Canon XF105, XF100 User Manual

PUB. DIE-0371-002A

HD Camcorder

Instruction Manual

PAL

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING:

2

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

WARNING:

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

COPYRIGHT WARNING:

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

CAUTION:

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

CAUTION:

DISCONNECT THE MAINS PLUG FROM THE SUPPLY SOCKET WHEN NOT IN USE.

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not expose this product to dripping or splashing.

For Users in the UK

When replacing the fuse only a correctly rated approved type should be used and be sure to re-fit the fuse
cover.

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

CAUTION:

• Danger of explosion if the wrong type of batteries are attached. Use only the same type of batteries.

• Do not expose batteries or product to excessive heat such as the inside of a car under direct sunlight, fire,
etc.

While using the AC adapter, do not wrap it or cover it with a piece of cloth, and do not place it in confined
narrow spaces. Heat may build up, the plastic case may deform and it could result in electric shock or fire.

CA-935 identification plate is located on the bottom.

Only for European Union and EEA (Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein)

These symbols indicate that this product is not to be disposed of with your household
waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU), the Battery Directive (2006/66/EC)
and/or national legislation implementing those Directives.

If a chemical symbol is printed beneath the symbol shown above, in accordance with the
Battery Directive, this indicates that a heavy metal (Hg = Mercury, Cd = Cadmium, Pb = Lead) is present in
this battery or accumulator at a concentration above an applicable threshold specified in the Battery
Directive.
This product should be handed over to a designated collection point, e.g., on an authorized one-for-one
basis when you buy a new similar product or to an authorized collection site for recycling waste electrical
and electronic equipment (EEE) and batteries and accumulators. Improper handling of this type of waste
could have a possible impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous
substances that are generally associated with EEE. Your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product
will contribute to the effective usage of natural resources.
For more information about the recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, waste
authority, approved scheme or your household waste disposal service or
visit www.canon-europe.com/weee, or www.canon-europe.com/battery.

3

Trademark Acknowledgements

• SD and SDHC Logos are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC.

• CompactFlash is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation.

• The Logo is a trademark of CompactFlash Association.

• Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.

• Apple, Mac OS, Final Cut Pro are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

• Avid, Media Composer and NewsCutter are trademarks or registered trademarks of Avid Technology, Inc. or
its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries.

• HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of
HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.

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

• This device incorporates exFAT technology licensed from Microsoft.

• ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY MANNER THAT
COMPLIES WITH THE MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED
MEDIA IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN THE MPEG-2
PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C., 250 STEELE STREET,
SUITE 300, DENVER, COLORADO 80206.

Highlights of the XF105/XF100

The Canon XF105/XF100 HD Camcorder has been designed with quality and functionality at the forefront while
maintaining a compact size. The following are just some of the many features that will help turn your creative
vision into reality.

4

HD Recording

CMOS system and DIGIC DV III image processor

The camcorder is equipped with a 1/3-type CMOS
sensor that captures video at an effective pixel count
of approximately 2.07 megapixels (1920x1080).
Images are then processed by the state-of-the-art
DIGIC DV III image processor.

Superb HD video

The camcorder uses the MPEG-2 Long GOP codec.
When you record using the 50 Mbps bit rate (with
4:2:2 color sampling), the quality of your recordings
will rival that of broadcast video. Your recordings are
saved as Material eXchange Format (MXF) files,
which are compatible with major non-linear editing
(NLE) software.

You can configure the video recording signal to suit
your needs. By combining the bit rate/resolution
setting with the frame rate setting, you can produce
video from 1440x1080/25P at 25 Mbps to
1280x720/50P at 35 Mbps to 1920x1080/50i at 50
Mbps. You can select from a total of 11 different
combinations!

Operability

Easy-to-use controls in a compact body

This camcorder has a variety of external controls at
your fingertips, such as the manual ring, which
allows you to adjust the focus, zoom or aperture
simply by moving a switch and turning the ring. All of
this is in a body that is so compact that you can
carry and use the camcorder for long periods of time
without experiencing fatigue.

Face detection

When a subject’s face is detected, the camcorder
can track and focus on it. Furthermore, you can
have the camcorder in manual focus but switch to
autofocus only when a face is detected (0 50),
ensuring that important subjects are in focus.

Recording media

The camcorder records video and audio to
CompactFlash (CF) cards. You can even make
lengthy recordings without worry because the
camcorder features two CF card slots. When one
CF card becomes full, the recording will
automatically continue on the other one without
interruption when you use relay recording (0 38).

Canon XF Utility software

Managing your recordings is as simple as using the
Canon XF Utility software. You can transfer your
recordings to your computer, where you can view
and manage them. Using the associated plugins,
you can then use the recordings with major NLE
software*.

*Refer to Saving Clips to a Computer (0 128) for details

on compatible software.

Versatile Artistic Expression

Special recording modes

The special recording modes (0 85) give you more
creative control over your recordings. You can create
a slow motion or fast motion effect in your
recordings, record a certain number of frames at a
set interval (ideal for subjects with little movement) or
record a certain number of frames every time you
press a button (ideal for stop motion animation).

Custom picture settings

With custom picture settings (0 96), you can enjoy
unparalleled image control to deliver the “look” you
want by adjusting parameters, such as gamma and
sharpness. The custom picture settings can be
recorded onto an SD card, which allows multiple
XF105/XF100 camcorders to use the same settings,
or embedded in the recording itself.

Infrared recording

Record in darkness using infrared recording
(0 90). With the built-in infrared light, you can
record nocturnal animals in their natural environment
or other such scenes.

Advanced Professional Features

Pro-level connectivity (b only)

An industry-standard HD/SD SDI terminal (0 124)
for uncompressed HD signal output, embedded
audio and SMPTE time code (LTC) give the
camcorder the functionality of professional
broadcast cameras. Genlock synchronization
(0 72) and time code synchronization (0 72)
allow the camcorder to be part of any multi-camera
shooting setup.

Customization

The camcorder features several customization
options. You can assign often-used functions to
assignable buttons (0 94) so that you can call up
those functions with the press of a single button.
Custom functions (0 104) and custom onscreen
displays (0 105) give you even more freedom to
control many aspects of the camcorder’s operation.
Save custom picture and menu settings to an SD
card so that you can transfer your setting
preferences to other XF105/XF100 camcorders in
order to use them in the same way.

Other Functions

Audio

Sound is recorded as 2-channel linear PCM audio
(16-bit/48 kHz). You can use the built-in
microphone, MIC audio input terminal or the two
XLR audio input terminals (with phantom power
supply) when recording.

Video scopes

Check the brightness of the image using the
waveform monitor (0 81) or the focus using the
edge monitor (0 82).

Added and improved functionality

Other functions include improved image stabilization
(0 52), the option to add metadata to recordings
(0 79), and the Intelligent System-compatible
battery pack (0 167). Also, optical axis shift
(0 92) and the focal length guide (0 93) have
been added to aid in 3D shooting.

5

Table of Contents

6

1. Introduction 9

About this Manual 9

Conventions Used in this Manual 9

Supplied Accessories 11
Names of Parts 12

2. Preparations 21

Preparing the Power Supply 21

Using a Battery Pack 21
Turning the Camcorder On and Off 24

Date, Time and Language Settings 25

Setting the Date and Time 25
Changing the Time Zone 25
Displaying the Date and Time while Recording 26
Changing the Language 26

Using the Menus 27

Selecting an Option from the Menu 27

Preparing the Camcorder 29

Attaching the Microphone Holder Unit 29
Attaching the Lens Hood 29
Dioptric Adjustment 29
Using the LCD Panel 30
Using the Viewfinder and LCD Screen

Simultaneously 30
Adjusting the Viewfinder/LCD Screen 30
Setting the Screen to Black & White 31
Adjusting the Grip Belt 31
Attaching a Shoulder Strap 31
Removing and Attaching the Terminal Covers 32
Using the Wireless Controller 32
Using a Tripod 33

Preparing Recording Media 34

Inserting a CF Card 34
Checking the Status of the CF Card Slots 35
Removing a CF card 35
Inserting and Removing an SD Card 36
Initializing the Recording Media 36
Switching Between the CF Card Slots 37
Selecting the CF Card Recording Method 37
Checking the Available Recording Time 38
Recovering Data on the CF Card 38

3. Recording 39

Recording Video 39

Preparing to Record 39
Recording 39
Onscreen Displays 42
Power Save Mode 44

Video Configuration: Bit Rate, Resolution and

Frame Rate 45
Custom Button and Dial 46
Adjusting the Focus 47

Manual Focus Mode 47
Using the Focus Assistance Functions 48
Autofocus Mode 49
Detecting and Focusing On Faces 50
Focus Limit and Macro Shooting 51

Image Stabilizer 52
Gain 53

Automatic Gain Control (AGC) 53
Manual Gain Control 54

Shutter Speed 55

Changing the Shutter Speed Mode 56
Flicker Reduction 56

Adjusting the Aperture 57

Automatic Aperture Control 57
Manual Aperture Control 57
Adjusting the AE Level 58
Setting the Light Metering Mode 58

White Balance 59

Auto White Balance 59
Preset White Balance 59
Setting the Color Temperature 60
Custom White Balance 61

Zooming 62

Using the Manual Ring 62
Using the Zoom Rockers, Wireless Controller or

Optional Remote Control 62

Soft Zoom Control 65

Using Optional Conversion Lenses 66
Onscreen Markers and Zebra Patterns 67

Displaying Onscreen Markers 67
Displaying Zebra Patterns 68

7

Setting the Time Code 69

Selecting the Running Mode 69
Putting the Time Code Display on Hold 70

Setting the User Bit 71
b Synchronizing with an External

Device 72

Connecting an External Device 72
Using a Reference Video Signal

(Genlock Synchronization) 72
Using a Time Code Signal 72
Time Code Signal Output 73

Recording Audio 74

Using the Built-in or External Microphone

Connected to the MIC Terminal 74
Using Line Input or an External Microphone

Connected to an XLR Terminal 75
Adjusting the Audio Level 77
Monitoring the Audio with Headphones 78

Using Metadata 79

Setting a User Memo 79

Color Bars/Audio Reference Signal 80

Recording Color Bars 80
Recording an Audio Reference Signal 80

Video Scopes 81

Displaying a Video Scope 81
Configuring the Waveform Monitor 81
Configuring the Edge Monitor 82

Adding Shot Marks while Recording 83
Reviewing a Recording 84
Special Recording Modes 85

Interval Recording Mode 85
Frame Recording Mode 86
Slow & Fast Motion Mode 87
Pre-recording Mode 88

Infrared Recording 90

Activating Infrared Mode 90
Using the Infrared Light 90

Optical Axis Shift 92
Using the Focal Length Guide 93

4. Customization 94

Assignable Buttons 94

Changing the Assigned Function 94
Using an Assignable Button 95

Custom Picture Settings 96

Selecting Custom Picture Files 96
Editing a Custom Picture File’s Settings 97
Renaming Custom Picture Files 97
Protecting Custom Picture Files 97
Transferring Custom Picture Files 98
Embedding Custom Picture Settings in a

Recording 99

Available Custom Picture Settings 99

Customizing Functions and Onscreen

Displays 104

Customizing Functions 104
Customizing Onscreen Displays 105

Saving and Loading Camera Settings 106

Saving Camera Settings to an SD Card 106
Loading Camera Settings from an SD Card 106

5. Playback 107

Playback 107

Clip Index Screen 107
Playing Back Clips 109
Onscreen Displays 110
Playback Controls 111
Adjusting the Volume 111
Adding Shot Marks during Playback 112

8

Clip Operations 113

Using the Clip Menu 114
Displaying Clip Information 114
Adding e Marks or Z Marks 115
Deleting e Marks or Z Marks 115
Copying Clips 116
Deleting Clips 117
Deleting the User Memo 117
Copying a Custom Picture File Embedded in a

Clip 118
Displaying an Index Screen of Shot Marks 118
Displaying a Frame Index Screen of a Single

Clip 119
Adding or Deleting Shot Marks from an Index

Screen 119
Changing a Clip’s Thumbnail 120

6. External Connections 121

Video Output Configuration 121

Video Output Configuration by Terminal 121
SD Output 122

Connecting to an External Monitor 123

Connection Diagram 123
b Using the HD/SD SDI Terminal 124
Using the HDMI OUT Terminal 124
Using the HD/SD COMPONENT OUT

Terminal 124
Using the AV Terminal 125
Superimposing Onscreen Displays to Appear on

an External Monitor 125

Audio Output 126

b Embedded Audio 126
Synchronizing the Video with the Audio being

Monitored 126
Selecting the Audio Channel 126
Selecting the Output Level of the AV

Terminal 127

Saving Clips to a Computer 128

Saving MXF Clips 128
Installing Canon XF Utility (Windows) 128
Installing Canon XF Utility (Mac OS) 129
Viewing the Software Instruction Manuals 131

7. Photos 132

Taking Photos 132

Taking Photos in CAMERA Mode 132
Capturing Photos in MEDIA Mode 132

Photo Playback 134

Displaying the [Photos] Index Screen 134
Viewing Photos 134

Photo Operations 135

Using the Photo Menu 135
Deleting Photos 135
Protecting Photos 136
Copying Custom Picture Files 137
Photo Numbering 138

8. Additional Information 139

Menu Options 139
Displaying the Status Screens 150
Troubleshooting 156

List of Messages 159

Handling Precautions 162
Maintenance/Others 165
Optional Accessories 166
Specifications 170

Index 174

Introduction

1

About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing the Canon XF105/XF100. 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
Trou bl es ho ot ing (0 156).

Conventions Used in this Manual

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

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

• 0: Reference page number.

• b: Text that applies only to the model shown in the icon.

• The following terms are used in this manual.
“Screen” refers to the LCD screen and the viewfinder screen.
“CF card” refers to a CompactFlash (CF) card.
“SD card” refers to an SD or SDHC memory card.
“Recording media” refers to CF cards and SD cards.

• Photographs in the manual are simulated pictures taken with a still camera. Some screenshots have been
altered to make them easier to read.

• Illustrations in the manual show the b.

9

About this Manual

Reviewing a Recording

Reviewing a Recording

When the camcorder is in mode, you can review the last clip that
was recorded.

1 Open the [Rec Review] submenu to set the review length.

[J Other F unctions] [Rec Review]

2 Select the desired option and then press SET.

3 After you finish recording, press the

U button.

• The last clip that was recorded is played back without audio for the

selected duration. [A REVIEW] appears at the top of the screen.

• Press the CANCEL button to stop reviewing the clip and change the
camcorder back to record pause mode.

• After the clip finishes playing back, the camcorder returns to record
pause mode.

Options

NOTES

• When you are using a special recording mode (0 88), you cannot review a clip.

• If the camcorder switched CF cards during a recording, the camcorder will play back the clip on the CF card
most recently recorded on.

Operating modes:

[Entire Clip]: Allows you to review the entire clip.

[Last 4 sec]: Allows you to review just the last 4 seconds of the clip.

[J Other Functions]

[

Rec Review]

[Last 4 sec]

Operating modes

indicates that a function is available in the
operating mode indicated and indicates that the
function is not available. For a detailed explanation,

10

refer to Turning the Camcorder On and Off (0 24).

When a function requires the use of the menu,
the quick reference shows the submenus and,
when applicable, the default setting for the
menu item. The example illustration indicates
that you can find the function by selecting the
[J Other Functions] menu and then the [Rec
Review] menu item.

When a procedure requires selecting an option,
the available options are listed within or after the
procedure. Brackets [ ] are used to refer to menu
options as they are displayed on screen.

The arrow is used to abbreviate menu selections. For
a detailed explanation on how to use the menus,
refer to Using the Menus (0 27). For a concise
summary of all available menu options and settings,
refer to the appendix Menu Options (0 139).

Supplied Accessories

The following accessories are supplied with the camcorder.

Supplied Accessories

11

CA-935 AC Adapter

(incl. power cord)

Lens Hood Lens Cap WL-D6000 Wireless Controller

Microphone holder unit BP-925 Battery Pack

(incl. terminal cover)

(incl. CR2025 Lithium Battery)

CTC-100/S Component

Cable

SS-1200 Shoulder Strap

Names of Parts

Names of Parts

12

Operation panel

(0 18)

햲

2

1

3

4
5

Operation panel

(0 18)

햳

6
7

8
9

101112131415161718192021

1 CF card slot covers for CF card slot A (CFj) and

CF card slot B (CFl)

2 CF card slots A (CFj) and B (CFl) (0 34)
3 CF card release buttons (0 35)
4 d switch (0 24)
5ON/OFF indicator
6 SLOT SELECT (CF card slot selection) button

(0 37)

7DISP. button (0 42)/

BATT. (battery information) button (0 22)
8RESET button (0 157)
9 INDEX button (0 109)/

U (review recording) button (0 84)
10 S (white balance adjustment) button (0 60)

11 WB (white balance) button (0 59)
12 CAMERA switch (0 41)
13 CF card slot cover switches for CF card slot A

(CFj) and CF card slot B (CFl) (0 34)
14 SHUTTER button (0 56)
15 GAIN button (0 54)
16 IRIS button (0 57)
17 CUSTOM (customizable) dial (0 46)
18 AF/MF (autofocus/manual focus) button

(0 47, 49)
19 Manual ring switch (0 47, 57, 62)
20 Manual ring (0 47, 57, 62)
21 Lens hood (0 29)

Names of Parts

12 3 45

Terminals

햲

(0 19)

6

13

10

1 REMOTE terminal
2 SD card access indicator (0 36)
3SD card slot (0 36)
4SD card slot cover
5 MIC (microphone) terminal (0 74)
6 XLR terminals (CH1 and CH2) (0 75)
7 Lens hood lock screw (0 29)
8 b HD/SD SDI terminal (0 124)
9 b GENLOCK terminal (0 72) / TC (time code) terminal (0 72)
10 Grip belt (0 31)

789

Names of Parts

11

14

10

9

8
7

6

5

1 Built-in microphone (0 74)
2 Built-in speaker (0 112)
3 Strap mount (0 31)
4 CUSTOM (customizable) button (0 46)
5 INFRARED switch (0 90)
6 Instant AF sensor (0 49)
7 Remote sensor (0 33)
8 Infrared light (0 90)
9 Microphone cable clamp (0 75)
10 Microphone holder unit (0 75)
11 Microphone lock screw (0 75)

1

2
3

4

Names of Parts

1

15

2

13
12
11

10

9

8

7
6

Terminals

햳

(0 19)

1 Viewfinder (0 29, 30)
2 Dioptric adjustment lever (0 29)
3 BATT. RELEASE (battery release) key (0 22)
4 START/STOP button (0 39)
5 Strap mount (0 31)
6 WFM (waveform monitor) button (0 81)/Assignable button 3 (0 94)
7 ZEBRA button (0 67)/Assignable button 2 (0 94)
8 CANCEL button (0 27)
9Joystick (0 27)/SET button (0 27)
10 MENU button (0 27)
11 LCD screen (0 30)
12 POWERED IS button (0 52)/Assignable button 1 (0 94)
13 POWER SAVE button (0 44)

3

4

5

16

Names of Parts

12345 67 8

1011

1Front tally lamp (0 39)
2 Accessory shoe

For attaching accessories such as the optional VL-10Li II Battery Video Light.

3 Rear tally lamp (0 39)
4START/STOP lock lever (0 40)
5 START/STOP button (0 39)
6 Handle socket for 0.64 cm (1/4") screws
7 Grip zoom rocker (0 63)
8 MAGN. (magnification) button (0 49)/Assignable button 4 (0 94)
9 CF card slot A (CFj) and CF card slot B (CFl) access indicators (0 35)
10 Handle zoom rocker (0 64)
11 Audio level dials for CH1 and CH2 (0 78)

9

Names of Parts

1

17

2

34

1 Attachment sockets for the optional TA-100 Tripod Adapter (0 33)
2 Attachment screws for a tripod base (0 33)
3 Tripod socket (0 33)
4 Tripod base for tripods with 0.64 cm (1/4") screws (0 33)

18

Names of Parts

Operation panel 햲

Operation panel 햳

9

8

1 Audio level switches for CH1 and CH2 (0 78)
2 XLR terminal switches for CH1 and CH2 (0 76)
3 AUDIO IN switches for CH1 and CH2 (0 74, 76)

1

2

3

4 D (play/pause) button (0 109)/

Assignable button 6 (0 94)

5 I (fast playback) button (0 111)/

4

5

6

Assignable button 7 (0 94)

6 K (skip forward) button (0 111)/

Assignable button 10 (0 94)

7 B (stop) button (0 109)/

Assignable button 9 (0 94)

8 L (skip backward) button (0 111)/

Assignable button 8 (0 94)

9 J (fast reverse playback) button (0 111)/

Assignable button 5 (0 94)

7

Names of Parts

19

Term ina ls 햲

Term ina ls 햳

1HD/SD COMPONENT OUT terminal (0 124)
2USB terminal
3HDMI OUT terminal (0 124)

12 3

4 W (headphone) terminal (0 78)
5AV terminal (0 125)
6DC IN terminal (0 23)

45 6

Names of Parts

WL-D6000 Wireless Controller

20

1

14
13
12

2

11
10

9
8

7

3

4

5

6

1 START/STOP button (0 39)
2 ZOOM buttons (0 65)
3 F/O/E/A buttons
4 MENU button (0 27)
5 J/I (fast playback/reverse playback) buttons (0 111)
6 Z/Y (frame forward/reverse) buttons (0 111)
7 B (stop) button (0 109)
8 D (play/pause) button (0 109)
9INDEX button (0 109)
10 SET button (0 27)
11 CANCEL button (0 27)
12 SHOT1 (shot mark 1) button (0 83)
13 PHOTO button (0 132)
14 Record enable button: When you use the START/STOP button or ZOOM buttons,

you must press this button simultaneously with the desired button.

Preparations

2

Preparing the Power Supply

You can power the camcorder using a battery pack or directly using the AC adapter. If you connect the AC
adapter to the camcorder while a battery pack is attached, the camcorder will draw power from the power
outlet.
Charge battery packs before use. For approximate charging times and recording/playback times with a fully
charged battery pack, refer to Charging Times (0 167) and Recording and Playback Times (0 167).

Using a Battery Pack

You can power the camcorder using the supplied BP-925 or optional BP-950G, BP-955, BP-970G or BP-975
Battery Pack. The BP-925, BP-955 and BP-975 Battery Packs are compatible with Intelligent System, meaning
that you can check the remaining battery time even while the camcorder is turned off.

Charging the Battery Pack

Charge battery packs using the supplied AC adapter. Before using a battery
pack, remove the terminal cover in advance.

1 If the supplied AC adapter is connected to the camcorder, disconnect the

DC plug from the camcorder's DC IN terminal.

2 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter (햲).

3 Plug the power cord into a power outlet (햳).

4 Attach the battery pack to the AC adapter (햴).

• Press lightly and slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until
it clicks.

• The CHARGE indicator starts flashing and also indicates the battery
pack’s approximate charge. The indicator will stay on when charging has completed.

햴

CHARGE
indicator

햲

햳

21

5 When charging has completed, remove the battery pack from the AC adapter.

6 Unplug the power cord from the power outlet and disconnect it from the AC adapter.

NOTES

• To charge the battery pack, disconnect the AC adapter from the camcorder.

0-34%: Flashes once per second
35-69%: Flashes twice per second
70-99%: Flashes 3 times per second

Preparing the Power Supply

Attaching the Battery Pack

1 Move the d switch to OFF (햲).

2 Insert the battery pack all the way into the compartment and press

22

gently until it clicks (햳).

Removing the Battery Pack

1 Move the d switch to OFF.

2 Hold down the BATT. RELEASE (battery release) key and remove the

battery.

Checking the Remaining Battery Charge

If you are using the supplied BP-925 or optional BP-955 or BP-975 Battery
Pack, you can check the approximate remaining battery charge using one
of the following methods when the camcorder is turned off. When the
camcorder is turned on, you can check on the remaining battery charge by
looking at any recording/playback screen or the [Battery / Hour Meter]
status screen (0 154).

Press the CHECK button on the battery pack. An indicator will light for
approximately 3 seconds and show the approximate remaining battery
charge.

0-25%
26-50%
51-75%
76-100%

CHECK button

0 100%

Battery charge indicator

Preparing the Power Supply

When the camcorder is off and an Intelligent System-compatible battery
pack is attached, press the BATT. (battery information) button to display the
remaining battery time and available recording time (displays for 5
seconds). Depending on the battery life, the battery information may not be
displayed.

IMPORTANT

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

NOTES

• We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between
10 ºC and 30 ºC. Outside the temperature range of 0 ºC to 40 ºC,
charging will not start.

• If there is a malfunction with the AC adapter or battery pack, the charge
indicator will go out and charging will stop.

• For handling precautions regarding the battery pack, refer to Battery
Pack (0 162).

• 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.

• The first time you use a battery pack, fully charge it and then use the camcorder until the battery pack is
completely exhausted. Doing so will ensure that the remaining recording time will be displayed accurately.

• Repeatedly charging and discharging the battery pack will eventually shorten its battery life. When you are
using the supplied BP-925 or optional BP-955 or BP-975 Battery Pack, you can check the battery life on the
[Battery / Hour Meter] status screen (0 154) or the battery information screen (press the BATT. button while
the camcorder is turned off). Fully charging the battery pack and then discharging it will give you a more
accurate reading.

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Using a Power Outlet

When Using the Supplied CA-935 AC Adapter:

1Set the d switch to OFF (햲).

2 If a battery pack is attached to the AC adapter, remove it.

• Connecting the AC adapter to the camcorder while a battery pack is

attached to the AC adapter may result in the camcorder not operating
correctly.

3 Connect the AC adapter's DC plug to the DC IN terminal on the

camcorder (햳).

4 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter and plug it into a power outlet

(햴).

IMPORTANT

• Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the AC

DC IN
terminal

햴

adapter.

NOTES

• When using the camcorder with a power outlet, you can change the battery pack while the power is on.

Preparing the Power Supply

When Using the Optional CA-920 Compact Power Adapter and
DC-920 DC Coupler:

1 Move the d switch to OFF (햲).

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2 Attach the DC coupler to the camcorder (햳).

3 Connect the power cord to the compact power adapter and plug it into a

power outlet (햴).

4 Connect the DC coupler to the adapter (햵).

5 Detach the DC coupler after use.

• Push the BATT. RELEASE key and pull out the DC coupler.

IMPORTANT

• Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the compact
power adapter.

Turning the Camcorder On and Off

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

To turn on the camcorder

Hold down the button on the d switch and move it to CAMERA for

mode or MEDIA for mode. The ON/OFF indicator will

illuminate in green.

CAMERA mode MEDIA mode

To turn off the camcorder

Move the d switch to OFF. The ON/OFF indicator will turn off.

Date, Time and Language Settings

Date, Time and Language Settings

Setting the Date and Time

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

Operating modes:

1 Push the joystick up/down to change the day then move (A) to the month.

2 Change the rest of the fields in the same way.

3 Select (A) [Set] and then press SET to start the clock and close the screen.

25

NOTES

• When the built-in rechargeable lithium battery is exhausted, the date and time setting may be lost. In such

case, recharge the built-in lithium battery (0 164) and set the time zone, date and time again.

• You can change the date format and the clock format (12/24 hours) with the [J Other Functions] [Clock

Set] [Date Format] setting.

• You can also change the date and time later on (not during the initial setup) with the [J Other Functions]

[Clock Set] [Date/Time] setting.

Changing the Time Zone

Change the time zone to match the time zone of your location. The default
setting is [UTC+01:00 Central Europe]. The time zones are based on
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Operating modes:

1 Press the MENU button.

2 Push the joystick up/down to select [J Other

3 Select [Time Zone] in a similar fashion.

4 Push the joystick up/down to change the time zone.

5 Press SET to set the time zone and then press the MENU button to close the menu.

Functions] and then press SET.

[J Other Functions]

[Time Zone]

[UTC+01:00 Central Europe]

Date, Time and Language Settings

Displaying the Date and Time while Recording

You can display the date and time in the lower left of the screen.

Operating modes:

26

1 Press the MENU button.

2 Push the joystick up/down to select [M LCD/VF Setup].

3 Select [Custom Display 2] and then [Date/Time] in a similar

fashion.

4 Push the joystick up/down to select the information to display.

• Select [Off] to record without displaying the date and time.

5 Press SET and then press the MENU button to close the menu.

Changing the Language

You can change the language in which onscreen messages are displayed.
The default language is English but you can select German, Spanish,
French, Italian, Polish, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Korean or Japanese.

Operating modes:

1 Press the MENU button.

2 Push the joystick up/down to select [J Other Functions].

3 Select [Language o] in a similar fashion.

4 Use the joystick to select a language.

5 Press SET to select the language and then press the MENU button to close the menu.

[M LCD/VF Setup]

[Custom Display 2]

[Date/Time]

[Off]

[J Other Functions]

[Language o]

[English]

Using the Menus

Using the Menus

In mode, many of the camcorder’s functions can be adjusted from the menu for general settings, which
opens after pressing the MENU button. In mode, press the MENU button to open the menu for general
settings or SET to open the clip menu for clip operations. For details about the available menu options and
settings, refer to Menu Options (0 139).

Operating modes:

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

Joystick/SET button
Push the joystick to move the orange selection frame in the
menu. Then, press the joystick itself (SET button) to select
the menu item indicated by the orange selection frame.

CANCEL button
Press to return to the previous menu or to stop some
operations that are in progress.

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Selecting an Option from the Menu

The following is a step-by-step explanation of how to select an option from the menu. In the procedures
throughout the rest of this manual, opening and closing the menu is assumed and not included in the procedure.

1 Press the MENU button.

• The menu opens with the orange selection frame indicating the menu item that was selected the previous
time the menu was closed (unless the camcorder was turned off).

2 Push the joystick up/down to select the desired submenu.

3 Push the joystick right or press SET.

• The orange selection frame will appear on a menu item in the submenu.

• Press the CANCEL button, push the joystick left, or select [a] to return to the previous submenu.

4 Push the joystick up/down to select the desired menu item.

• If a submenu contains many menu items, a scroll bar will appear on the right side of the submenu indicating
that you must scroll up or down to see other menu items.

•A A mark next to a menu item indicates another submenu. Repeat steps 3 and 4.

5 Push the joystick right or press SET.

• The orange selection frame will appear on a setting option.

• Press the CANCEL button to return to the previous submenu.

6 Push the joystick up/down to select the desired setting option and then press SET.

• Depending on the menu item, additional selections may be necessary.

7 Press the MENU button to close the menu.

Using the Menus

NOTES

• Unavailable items may appear grayed out.

• Pressing the MENU button at any time closes the menu.

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• When using the wireless controller, use the h, i, f, g and SET buttons in the same way as the

camcorder’s joystick.

• You can check the current settings on the status screens (0 150).

Preparing the Camcorder

Preparing the Camcorder

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

Attaching the Microphone Holder Unit

Use the supplied screws to attach the microphone holder unit to the
handle.

Attaching the Lens Hood

Attach the lens hood to protect the lens and reduce the amount of stray
light that may hit the lens.

1 Place the lens hood on the front of the lens (햲) and turn it 90

degrees clockwise

• Be careful not to deform the lens hood.

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

2 Tighten the lock screw (햴).

(햳).

햳

햲

29

Dioptric Adjustment

Turn on the camcorder and adjust the dioptric adjustment lever.

햴

Preparing the Camcorder

Using the LCD Panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees.

• You can rotate the panel 90 degrees downward or 180 degrees toward

30

the lens.

NOTES

• By default, the viewfinder screen is turned off while you use the LCD
screen. However, you can also use both displays simultaneously. See the
following section.

• You can set the LCD screen to black & white (0 31).

• When you use a commercially available lens adapter and the image on the screen is inverted, you can use the
[J Other Functions] [Custom Function] [Scan Reverse Rec] setting to return the image to the correct
orientation.

Using the Viewfinder and LCD Screen Simultaneously

By default, the viewfinder screen is turned off while you use the LCD
screen. Follow the procedure below to use both of them simultaneously.

Operating modes:

1 Open the [LCD/VF Simul.] submenu.

[M LCD/VF Setup] [LCD/VF Simul.]

2 Select [On] and then press SET.

Adjusting the Viewfinder/LCD Screen

You can adjust the brightness, contrast, color, sharpness*, and backlight
of the viewfinder and LCD screen independently of each other. These
adjustments will not affect your recordings.

* The viewfinder's sharpness cannot be adjusted.

Operating modes:

1 Open the setup menu for the viewfinder or LCD screen.

[M LCD/VF Setup] [LCD Setup] or [VF Setup]

2 Select [Brightness], [Contrast], [Color], [Sharpness] or [Backlight]

and then press SET.

3 Adjust the setting and then press SET.

• Repeat steps 2 and 3 to adjust other settings as necessary.

[M LCD/VF Setup]

[LCD/VF Simul.]

[Off]

[M LCD/VF Setup]

[LCD Setup]

[VF Setup]

[Brightness: 0]

[Contrast: 0]

[Color: 0]

[Sharpness: 2]*

[Backlight: Normal]

* The viewfinder's sharpness

cannot be adjusted.

NOTES

• If you set an assignable button to [LCD Setup] (0 94), you can press the button to open the [LCD Setup]
submenu.