Canon XL1 User Manual

	DIGITAL VIDEO CAMCORDER	ENGLISH
	Instruction Manual
		E
	CAMÉSCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDEO NUMÉRIQUES
		FRANÇAIS
	Mode d’emploi
		F

	VIDEOCÁMARA Y GRABADORA DIGITAL	ESPAÑOL
	Manual de Instrucciones
		Es

Mini	Digital
	Video
	Cassette

A (NTSC)

Important Usage Instructions

E

WARNING:

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

WARNING:

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

COPYRIGHT WARNING:

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

Introduction

Digital Video Camcorder, XL1

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Use of shielded cable is required to comply with class B limits in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules. Do not make any changes or modifications to the equipment unless otherwise specified in the manual.

If such changes or modifications should be made, you could be required to stop operation of the equipment.

Canon U.S.A. Inc.

One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042, U.S.A.

Tel No. [phone]

Important Warning

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION:

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

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

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

2

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder DM-XL1A and all its accessories.

1.Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

2.Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

3.Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

4.Follow Instructions — All operating and maintenance instructions should be followed.

5.Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. The product should be cleaned only as recommended in this manual.

6.Accessories — Do not use accessories not recommended in this manual as they may be hazardous.

7.Avoid magnetic or electric fields — Do not use the camera close to TV transmitters, portable communication devices or other sources of electric or magnetic radiation. They may cause picture interference, or permanently damage the camera.

8.Water and Moisture — Hazard of electric shock — Do not use this product near water or in rainy/moist situations.

9.Placing or Moving — Do not place on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product.

A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

10.Power Sources — The CA-900A/CA-910A Compact Power Adapter should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. Regarding other power sources such as battery power, refer to instructions in this manual.

11.Polarization — The CA-900A/CA-910A Compact Power Adapter is equipped with a polarized 2-prong plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). The 2-prong polarized plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug still fails to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

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

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

Fig. 1	EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS
	PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA

LEAD IN

WIRE

GROUND

CLAMP

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT

(NEC SECTION 810-20)

ELECTRIC

SERVICE

EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS (NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE

GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM

(NEC ART 250. PART H)

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

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

15.Power Lines — An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

16.Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

17.Objects and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Be careful not to spill liquid of any kind onto the product.

18.Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

E

Introduction

3

E

Introduction

19.Damage Requiring Service — Disconnect this product from the wall outlet and all power sources including battery, and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

a.When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.

b.If any liquid has been spilled onto, or objects have fallen into, the product.

c.If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

d.If the product does not operate normally even if you follow the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operation instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e.If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged.

f.When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance. This indicates a need for service.

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

21.Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in safe operating order.

4

Contents
Introduction
Important Usage Instructions ..............................	2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........	3
Thank you for choosing a Canon ........................	6
Introducing the XL1 ............................................	7
Preparation
Mounting and Removing XL Lenses ..................	8
Adjusting the Viewfinder Unit ..........................	10
Attaching the External Microphone ..................	12
Powering the XL1 ..............................................	13
Loading a Cassette ............................................	15
Supporting the Camera ......................................	17
Selecting from the Menus ..................................	18
Using the Wireless Controller/Tally Lamps ......	20
Setting the Date and Time ..................................	22
Recording
Basic Recording ................................................	23
Zooming (for Zoom Lenses) ..............................	25
Turning the SuperRange Optical Image
Stabilizer On/Off ..............................................	27
Using the ND Filter (for appropriate lenses)	....28
Taking Still Pictures (Photo Mode) ....................	29
Choosing the Movie Mode (Normal/Frame)......	30
Searching and Reviewing While Recording ......	31
Using the Various Recording Programs ............	32
Activating the Slow Shutter ..............................	35
Selecting the Audio Mode ..................................	36
Setting the Audio Input — Two Channel
Recording ..........................................................	37
Setting the Audio Input — Four Channel
Recording ..........................................................	38
Making a Sound Check ......................................	39
Fading In and Out Between Scenes ..................	40
Setting the Self-Timer ........................................	42
Using a Canon Speedlite for Flash Photography
(optional) ..........................................................	43

~ When Making Manual Adjustments ...	~
Adjusting the Focus ..........................................	44
Adjusting the Exposure ......................................	45
Using AE Shift ..................................................	46
Using the Zebra Pattern......................................	47
Adjusting the Gain ............................................	48
Adjusting the White Balance..............................	49
Playback
Playing back a Cassette ......................................	51
Displaying Data Code ........................................	54
Searching Through Your Recorded “Photos”
(Photo Search) ..................................................	55
Connections for Playback on a TV Screen ........	56
Editing to a VCR ................................................	57
DV Dubbing
(DV terminal conforming to IEEE1394) ..........	58
Selecting the Audio Output ................................	60
Additional Information
Notes on Using the Batteries..............................	62
Camera Holding Styles ......................................	65
Maintenance ..............................................................	66
Troubleshooting..................................................	69
The XL1 System Diagram ................................	72
Optional Accessories ..........................................	73
Finding Your Way Around the XL1 ..................	76
Screen Displays ..................................................	80
Specifications ....................................................	85
Index ..................................................................	86

E

Introduction

The serial number of this product may be found on the bottom	Date of Purchase
of the camera. No others have the same serial number as	Dealer Purchased From
yours. You should record the number and other vital	Dealer Address
information here and retain this book as a permanent record of	Dealer Phone No.
your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.	Model Name XL1
	Serial No.

5

Thank you for choosing a Canon

First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its advanced technology makes it very

Eeasy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come. For quick reference (in addition to the contents and index) please refer to:

•Finding your way around the camcorder (p. 76)

•Screen displays (p. 80)

Note that capital letters are used to refer to settings displayed in the menus and buttons labelled on the camcorder itself e.g. Press the EJECT button.

The XL1 is supplied with the following accessories:

WL-D2000 Wireless	Two AAA batteries	SS-1000 Shoulder	Lens cap	BP-927 Battery Pack
Controller		Strap

Introduction

CA-900/CA-910	Lithium button battery	DC-900 DC Coupler	S-150 S-video Cable	STV-150 Stereo Video
Compact Power Adapter				Cable

Digital Video Cassette	SP-100 Shoulder pad	Body cap	16× Zoom Lens	Stereo microphone
			(with soft case)

Dust cap

Lens hood

6

Introducing the XL1

Digital Video

Interchangeable Lens System

EF Adapter (optional)

3CCD System with Pixel Shift Technology

Superb picture quality results from using a larger light capturing area for each pixel (and fewer pixels) to give higher sensitivity, higher SN ratio and a greater dynamic range, and then horizontally shifting the green CCD to ensure high image resolution. In addition, you can now get stunningly clear still pictures from video action.

SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer

Canon’s latest advances in stabilization technology give you steadier images than ever before, even at the furthest reaches of the zoom range. Essential to this is a new feedback system, which boosts suppression performance for low frequency vibration.

High Performance Lenses

16× (32× Digital) Zoom Lens
		E
as Standard

PCM Digital Audio

Introduction

Magnesium Alloy Casing

7

E

Preparation

Mounting and Removing XL Lenses

Any lens bearing the mark can be used with this camcorder.

Mounting the lens

Removing the lens

LENS RELEASE

8

Attaching the Lens Hood

E

Preparation

Lens settings

9

Adjusting the Viewfinder Unit

The camera is supplied with the viewfinder unit and cable attached to the camera.

E• Check that the viewfinder cable is firmly attached to the camcorder.

•Remove the protective rubber from around the locking screw.

Adjusting for left eye/right eye operation

1, 2

Preparation

Right eye use

Left eye use

10

Adjusting to your viewing point

E

NEAR

FAR

EYE POINT SELECT

Adjusting to your eyesight

Preparation

11

Attaching the External Microphone

E

1

3

MIC

Preparation

1.Loosen the microphone attachment screw on the viewfinder unit and insert the microphone into the microphone clamp.

2.Align the mark on the microphone with the mark on the clamp and tighten the screw to hold the microphone firmly in place.

3.Plug the microphone cable to the camera’s MIC terminals.

Note:

• Make sure that the camera is turned off before attaching or removing the microphone cable.

12

Powering the XL1

Before operating your camera, you will need to use the power adapter to:

E

provide power from an AC outlet or

charge a battery pack

Notes:

•The power adapter converts current from a household power socket (100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz) to the DC current used by your camera.

•If the adapter is used next to a TV, it may cause the TV to emit noise — move the adapter away from the TV or the antenna cable.

Connecting the camera to an AC outlet

	1
	2
3	4

Use the power adapter and the DC coupler to provide your camera with instant power from an AC outlet.

1.Attach the DC coupler to the camera.

•Align the triangle on the DC coupler with the line on the camera.

•Slide the coupler up in the direction of the arrow, until it clicks into place.

2.Connect the DC coupler to the adapter.

3.Plug the adapter into an AC outlet.

4.Detach the DC coupler after use.

•Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button, while you slide the coupler down.

•Always turn the camera off before removing the power source.

When replacement or repair of any product including power supply is required, please return it to the nearest authorized Canon Service Center and have it repaired or replaced with the same number product or equivalent.

Preparation

13

Charging and attaching the battery pack

E

3 1

2

4

Your battery pack was partially charged before it left the factory. It should have enough power for you to check that your camera is working properly. However, you must charge the battery pack fully if you want it to power the camera for more than a few minutes.

Preparation	1.	Attach the battery pack to the power adapter.
	2.	Plug the adapter into an AC outlet.
		• Align the triangle on the battery pack with the line on the power adapter.
		• Slide the battery across until it clicks into place.
		• Make sure the DC coupler is not connected.
		• The charge indicator flashes red to show that charging is in progress. Single flashes mean that the
		battery pack is less than 50% charged. Double flashes mean that it is between 50% and 75% charged.
		Triple flashes mean that it is more than 75% charged.
		• The indicator glows steadily when the battery pack is fully charged.
	3.	Take the battery pack off the adapter and attach it to the camera.
		• Align the triangle on the battery pack with the line on the camcorder, then slide the battery up in the
		direction of the arrow until it clicks into place.
	4.	Remove the battery pack after use.
		• Press and hold the BATT. RELEASE button, while you slide the battery down.
		• Always turn the camera off before removing the power source.

Notes:

•You can find detailed notes for using the batteries in the “Notes on Using the Batteries” on p. 62. These notes include charging and recording times and how to install the back-up battery.

•Using the optional CH-900 Dual Battery Charger/Holder you can power the camera from two battery packs for longer continuous recording. You can exchange the battery packs independently without cutting the power to the camcorder. In addition, the CH-900 can charge two batteries consecutively when it is connected to an AC outlet.

14

Loading a Cassette

E

EJECT

FIRST

THIS

CLOSE

Use videocassettes marked with the Mini logo only.*

Loading and unloading

Preparation

15

Protecting tapes from accidental erasure

E

REC	REC
SAVE	SAVE

Preparation

To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole and the red mark. (This switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF.)

If you load this cassette and put the camera in record pause mode (p. 23), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION” is displayed for approx. 4 seconds and then the v mark flashes in the display. The camera also shows the above phrase if you accidentally press the 2 (record) button with the camera switched to VCR mode.

If you want to record on the cassette again, slide the tab back so the hole is closed, and the red mark covered.

Handling cassettes

•To protect the tape heads, transfer cassettes directly from the tape case to the camcorder — do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape itself.

•Do not use cassettes where the tape has been damaged or rejoined — they may damage the camcorder.

•Do not insert anything into the small holes on the cassette or cover them with cellophane tape.

•Handle cassettes with care — dropping them or exposing them to external shocks may cause internal damage.

•Store cassettes in the provided case, rewinding them to the start of the tape first, and then storing them upright.

•A cassette with metal plated terminals may become dirty with use, affecting information transfer. Therefore, after using a tape around ten times, be sure to clean the terminals with a cotton wool bud.

16

Supporting the Camera

Prepare the lens cap

• Attach/remove the lens cap as shown.

Attach the SP-100 shoulder pad

Adjust the grip belt

• Adjust the length of the grip belt strap so that you can operate the start/stop button and zoom control effectively.

Attach the shoulder strap

•For extra security and portability, attach the shoulder strap before using the camera

•Pass the ends through the attachment bars and adjust the length as shown.

Notes:

•Be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to bright sunlight, or it may damage the LCD. (The light is concentrated by the viewfinder lens.) Either turn the EYE POINT SELECT switch to the FAR setting, or change the angle of the viewfinder to move it out of direct sunlight.

•Place the camera on a table or secure surface when attaching the shoulder pad, grip belt or strap.

E

Preparation

17

Selecting from the Menus

Many of the camera’s advanced functions are selected from menus which appear in the viewfinder.

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There are two main menus:

1.Camera menu (when the camera is in record pause mode: the POWER dial set to a recording program.)

2.VCR menu (when the POWER dial is set to VCR)

Camera menu (CAM. MENU)

1 Zebra pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 47 2 16:9 effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 41 3 Movie mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 30 4 Remote sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 21 5 Tally lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 21 6 Audio mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 36 7 Audio 1 Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 37 8 Audio 2 Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 38 9 Recording mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 24 0 Date/time set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 22

Preparation

VCR menu

1 Tally lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 21 2 Remote sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 21 3 Recording mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 24 4 Mix balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 60 5 Output channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 61 6 Data code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 54 7 Date/time select . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 22 8 Date/time set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .p. 22

CAM . M ENU

SELECT

SET

1

[MENU

CLOSE

ZEBRA • • • • • • •ON

2

3

16 :9 • • • • • • • •ON

MOV IE MODE • •NORMAL

4

5

SENSOR • • • • • •ON

TALLY

LAMP • •ON

6

7

AUD IO

MODE • •16 bit

AUD IO

1

IN • •L INE

8

AUD IO

2

IN • •–––

CAM . MENU

SELECT

SET

[MENU

CLOSE

MOV IE MODE • •NORMAL

SENSOR • • • • • •ON

TALLY

LAMP • •ON

AUD IO

MODE • •16 bit

AUD IO

1

IN • •L INE

9

AUD IO

2

IN • •–––

REC MODE • • • •SP

0

D /T IM E SET• •JAN . 1 ,1998

12:00 AM

VCR MENU

SELECT

SET

1

[MENU

CLOSE

TALLY

LAM P • •ON

2

3

SENSOR • • • • • •ON

REC MODE • • • •SP

4

5

M IX SELECT • •F IXED

OUT PUT CH • • •L /R

6

7

DATA CODE • • •DATE /T IME

D /T IME

SEL • •DATE &

TIME

8

D /T IME

SET • •JAN. 1 ,1998

12:00 AM

Turn to the appropriate page for a detailed explanation of each function.

18

3, 7	1			E
	VCR
MENU
	OFF
		POWER
	A	START/
	Tv			ZOOM
		STOP PHOTO
	Av
	M	SELF TIMER	W	T

ON SCREENDATA CODE

4, 5, 6	MENU

2

1.Turn the POWER dial to a recording program or to VCR.

2.Slide open the red cover to reveal the menu operation keys.

3.Press the MENU button to open the menu.

4.Press r or t cursor key to move the arrow up or down the display.

5.Press the e cursor key to select your chosen option from the menu.

• Your selected option remains on the screen and all other options are removed.

6.Press the r or t cursor keys to choose its setting.

• You can return to the full menu by pressing the e cursor key.

7.Press the MENU button to close the menu.

• Close the red cover to hide the menu operation keys.

Notes:

•You can only see eight options on the screen at the same time. Pointers at the top/bottom of the screen indicate that there are more options that you can scroll through.

•You may often find it convenient to use the wireless controller to move around the menus. Press its MENU button to enter/leave the menu and use its cursor keys in place of those on the camera itself. (In step 6 however, use the 4 cursor key to return to the full menu.)

•You can display the menus on a connected TV screen using the wireless controller’s ON SCREEN button.

Preparation

19

Using the Wireless Controller/Tally Lamps

The supplied wireless controller can operate the E camera from a distance of up to 16 feet (5 m).

Point it at either of the camera’s remote sensors while you press the buttons.

The tally lamps light up to let you know that the camera is in range and responding to your commands.

There are five functions which can only be operated using the wireless controller:

• Special playback (p. 53)

• TV-screen displays (p. 80)

• Data code on/off (p. 54)

•Photo search (p. 55)

•Self-timer (p. 42)

Inserting batteries

Preparation

Notes:

•When using the wireless controller in brightly lit places or outdoors, the effective range will be less.

•The camera may have difficulty picking up the remote control signals at extremely close range.

•Do not leave the controller exposed to direct sunlight, or in hot or humid places.

•When the batteries run out, replace them both together.

•Make sure the shoulder strap does not obstruct the tally sensors.

20

Turning off the remote sensors

E

SENSOR¥¥¥¥¥¥OFF

(see p. 18)

1.Open either the camera or the VCR menu, and point the arrow at SENSOR.

2.Select the OFF setting and close the menu.

• S OFF appears in the viewfinder.

Turning off the tally lamps

The tally lamps let you know that the camera is recording. However, the flashing of the front lamp may be reflected into the lens during close-up recording, or when recording through glass.

You may therefore decide to turn them off.

Preparation

TALLY LAMP¥¥OFF

(see p. 18)

1.Open either the camera menu or the VCR menu, and point the arrow at TALLY LAMP.

2.Select the OFF setting and close the menu.

•The tally lamps no longer flash during recording, but they will still light up when the camera receives a signal from the wireless controller.

21

Setting the Date and Time

E

MENU

The date and/or time display forms part of the data code. You can choose to display or hide it during playback (see p. 54).

Set the date and time display when you first start using your camera. Install the backup battery before you begin (see p. 63).

		1.				Turn the POWER dial to a recording program or to VCR.
		2.				Open the menu and select D/TIME SET.
	Preparation					• The year display starts to flash in the viewfinder.
		3.				Press the r or t cursor key to change the year. Press the e cursor key to move to another
						part of the display.
						• Press once to scan a year at a time. Press and hold to scan quickly.
						• Once you move from the year, the next part of the display starts flashing.
		4.				Set the months, days, hours, and minutes in the same way.
		5.				Press the MENU button when finished, and to start the clock.
			• The date can be set to any year between 1997 and 2020.
			• If you press the MENU button in the middle of setting the date and time the seconds are set to zero, you
					leave the menu, and the clock starts.
			• If you press the e cursor key after setting the minutes, the seconds are set to zero, the clock starts and you
					return to the full menu. (When using the remote control, use the 4 cursor key instead. Pressing the e
					cursor key returns you to the end of step 2, to let you set the date and time again from the start.)
					Setting the display style
							(see p. 18)		D/TIME SEL.¥DATE & TIME

22

Basic Recording

E

START/STOP

1

VCR

OFF

POWER

A

Tv

Av

M

2 STANDBY

Before you start recording

To record

1.Turn the POWER dial to [p.

•This selects the camera’s Easy Recording program. It allows you to simply point and shoot without making any manual adjustments (see pp. 44-50).

•The camera power indicator lights up red and PAUSE appears in the viewfinder — the camera is now in “record pause mode”.

•The camera will turn itself off if you leave it in record pause mode for more than about five minutes. To return to record pause mode, press and hold the STANDBY button for a few moments, or set the POWER dial to OFF and then back to a recording program.

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

•There are two start/stop buttons, to give you control from both gripping positions.

•The tally lamps flash rapidly and REC appears in the viewfinder.

3.Press the start/stop button again to pause recording.

•The camera returns to record pause mode and PAUSE reappears in the viewfinder.

•You can stop and restart recording as often as you like by pressing the start/stop button.

Using the STANDBY button

As long as the POWER dial is set to a recording program, you can use the STANDBY button to turn the camera on and off. This makes it easy to save battery power, and prevents accidental operation of the start/stop button.

Press and hold the STANDBY button for a few moments to enter/leave standby mode. When the camera enters standby mode, ENTERING POWER STANDBY is shown in the viewfinder.

Recording

23

When you have finished recording

E

•Replace the lens cap.

•Unload the cassette.

•Set the POWER dial to OFF.

•Disconnect the power source.

Notes:

•To check that the camera is recording correctly, make a test recording first.

•Before making important recordings, clean the video heads using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

Changing the recording mode (SP/LP)

REC MODE¥¥¥¥LP

(see p. 18)

Recording

Notes:

•If you record in both modes on the same tape, the picture may become distorted during playback and the time code may not be written correctly.

•When the camera is set to LP mode, pausing between recordings may produce mosaic-like noise.

•A tape recorded in LP mode on another camcorder may produce mosaic-like noise when played back on this camcorder, and vice versa.

Turning the camera recording displays ON/OFF

EVF DISPLAY

ON/OFF

24

Zooming (for Zoom Lenses)

T

T

W

W

D.EFFECT

SELECT

ON/OFF

Optical zoom (16× for standard lens)

Zoom in		T		E

W Zoom out

VCR

OFF

A POWER

Tv

Av

M

Recording

25

32× digital zoom

E

Activate the digital zoom to double the camera’s zoom range.

The zoom control continues to work as usual — the camera automatically switches between optical zooming and digital zooming.

• Image resolution is slightly lower when the magnification exceeds the optical zoom range.

Activating the digital zoom

•The flashing display changes to show which effect you can select.

•The camera only displays selectable effects.

D . Z OO M

S L OW S . 3 0

S L OW S . 1 5

No Display F A D E - T S L OW S . 8

	3.		Press the D.EFFECT ON/OFF button to activate the digital zoom.
			• D.ZOOM is shown constantly in the viewfinder.
		4.	The digital zoom will remain activated until you press the D.EFFECT ON/OFF button to
			deactivate it. When deactivated, D.ZOOM flashes in the viewfinder and you can then
	Recording
			press the D.EFFECT SELECT button to select a different digital effect, or to turn the

digital effects off completely by choosing the blank display.

Notes:

•You cannot select a different digital effect while the digital zoom is still activated.

•The digital zoom remains programmed until you turn it off.

Turning the SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer On/Off

E

STABILIZER

ON OFF

The Optical Image Stabilizer can compensate for a wide range of camera movement — you can record stable images even if you are shooting from a moving car.

Before you start recording, slide the STABILIZER switch on the video lens to turn the image stabilizer on or off.

Notes:

•The image stabilizer is designed to deal with a normal degree of camera shake.

•Keep the image stabilizer turned off when the camera is mounted on a tripod.

•	Sliding the switch to OFF has no effect when the camera is set to the [ Easy Recording program.
•	The image stabilizer is not as effective as usual when the Extender XL 1.6× (optional) is attached.

Recording

27