

• Operating mode icons: A shaded icon (like ) indicates that the function described can be used in the
operating mode or video format shown; a non-shaded icon (like ) indicates that the function cannot be
used.

7

About this Manual

IMPORTANT

This indicates to press
the MENU button.

Brackets [ ] indicate text as it appears on the
camcorder's screen (menu options, onscreen
buttons, messages, etc.).

This arrow indicates a deeper
level in the menu hierarchy or
the next step in a procedure.

1 Select [Initialize] for the desired SD card.

> [3 " Recording Setup] > [Initialize 8] > [6 Mem. Card A]

2 Select [Yes].

The menu page number is given
only for main procedures.

• The following style is used to represent menu selections. For a detailed explanation on how to use the menus,

refer to Using the Menus (A 29). For a summary of all available menu options and settings, refer to Menu
Options (A 115).

8

Before Using the Camcorder

• Before making important recordings for the first time, make test recordings using the video configuration(s) you
plan to use to check that the camcorder operates correctly. Should the camcorder fail to operate correctly,
refer to Troubleshooting (A 123).

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

• About the LCD and viewfinder screens: The screens are produced using extremely high-precision manufacturing
techniques, with more than 99.99% of the pixels operating to specification. Very rarely, pixels may misfire or
light up permanently. This has no effect on the recorded image and does not constitute a malfunction.

• Observe the following precautions while the ACCESS indicator (A 12) is illuminated or flashing in red. Failing
to do so may result in permanent data loss.

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

- Do not open the card compartment cover.

- Do not change the camcorder’s operating mode.

- When a USB cable is connected to the camcorder, do not disconnect the USB cable.

Supplied Accessories

The following accessories are supplied with the camcorder:

Supplied Accessories

9

CA-570 Compact Power Adapter

(incl. power cord)

Microphone holder unit

(incl. screws)

Quick Guide

Ferrite Core BP-820 Battery Pack Handle unit (incl. screws)

Lens hood with lens barrier Lens cap WL-D89 Wireless Controller

(incl. CR2025 lithium button

battery)

Names of Parts

1

78 9 10 11

23

45 6

Names of Parts

Camcorder

10

1 ND FILTER +/– buttons (A 70)
2 PRE REC (pre-recording) button (A 87)/

Assignable button 3 (A 94)

3 u (review recording) button (A 39)/

Assignable button 4 (A 94)
4 Lens barrier switch (A 37)
5Lens hood (A 21)

6 Focus/Zoom ring (A 47, 55)
7 CUSTOM (customizable) dial (A 93)
8 CUSTOM (customizable) button (A 93)
9 Focus/Zoom ring switch (A 47, 55)
10 INFRARED switch (A 88)
11 DISP (onscreen display) button (A 41)/

BATT. INFO (battery information) button (A 19)

Names of Parts

1
2

5

1DC IN terminal (A 17)
2 REMOTE terminal

For connecting the optional RC-V100 Remote
Controller (A 89) or commercially available
remote controllers.

3 Built-in speaker (A 99)
4 Lens hood release button (A 21)

34

6
7

8

9

10

5 Grip belt (A 23)
6USB terminal (A 90)
7 HDMI OUT terminal (A 107, 108)
8 × (headphones) terminal (A 85, 110)
9 u SDI OUT terminal (A 107)
10 MIC terminal (A 79)

11

Names of Parts

12

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Joystick/SET button (A 29)
2 MENU button (A 29)
3 Remote sensor (A 24)
4 AF/MF button (A 47)/

Assignable button 1 (A 94)
5 POWERED IS button (A 60)/

Assignable button 2 (A 94)
6 LCD touch screen (A 22)
7 Serial number

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

8 Viewfinder (A 22)
9 ACCESS (card access) indicator (A 8, 37)
10 Dioptric adjustment lever (A 22)
11 MAGN. (magnification) button (A 50)/

Assignable button 5 (A 94)
12 Strap mount (A 23)
13 REC (start/stop recording video) button (A 37)
14 Battery attachment unit (A 17)

1

23 4 5

Names of Parts

13

68

1 Handle attachment unit (A 20)
2 POWER/CHG (battery charging) indicator

(A 17)
3 Power switch (A 25)
4 Cold shoe/Handle attachment unit (A 20)
5 Built-in stereo microphone (A 77)
6Grip zoom rocker (A 55)

7

91011

7 Mode switch (A 26)
8 Card compartment cover (A 33)
9 SD card slot 2
10 SD card slot 3
11 SD CARD (open the card compartment cover)

switch (A 33)

14

134

2

Names of Parts

1 Socket for tripod's anti-rotation pin
2 Tripod socket

For use with tripods with a mounting screw up to 6 mm (0.24 in.) long

3 BATTERY RELEASE switch (A 18)
4Eye cup (A 22)

Handle Unit

1

7

8

91011121314

234

5

6

Names of Parts

15

1 Cold shoe
2 Handle zoom rocker (A 57)
3 REC button's lock (C) lever (A 38)
4 REC (start/stop recording video) button (A 37)
5 Audio level dials: for CH1 (left) and CH2 (right)

(A 82)
6 Audio level switches: for CH1 (left) and CH2

(right) (A 81)
7 AUDIO IN switches (audio input selection): for

CH1 (left) and CH2 (right) (A 79, 80)

Microphone Holder Unit (A 20, 79)

1

8INPUT 1 (left) / INPUT 2 (right) switches

(audio source selection) (A 79)

9 INPUT terminals: INPUT 1 (right), INPUT 2 (left)

(A 79)
10 Infrared light (A 88)
11 Tally lamp (A 38)
12 Audio controls cover (A 81)
13 Handle unit front screw (A 20)
14 Handle unit rear screws (A 20)

2

3

1 Microphone lock screw
2 Microphone holder
3 Microphone cable clamp

Names of Parts

WL-D89 Wireless Controller

16

1 START/STOP button (A 37)

Same as the REC button on the camcorder,
used to start/stop recording video.

2 G (open the index selection screen) button

(A 97)
3 MENU button (A 29)
4 DISP. (onscreen display) button (A 41)
5 SET button (A 29)

7

1
2

8

3

4

9

5

10

6

Ñ (stop) button (A 98)

6
7 PHOTO button (A 38)
8 Zoom buttons (A 57)
9 Navigation buttons (Í/Î/Ï/Ð)
10 Ò (play/pause) button (A 98)

Preparations

2

Preparing the Power Supply

You can power the camcorder using a battery pack or directly using the supplied compact power adapter. If you
connect the compact power adapter to the camcorder while a battery pack is attached, the camcorder will draw
power from the power outlet.

Attaching the Ferrite Core

Attach the enclosed ferrite core before you connect the compact power adapter to the camcorder. Attaching the
ferrite core to the compact power adapter cable is necessary to suppress RF interference.

1 Attach the ferrite core to the cable about 6 cm (2.4 in.) from the DC plug

(the plug to be connected to the DC IN terminal).

2Pass the cable through the center of the core and wrap it around the core

(as shown in the illustration), then close the unit until it clicks shut.

17

Charging a Battery Pack

You can power the camcorder using the supplied BP-820 Battery Pack or the optional BP-828 Battery Pack.
Both battery packs are compatible with Intelligent System so you can check the approximate remaining battery
usage time (in minutes) on the screen. For more accurate readings, when using a battery pack for the first time,
charge it fully and then use the camcorder until the battery pack is completely depleted.

1 Connect the compact power adapter to the camcorder and plug the power cord into a power outlet.

2 Attach the battery pack to the camcorder.

Preparing the Power Supply

IMPORTANT

NOTES

Illuminated in red while
the battery is charging

햲

햳

3 Charging will start when the camcorder is turned off.

• The POWER/CHG (charge) indicator will illuminate in red while the battery is charging. If the POWER/CHG

indicator starts flashing, refer to Troubleshooting (A 124).

18

4 When the POWER/CHG indicator goes out, the battery is fully charged.

• Disconnect the compact power adapter from the camcorder and unplug the power cord.

To remove the battery pack

1 Slide the BATTERY RELEASE switch in the direction of the arrow

and hold it pressed down.

2 Slide the battery pack down and then pull it out.

• Do not connect to the compact power adapter any product that is not expressly recommended for use with
this camcorder.

• Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the compact power adapter. After you turn off the
camcorder, important data is updated on the SD card. Be sure to wait until the green POWER/CHG indicator
goes out.

• When using the compact power adapter, do not fix it permanently to one place as this may cause a
malfunction.

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

• We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). If
either the ambient temperature or the battery pack’s temperature is outside the range of approx. 0 °C to 40 °C
(32 °F to 104 °F), charging will not start.

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

• If the power supply was disconnected while charging a battery pack, make sure the POWER/CHG indicator
has gone out before restoring the power supply.

Preparing the Power Supply

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

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

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

• For handling precautions regarding the battery pack, refer to Safety Instructions and Handling Precautions
(A 129). For charging times and approximate usage times, refer to Reference Tables (A 139).

Checking the Remaining Battery Charge

With the camcorder turned off, press the BATT. INFO button to
display for about 5 seconds a screen showing the approximate
battery charge level. Note that if the battery charge is too low,
the battery information screen may not appear.

19

Preparing the Camcorder

IMPORTANT

Preparing the Camcorder

This section covers basic preparations for the camcorder such as attaching the handle unit and lens hood, and
adjusting the viewfinder and LCD screen.

20

• Be careful not to drop the camcorder when attaching, removing or adjusting the various accessories. Using a
table or other stable surface is recommended.

Attaching the Handle Unit

The camcorder is functional even if you remove the handle unit. However, to use the INPUT terminals (A 79),
infrared light (A 88) and tally lamp (A 37), the handle unit must be correctly attached to the camcorder.

1 Attach the microphone holder unit to the handle unit.

• Use a commercially available Phillips head ("crosshead")

screwdriver and the two supplied screws.

2 Align the handle unit with the handle attachment unit and

then slide the handle unit forward all the way.

3 Firmly tighten the front and rear screws.

• To tighten the rear screws you can use a coin or similar object.

Attaching the Lens Hood

NOTES

햲

햳

Lens hood release
button

While recording, the supplied lens hood with lens barrier is
effective for reducing stray light that can be the cause of lens
flare and ghost images. Additionally, closing the lens barrier
can help prevent fingerprints and dirt accumulation on the
lens.

1 Remove the lens cap.

2 Align the groove on the lens hood with the index

mark on the top of the lens (
lens hood clockwise until it stops with a click

• Be careful not to deform the lens hood.

• Make sure that the lens hood is aligned with the thread.

To remove the lens hood

햲), and then turn the

(햳).

Preparing the Camcorder

21

1Press and hold the lens hood release button and turn

the lens hood counterclockwise.

2 Place the lens cap back on the lens.

About the lens cap:

• Use the supplied lens cap when carrying the camcorder or storing it after use.

• The lens cap and lens hood cannot be used simultaneously. To attach the lens hood, remove the lens cap in
advance.

Preparing the Camcorder

NOTES

햲

햳

햳

햳

햲

햴

Dioptric adjustment
lever

Using the LCD Screen

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees and adjust the viewing
angle.

22

• You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen with the > [£ Display Setup] > [LCD Brightness]

and [LCD Backlight] settings. When the camcorder is on, you can also press and hold the DISP button for
more than 2 seconds to change the [LCD Backlight] setting between bright and normal or from dim to normal.

• Adjusting the brightness does not affect the brightness of recordings.

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

• When the LCD panel is rotated 180 degrees toward the subject, you can use the > [£ Display
Setup] > [LCD Mirror Image] setting to flip the screen's image horizontally so it shows a mirror image of the
subject.

• For details about how to take care of the LCD screen, refer to Safety Instructions and Handling Precautions
(A 129), Cleaning (A 133).

Using the Viewfinder

Adjust the position of the viewfinder to a comfortable angle. You can also adjust the diopter, if necessary.

1 Turn on the camcorder (A 25) and close the LCD panel.

2 Pull out the viewfinder and adjust the viewing angle.

3Adjust the viewfinder using the dioptric adjustment lever.

Preparing the Camcorder

NOTES

• The viewfinder and LCD screen cannot be used simultaneously. To use the viewfinder, make sure to close the
LCD panel and pull out the viewfinder.

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder with the > [£ Display Setup] > [Viewfinder
Backlight] setting.

• Make sure you keep the eye cup attached when using the camcorder.
If you wear glasses, you may find the viewfinder easier to use if you flip back
the outer edge of the eye cup toward the camcorder body.

Adjusting the Grip Belt and Using Straps

Fasten the grip belt.

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

23

To attach an optional WS-20 Wrist Strap To attach an optional SS-600/SS-650 Shoulder Strap

Preparing the Camcorder

NOTES

햲

햳

햴

햵

Wireless Controller

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

24

1Press the tab in the direction of the arrow (햲) and pull out

the battery holder (

2 Place the lithium button battery with the + side facing up

(

햴).

3Insert the battery holder (

To u se the wireless controller

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

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

햳).

햵).

• When the camcorder cannot be operated with the wireless controller,
or when it can only be operated at very close range, replace the battery.

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

Basic Operation of the Camcorder

NOTES

mode mode

Basic Operation of the Camcorder

Turning the Camcorder On and Off

The camcorder has two operating modes: CAMERA ( ) mode for making recordings or MEDIA ( ) mode
for playing back recordings. Select the operating mode using the power switch.

To turn on the camcorder

Set the power switch to CAMERA for mode (A 37) or
MEDIA for mode (A 97).

25

To turn off the camcorder

Set the power switch to OFF.

• When you turn on the camcorder, the POWER/CHG indicator will illuminate in green. You can set >

[B System Setup] > [POWER LED] to [j Off] so the power indicator does not illuminate.

Basic Operation of the Camcorder

Changing the Camcorder's Operating Mode

When making recordings, you can change the camera mode to match your shooting style (A 37).

26

(Auto) mode

Set the mode switch to N. With this mode, the camcorder takes care of all the settings
while you concentrate on recording. This operating mode is suitable if you just prefer not to
bother with detailed camcorder settings.

(Manual) mode

Set the mode switch to n. With this mode, you can enjoy full access to menus, settings and
advanced functions.

Date, Time and Language Settings

NOTES

Setting the Date and Time

Date, Time and Language Settings

You will need to set the date and time of the camcorder
before you can start using it. The [Date/Time] screen will
appear automatically when the camcorder’s clock is not set.

Operating modes:

1 Turn on the camcorder.

• The [Date/Time] screen will appear.

2 Touch a field you want to change (year, month, day, hours or minutes).

• You can also push the joystick (ÏÐ) to move between the fields.

3 Touch [Í] or [Î] to change the field as necessary.

• You can also push the joystick (Ý) to change the field.

4 Set the correct date and time by changing all the fields in the same way.

5 Touch [Y.M.D], [M.D,Y] or [D.M.Y] to select the date format you prefer.

• You can also push the joystick to select the desired button and press SET to confirm. The same is true for
the rest of the steps in this procedure.

• In some screens, the date will be displayed in short form (numbers instead of month names or only the day
and month), but it will still follow the order you selected.

6 Touch [24H] to use 24-hour clock or leave it unselected to use 12-hour clock (AM/PM).

7 Touch [OK] to start the clock and close the setup screen.

27

• With the following settings, you can change the time zone, date and time also after the initial setup. You can
also change the date format and clock format (12 or 24 hours).

- > [System Setup] > [Time Zone/DST]

- > [System Setup] > [Date/Time]

• When you do not use the camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in backup battery may be depleted
completely and the date and time setting may be lost. In such case, recharge the built-in backup battery
(A 131) and set the time zone, date and time again.

• Using the optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver, you can have the camcorder adjust settings automatically according
to the UTC date/time information received from the GPS signal (A 90).

Date, Time and Language Settings

Changing the Language

The default language of the camcorder is English. You can set it to one of 27 languages.
Refer to Setup Menus (A 29) for details on how to navigate the menu to complete this procedure.

28

Operating modes:

1 Select [Language H].

> [B ! System Setup] > [Language H]

2 Select the desired language and then select [OK].

3 Select [X] to close the menu.

Changing the Time Zone

Change the time zone to match your location. The default setting is New York. In addition, the camcorder is able
to retain the date and time of an additional location. This is convenient when you travel so that you can set the
camcorder to match the time of your home location or that of your travel destination.
Refer to Setup Menus (A 29) for details on how to navigate the menu to complete this procedure.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Time Zone/DST].

> [B ! System Setup] > [Time Zone/DST]

2 Select ["] to set the home time zone, or [#] to set the time zone of your destination when you are

traveling.

3 Select [Ï] or [Ð] to set the desired time zone. If necessary, select [$] to adjust for daylight saving

time.

4 Select [X] to close the menu.

Using the Menus

Joystick/SET button

When making a menu selection, push the joystick to
move the orange selection frame in the menu. Then,
press the joystick itself (in the manual, "press SET") to
select the menu item indicated by the orange selection
frame.

MENU button

Press the button to open the setup menus and then
press again to close the menu after adjusting desired
settings.

Using the Menus

The camcorder's functions can be adjusted from the setup menus, accessed by pressing the MENU button, or
from the FUNC menu, accessed by touching or selecting the onscreen [FUNC] button. For details about the
available menu options and settings, refer to Menu Options (A 115).

Operating modes:

29

Setup Menus

Following is a step-by-step explanation of how to select a
typical option from the setup menus. Some menu items may
require additional steps. Such operations will be explained in
the respective section of the manual.
For brevity's sake, references to menu settings throughout the
manual may be abbreviated as follows:

> [B ! System Setup] > [Language H] >

Desired option

To u se the touch panel

1Press the MENU button.

2 Touch the icon of the desired setup menu from the top row.

• In the example, the B icon, corresponding to the [System Setup] menu.

3 Touch the desired menu item ([Language H], in the example).

• If the desired menu item does not appear in the menu page displayed, drag your finger left/right to scroll

through other menu pages.

• For main procedures, the page number may be given in the manual (!, in the example). If you know the

page number, you can touch the number icon at the top left of the screen to open directly the desired menu
page.

• The page number may differ depending on the camcorder’s operating mode. Throughout the manual,

procedures for functions that can be used in both modes give the page number in mode.

4 Touch the desired setting option and then touch [X] to close the menu.

• You can touch [L] to return to the previous menu page.

Using the Menus

NOTES

FUNC menu in mode

To u se the joystick

1Press the MENU button.

2Push the joystick (Þ) to select the icon of the desired setup menu.

30

• In the example, the B icon, corresponding to the [System Setup] menu.

• If one of the icons in the top row is not selected when you open the menu, first push the joystick (Ý) to

move the orange selection frame to one of the icons.

3Push the joystick (Ý) to select the desired menu item ([Language H], in the example) and then

press SET.

• If the desired menu item does not appear in the menu page displayed, push the joystick (Þ) to scroll

through other menu pages.

• For main procedures, the page number may be given in the manual (!, in the example), making it easier to

find the desired menu page.

4Push the joystick (Ý) to select the desired setting option and then press SET.

5Press the MENU button to close the menu.

• You can push the joystick to highlight the [L] button and press SET to return to the previous menu page.
You can also highlight the [X] button and press SET to close the menu.

• You can press the MENU button on the supplied wireless controller to display the setup menus.

• Touching [X] or pressing the MENU button at any time closes the menu.

• Unavailable items may appear grayed out.

FUNC Menu

In mode, the FUNC menu offers a quick way to control various shooting related functions such as white
balance, exposure, focus, etc. Available functions are more limited in mode.

To u se the touch panel

1 Touch [FUNC] on the shooting screen.

2 Touch the icon of the desired function on the left

column.

• If necessary, touch [ ]/[ ] to scroll up/down.

3 Touch the icon of the desired setting on the bottom

row.

4 Touch [X] to close the FUNC menu or [L] to return

to the left column.

To u se the joystick

1 On the shooting screen, push the joystick to select [FUNC] and then press SET.

2Push the joystick (Ý) to select the desired icon from the left column and then press SET.

3Push the joystick (Þ) to select the desired icon from the bottom row and then press SET.

• To select a value from an adjustment dial, first push the joystick (Î) to highlight the dial in orange and then
(Þ) to select the desired value.

4 Select [X] to close the FUNC menu or [L] to return to the left column.

Using the Menus

NOTES

• Depending on the selected function, other buttons, adjustment dials, and other controls may appear on the
screen. These are explained in the respective section of the manual.

31

Using SD Cards

IMPORTANT

NOTES

Using SD Cards

The camcorder records clips and photos on commercially available Secure Digital (SD) cards*. The camcorder
has two SD card slots and you can use two SD cards (in the manual, "SD card A" and "SD card B") to record on
both simultaneously or to automatically switch to the other SD card when the SD card in use is full (A 34).

32

Initialize SD cards (A 33) when you use them with this camcorder for the first time.

* The SD card is used also to save menu settings files.

Compatible SD Cards

The following types of SD cards1 can be used with this camcorder. For the latest information about SD cards
tested for use with this camcorder, visit your local Canon website.

SD card type:

2

SD Speed Class

UHS Speed Class

1

As of March 2019, the clip recording function has been tested using SD cards made by Panasonic, Toshiba and SanDisk.

2

UHS and SD Speed Class are standards that indicate the minimum guaranteed data transfer rate of SD cards.
To record 4K clips with a resolution of 3840x2160 (A 44) or using slow & fast motion recording (A 46), we recommend using
SD cards rated UHS Speed Class U3. To record XF-AVC clips, we recommend using SD cards rated SD Speed Class 10 or UHS
Speed Class U1 or U3.

:

2

:

./ 0

SD cards SDHC cards SDXC cards

Speed Class U1 Speed Class U3

• After repeatedly recording, deleting and editing clips (if the SD card is fragmented), you may notice slower
writing speeds to the card and recording may even stop. In such case, save your recordings and initialize the
card with the camcorder. Be sure to initialize SD cards especially before shooting important scenes.

• About SDXC cards: You can use SDXC cards with this camcorder but SDXC cards are initialized by the
camcorder using the exFAT file system.

- When using exFAT-formatted cards with other devices (digital recorders, card readers, etc.), make sure that

the external device is compatible with exFAT. For more information on compatibility, contact the computer,
operating system or card manufacturer.

- If you use exFAT-formatted cards with a computer OS that is not exFAT-compatible, you may be prompted

to format the card. In such case, cancel the operation to prevent data loss.

• Proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all SD cards.

Inserting and Removing an SD Card

IMPORTANT

NOTES

햲

햳

햴

1 Turn off the camcorder.

• Make sure the POWER/CHG indicator is off.

2 Open the card compartment cover.

• Slide the SD CARD switch all the way in the direction of the
arrow to open the cover.

3Insert the card straight, with the label facing the grip belt

side of the camcorder all the way into one of the card
slots until it clicks.

• You can use two cards, one in each card slot.

• To remove a card, make sure the ACCESS indicator is off and
then push the card once to release it. When the card springs
out, pull it all the way out.

4 Close the card compartment cover.

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

ACCESS (card access) indicator

SD card access indicator Card status

Red (on or flashing) Accessing the card(s).

Off

Neither card is being accessed or no cards are inserted in
the camcorder.

Using SD Cards

33

If you set > [ System Setup] > [ACCESS LED] to [j Off], the ACCESS indicator will not illuminate.

• Turn off the camcorder before inserting or removing a card. Inserting or removing a card with the camcorder
on may result in permanent data loss.

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

• SD cards have a physical switch to prevent writing on the card so as to avoid the accidental erasure of the
card’s content. To write-protect the SD card, set the switch to the LOCK or C position.

Initializing an SD Card

Initialize SD cards when you use them with this camcorder for the first time. You can also initialize a card to
permanently delete all the recordings it contains.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Initialize] for the desired SD card.

2 Select [Yes].

3 When the confirmation message appears, select [OK] and then [X].

> [3 " Recording Setup] > [Initialize 8] > [6 Mem. Card A] or [7 Mem. Card B] > [Initialize]

Using SD Cards

IMPORTANT

NOTES

• Initializing a card will permanently erase all recordings. Lost data cannot be recovered. Make sure you save

important recordings in advance (A 113).

• Depending on the card, the initialization may take up to a few minutes.

34

Selecting the SD Card for Recordings

You can select the card on which clips and photos will be recorded.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Recording Media].

> [3 " Recording Setup] > [Recording Media]

2 Select the desired SD card ([6 Mem. Card A] or [7 Mem. Card B]) for recording clips

([v Rec Media for Movies]) and/or photos ([{ Rec Media for Photos]).

3 Select [X].

• After closing the menu, the icon of the SD card selected for recording clips will appear on the screen.

Dual Recording and Relay Recording

The camcorder features two convenient recording methods that can be used when both card slots contain a
card: dual recording and relay recording.

Dual recording: This function records the same clip simultaneously to both cards, which is a convenient way to
make a backup copy of your recordings while you record.

Relay recording: This function allows you to continue recording on the other card without interruption when the
card you are using becomes full.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Dual/Relay Recording].

> [3 " Recording Setup] > [Dual/Relay Recording]

2 Select [4 Dual Recording] or [ Relay Recording] (or [ Relay Recording]) and then select [X].

• When dual recording is activated, the status of both cards will appear at the top right of the screen. When
relay recording is activated, the card icon will change to (or ).

• Select [Standard Recording] to not use either function.

• If a card becomes full during dual recording, recording on both cards will stop. On the other hand, if an error
occurs with one of the cards, recording will continue on the other card.

• After saving to a computer MP4 relay clips that were originally recorded on different SD cards, you can use
MP4 Join Tool to join the files and save them as a single clip (A 113).

• Relay recording is available from SD card slot A to SD card slot B, and vice versa, but the switch will be
performed only once.

• Dual recording and relay recording cannot be used together with slow & fast motion recording.

Using SD Cards

NOTES

Recovering Clips

Some actions, such as suddenly turning off the camcorder or removing the SD card while data is being
recorded, can cause data errors in the recorded clip. You may be able to recover clips with corrupted data with
the following procedure.

Operating modes:

1 Open the index screen with the clip you wish to recover (A 97).

2 Select the corrupted clip (a clip with the icon instead of a thumbnail image).

3 When prompted to recover the data, select [Yes].

• The camcorder will attempt to recover the corrupted data.

4 When the confirmation message appears, select [OK].

• In the index screen, recovered MP4 clips appear with a special playback icon instead of the usual thumbnail.

• This procedure may delete clips shorter than 0.5 seconds in length.

• In some cases, it may not be possible to recover the data. This is more likely when the file system is corrupted
or the card is physically damaged.

• Only clips recorded with this camcorder can be recovered. Photos cannot be recovered.

35

36

Using SD Cards

Recording

Onscreen
assignable button

or

Lens barrier switch

ACCESS indicator

POWER/CHG
indicator

3

Recording Video and Photos

This section explains the basics of recording clips* and photos. For details on recording audio, refer to Recording
Audio (A 77).

* "Clip" refers to a single movie unit recorded with a single recording operation.

Operating modes:

Recording

When you use mode to shoot video and take photos, the camcorder will automatically adjust various
settings for you. In mode, you can manually adjust the focus, exposure and many other settings according
to your needs and preferences.

37

1 Open the lens barrier.

• Set the lens barrier switch to OPEN.

2 Set the mode switch to the desired position.

•Set it to N ( mode) or n ( mode), according to how you want to use the camcorder.

3 Set the power switch to CAMERA.

• The POWER/CHG indicator will illuminate in green.

Recording Video and Photos

IMPORTANT

NOTES

NOTES

To record video

4Press the REC button to begin recording.

• During recording, Ü (in red) will appear on the screen. Additionally, if the handle unit is attached to the

38

camcorder, the tally lamp will illuminate.

• You can also press the REC button on the handle unit or the START/STOP button on the supplied wireless
controller.

5Press the REC button again to stop recording.

• Ü will change to Ñ (in white) and the clip will be recorded on the card selected for recording clips. The tally
lamp will also go out.

To t a ke photos

4 During record standby mode, touch [PHOTO].

• By default, the [ Photo] function is assigned to the onscreen assignable button, but you can change
the assigned function if necessary (A 94).

• A green g icon will appear at the bottom of the screen. Also, at the upper right of the screen, {Ð will
appear with the icon of the card selected for recording photos.

• You can also press the PHOTO button on the supplied wireless controller.

When you have finished recording

1 Set the lens barrier switch to CLOSED to close the lens barrier.

2 Make sure that the ACCESS indicator is off.

3 Set the power switch to OFF.

4 Close the LCD panel and return the viewfinder to its retracted position.

• Be sure to save your recordings regularly (A 113), especially after making important recordings. Canon shall

not be liable for any loss or corruption of data.

• The REC button on the handle unit has a lock lever to prevent accidental operation. Set the lock lever to C in

cases such as when you do not want a recording inadvertently paused or do not plan to use this REC button.
Return the lever to its previous position to enable use of the REC button again.

• The maximum continuous recording time of a single clip is 6 hours. After that, a new clip will be created
automatically and recording will continue as a separate clip.

• When recording in bright places, it may be difficult to use the LCD screen. In such case, use the viewfinder or
adjust the brightness of the screen (A 22).

• A video recording will be saved as separate clips in the following cases:

- When the camcorder switches to the other SD card while recording video due to the relay recording function

(A 34).

- When recording clips on an SDHC card, the video (stream) file in the clip will be split approximately every

4 GB. Playback with the camcorder will be continuous.

After saving the separate split clips to a computer, you can use MP4 Join Tool to join the files and save them
as a single clip (A 113).

• Recording photos:

- Photos are recorded as JPG files. Photos can be recorded only in record standby mode.

- Photos cannot be recorded when pre-recording is activated.

• When you need to record for a long time with the camcorder set on a tripod, you can close the LCD panel and
use only the viewfinder in order to save power when using a battery pack (A 22).

Recording Video and Photos

1 Camera index: One character (A to Z) that

identifies the camcorder used.

2 Reel number: 3 characters (001 to 999) that

identify the card used. The number is assigned
automatically but you can set the initial number.
After you insert a new card (just purchased or
initialized), the number advances by one when the
first recording is made.

3 Clip number: 4 characters (C001 to D999). The

clip number advances automatically with each
clip recorded (switching to D001 after C999), but
you can set the initial clip number and select the
clip numbering method.

4 Recording date (set automatically by the

camcorder).

5 Random component: 2 characters (numbers 0 to

9 and capital letters A to Z) that change randomly
with each clip.

6 User defined field: 5 characters (numbers 0 to 9

and capital letters A to Z) for any other
identification purposes.

7 When an SD or SDHC card is used to record

clips, a stream number (01 to 99) will be added to
the file name. The stream number will advance
every time the video (stream) file within the clip is
split and recording continues on a separate
stream file.

Reviewing the Latest Clip Recorded

You can review the last 4 seconds of the last clip recorded with the camcorder without switching to mode.
While reviewing the clip, there will be no sound from the built-in speaker.

After having finished recording a clip, press the u button.

Setting the File Name for XF-AVC Clips

The camcorder allows you to change several settings that determine the file name of XF-AVC clips. Personalize
the clip file name according to your preferences or organizational conventions to create files that are easier to
identify and organize.

39

Operating modes:

The basic file name structure is as follows.

A001C001_yymmddXX_CANON_01

1 2 3 4 675

Setting the Components of the Clip File Name

To set the camcorder identifier (camera index)

1 Select [Camera Index].

2Select [Í] or [Î] to set the desired index and then select [OK].

> [3 $ Recording Setup] > [Camera Index]

Recording Video and Photos

To set the clip numbering method

1 Select [Clip Numbering].

> [Æ$ Recording Setup] > [Clip Numbering]

2 Select [m Reset] or [n Continuous] and then select [OK].

40

Options

[m Reset]: The clip number will restart from 001 every time you insert a new card.
[n Continuous]:

Clip numbers will start from the initial number set with [Clip Number] (following procedure) and
continue across multiple cards.

To set the reel number or initial clip number

The initial clip number can only be set when [Clip Numbering] is set to [n Continuous].

1 Select [Reel Number] or [Clip Number].

> [3 $ Recording Setup] > [Reel Number] or [Clip Number]

• The setup screen appears with an orange selection frame on the leftmost digit.

• Select [Reset] to reset the reel/clip number to [001] and return to the previous screen.

2 Select [Í] or [Î] to set the first digit and then select the next field.

• Change the rest of the digits in the same way.

3 After entering all the digits of the clip/reel number, select [OK].

• Select [Cancel] to close the screen without changing the number.

To set the user-defined field

1 Select [User Defined].

> [3 $ Recording Setup] > [User Defined]

• The setup screen appears with an orange selection frame on the leftmost character.

2 Select [Í] or [Î] to set the first character and then select the next field.

• Change the rest of the characters in the same way.

3 After entering the desired text, select [OK].

• Select [Cancel] to close the screen without changing the user-defined field.

Recording Video and Photos

Continuous AF frame – always in
white (A 52)
AF-Boosted MF frame – in yellow:
manual adjustment range; in white:
automatic adjustment range (A 51)

Face detection:
Main subject (A 53)

Face detection:
Other face detection frames

Tracking (A 53)

Onscreen marker (A 120)

Onscreen Displays

Refer to this section for an explanation of the various screen displays that appear in mode. The onscreen
displays that actually appear at any time will vary depending on the current menu settings and operating mode.

AF frames

Depending on the selected AF frame size (A 52) and focus function used, you may see some of the following
AF frames.

41

Top o f t h e screen

Icon/Display Description

N mode (A 26)
’, ‚, “, n, H, I, Q, K,

L, M, R, S, T

; Infrared recording (A 88)

00:00:00.00, 00:00:00:00 Time code (A 74)

Ñ, Ü (in red) Recording operation (A 37)

z Pre-recording (A 87)
¯,°,± (in yellow) Image stabilization (A 60)

Shooting mode (A 63)

Ñ – record standby, Ü – recording

Recording Video and Photos

Icon/Display Description

è, é, ê, ë (in white),
ë (in yellow), (in red)

000 min

42

{Ð6 / 7 (card icon in green/
yellow), / (in red)

Remaining battery charge (A 19)
The icon shows an estimate of the remaining charge. The remaining recording time is displayed, in
minutes, next to the icon.

• ë in yellow - battery pack is almost depleted. in red - battery pack depleted; replace the

battery pack.

• Depending on the conditions of use, the actual battery charge may not be indicated accurately.

Photo recorded (A 38)

• 6 (or 7) in yellow - the card is almost full. (or ) in red - the photo cannot be recorded

because of a problem with the card.

Left side of the screen

Icon/Display Description

=, Infrared light (A 88)

F00 Aperture value (A 65, 66)

1/0000 Shutter speed (A 65, 66)

AE ±0 0/0 Exposure compensation (A 68)

±0 0/0 Exposure lock (A 67)

00.0dB Gain value (A 65)

00.0dB (value in orange) AGC limit (A 62)

ND 1/00 ND filter (A 70)
D,@

000ft,

}, ~ Face detection & tracking (A 53)

¼, É, , , White balance (A 71)

, , Look (A 73)

O, N Peaking (A 49)
z, { Zebra pattern (A 69)

REC`, STBY` Recording command (A 118)

Focus (A 47)

• While adjusting the focus, the estimated focusing distance will be displayed next to the icon.

Backlight correction (A 68)

GPS signal (A 90): continuously on – satellite signal acquired; flashing – satellite signal not
acquired.

• Only when the optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver is connected to the camcorder.

Digital tele-converter (A 58)

Right side of the screen

Icon/Display Description

6 / 7 000h00m,
6 / 7 End (card icon in red)

/ (in red) No SD card or cannot record on the SD card.

/ 000h00m Relay recording (A 34)

x0.00, x0000 Slow & fast motion recording (A 46)

¼, ½, », º Frame rate (A 44)

¸, Video format (A 44)

Remaining recording time on the card (A 139)

6 (or 7) in yellow - the card is almost full; in red - the card is full (no available space).

Zoom bar (A 55)

• Appears only while zooming. The light blue portion indicates the digital zoom range.

NOTES

NOTES

Icon/Display Description

0000x0000 Resolution (A 44)

000Mbps Bit rate
¾,¿ Settings optimized for an optional conversion lens (A 117)

å Microphone attenuator (A 83)

Audio limiter (A 83)

Plug-in power supply from MIC terminal turned off (A 84)

ƒ, š, Ÿ, , ,

, , ,

^ (in yellow) Magnification (A 50)

Monitor channels (A 110)

MP4 audio format (A 77)

Bottom and center of the screen

Icon/Display Description

[FUNC] Opens the FUNC menu (A 30, 115)
[], [~], [^], [ ], [ ],

[±], [Ä], [<], [z],
[ ], [ ],
[œ], [ ]

[£], [ ] Tracking (A 53)

Onscreen assignable button (A 94)

• By default, the [ Photo] function (take a photo) is assigned to the button.

Exposure bar (A 65)

Audio level meter (A 81)

Recording Video and Photos

43

(in red) Wireless controller disabled (A 121)

• You can press the DISP button to turn off most icons and displays in the following sequence:

All displays on  Only onscreen markers (when activated, A 120)  Minimal displays (recording operation,
etc.)

Video Configuration: Video Format, Resolution, Bit Rate and Frame Rate

Video Configuration: Video Format, Resolution, Bit Rate and Frame Rate

With the following procedures you can set the video configuration used for recording clips. Select the

44

combination of video format, resolution/bit rate and frame rate settings that best matches your creative needs.
The color sampling will be YCbCr 4:2:0, 8 bit.
Available options for some settings may change depending on previous selections for other settings. See the
table following the procedures for a summary. For details on recording audio, refer to Recording Audio (A 77).

Operating modes:

Selecting the Video Format

1 Select [Movie Format].

> [3 ! Recording Setup] > [Movie Format]

2 Select [¸ MP4] or [ XF-AVC] and then select [X].

Selecting the Resolution and Bit Rate

1 Select [¸ Resolution] or [ Resolution].

> [3 ! Recording Setup] > [¸ Resolution] or [ Resolution]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• The selected resolution and bit rate will appear on the right of the screen.

Selecting the Frame Rate

1 Select [¸ Frame Rate] or [ Frame Rate].

> [3 ! Recording Setup] > [¸ Frame Rate] or [ Frame Rate]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• The icon of the selected frame rate will appear on the right of the screen.

MP4 clips: Available video configuration settings

Resolution (Bit rate)

3840x2160 (150 Mbps) — ● ●

1920x1080 (35 Mbps) ● ● ●

1920x1080 (17 Mbps) ● ● ●

1280x720 (8 Mbps)* ● — —

* The frame rate is fixed and cannot be changed. Also, the audio format (A 77) is automatically set to [ AAC 16bit 2CH].

59.94P 29.97P 23.98P

Frame rate

Video Configuration: Video Format, Resolution, Bit Rate and Frame Rate

NOTES

NOTES

XF-AVC clips: Available video configuration settings

Resolution (Bit rate)

3840x2160 (160 Mbps) — — ● ●

1920x1080 (45 Mbps) ● ● ● ●

59.94P 59.94i 29.97P 23.98P

Frame rate

• The camcorder uses a variable bit rate (VBR) that is adjusted automatically according to the recorded subject.
For this reason, actual recording times may vary depending on the subject.

• For details on approximate recording times, refer to the Reference Tables (A 139).

45

Slow & Fast Motion Recording

NOTES

NOTES

Slow & Fast Motion Recording

You can record clips that have a slow motion or fast motion effect during playback, simply by selecting the
desired slow/fast motion rate. Available slow/fast motion rates will vary depending on the resolution and frame
rate currently selected. Sound is not recorded when slow & fast motion recording is activated.

46

Operating modes:

1 Select [Slow & Fast Motion].

> [3 " Recording Setup] > [Slow & Fast Motion]

2 Select the desired slow & fast motion rate and then select [X].

•Select [j] to turn off slow & fast motion recording.

• or and the selected rate will appear on the right of the screen.

MP4 clips: Available slow/fast motion rates

Resolution Frame rate Available slow/fast motion rates

3840x2160

1920x1080

1280x720 59.94P x2, x4, x10, x20, x60, x120, x600, x1200

29.97P x2, x4, x10, x20, x60, x120, x600, x1200

23.98P x0.8

59.94P x2, x4, x10, x20, x60, x120, x600, x1200

29.97P x0.5

23.98P x0.4, x0.8

XF-AVC clips: Available slow/fast motion rates

Resolution Frame rate Available slow/fast motion rates Playback bit rate

3840x2160

1920x1080

29.97P x2, x4, x10, x20, x60, x120, x600, x1200 160 Mbps

23.98P x0.8 150 Mbps

59.94P x2, x4, x10, x20, x60, x120, x600, x1200

45 Mbps29.97P x0.5

23.98P x0.4, x0.8

• Slow & fast motion recording cannot be used together with the following functions.

- Dual recording

- Relay recording

- Pre-recording

- Color bars

• While slow & fast motion recording is activated, the recording command signal will not be output from the
SDI OUT terminal (u only) or HDMI OUT terminal.

• About the time code when slow & fast motion recording is activated:

- The time code mode can be set to [ Regen.], or to [ Preset] with [ Rec Run] running mode.

- If the time code running mode was set to [ Free Run], the time code running mode will be changed

automatically to [ Rec Run] when slow & fast motion recording is activated.

- When slow & fast motion recording is turned off, the time code running mode will return to its previous

setting.

- The time code signal cannot be output from the SDI OUT terminal (u only) or HDMI OUT terminal.

• The maximum continuous recording time of a single clip using slow motion recording is the equivalent of 6
hours of playback time. Recording will stop automatically after that. For example, when the [x0.5] rate is
selected, the maximum continuous recording time will be 3 hours (which, played back at x0.5 slow motion,
equal 6 hours of playback time).
This restriction does not apply to fast motion recording, which will not stop automatically.

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

*

Focus/zoom ring

Adjusting the Focus

The camcorder offers the following ways to focus.

Manual focus: Turn the focus/zoom ring to adjust the focus manually. You can use the focus assistance functions
(A 48) to help you focus more accurately when using the manual focus.

AF-Boosted MF: Focus manually most of the way and let the camcorder finish focusing automatically.

Continuous AF: The camcorder keeps focusing automatically at all times.

Manual Focus

Use the focus/zoom ring to focus manually. You can focus manually even after touching the screen to adjust the
focus automatically. You can use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Focus Ring Direction] and [Focus Ring
Response] settings to change the direction and responsiveness of the focus/zoom ring when it is used to adjust
the focus.

Operating modes:

* Manual focus available momentarily only while operating the focus/zoom ring.

1 Set the focus/zoom ring switch to FOCUS.

47

To f o c u s using only the focus/zoom ring

2Press the AF/MF button.

• D will appear on the left of the screen.

3 Turn the focus/zoom ring to adjust the focus.

• The approximate focusing distance will appear on the left of the

screen while you operate the focus/zoom ring.

To f o c u s by touching a subject on the screen (Touch focus)

2 Open the focus screen.

[FUNC] > [< Focus]

3 Touch the desired point inside the focus frame.

•The I mark will flash on the selected subject. The camcorder

will focus automatically and then enter manual focus mode.

• The approximate focusing distance will appear at the top left corner of the focus frame.

• To return the camcorder to autofocus mode, select [m].

4 Select [X] to close the focus adjustment screen.

5 If necessary, turn the focus/zoom ring to further adjust the focus manually.

• The approximate focusing distance will appear on the left of the screen while you operate the focus/zoom

ring.

• If you operate the zoom after focusing, the focus on the subject may be lost.

• If you focus manually and then leave the camcorder with the power turned on, the focus on the subject may
be lost after a while. This possible slight shift in focus is a result of the internal temperature rising. Check the
focus before resuming shooting.

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

Focus preset button

(in orange: focus

preset activated)

Preset focus position

Current focusing
distance

Touch to return to the
preset focus position

Focus Preset

When manual focus is activated, you can register a certain focus point and then, after you focus manually
somewhere else, have the camcorder return to the preset focus position.

48

Operating modes:

1 Activate the manual focus using the FUNC menu and

adjust the focus to the desired position (A 47).

• The current approximate focusing distance will appear
inside the focus frame and in the focus preset button.

2 Select the focus preset button to save the current focus

position.

• The indicator inside the button will turn orange to show
the focus preset function was activated.

• Select the focus preset button again to cancel the stored
preset focus position.

3 Adjust the focus as necessary using touch focus or the

focus/zoom ring.

• Only the distance displayed inside the focus frame will
change as you focus.

4 Select [ ] to return to the preset focus position.

• [ ] will be grayed out while adjusting the focus or zoom.

• Select the focus preset button to turn off focus preset.

• The preset focus position will be canceled when the camcorder is turned off.

• You can use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Focus Preset Speed] setting to set the speed at which the

camcorder returns to the preset focus position.

• Focusing distances are approximate. You can change the distance units used with the > [£ Display
Setup] > [Distance Units] setting.

Using the Focus Assistance Functions

In order to focus more accurately, you can use the following focus assistance functions: Dual Pixel Focus Guide,
an onscreen guide that shows you if the subject is in focus; peaking, which creates a clearer contrast by
emphasizing the outlines of the subject; and magnification, which enlarges the image on the screen. You can use
peaking and the focus guide or peaking and magnification simultaneously for greater effect.

Operating modes:

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

In focus

(in green)

Focus farther

(large adjustment)

Focus farther

(small adjustment)

Focus closer

(small adjustment)

Focus closer

(large adjustment)

Cannot determine

adjustment

Focus guide

By default, > [v Camera Setup] > [Focus Guide] is set to [i On], so the focus guide will appear
when the camcorder is set to manual focus mode. The focus guide gives you an intuitive visual indication of the
current focus distance and the direction and amount of adjustment necessary to bring the picture into full focus.
When used in combination with face detection and tracking (A 53), the focus guide frame will be displayed
near the eyes of the person detected as the main subject.

If necessary, touch the desired point on the screen to move the focus guide and focus on a different
subject.

• When the focus guide frame turns green, the subject is correctly focused.

• With subjects or in situations where autofocus may not work well (A 53), the focus guide may not be

displayed correctly.

• The focus guide cannot be used in the following cases:

- While the focus is being adjusted automatically using AF-boosted MF or continuous AF.

-When > [v Camera Setup] > [Conversion Lens] is set to an option other than [j Off].

- When the digital zoom is activated and the zoom ratio is in the digital zoom range.

- When the shooting mode is set to [T Fireworks].

- While the color bars are displayed.

- When infrared recording is activated.

• When the focus guide is used together with face detection & tracking, the focus guide may not appear near
the main subject’s eyes, depending on the direction in which the face is turned.

• If you set an assignable button to [ Focus Guide] (A 94), you can press the button to turn the focus guide
on/off.

49

Peaking

When peaking is activated, the edges of objects in focus will be highlighted in red, blue or yellow on the screen.
In addition, you can choose to switch the screen to black & white while peaking is activated, further emphasizing
the edges.

1 Open the peaking settings screen.

[FUNC] > [< Focus] > [i]

2 Select the desired options and then select [L].

• For the black & white setting: Select [Off] or [On]. For the peaking color: Select [Red], [Blue] or [Yellow].

3Select [O] and then select [X].

• O or N appears on the left of the screen, peaking is activated and edges in focus are shown

•Touch [O] again before closing the screen to turn off the peaking effect.

highlighted.

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

Magnification

1 Press the MAGN. button.

• Alternatively, you can select [FUNC] >

50

[^ Magnification] > [OK].

• ^ appears at the lower right of the screen and the

center of the screen* is magnified 2 times.

• The magnification frame displayed at the bottom right
corner of the screen shows the approximate part of
the image shown magnified.

2 If necessary, move around the magnification frame to

check other parts of the image.

• Drag your finger on the screen or push the joystick
(ÝÞ).

3 Press the MAGN. button again or select [X] to cancel

the magnification.

* If one of the AF frames or a face detection frame is displayed on the

screen, the area around the active frame will be magnified instead.

• Peaking/magnification are only displayed on the camcorder's screen. They will not appear on video output
from the output terminals and will not affect your recordings.

• Magnification is not available while the color bars are displayed.

• If you set an assignable button to [^ Magnification] (A 94), you can press the button to turn the
magnification on/off.

• Magnification will be turned off when you start recording but you can turn it on/off again while recording.

Adjusting the Focus

Focus/zoom ring

AF-Boosted MF

With this focus mode, you can focus manually most of the way and let the camcorder finish focusing
automatically. This is very convenient when you want to make certain that your 4K recordings are in sharp focus.
Additionally, with this mode, if the camcorder cannot evaluate how to adjust the focus, it will not perform
unreliable focus adjustments. This results in an overall more stable focusing operation than with continuous AF.

Operating modes:

1 Set the focus/zoom ring switch to FOCUS.

2Press the AF/MF button to activate the autofocus.

• @ will appear on the left of the screen.

3 Set the AF frame size to [r Large] or [s Small] (A 52).

4 Select [AF Mode].

> [v " Camera Setup] > [AF Mode]

5 Select [ AF-Boosted MF] and then select [X].

• When the focus is in the manual adjustment range, the focus
frame will appear in yellow.

• If necessary, change the size and position of the AF frame
(A 52).

6 Turn the focus/zoom ring to adjust the focus.

• Focus manually to bring the subject closer into focus. When
the focus enters the automatic adjustment range, the focus
frame will turn white and the camcorder will then finish
focusing automatically.

• While the focus stays within the automatic adjustment range, the camcorder will keep the subject in focus
automatically.

51

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

*

Continuous AF

By default, the camcorder will focus automatically on a subject at the center of the screen. If the AF frame size
has been changed to an option other than [k Automatic] (A 52), the camcorder will focus automatically on a
subject inside the AF frame that appears on the screen.

52

Operating modes:

* In mode, continuous AF is applied by default so this procedure is not necessary.

1Press the AF/MF button to activate the autofocus.

• @ will appear on the left of the screen.

2 Set the AF frame size to [r Large] or [s Small] (A 52).

3 Select [AF Mode].

> [v " Camera Setup] > [AF Mode]

4 Select [ Continuous] and then select [X].

• When [v Camera Setup] > [AF Frame Size] is set to [r Large] or
[s Small], a white AF frame will appear on the screen.

Changing the AF Frame Size

By default, when autofocus is used, the camcorder focuses on a subject at the center of the screen and no AF
frame is displayed. You can select to display an AF frame and change its size and position to focus on a specific
area or subject.

Operating modes:

1 Select [AF Frame Size].

> [v " Camera Setup] > [AF Frame Size]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Options

[k Automatic]: No AF frame is displayed. The camcorder focuses automatically on a subject at the center of

the screen.

[r Large], [s Small]:

An AF frame is displayed. You can move the AF frame within 80% of the screen area and select
its size according to the subject you want to focus.

• When the AF frame size is set to [k Automatic], AF-Boosted MF cannot be used.

• In mode, the AF mode and AF frame size are automatically set to [ Continuous] and [k Automatic],
respectively, and these settings cannot be changed.

Adjusting the Focus

- Reflective surfaces

- Subjects with low contrast or without vertical lines

- Fast moving subjects

- Through dirty or wet windows

-Night scenes

- Subjects with a repetitive pattern

Main subject

*

About the autofocus (AF) functions:

• You can change some aspects of the autofocus function with the following settings.

- > [v Camera Setup] > [AF Speed] to set the AF speed (the speed at which the focus is

adjusted) to one of 3 levels.

- > [v Camera Setup] > [AF Response] to set the responsiveness of the autofocus function to

one of 3 levels.

• When recording in bright surroundings, the camcorder closes down the aperture. This may cause the picture
to appear blurred and is more noticeable toward the wide angle end of the zoom range. In such case, select
the “ or n shooting mode, apply the ND filter (A 70) and adjust the aperture.

• Autofocus is not available in the following cases:

-When > [v Camera Setup] > [Conversion Lens] is set to an option other than [j Off].

- When infrared recording is activated.

• Autofocus takes slightly longer to focus when the frame rate is set to 29.97P or 23.98P than when it is 59.94P.

• When recording under dark conditions, the focusing range narrows and the picture may appear blurred.

• While using autofocus, you can turn the focus/zoom ring to focus manually. When you stop turning the ring,
the camcorder returns to autofocus. This is useful in situations such as when focusing on a subject on the
other side of a window.

• When the shooting mode is set to [T Fireworks], the focus will be set to and cannot be changed.

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

53

-When [FUNC] > [Looks] is set to [ Wide DR].

- When subjects at different distances appear in the picture.

Face Detection & Tracking

When face detection & tracking is activated, the camcorder will detect the
subject’s face and automatically adjust the focus1 and exposure2. When there
are a number of people in the picture, one person will be determined to be
the main subject but you have the option to select a different person as the
main subject (you must use the touch screen to select the subject). The
camcorder will keep tracking the main subject even when it moves.

1

Only in AF mode. In MF mode you can use the focus guide (A 49) to help you focus the
subject manually.

2

The exposure is not adjusted when the shooting mode is set to [K Snow], [L Beach],
[M Sunset] or [S Spotlight].

Operating modes:

* In mode, face detection & tracking is always activated and cannot be turned off. Start the procedure from step 2.

1 Activate face detection & tracking.

> [v # Camera Setup] > [Face Detection & Tracking] > [i On}] > [X]

• } will appear on the left of the screen.

2 Point the camcorder at the subject.

• All detected faces will have a face detection frame. The main subject will be indicated with a face detection

frame with small arrows (white in AF mode, gray in MF mode).

Adjusting the Focus

NOTES

NOTES

3 If necessary, touch the desired subject on the screen to select a different main subject.

• To select a different person: Touch a face with a gray frame. The face detection frame will change to a double

frame £ (tracking frame, white in AF mode, gray in MF mode). The camcorder will track the subject as it

54

moves.

• To select other moving subjects: In AF mode only, you can track other moving subjects such as a pet. If the AF

frame size is set to [k Automatic], touch the desired subject on the screen; if it set to another option,
select [£] to display the focus frame and then touch a subject inside the frame. A white double frame £
(tracking frame) will appear and the camcorder will track the subject as it moves.

• Touch [ ] to remove the frame and cancel the tracking.

4 In MF mode, the focus guide will appear on the selected main subject if this function is activated.

Use the focus guide as a reference to focus manually (A 49).

• In AF mode, the camcorder will keep focusing on the main subject and track it as it moves.

Limiting Autofocus to Faces (Face-Only AF)

While using autofocus, you can limit the autofocus function only to cases when a face is detected and use
manual focus otherwise. When a face is detected, the camcorder will automatically keep the subject in focus
and optimize the exposure.

Operating modes:

Set an assignable button to [~ Face Only AF] (A 94) and press the button.

• While face-only AF is activated, the } icon will change to ~.

• The camcorder may mistakenly detect the faces of non-human subjects. In such case, turn face detection &
tracking off.

• When face detection & tracking is activated, the slowest shutter speed used by the camcorder is 1/30 (1/24 if
the frame rate is set to 23.98P).

• Touching somewhere with a color or pattern unique to the subject will make it easier to track. However, if there
is another subject in the vicinity that shares similar characteristics to the selected subject, the camcorder may
start tracking the incorrect subject. Touch the screen again to select the desired subject.

• In certain cases, faces may not be detected correctly. Typical examples include:

- Faces extremely small, large, dark or bright in relation to the overall picture.

- Faces turned to the side, upside down, at a diagonal or partially hidden.

• Face detection & tracking cannot be used in the following cases.

- When the shooting mode is set to [Q Night Scene], [R Low Light] or [T Fireworks].

- When the shutter speed used is slower than 1/30 (1/24 if the frame rate is set to 23.98P).

- When the digital zoom is activated and the zoom ratio exceeds 60x.

- When infrared recording is activated.

• In certain cases, tracking may not start even after touching a subject on the screen. Typical examples include:

- Subjects extremely small or large in relation to the overall picture.

- Subjects too similar to the background.

- Subjects lacking sufficient contrast.

- Fast moving subjects.

- When shooting indoors with insufficient lighting.

• Face-only AF will be deactivated in the following cases:

- When the power switch, mode switch or INFRARED switch is operated.

- In the same cases that face detection & tracking cannot be used (see above).

- When the camcorder is switched between autofocus and manual focus.

- When the assignable button is no longer assigned to [~ Face Only AF].

Zooming

NOTES

NOTES

Focus/zoom ring

W Zoom out

T Zoom in

Zooming

To zoom in and out, you can use the focus/zoom ring, the zoom rockers on the camcorder and handle unit, the
supplied wireless controller or an optional RC-V100 Remote Controller, or the onscreen zoom controls.
In addition to the 15x optical zoom, you can use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Digital Zoom] setting* to
activate the digital zoom (300x) or the digital tele-converter, which allows you to enlarge the image on the screen
digitally.

* This setting is not available in mode or when > [v Camera Setup] > [Conversion Lens] is set to

[¿ WA-U58].

Operating modes:

Using the Focus/Zoom Ring

1 Set the focus/zoom ring switch to ZOOM.

2 Turn the focus/zoom ring to adjust the zoom.

• Turn the focus/zoom ring slowly for a slow zoom; turn it faster
for faster zooms.

• The zoom bar that appears on the screen indicates the
approximate zoom position.

55

• You can customize the operation of the focus/zoom ring with the

> [v Camera Setup] > [Focus/Zoom Ring Operation]

and [Zoom Ring Direction] settings.

• If you turn the focus/zoom ring too quickly, the camcorder may
not be able to zoom immediately. In such case, the camcorder will
zoom after you finish turning the ring.

Using the Grip Zoom Rocker

Move the grip zoom rocker toward T (wide angle) to zoom
out. Move it toward S (telephoto) to zoom in.

• You can set the zoom speed with the following procedure.

Zooming

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

Setting the Zoom Speed of the Grip Zoom Rocker

You can select a variable speed (the harder you press, the faster the zoom) or a constant speed that you can set.

Grip zoom rocker: Approximate zoom speeds (time required to zoom end-to-end)

56

[Grip Zoom Speed] setting

[Y] (variable) – 4.2 sec. to 4 min. 38 sec. 2.6 sec. to 2 min. 1.5 sec.* to 1 min.

[X] (constant)

* When the zoom speed is too fast, the camcorder may have more trouble focusing automatically while zooming.

Selected constant

speed

1 (slowest) 4 min. 38 sec. 2 min. 1 min.

16 (fastest) 4.2 sec. 2.6 sec. 1.5 sec.*

[] Slow] [[ Normal] [Z Fast]

[Zoom Speed Level] setting

1 Select the overall zoom speed level.

> [v ! Camera Setup] > [Zoom Speed Level] > Desired zoom speed level > [L]

2 Select whether to use a variable or constant zoom speed.

> [v ! Camera Setup] > [Grip Zoom Speed] > [Y] (variable) or [X] (constant)

• If you selected [Y], skip to step 4.
3 Select [Ï] or [Ð], or drag your finger along the adjustment bar, to set the desired constant speed.
4 Select [X].

• When [Zoom Speed Level] is set to [Z Fast], the camcorder may pick up and record lens operation sounds.

• You can use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Grip Zoom Operation] setting to disable the grip zoom

rocker's operation.

To u se high-speed zoom in standby mode

When high-speed zoom is activated and > [v Camera Setup] > [Grip Zoom Speed] is set to [Y]
(variable zoom speed), in record standby mode you will be able to zoom at the highest speed available
([Z Fast]). Nevertheless, the zoom speed while recording will be determined by the [Zoom Speed Level]
setting.

1 Select [High-Speed Zoom].

> [v " Camera Setup] > [High-Speed Zoom]

2 Select [i On] and then select [X].

• When pre-recording is activated, the zoom speed will be determined by the [Zoom Speed Level] setting even

in record standby mode.

• When [Zoom Speed Level] is already set to [Z Fast], the zoom speed will not change.

Using the Handle Zoom Rocker

NOTES

NOTES

To use the handle zoom rocker, attach the handle unit to the
camcorder in advance (A 20).

Move the handle zoom rocker toward T (wide angle) to
zoom out. Move it toward S (telephoto) to zoom in.

• You can set the constant zoom speed with the following
procedure.

Setting the Zoom Speed of the Handle Zoom Rocker

Handle zoom rocker: Approximate zoom speeds (time required to zoom end-to-end)

[Handle Zoom Speed] setting

1 (slowest) 4 min. 38 sec. 2 min. 1 min.

16 (fastest) 4.2 sec. 2.6 sec. 1.5 sec.*

* When the zoom speed is too fast, the camcorder may have more trouble focusing automatically while zooming.

[] Slow] [[ Normal] [Z Fast]

[Zoom Speed Level] setting

Zooming

57

1 Select the overall zoom speed level (step 1, A 56).

2 Select [Handle Zoom Speed].

> [v ! Camera Setup] > [Handle Zoom Speed]
3Select [Ï] or [Ð], or drag your finger along the adjustment bar, to set the desired constant speed.
4Select [X].

• You can use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Handle Zoom Operation] setting to disable the handle

zoom rocker's operation.

Using the Supplied Wireless Controller or an Optional Remote Controller

The zoom speeds when using the supplied wireless controller, the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller or a
commercially available remote control connected to the REMOTE terminal are different.

Zoom speeds for remote operation

Accessory Zoom speed

Wireless controller (supplied) Constant zoom speed. See the following table.

RC-V100 Remote Controller
(optional)

Commercially available remote
controls

Variable speed: At default settings, turn the RC-V100's ZOOM dial right to zoom in (S) and left to zoom out
(T). The greater the angle at which the dial is rotated from the center, the faster the zoom.

Refer to the remote control's instruction manual.
If the remote control does not support variable zoom: Constant zoom speed.
If the remote control supports variable zoom: Variable zoom speed according to the remote control's settings.

Zooming

Setting the Zoom Speed of the Supplied Wireless Controller

Supplied wireless controller: Approximate zoom speeds (time required to zoom end-to-end)

58

[Wireless Ctrlr Zoom Speed] setting

1 (slowest) 4 min. 38 sec. 2 min. 1 min.

16 (fastest) 4.2 sec. 2.6 sec. 1.5 sec.*

* When the zoom speed is too fast, the camcorder may have more trouble focusing automatically while zooming.

[] Slow] [[ Normal] [Z Fast]

[Zoom Speed Level] setting

1 Select the overall zoom speed level (step 1, A 56).

2 Select [Wireless Ctrlr Zoom Speed].

> [v " Camera Setup] > [Wireless Ctrlr Zoom Speed]

3 Select [Ï] or [Ð], or drag your finger along the adjustment bar, to set the desired constant speed.

4 Select [X].

Using the Touch Screen’s Zoom Controls

1 Open the onscreen zoom controls.

[FUNC] > [R Zoom]

• The zoom controls appear at the bottom the screen.

2 Touch the zoom controls to operate the zoom.

• Touch anywhere within the V area to zoom out or anywhere within the U

area to zoom in. Touch closer to the center for a slow zoom; touch closer
to the V/U icons for faster zooms.

3 Select [X].

Digital Tele-Converter

Using the digital tele-converter, you can digitally increase the focal length of the camcorder by a factor of approx.
2 and record the enlarged image.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Digital Zoom].

> [v ! Camera Setup] > [Digital Zoom]

2 Select [ Digital Tele-conv.] and then select [X].

3 Open the onscreen zoom controls.

[FUNC] > [R Zoom]

4 Select [ ] (digital tele-converter) and then select [X].

• The center of the screen will be enlarged approximately 2 times and the icon will appear on the left of
the screen.

• Select [ ] again before closing the screen to turn off the digital tele-converter.

Zooming

NOTES

NOTES

• You can attach the optional TL-U58 Tele-converter and use it in conjunction with this function to increase the
effect.

• The digital tele-converter cannot be activated while recording or when > [v Camera Setup] >
[Conversion Lens] is set to [¿ WA-U58].

• The image is digitally processed so the image will deteriorate throughout the zoom range.

• The digital tele-converter will be deactivated if the resolution is switched between 3840x2160 and another
setting.

59

Image Stabilization

Image Stabilization

Use the image stabilizer to compensate for camcorder shake in order to achieve steadier shots. The camcorder
offers the following IS modes.

60

Standard IS (¯): Standard IS compensates for a lower degree of camcorder shake, for example, for handheld
shots while you remain stationary, and is suitable for shooting natural-looking scenes.

Dynamic IS (°): Dynamic IS compensates for a higher degree of camcorder shake, such as when shooting
while walking, and is more effective as the zoom approaches full wide angle.

Powered IS (±): Powered IS is most effective when you are stationary and zooming in on far subjects using
high zoom ratios (the more you approach the telephoto end). This mode is not suitable for tilting and panning
shots.

Operating modes:

Dynamic IS or Standard IS

1 Select [Image Stabilizer].

> [v $ Camera Setup] > [Image Stabilizer]

2 Select [¯ Standard] (Standard IS) or [° Dynamic] (Dynamic IS) and then select [X].

• Select [® Off] instead to turn off the image stabilization, for example, when the camcorder is mounted on

a tripod.

• The icon of the selected mode appears at the top of the screen.

Powered IS

Press and hold the POWERED IS button as long as you want to
activate Powered IS.

• ± appears in yellow at the top of the screen while Powered IS is

activated.

Image Stabilization

NOTES

NOTES

• If the degree of camcorder shake is too high, the image stabilizer may not be able to compensate fully.

• Powered IS is available even when [Image Stabilizer] is set to [® Off].

• You can change the operation of the POWERED IS button (long press or toggle on/off) with the >
[v Camera Setup] > [Powered IS Button] setting.

• The angle of view will change when [Image Stabilizer] is set to an option other than [° Dynamic].

• When using Dynamic IS, the edges of the picture may be adversely affected (ghosting, artifacts and/or dark
areas may appear) when compensating for a high degree of camcorder shake.

61

Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Limit

NOTES

NOTES

Automatic Gain Control (AGC) Limit

When recording in dark surroundings, the camcorder will automatically increase the gain to try to get a brighter
picture. By setting a maximum gain value, you can limit the amount of noise in the picture and keep a darker
look. This function can only be used when the shooting mode is set to ’, ‚ or “.

62

Operating modes:

1 Open the AGC limit adjustment screen.

[FUNC] > [ AGC Limit] > [n]

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

• Select [n] again to return the camcorder to automatic gain control.

2 Drag your finger along the dial to set the desired maximum gain value.

• You can select an AGC limit from 0.0 dB to 38.0 dB.

• If [FUNC] > [Looks] is set to [ Wide DR], the lowest AGC limit that can be set will be 9.0 dB.

3 Select [X].

• When an AGC limit is set, and the maximum gain value will appear on the left of the screen.

• The AGC limit cannot be set in the following cases:

- When the exposure is locked (A 67).

- When infrared recording is activated.

• If you set the CUSTOM dial’s function to [ AGC Limit] (A 93), you can turn the AGC limit on/off with the

CUSTOM button and adjust the AGC limit using the CUSTOM dial.

Shooting Modes

Shooting mode button

Special Scene modes

Shooting Modes

In mode, the camcorder offers a number of shooting modes that give you varying degrees of control over
the camcorder's settings. Select the shooting mode most appropriate to your needs or creative vision and adjust
manually those settings you wish to control, letting the camcorder take care of the rest.
Shooting modes cannot be used when infrared recording is activated.

Operating modes:

1 Select the shooting mode button.

2 Select the desired shooting mode and then

select [X].

• The shooting mode button will show the selected

mode's icon.

Available shooting modes

Shooting mode Description A

[’ Programmed AE] The camcorder automatically sets the shutter speed, aperture and gain. 66

[‚ Shutter-Pri. AE] Set the shutter speed manually while the camcorder automatically adjusts the aperture and gain. 66

[“ Aperture-Pri. AE] Set the aperture and ND filter manually while the camcorder automatically adjusts the shutter speed and

gain.

[n Manual Exposure] Set the shutter speed, aperture and gain manually for full control over the exposure. 65

Special Scene modes These shooting modes offer preset combinations of settings optimized for specific situations. 63

66

63

Special Scene Modes

Using a Special Scene mode can be an easy and convenient alternative to adjusting detailed exposure settings.

[H Portrait]

The camcorder uses a large
aperture, to achieve a sharp
focus on the subject while
blurring the background.

[Q Night Scene]

To record nightscapes with
lower noise.

[L Beach]

To record on a sunny beach
without the subject being
underexposed.

[R Low Light]

To record in low-light situations.

[ûSports]

To record sports scenes, such
as sporting events or dance
scenes.

[ý Snow]

To record in bright ski resorts
without the subject being
underexposed.

[ÿ Sunset]

To record sunsets in vibrant
colors.

[S Spotlight]

To record spotlit scenes.

Shooting Modes

NOTES

NOTES

[T Fireworks]

To record fireworks.

64

•[H Portrait]/[û Sports]/[ý Snow]/[L Beach]: The picture may not appear smooth during playback.

•[ý Snow]/[L Beach]: The subject may become overexposed on cloudy days or in shaded places. Check

the image on the screen.

•[R Low Light]:

- Moving subjects may leave a trailing afterimage.

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

- White points may appear on the screen.

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

•[R Low Light]/[T Fireworks]: To avoid camcorder blur (blur due to the camcorder moving) we recommend

using a tripod.

Adjusting the Exposure

NOTES

NOTES

Optimal exposure AE±0

Current exposure

Adjusting the Exposure

The first part of this section covers the main shooting modes used to adjust the exposure. Select a shooting
mode according to which elements of the exposure (aperture, shutter speed and gain) you want to control and
let the camcorder adjust the rest of the settings automatically.
This section also covers exposure adjustment functions that can help you achieve the brightness you want when
the overall exposure obtained automatically by the camcorder is not the best for your shot.

Operating modes:

Manual Exposure (n)

This shooting mode gives you the most control over shooting settings as you can set the aperture, shutter speed
and gain to get the exposure that you want.

1 Set the shooting mode to [n Manual Exposure] (A 63).

• The aperture value, shutter speed and gain value will appear on the left of the screen.

2 Open the aperture, shutter speed or gain adjustment screen.

[FUNC] > [ Aperture], [ Shutter Speed] or [ Gain]

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

3 Drag your finger along the dial to set the desired value.

• You can select [ ] to display the zebra pattern (A 69, step 2) and check for overexposed areas.

4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 as necessary to adjust the exposure to the desired level.

5 Select [X].

65

Available settings

1

Aperture

Shutter

2

speed

Gain 0.0 dB4 to 39.0 dB (1-dB increments)

1

Available values depend on the zoom position (F2.8 to F11 at full wide angle; F4.5 to F11 at full telephoto). Aperture values
displayed on the screen are for reference only.

2

During slow & fast motion recording, available values will vary depending on the selected slow/fast motion rate.

3

Only when the frame rate is 23.98P.

4

From 9.0 dB when [FUNC] > [Looks] is set to [ Wide DR].

The exposure bar

F2.8, F3.2, F3.4, F3.7, F4.0, F4.4, F4.5, F4.8, F5.2, F5.6, F6.2, F6.7, F7.3, F8.0, F8.7, F9.5, F10, F11

1/63, 1/8, 1/9, 1/10, 1/12, 1/15, 1/17, 1/20, 1/24, 1/25, 1/30, 1/34, 1/40, 1/48, 1/50, 1/60, 1/75, 1/90, 1/100, 1/120, 1/150,
1/180, 1/210, 1/250, 1/300, 1/360, 1/420, 1/500, 1/600, 1/720, 1/840, 1/1000, 1/1200, 1/1400, 1/1700, 1/2000

When the shooting mode is set to n, the exposure bar will appear on the
screen, showing the optimal automatic exposure and current exposure. When
the difference between current and optimal exposure is larger than ±2 EV, the
indicator will flash at the edge of the exposure bar.

• If you set the CUSTOM dial’s function to [ Tv/Av/M] (A 93), you can adjust the aperture, shutter speed
and gain with the CUSTOM dial and button.

Adjusting the Exposure

NOTES

NOTES

Automatic Exposure: Programmed AE (’)

The camcorder automatically sets the shutter speed, aperture and gain (for clips) but you will have the option to
use other functions that are not available in mode.

66

Set the shooting mode to [’ Programmed AE] (A 63).

Automatic Exposure: Shutter Priority (‚)

With this shooting mode you set the shutter speed manually, for example, to capture fast-moving subjects in
sharp focus or to obtain a brighter image in low-light situations. The camcorder will automatically adjust other
settings to obtain the best exposure.

1 Set the shooting mode to [‚ Shutter-Pri. AE] (A 63).

• The shutter speed will appear on the left of the screen.

2 Open the shutter speed screen.

[FUNC] > [ Shutter Speed]

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

3 Drag your finger along the dial to set the desired value.

• For available shutter speeds, see the manual exposure table (A 65)

• You can select [ ] to display the zebra pattern (A 69, step 2) and check for overexposed areas.

4 Select [X].

Automatic Exposure: Aperture Priority (“)

With this shooting mode you set the aperture value manually to control the depth of field, for example, in order to
defocus the background and make the subject stand out more. The camcorder will automatically adjust other
settings to obtain the best exposure.

1 Set the shooting mode to [“ Aperture-Pri. AE] (A 63).

• The aperture value will appear on the left of the screen.

2 Open the aperture screen.

[FUNC] > [ Aperture]

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

3 Drag your finger along the dial to set the desired value.

• For available aperture values, see the manual exposure table (A 65)

• You can select [ ] to display the zebra pattern (A 69, step 2) and check for overexposed areas.

4 Select [X].

• If you set the CUSTOM dial’s function to [ Tv/Av/M] (A 93), you can adjust the aperture value or shutter

speed with the CUSTOM dial and button.

• When the shooting mode is set to ‚ or “, depending on the brightness of the subject, the camcorder may
not be able to set the appropriate exposure. In such case the shutter speed (‚) or aperture value (“) will
flash on the screen. Change the shutter speed/aperture as necessary.

Adjusting the Exposure

Touch Exposure

You can touch the screen to optimize the exposure for a specific subject or area. The camcorder will
automatically adjust the exposure for the selected point and lock the exposure settings. You can even touch a
bright area of the image to make that point the 100% brightness level and so try to avoid overexposure (Highlight
AE). This function cannot be used when the shooting mode is set to n or [T Fireworks].

1 Open the touch exposure settings screen.

[FUNC] > [y Exposure Comp.] > [i]

2 Select [ Normal] or [ Highlights] and then select [L]

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

• You can select [ ] to display the zebra pattern (A 69, step 2) and check for overexposed areas.

3 Touch the desired point inside the exposure frame to optimize and lock the exposure.

•The I mark will flash and the exposure will be adjusted automatically so the area you touched is correctly

exposed.

• The exposure compensation value ±0 and will appear on the screen. In addition, the indicator inside the
[ ] button will turn orange to indicate that the exposure is locked.

• Select [ ] again to release the exposure lock.

4 Drag your finger along the dial to further compensate the exposure.

• You can set a compensation value from –3 to +3 in 1/4 EV increments.

5 Select [X].

• The exposure compensation value and will appear on the left of the screen. If the exposure was not
locked (compensation only), [AE] and the compensation value will appear instead.

67

Exposure Lock (AE Lock)

You can lock the current exposure settings and use them even when you reframe the picture. This function
cannot be used when the shooting mode is set to n or [T Fireworks].

1Lock the current exposure.

[FUNC] > [y Exposure Comp.] > []

• The exposure compensation value ±0 and will appear on the screen. In addition, the indicator inside the
[ ] button will turn orange to indicate that the exposure is locked.

• Select [ ] again to release the exposure lock.

2 If necessary, drag your finger along the dial to further compensate the exposure.

• You can set a compensation value from –3 to +3 in 1/4 EV increments.

• Depending on the brightness of the image and the exposure locked, some values may not be available and
the available exposure compensation range may differ.

3 Select [X].

• The exposure compensation value and will appear on the left of the screen.

Adjusting the Exposure

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

Exposure Compensation

You can compensate the exposure that was set using automatic exposure, in order to darken or lighten the
image. This function can only be used when the shooting mode is set to ’, ‚ or “.

1 Open the exposure screen.

68

[FUNC] > [y Exposure Comp.]

• If the exposure was locked, select [ ] to release the exposure lock.

2 Drag your finger along the dial to compensate the exposure.

• You can set a compensation value from –2 to +2 in 1/4 EV increments.

3 Select [X].

• [AE] and the exposure compensation value will appear on the left of the screen.

• Exposure compensation is not available when infrared recording is activated.

• If you set the CUSTOM dial’s function to [y Exposure Comp.] (A 93), you can compensate the exposure

with the CUSTOM dial and button.

• The exposure lock will be released in the following cases:

- When the power switch, mode switch or INFRARED switch is operated.

- When the shooting mode is changed.

- When the resolution, frame rate or look is changed.

Backlight Correction

When you need to record a scene with constant backlight conditions, you can use backlight correction to make
the picture, especially the darker areas, brighter.

1 Select [ BLC Always On].

[FUNC] > [ BLC Always On]

2 Select [ On] and then select [X].

• will appear on the left of the screen and the exposure will be adjusted to account for backlight conditions.

• You can also use the > [v Camera Setup] > [Auto Backlight Correction] setting to activate the
automatic backlight correction function. However, the automatic correction cannot be used when [FUNC] >
[Looks] is set to [ Neutral] or [ Wide DR].

• Backlight correction cannot be turned on/off when [FUNC] > [Looks] is set to [ Wide DR] and the
exposure is locked.

• If you set an assignable button to [ BLC Always On] (A 94), you can press the button to turn the backlight
correction on/off.

• Backlight correction is not available in the following cases:

- When the shooting mode is set to [T Fireworks].

- When the shooting mode is set to n and [FUNC] > [Looks] is set to [ Wide DR].

- When infrared recording is activated.

• Backlight correction will be deactivated in the following cases:

- When the power switch, mode switch or INFRARED switch is operated.

- When the shooting mode is changed.

- When the frame rate, video format or look is changed.

Adjusting the Exposure

NOTES

NOTES

Zebra Pattern

You can display the zebra pattern to identify areas that might be overexposed, so you can correct the exposure
appropriately. The camcorder offers two levels of zebra pattern: With 100%, only highlight areas that will lose
detail will be identified, while 70% will identify also areas that are dangerously close to losing detail.

1 Open the aperture, shutter speed, gain or exposure screen.

[FUNC] > [ Aperture], [ Shutter Speed] or [ Gain] or [y Exposure Comp.]

2 Select the desired zebra level.

[] > [z 70%] or [{ 100%] > [X]

• To return to the previous screen and change other settings, select [L] instead of [X].

• The zebra pattern will appear on the overexposed areas of the picture.

• Displaying the zebra pattern will not affect your recordings.

69

ND Filter

NOTES

NOTES

ND Filter

Using the ND filter allows you to open up the aperture to obtain a shallower depth of field even when recording in
bright surroundings. You can also use the ND filter to avoid the soft focus caused by diffraction when using small
apertures. You can select one of 3 density levels.

70

Operating modes:

Press the ND FILTER + or – button to select the desired ND filter
setting.

• Repeatedly pressing ND FILTER + button will change the ND filter
setting in the following order: [ND 1/4]  [ND 1/16]  [ND 1/64] 
ND filter off (no onscreen display).
The ND FILTER

• The selected ND filter setting will appear on the left of the screen.

– button cycles through the settings in reverse order.

• About the ND warning:
In the following cases, if the ND filter setting is not appropriate, an ND warning icon will start flashing next to
the ND filter setting*.

- The gain value is too high.

- The aperture is too closed.
Change the ND filter setting so the ND filter display stops flashing to mitigate the effect of such conditions.

* When the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller is connected to the camcorder, the RC-V100's ND filter indicator will flash as

well.

• Depending on the scene, the color may change when turning the ND filter on/off. Setting a custom white
balance (A 71) may be effective in such case.

• About changing the ND filter setting using the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller:

- When the remote controller is connected to the camcorder, you can use the remote controller’s ND button in

the same way as the camcorder’s ND FILTER + button.

- ND filter indicators 1 to 3 will illuminate in orange when the ND filter is set to 1/4, 1/16 and 1/64, respectively.

White Balance

NOTES

NOTES

White Balance

The camcorder uses an electronic white balance process to calibrate the picture and produce accurate colors
under different lighting conditions. This function can only be used when the shooting mode is set to ’, ‚, “
or n.

Operating modes:

1 Select [White Balance].

[FUNC] > [ * White Balance]

* Default option. The button will show the icon of the option currently in use.

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• If you selected [ Color Temperature], [ Set 1] or [ Set 2] and wish to change the color temperature
value or register a new custom white balance, continue with the appropriate procedure below instead of
selecting [X].

• The icon of the selected option will appear on the left of the screen.

To set the color temperature ([ Color Temperature])

3 Select [i].

• An adjustment dial will appear on the screen.

4 Drag your finger along the dial to set the color temperature value.

5 Select [X].

71

To set a custom white balance ([ Set 1] or [ Set 2])

3 Point the camcorder at a gray card or white object so that it fills the frame at the center of the screen

and then select [

•When the Å icon inside the frame stops flashing, the procedure is completed. The setting is retained even
if you turn off the camcorder.

Å].

4 Select [X].

Options

[ Automatic]: The camcorder automatically sets the white balance for natural looking colors.
[¼ Daylight]: To record outdoors on a bright day.
[É Tungsten]: To record under tungsten and tungsten-type (3-wavelength) fluorescent lighting.
[ Color Temperature]:

Allows you to set the color temperature between 2,000 K and 15,000 K.

[ Set 1], [ Set 2]:

Use the custom white balance settings to make white subjects appear white under colored
lighting.

• When you select a custom white balance:

- Do not use the digital zoom range (light blue area of the zoom bar).

- Set the custom white balance again when the location, lighting or other conditions change.

- Very rarely and depending on the light source, Å may keep flashing. The result will still be better than with
[Automatic].

White Balance

• If you set an assignable button to [Å Set WB] (A 94), you can press the button to register a custom white

balance after you point the camcorder at a gray card or white object.

• Using a custom white balance may provide better results in the following cases:

72

- Changing lighting conditions

-Close-ups

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

- Under mercury lamps, certain types of fluorescent lights and LED lights

• White balance is not available when infrared recording is activated.

• If you set an assignable button to [Ä WB Priority] (A 94), you can press the button to switch to a frequently
used white balance setting pre-selected with the > [v Camera Setup] > [Set WB Priority] setting.

Using Looks

NOTES

NOTES

Using Looks

The camcorder can shoot using looks — combinations of settings that affect the characteristics of the image
produced. The camcorder offers a number of preset looks, some of whose settings you can adjust to your
preference. This function can only be used when the shooting mode is set to ’, ‚, “ or n.

Operating modes:

1 Open the looks screen.

[FUNC] > [* Looks]

* Default option. The button will show the icon of the look currently in use.

2 Select the desired option.

• To use the preset look as is, skip to step 4.

3 If necessary, adjust the detailed settings.

[i] > Select [–] or [+] to adjust the value

• You can also drag your finger along the adjustment bar.

• The sharpness, contrast and color depth can be adjusted as follows:
[Sharpness]: 0 (softer image) to 7 (sharper image)
[Contrast]*: –4 (low contrast) to +4 (high contrast)
[Color Depth]**: –4 (shallower colors) to +4 (richer colors)

4 Select [X].

* Not available for [ Wide DR]. ** Not available for [ Monochrome].

73

Options

[ Standard]: Standard look for general shooting situations.
[ Neutral]: Produces an image with a more natural sense of perceived resolution.
[ Wide DR]: Applies a gamma curve with a wide dynamic range and colors appropriate for this gamma

curve.

[ Monochrome]:

Produces a black & white picture.

• When using the [ Wide DR] look, the lowest available gain setting is 9.0 dB. As such, when shooting
outdoors in daylight or other bright surroundings, the subject may appear bright because the camcorder
cannot achieve the optimal exposure.

• Looks are not available when infrared recording is activated.

Setting the Time Code

Setting the Time Code

The camcorder generates a time code signal and records it with the recorded clips. The time code signal is
output from the SDI OUT terminal (u only) and can be output also from the HDMI OUT terminal (A 108).
Depending on the frame rate used, you may be able to select between a drop frame an non-drop frame time

74

code signal (A 75). Though the time code display style is different for DF and NDF, in this section the NDF
display style is used for simplicity’s sake.

Operating modes:

Selecting the Time Code Mode

1 Select [Time Code Mode].

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [Time Code Mode]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Options

[ Preset]: The time code starts from an initial value you can select in advance. The default initial time

code is 00:00:00:00. See the following procedures to select the time code running mode and
set the initial time code.

[ Regen.]: The camcorder will read the selected SD card and the time code will continue from the last

time code recorded on the card. The time code runs only while recording so clips recorded
consecutively on the same card will have continuous time codes.

Setting the Time Code Running Mode

If you set the time code mode to [ Preset], you can select the time code running mode.

1 Select [Time Code Running Mode].

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [Time Code Running Mode]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Options

[ Rec Run]: The time code runs only while recording so clips recorded consecutively on the same card will

have continuous time codes.

[ Free Run]:The time code starts running the moment you confirm the selection and keeps running

regardless of the camcorder’s operation.

Setting the Time Code’s Initial Value

If you set the running mode to [ Preset], you can set the initial value of the time code.

1 Select [Initial Time Code].

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [Initial Time Code]

• The time code setting screen appears with an orange selection frame indicating the hours.

• Select [Reset] to reset the time code to [00:00:00:00] and return to the previous screen. If the running mode
is set to [ Free Run], the time code will be reset the moment you select the button and keep running
continuously from 00:00:00:00.

2 Select [Í] or [Î] to set the value for the hours and then select the minutes field.

• Change the rest of the fields (minutes, seconds, frame) in the same way.

Setting the Time Code

NOTES

NOTES

3 After completing all the fields of the time code, select [OK].

• Select [Cancel] to close the screen without changing the time code.

• If the running mode is set to [ Free Run], the time code will start running from the time code entered
the moment you select [OK].

4Select [X].

Selecting Drop Frame or Non-Drop Frame

You can select between a drop frame (DF) or non-drop frame (NDF) time code, depending on how you plan to
use your recordings. However, when the frame rate is set to 23.98P, the time code is set to non-drop frame
(NDF) and cannot be changed.

1 Select [DF/NDF].

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [DF/NDF]

2 Select [ DF] or [ NDF] and then select [X].

• The time code display will differ depending on the setting. When you select [ DF], the time code will
appear as [00:00:00.00]; when you select [ NDF], it will appear as [00:00:00:00].

75

• When the frame rate is set to 23.98P, the frames value in the time code runs from 0 to 23. For other settings, it
runs from 0 to 29.

• When slow & fast motion recording is activated, you cannot select the [ Free Run] running mode.
Conversely, when pre-recording is activated, [ Free Run] is set automatically and cannot be changed.

• When you mix drop frame and non-drop frame time codes, there might be a discontinuity in the time code at
the point where the recording starts.

• When slow & fast motion recording is activated, the time code signal cannot be output from the SDI OUT
terminal (u only) or HDMI OUT terminal.

• When you are using the [ Free Run] running mode, the time code will continue running as long as the
built-in backup battery has some charge left, even if you disconnect all other power sources. However, this is
less accurate than when the camcorder is on.

Setting the User Bit

NOTES

NOTES

Setting the User Bit

The user bit can be selected from the date or the time of recording, or an identification code consisting of
8 characters in the hexadecimal system. There are sixteen possible characters: the numbers 0 to 9 and the
letters A to F. The user bit is recorded with XF-AVC clips and can be output from the SDI OUT terminal

76

(u only) and HDMI OUT terminal.

Operating modes:

Setting an Hexadecimal Code

1 Open the [User Bit Settings] screen.

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [User Bit Type] > [ Setting] > [i]

• The user bit setting screen appears with an orange selection frame on the leftmost character.

• Select [Reset] to reset the user bit to [00 00 00 00] and return to the previous screen.

2 Select a character you want to change and then select [Î] or [Í] to change it as necessary.

• Change the rest of the characters in the same way.

3 Select [OK] and then select [X].

• Select [Cancel] to close the screen without changing the user bit.

Using the Date or Time

1 Select [User Bit Type].

> [3 # Recording Setup] > [User Bit Type]

2 Select [ Date] or [ Time] and then select [X].

• The user bit will not be recorded with MP4 clips recorded to the card.

Recording Audio

NOTES

NOTES

Recording Audio

The camcorder features 4-channel linear PCM (LPCM) or 2-channel AAC audio recording and playback for MP4
clips, and 4-channel LPCM audio recording and playback for XF-AVC clips. The sampling frequency is 48 kHz.
You can record audio using the INPUT terminals* (commercially available microphones or analog line-in audio
sources), the MIC terminal (commercially available microphones) or the built-in microphone.
The audio signal will be output along with the video signal from the SDI OUT terminal (u only) and HDMI
OUT terminal. You can record this audio signal on an external recorder.

* Requires that the handle unit be correctly attached to the camcorder.

Operating modes:

Selecting the Audio Format of MP4 Clips

When recording MP4 clips, you can set the audio format to AAC (2 channels, 16 bit) or LPCM (linear PCM,
4 channels, 16 bit). When the resolution is set to 1280x720, the audio format is set to AAC and cannot be
changed.

Operating modes:

1 Select [¸ Audio Format].

> [3 ! Recording Setup] > [¸ Audio Format]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

77

• Select AAC format when versatility (the ability to play back on most devices) is more important. Select LPCM
format when audio quality is the priority.

Recording Audio

AUDIO IN switches (audio input selection)

for INPUT 1 for INPUT 2

Audio Settings and Recorded Audio Channels

Which audio inputs are recorded to which audio channels is determined by a combination of menu settings,
whether the handle unit is attached, and other audio-related controls on the camcorder. The following table gives
an overview of the possible combinations. Refer also to the illustration following the table.

78

Microphone

connected
to the MIC

terminal

–

Yes

No

AUDIO IN switch

for

INPUT 1

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1

INT.MIC/

MIC

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1 INPUT2

INPUT1

for

INPUT 2

INT.MIC/

MIC

INPUT2 – –

INT.MIC/

MIC

[CH2 Input] [CH3/CH4 Input]* CH1 CH2 CH3* CH4*

Menu settings

[C ! Audio Setup] >

[

INPUT 2]

[

INPUT 1]

[

INPUT 2]

[

INPUT 1]

– –

[

INPUT 2]

[

INPUT 1]

– –

[ INPUT

[ INPUT

[ Built-in Mic/

MIC Terminal]

[ Built-in Mic/

MIC Terminal]

[ Built-in Mic/

MIC Terminal]

[ Built-in Mic/

MIC Terminal]

Ter mi na l]

Ter mi na l]

Recorded audio channels/audio sources

INPUT 2 terminal

INPUT 1 terminal

INPUT 1
terminal

MIC terminal

(mono)

INPUT 1
terminal

INPUT 2 terminal

INPUT 1 terminal

MIC terminal

(mono)

INPUT 2 terminal

INPUT 1 terminal

Built-in

microphone

(mono)

INPUT 1
terminal

MIC

terminal (L)

INPUT 2
terminal

MIC

terminal (R)

INT.MIC/

MIC

Yes

No

Yes

No – –

* For MP4 clips, only when > [3 Recording Setup] > [¸ Audio Format] is set to [ LPCM 16bit 4CH].

INT.MIC/

MIC

INT.MIC/

MIC

Handle unit not attached

INPUT2 – –

INT.MIC/

MIC

INT.MIC/

MIC

– – MIC terminal (L) MIC terminal (R)

– –

– – MIC terminal (L) MIC terminal (R)

Built-in

microphone

(mono)

Built-in

microphone (L)

Built-in

microphone (L)

INPUT 2 terminal

Built-in

microphone (R)

Built-in

microphone (R)

Built-in

microphone

(L)

Built-in

microphone

(R)

Recording Audio

햲

햳

햴

햵

햶

Microphone lock screw

Cable clamp

INPUT 2 / INPUT 1 terminals

MIC terminal

INPUT 1 / INPUT 2 switches

AUDIO IN switches (audio input selection)

for INPUT 1 for INPUT 2

Connecting an External Microphone or External Audio Input Source to the Camcorder

To each of the INPUT terminals you can attach commercially available microphones or analog line-in sources
with an XLR connector. To use the INPUT terminals and microphone holder, the handle unit must be correctly
attached to the camcorder. To the MIC terminal you can attach commercially available condenser microphones
with a ∅ 3.5 mm stereo mini plug.
Follow the procedure below to attach a microphone (refer also to the following illustration). To connect an
external device to the camcorder, plug the device’s cable into the desired INPUT terminal (햵).

1Loosen the microphone lock screw (햲), open the microphone holder and insert the microphone (햳).

2 Tighten the lock screw and put the microphone cable through the microphone cable clamp under

the microphone holder (햴).

3 Plug the microphone cable into the desired INPUT terminal (햵) or the MIC terminal (햶).

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Recording Audio from the INPUT Terminals to CH1/CH2

1 Set the corresponding AUDIO IN switch to INPUT 1 or INPUT 2.

• You can record the audio input from the INPUT terminals also to CH3/CH4 (A 80).

2To select the audio source, set the corresponding INPUT switch to MIC (microphone) or LINE (audio

device).

• To supply a microphone with phantom power, set the switch to MIC+48V instead. Make sure to connect the

microphone first, before turning the phantom power on. Keep the microphone connected when turning off
the phantom power.

Recording Audio

AUDIO IN switches (audio input selection)

for INPUT 1 for INPUT 2

Recording the Same Audio Input to Two Channels

By default, when using the INPUT terminals, each audio input is recorded to a separate audio channel (INPUT 1
to CH1 and INPUT 2 to CH2). If necessary (for example, as an audio backup recording), you can record the
audio input into the INPUT 1 terminal to both audio channels, CH1 and CH2. In that case, you can adjust the

80

audio recording levels of each channel independently of each other.

1 Select [CH2 Input].

> [C ! Audio Setup] > [CH2 Input]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Options

[ INPUT 2]: Records audio to each channel separately. Audio input into INPUT 1 is recorded to CH1, while

audio input into INPUT 2 is recorded to CH2.

[ INPUT 1]: Audio input into INPUT 1 is recorded to both channels. Audio input into INPUT 2 will not be

recorded.

Selecting the Audio Input Recorded to CH3/CH4

When the audio format is LPCM (4-channel audio recording) and CH1/CH2 are set to the INPUT terminals, you
can select the audio input that will be recorded to channels CH3/CH4 (A 78).

1 Select [CH3/CH4 Input].

> [C ! Audio Setup] > [CH3/CH4 Input]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• When [ Built-In Mic/MIC Terminal] is selected, the camcorder will record audio from the built-in
microphone unless an external microphone is connected to the MIC terminal.

Recording Audio from the Built-In Microphone or MIC Terminal to CH1/CH2

1 If the handle unit is connected to the camcorder, set the corresponding AUDIO IN switch to

INT.MIC/MIC.

2To use an external microphone, connect it to the MIC terminal.

• You can supply power to an external microphone compatible with plug-in power (A 84).

• The camcorder will record audio from the built-in microphone unless an external microphone is connected
to the MIC terminal.

Recording Audio

CH1/CH2 audio level switches

Adjusting the Audio Recording Level

You can adjust the audio recording level of the various audio channels using the audio controls on the handle unit
or the audio screen in the FUNC menu. The audio screen shows an overview of the audio channels used and, for
each audio channel: the audio input currently selected, whether the audio recording level is adjusted
automatically or manually and the audio level indicator.

Automatic Audio Level Adjustment for CH1 or CH2

When the handle unit is attached to the camcorder, set the audio level switch of the desired channel to A
(automatic) to let the camcorder automatically adjust that channel’s audio level. If the handle unit is not attached,
adjust the audio levels using the FUNC menu (A 82).

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Automatic Level Control (ALC): Linking or separating the audio adjustment of CH1/CH2 or CH3/CH4 (INPUT
terminals / MIC terminal)

When the INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 switches are both set to the same type of audio source (line input or
microphone), you can link the audio level adjustment for both inputs with the > [C Audio Setup] >
[INPUT 1/2 ALC Link] setting. When the [ Linked] option is selected, you can use CH1’s audio level switch
and dial to adjust both CH1 and CH2 (A 82), or select [CH3/4] in the FUNC menu's audio screen to adjust
both CH3 and CH4 (A 82).
Conversely, you can set > [C Audio Setup] > [MIC ALC Link] to [ Separated] in order to
separate the audio level adjustment for the L and R channels of an external microphone connected to the MIC
terminal. This allows you to adjust each channel independently in the FUNC menu's audio screen (A 82).

Recording Audio

NOTES

NOTES

CH1/CH2 audio level switches

CH1/CH2 audio level dials

Manual Audio Level Adjustment for CH1 or CH2

When the handle unit is attached to the camcorder, adjust the audio level using the controls on the handle unit. If
the handle unit is not attached, adjust the audio levels using the FUNC menu (A 82).

82

1 Set the audio level switch of the desired channel to M (manual).

2 Turn the corresponding audio level dial.

• For reference, 0 corresponds to – , 5 corresponds to 0 dB, and 10 corresponds to +18 dB.

• As a guideline, adjust the audio recording level so that the audio level meter on the screen will go to the right
of the –18 dB mark (one mark right of the –20 dB mark) only occasionally.

3 Close the protective cover to prevent the audio controls from being changed inadvertently.

Audio Level Adjustment Using the FUNC Menu

When the audio format is LPCM (4-channel audio recording), use the audio screen in the FUNC menu to adjust
the audio recording levels for CH3 and CH4. If the handle unit is not attached to the camcorder, you must use
the audio screen to adjust the audio recording levels for CH1 and CH2 as well.

1 Open the audio screen.

[FUNC] > [C Audio]

2 Select the channel or pair of channels to adjust.
3 Select [ Automatic] or [ö Manual].

• If you selected automatic adjustment, skip to step 5. If you selected manual adjustment, continue the
procedure to adjust the audio recording level.

4 Touch and hold [Ï] or [Ð] to adjust the recording level as necessary.

• As a guideline, adjust the audio recording level so that the audio level meter on the screen will go to the right
of the –18 dB mark (one mark right of the –20 dB mark) only occasionally.

5 Select [X].

• When the audio level meter reaches the red point (0 dB), the sound may be distorted.

• If the audio level display is normal but the sound is distorted, activate the microphone's attenuator (A 83,

84).

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

Recording Audio

Audio peak limiter

• If at least one of the channels is set to the INPUT terminals and manual audio level adjustment, you can
activate the audio limiter to lessen audio distortions. When activated, the audio limiter will limit the amplitude
of audio input signals when they start to distort. Use the > [¡" Audio Setup] > [INPUT 1/2
Limiter] setting.

Advanced Audio Input Settings

Microphone Sensitivity (INPUT Terminals)

When one of the audio channels is set to the INPUT terminals and the corresponding INPUT1 or INPUT2 switch
is set to MIC or MIC+48V, you can select the external microphone’s sensitivity.

1 Select the desired INPUT terminal’s sensitivity.

> [C ! Audio Setup] > [INPUT 1 Mic Trimming] or [INPUT 2 Mic Trimming]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Microphone Attenuator (INPUT Terminals)

When one of the audio channels is set to the INPUT terminals and the corresponding INPUT1 or INPUT2 switch
is set to MIC or MIC+48V, you can activate the external microphone’s attenuator (20 dB).

1 Select the desired INPUT terminal’s attenuator.

> [C ! Audio Setup] > [INPUT 1 Mic Att.] or [INPUT 2 Mic Att.]

2Select [i On] and then select [X].

• å appears on the right of the screen.

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Microphone Sensitivity (Built-in Microphone)

When one of the audio channels is set to the built-in microphone/MIC terminal and no external microphone is
connected to the MIC terminal, you can increase the built-in microphone's sensitivity.

1 Select [Built-in Mic Sensitivity].

> [C " Audio Setup] > [Built-in Mic Sensitivity]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

Options

[h Normal]: For recording audio under usual conditions.
[ High]: For recording audio at a higher level (+6 db).

Microphone Attenuator (Built-in Microphone)

When one of the audio channels is set to the built-in microphone/MIC terminal and no external microphone is
connected to the MIC terminal, you can activate the built-in microphone's attenuator (20 dB) to prevent audio
distortions when the audio level is too high.

1 Select [Built-in Mic Att.].

> [C " Audio Setup] > [Built-in Mic Att.]

2Select [i On] and then select [X].

• å appears on the right of the screen.

Recording Audio

NOTES

NOTES

Low-Cut Filter (Built-in Microphone)

When one of the audio channels is set to the built-in microphone/MIC terminal and no external microphone is
connected to the MIC terminal, you can activate the low cut filter to reduce the sound of blowing wind and other
ambient sounds when recording outdoors. When recording in surroundings unaffected by wind or if you want to

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record low-frequency sounds, we recommend turning off the low-cut filter.

1 Select [Built-in Mic Low Cut].

> [C " Audio Setup] > [Built-in Mic Low Cut]

2 Select [i On] and then select [X].

Microphone Attenuator (MIC Terminal)

When one of the audio channels is set to the built-in microphone/MIC terminal, you can activate the microphone
attenuator (20 dB) for an external microphone connected to the MIC terminal to prevent audio distortions when
the audio level is too high.

1 Select [MIC Att.].

> [C " Audio Setup] > [MIC Att.]

2 Select [i On] and then select [X].

• å appears on the right of the screen.

Low-Cut Filter (MIC Terminal)

When one of the audio channels is set to the built-in microphone/MIC terminal, you can activate the low-cut filter
for an external microphone connected to the MIC terminal. The low-cut filter reduces the sound of blowing wind
and other ambient sounds when recording outdoors. When recording in surroundings unaffected by wind or if
you want to record low-frequency sounds, we recommend turning off the low-cut filter.

1 Select [MIC Low Cut].

> [C # Audio Setup] > [MIC Low Cut]

2 Select [i On] and then select [X].

Plug-in Power (MIC Terminal)

You can supply plug-in power to an external microphone connected to the MIC terminal.

1 Select [MIC Power].

> [C # Audio Setup] > [MIC Power]

2 Select [i On] and then select [X].

• Connecting an external microphone that does not require power supply when [MIC Power] is set to [i On],

may damage the microphone.

Using Headphones

IMPORTANT

Using Headphones

Connect headphones with a ∅ 3.5 mm stereo mini plug to the × (headphone) terminal for playback or to
monitor the recorded audio.

Operating modes:

1 Select [Headphone Volume].

> [C # Audio Setup] > [Headphone Volume]

2 Select [Ô] or [Õ] to adjust the volume and then select [X].

• You can also drag your finger along the volume bar.

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To a d j u st the volume during playback

During playback, you can also adjust the headphones volume in the same way you adjust the speaker’s volume
(A 99).

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

Color Bars/Audio Reference Signal

NOTES

NOTES

Color Bars/Audio Reference Signal

You can have the camcorder generate color bars and a 1 kHz audio reference signal and output them from the
SDI OUT terminal (u only), HDMI OUT terminal and × (headphone) terminal*.

* Audio reference signal only.

86

Operating modes:

Color Bars

You can choose between SMPTE and ARIB color bars.

1 Select [Color Bars].

> [3 $ Recording Setup] > [Color Bars]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• The selected color bars appear on the screen and will be recorded when you press the REC button.

• You cannot change the type of color bars while recording.

• Color bars cannot be used together with slow & fast motion recording.

Audio Reference Signal

The camcorder can output a 1 kHz audio reference signal with the color bars. You can select one of three audio
levels (–12 dB, –18 dB, –20 dB).

1 Select [1 kHz Tone].

> [3 % Recording Setup] > [1 kHz Tone]

2 Select the desired option and then select [X].

• The signal is output at the selected level and will be recorded when you press the REC button.

Pre-Recording

NOTES

NOTES

Pre-Recording

When pre-recording is activated, the camcorder starts recording continuously into a temporary memory (approx.
3 seconds) so when you press the REC button, the clip will contain also a few seconds of video and audio
recorded before you pressed the button.

Operating modes:

1Press the PRE REC button.

• Pre-recording is activated and z appears at the top of the screen.

• Press the button again to turn off pre-recording.

2Press the REC button.

• The clip recorded on the card will include a few seconds of video
and audio recorded before the REC button was pressed.

87

• The camcorder will not record the full 3 seconds prior to pressing the REC button if the button was pressed
within 3 seconds of having turned on pre-recording or having finished the previous recording.

• Pre-recording cannot be used together with slow & fast motion recording.

• Pre-recording will be deactivated in the following cases:

- When the power switch or mode switch is operated.

- When a menu is opened.

- When the shooting mode, white balance or look is changed.

- When the card compartment cover is opened or the card selected for recording clips becomes full.

• About the time code when pre-recording is activated:

- The time code of the clip will start a few seconds before the REC button was pressed.

- The time code will be recorded with the running mode set to [ Free Run].

- If the time code mode was set to [ Regen.], or to [ Preset] with [ Rec Run] running mode, the

time code running mode will be changed automatically to [ Free Run] when pre-recording is activated.

- When pre-recording is turned off, the time code running mode will return to its previous setting.

Infrared Recording

NOTES

NOTES

Infrared Recording

In infrared mode the camcorder becomes more sensitive to infrared light, allowing you to record in dark
locations. You can select the color of brighter areas of the picture (white or green). When the handle unit is
attached to the camcorder, you can also use the handle unit's infrared light to make recordings even brighter.

88

Operating modes:

1 Set the INFRARED switch to ON.

• ; and = appear at the top left of the screen.

2 To change the color of highlights in the infrared picture, select

[IR Rec Color].

> [v % Camera Setup] > [IR Rec Color]

3 Select the desired option and then select [L].

4 To turn on the infrared light, select [IR Light].

>[v % Camera Setup] > [IR Light]

5 Select [i On] and then select [X].

• When the infrared light is on, = changes to .

• While infrared mode is activated, the following apply.

- The aperture remains fully open, the ND filter remains retracted and the camcorder switches to automatic
shutter speed and gain.

- Exposure compensation is set to automatic and the AGC limit, backlight correction (both automatic and
constant) and face detection & tracking are deactivated.

- The camcorder switches to autofocus initially with the AF mode fixed at continuous AF but you can switch
between autofocus and manual focus. The focusing distance display is grayed out.

- The white balance switches to a special setting for infrared mode and cannot be changed.

- The shooting mode and looks cannot be set.

• If you set an assignable button to [< IR Light] (A 94), you can press the button to turn the infrared light

on/off.

• Depending on the light source, autofocus may not work well while zooming.

• In infrared mode the camcorder's sensor is considerably more sensitive to near-infrared light. Do not point the
lens at strong light or heat sources when infrared recording is activated. If there are such light/heat sources in
the picture, we recommend shielding the lens before switching the camcorder to infrared mode.

Using the Optional RC-V100 Remote Controller

NOTES

NOTES

Remote cable
(supplied with the RC-V100)

To the RC-V100’s
REMOTE A terminal

- CUSTOM PICT. button

- SHUTTER SELECT button

- AGC button

- AUTO KNEE button

- KNEE POINT, KNEE SLOPE dials

- BLACK GAMMA LEVEL dial

- SHARPNESS LEVEL dial

- WHITE BALANCE R and B dials

- MASTER BLACK R and B dials

- MASTER PEDESTAL dial

- AUTO IRIS button

- CANCEL button

Using the Optional RC-V100 Remote Controller

You can connect the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller to the camcorder’s REMOTE terminal in order to
control the camcorder (including advanced recording functions) from a distance. The remote controller lets you
turn the camcorder on, navigate the menus and remotely control the aperture and shutter speed, and more.
Use the cable supplied with the remote controller to connect it to the camcorder. For details on how to connect
and use the remote controller, refer to its instruction manual.

Operating modes:

89

1 Turn off the camcorder and connect the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller to the camcorder.

2 Turn on the camcorder in mode and select [REMOTE Terminal].

> [B " System Setup] > [REMOTE Terminal]

3 Select [ RC-V100 (REMOTE A)] and then select [X].

Options

[ RC-V100 (REMOTE A)]:

Select this option to use the optional RC-V100 Remote Controller.

[ Standard]: Select this option to use commercially available remote controls.

• The following controls on the remote controller will not operate the camcorder:

Using the Optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver

To a d j u st the date and time automatically according to the GPS data

You ca n s e t > [B System Setup] > [GPS Auto Time Setting] to [i Auto Update] to have the
camcorder automatically adjust its date and time settings according to the information received from the GPS
signal. The date and time will be updated automatically the first time a correct GPS signal is acquired after
turning on the camcorder.

• While the automatic date/time adjustment is activated, the > [B System Setup] > [Date/Time]

setting will not be available.

• The time will not be updated while recording video.

Using the Optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver

When the optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver is connected to the camcorder’s USB terminal, the camcorder will
automatically record the GPS information (longitude, latitude and altitude) with every recording you make (MP4
clips, XF-AVC clips and photos). For MP4 clips and photos, the UTC (coordinated universal time) date and time

90

will be recorded as well. For XF-AVC clips, the GPS information is recorded as part of the clip's metadata and
can be used to organize and search recordings using Canon XF Utility (A 113).
The recorded GPS information can be checked on the clip information screen or photo playback screen (single
photo view).

Operating modes:

Connecting the GPS Receiver

Turn off the camcorder and the receiver. Connect the receiver to the camcorder’s USB terminal using the USB
cable*. While recording, place the receiver in the carrying case* and attach it to the camcorder’s grip belt or carry
it on your person. For details about connecting and using the receiver, refer to the GP-E2 Instruction Manual.

* Supplied with the receiver.

Activating the GPS Receiver

Turn on the camcorder and receiver.

• The icon appears on the left of the screen and will flash as the receiver tries to acquire satellite signals.

• When satellite signals are correctly acquired, the icon will stay continuously on. GPS functions will be
activated and clips and photos recorded thereafter will be geotagged.

Using the Optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver

IMPORTANT

NOTES

NOTES

• In certain countries/regions, the use of GPS may be restricted. Be sure to use the GPS receiver in accordance
with local laws and regulations of the country/region where the receiver is used. Be particularly careful when
traveling outside of your home country.

• Be careful about using GPS functions where the operation of electronic devices is restricted.

• The GPS information recorded with clips and photos may contain data that can lead others to locate or
identify you. Be careful when sharing geotagged recordings with others or when uploading them to the Web.

• Do not leave the GPS receiver near strong electromagnetic fields such as near powerful magnets and motors.

• The GPS information recorded with clips corresponds to the location at the start of the recording.

• Do not place cables connected to the SDI OUT terminal (u only) or HDMI OUT terminal near the receiver.
Doing so may negatively affect the GPS signal.

• Initial GPS signal reception will take longer after replacing the receiver’s battery or when first turning on the
receiver after a prolonged period of having been turned off.

• The camcorder is not compatible with the receiver's digital compass and positioning interval functions. Also,
the [Set Now] option is not available for the [GPS Auto Time Setting] setting.

91

Using the Optional GP-E2 GPS Receiver

92

Customization

NOTES

4

CUSTOM Dial and Button

You can assign to the CUSTOM button and dial one of several frequently used functions. You can then adjust the
selected function using the CUSTOM button and dial, without having to access the menu.

Operating modes:

1Press and hold the CUSTOM button.

• After about a second, a quick menu of the options will appear.

2 Turn the CUSTOM dial to select the desired function and

then press the CUSTOM button.

3Press the CUSTOM button and turn the CUSTOM dial to

use the assigned function as described in the following
explanations.

• The onscreen value that can be adjusted using the CUSTOM

dial will be highlighted in orange.

93

• You can also use the > [B # System Setup] >
[CUSTOM Dial & Button] setting to select the assigned function.

Options

[ Tv / Av / M]:

When the shooting mode is set to ‚ or “, turn the CUSTOM dial to adjust the shutter speed
or aperture value, respectively.
When the shooting mode is set to n, press the CUSTOM button repeatedly to select the
value you wish to adjust (aperture value → shutter speed → gain value). While the desired
value is highlighted in orange, turn the dial to adjust it.

[ AGC Limit]:

Press the CUSTOM button to turn the AGC limit on/off. When the AGC limit is activated, turn
the dial to set the maximum gain value.

[y Exposure Comp.]:

Press the CUSTOM button to lock the exposure and, if necessary, turn the dial to compensate
the exposure (exposure lock + compensation).

[j Off]: Disables the CUSTOM button and dial.

Assignable Buttons

Onscreen
assignable button

Assignable Buttons

The camcorder offers 5 assignable buttons on the camcorder's body and an onscreen button (touch operation)
to which you can assign various functions (assignable buttons). Assign often-used functions to the buttons you
find most convenient, to personalize the camcorder to your needs and preferences.

94

The names of the buttons printed on the camcorder also indicate their default settings. The onscreen assignable
button will show only the icon of the function currently assigned to it. Assigned functions can be changed only in

mode.

Operating modes:

1Physical buttons: Press the MENU button and, while holding it pressed down, press the assignable

button whose function you wish to change.
Onscreen assignable button

> [B # System Setup] > [Onscreen Assignable Button]

• A list of available functions appears with the current function assigned to the button highlighted.

: Select [Onscreen Assignable Button].

2 Select the desired function and then select [X].

• If necessary, select [Í]/[Î] to scroll up/down.

3Press the assignable button (or touch the onscreen assignable button) to use the assigned function

as described in the following table.

• In mode, only an assignable button set to [œ Monitor Channels] or [ Menu] can be used.

Assignable Buttons

NOTES

Assignable functions

Function name Description A

[ AF/MF] Switches between autofocus and manual focus. 47
[~ Face Only AF] Switches between standard autofocus and autofocus only when a face is detected. 54

[^ Magnification] Turns magnification on/off. 50

[ Focus Guide] Turns the focus guide on/off. 49

[ BLC Always On] Turns the constant backlight correction function on/off. 68

[± Powered IS] Turns powered IS on/off. 60

[Å Set WB]* Registers a custom white balance setting. 71

[Ä WB Priority] Switches between the current white balance setting and a priority white balance setting registered with

the > [v Camera Setup] > [Set WB Priority] setting.

[< IR Light]** When infrared recording is activated, turns the camcorder's infrared light on/off. 88
[z Pre REC] Turns pre-recording on/off. 87

[ Rec Review] Reviews the last clip recorded. 39

[ Photo] Records a photo. 38

[œ Monitor Channels] Changes the audio channels output from the × (headphone) terminal. 110

[ Menu] Opens/closes the setup menus. 29

[j Off] No function assigned – the button is disabled. —

* Available only for physical assignable buttons.
** Requires that the handle unit be correctly attached to the camcorder.

95

117

• You can also use the > [B System Setup] > [Assignable Button 1] to [Assignable Button 5] settings
to change the function assigned to physical buttons.

Saving and Loading Menu Settings

Saving and Loading Menu Settings

After you adjust settings in the various menus, you can save those settings on an SD card. Only SD card B can
be used to save and load menu settings files. You can load those settings at a later date or on another XA55 /
XA50 camcorder so that you can use that camcorder in the same way.

96

Operating modes:

Saving Menu Settings

1Insert the card where you want to save the menu settings into SD card slot B.

2 Select [Save].

> [B # System Setup] > [Backup Menu Settings 7] > [Save]

3 Select [Yes].

• The camcorder’s menu settings will be saved to the card. If menu settings were previously saved, the old file
will be overwritten by the current menu settings.

4 When the confirmation message appears, select [OK].

Loading Menu Settings

1Insert the card with the desired menu settings file into the camcorder's SD card slot B.

2 Select [Load].

> [B # System Setup] > [Backup Menu Settings 7] > [Load]

3 Select [Yes].

• The camcorder’s menu settings will be replaced by the settings saved on the card. Then, the screen will turn
black momentarily and the camcorder will restart.

Playback

3

456

1

22

1 y: Clip index screen

}: Photo index screen.

2 Display the next/previous index page.

You can also swipe left/right on the screen.

3 Index screen button: Select to change the index

screen.

4 [FUNC] button: Clip/photo operations (A 101).
5 MP4 clips/photos only: Folder name. The last

4 digits indicate the recording date
(1103 = November 3).

6 Clips only: Clip information (A 100).

5

Playback

This section explains how to play back clips and photos. For details on playing back recordings using an external
monitor, refer to Connecting to an External Monitor (A 107).

Operating modes:

The Playback Index Screen

1 Set the power switch to MEDIA.

• The camcorder switches to mode and the clip index
screen appears.

2Look for the clip you wish to play back.

• Swipe left/right or touch [Ï]/[Ð] to check other index pages.

• To view photos or play back recordings on the other card,
change the index screen.

97

Changing the Index Screen

Change the index screen to play back a different type of recording (y clips or } photos), clips in a different
format (¸ MP4 clips or XF-AVC clips) or recordings on a different card (6 or 7).

Select the index screen button and then select the desired index screen.

• You can also press the G button on the supplied wireless controller to open the index selection screen.

Playback

IMPORTANT

NOTES

1 8

9
10
11
12
13

14
15

16

4

5

2
3

6 7

1 [FUNC] button: Clip/photo operations (A 101)
2 Output audio channels (A 110), MP4 audio

format (A 77)
3 Look (A 73)
4 Clip playback controls (A 99)
5Volume (A 99)
6 Clip playback operation (A 99)
7 Wireless controller disabled (A 121)
8 Remaining battery charge (A 42)
9Time code (A 74)
10 Frame rate (A 44) and video format (A 44)

11 Resolution and bit rate (A 44)
12 Clips: Clip number

Photos: Photo number / Total number of photos

13 MP4 clips/photos only: File number (A 119)
14 Slow & fast motion rate (A 46)
15 SD card selected for playback (A 97)
16 Data code (A 118)
17 Return the photo index screen
18 Photo jump (A 99)
19 GPS information* (A 90)

Playing Back Recordings

1 In the index screen, touch the thumbnail of the desired recording.

• Clips: Playback will start from the selected clip until the last clip in the index screen.

98

Photos: The selected photo will be displayed. Swipe left/right to view other photos.

2 Touch the screen to display the playback controls.

• During video or photo playback, the playback controls will disappear automatically after a few seconds. In
video playback pause, touch the screen again to hide the playback controls.

12
13

17 18 19

* Only when the optional GP-E2 GPS receiver was used when recording the photo.

• You may not be able to play back with this camcorder movies recorded on an SD card using another device.

• The following image files may not be displayed correctly.

- Images not recorded with this camcorder.

- Images edited on a computer.

- Images whose file names have been changed.

• You can turn off the recording date and time display or change the information displayed with the >

[É Playback Setup] > [Data Code] setting. The icon in the name of the setting and available options depend
on the type of recording being played back.

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

Playback

NOTES

NOTES

Playback Controls

The following playback types are available using the onscreen controls. Using the joystick, push the joystick to
select the desired button and then press the joystick. For clip playback, you can also use the playback buttons
on the supplied wireless controller.

Clip playback controls

Playback type Operation Onscreen icon

Fast playback* During playback, select [Ø] / [×].

• Select repeatedly to increase the playback speed to approximately 5x →

60x the normal speed.

• During fast playback, select [Ð] to return to playback at normal speed.

Slow playback* Select [Ö] / [Õ].

• Select repeatedly to change the playback speed to approximately 1/4 → 1/8 the

normal speed.

Frame reverse/advance* During playback pause, select [ ] / [ ].

Skip to the beginning of the current clip Select [Ú]. —

Skip to the beginning of the previous
clip

Skip to the beginning of the next clip Select [Ù]. —
Pause/resume playback During playback, select [Ý] to pause.

Stop playback Select [Ñ] to stop playback and return to the index screen. —

* There is no audio during this playback mode.

Select [Ú] twice (double tap).

During playback pause, select to [Ð] to resume normal playback.

15x →

x00×
Øx00

x1/0Õ
Öx1/0

—

Ý

Ð

99

Photo playback controls

Playback type Operation

Return to the photo index screen Select [f].
Photo jump Select [h] to display the scroll bar. Select [Ï] / [Ð], or drag your finger along the

scroll bar, to find the desired photo. Select [L] to return to single photo view.

• During fast/slow playback, you may notice some anomalies (blocky video artifacts, banding, etc.) in the
playback picture.

• The speed indicated on the screen is approximate.

• Slow reverse playback will look the same as continuous frame reverse.

Adjusting the Volume

During playback, audio will be output from the monaural built-in speaker. You can connect headphones to the
× (headphone) terminal to listen to the audio in stereo.

1 During playback, touch the screen to display the playback controls.

2 Select [Ó/].

3 Select [Ø]/[Ô] or [Ù]/[Õ] to adjust the volume and then select [K].

• You can also drag your finger along the respective volume bar.

• You can select the audio channels output from the × (headphone) terminal and built-in speaker (A 110).

100

1

3
4
5

2

6
7
8
9

10

1 File number (MP4 clips, A 119)

Clip's file name (XF-AVC clips, A 39)

2 Display the information for the previous/next clip
3 Clip number / Total number of clips
4 Slow & fast motion rate (A 46)
5 Look (A 73)

6 Date and time at the start of recording
7 Clip duration
8 Frame rate (A 44) and video format (A 44)
9 Resolution and bit rate (A 44)
10 GPS information* (A 90)

(location at the start of recording)

Playback

Displaying Clip Information

1 In the clip index screen select [I] and then select the desired clip.

• The [Clip Info] screen will be displayed.

• Select [Ï] / [Ð] to view the information for the previous/next clip.

2 Select [L] twice to return to the index screen.

* Only when the optional GP-E2 GPS receiver was used when recording the clip.