Canon XL H1 User Manual

HD VIDEO CAMERA RECORDER

NTSC

Instruction Manual

CAMÉSCOPE ET LECTEUR VIDÉO HD

Manuel d’instruction

PUB. DIM-720

English

Français

VIDEOCÁMARA Y GRABADORA HD

Manual de Instrucciones

Español

Mini

Digital
Video
Cassette

A

Introduction

I

Important Usage Instructions

WARNING:

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

WARNING:

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

COPYRIGHT WARNING:

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

Digital Video Camcorder, XL H1A Systems.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

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

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

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]

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

mportantWarning

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER­SERVICEABLE 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 XL H1A 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-920
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-920 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

ELECTRIC SERVICE
EQUIPMENT

NEC - NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS PER
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN

GROUND
CLAMP

WIRE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS

(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM

(NEC ART 250. PART H)

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

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.

When replacement of power supply is required, please return it to the responsible nearest Canon Service
Center and please replace it with the same type number CA-920.

The Adapter can be used with a power supply between 100 and 240 V AC. Contact your Canon dealer for
information about plug adapter for overseas use.

4

Using this Manual

S

YSTEM/M/

TIME

SET

T.Z

ONE/

DST

N.Y

.

S

YSTEM/M/

TIME

SET

D/T

IME SET

N.1,2

005

:00PMPM

Thank you for purchasing the Canon XL H1. Please read this manual carefully before you use the
camcorder and retain it for future reference. Should your camcorder fail to operate correctly, refer to the
Troubleshooting table ( 144).

Conventions Used in this Manual

 : Precautions related to the camcorder operation.
 : Additional topics that complement the basic operating procedures.
 : Reference page number.
 Capital letters are used to refer to buttons on the camcorder or the wireless controller.
 [ ] are used to refer to menu items displayed on the screen.
 The Canon HD Video 5.4-108 mm L IS II Zoom Lens supplied with the Lens Kit is referred to as

“HD 20x L IS Lens”.

 The illustrations show the camcorder with the HD 20x L IS Lens attached.
 “Screen” refers to the viewfinder screen.
 “Card” or “Memory card” refers to an SD memory card or a MultiMediaCard (MMC).

E

Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time

Set the time zone, date and time when you first start using your camcorder, or if the built-in rechargeable
battery has completely discharged.

Setting the Time Zone/Daylight Saving Time

Operating modes

Menu item showing at its default position

MENU

YSTE

( 34)

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [SYSTEM/ ] and press the SET button.

3. Select [D/TIME SET ] and then select [T.ZONE/DST] and press the SET button.

The time zone setting appears. The default setting is New York.

4. Turn the SELECT dial to select the setting option that represents your time zone and
press the SET button.

To adjust for daylight saving time, select the time zone with the next to the area.

Setting the Date and Time

MENU

YSTE

( 34)

D/D/TIME

D/D/TIME

SET

SET

T.Z

ONE/

DST

•••

N.Y

D/T

IME SET

•••

JAJAN.1,2

005

1212:00

Available functions depend on the operating mode and are indicated as follows:

: Function can be used in this mode.

: Function cannot be used in this mode.

Trademark Acknowledgements

• Canon is a registered trademark of Canon Inc.

• is a trademark.

• HDV and the logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. (JVC).

• is a trademark.

•Windows
other countries.

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

®

is either a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or

Introduction

5

About the HD/HDV and SD/DV Specifications

V

Throughout the manual we will distinguish between the video signal standards used by the camera
section of the XL H1, and the recording standards used by the recorder section of the XL H1. The video
signal can be set to HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition) specifications. The recording
standard on the tape will be HDV (high definition) or DV, respectively.

Camera Section HD/SD

HD/SD SDI Terminal HD/SD

Recorder Section HDV/DV

Playback Signal HDV/DV

HDV/DV Terminal HDV/D

6

Contents

Introduction

Important Usage Instructions.............................................................................................................................2

Important Safety Instructions............................................................................................................................. 3

Using this Manual..............................................................................................................................................5

Checking the Supplied Accessories ..................................................................................................................9

Components Guide..........................................................................................................................................10

Preparations

Preparing the Power Supply............................................................................................................................ 16

Preparing the Camcorder ................................................................................................................................19

Preparing the Lens .......................................................................................................................................... 24

Using the Wireless Controller..........................................................................................................................28

Loading/Unloading a Cassette ........................................................................................................................ 29

Inserting/Removing a Memory Card................................................................................................................ 30

Changing Settings with the MENU Button....................................................................................................... 31

Setting the Time Zone, Date and Time............................................................................................................41

Recording

E

Recording ........................................................................................................................................................42

Selecting the Signal Standard (HD/SD)...........................................................................................................47

Changing the Aspect Ratio.............................................................................................................................. 48

End Search...................................................................................................................................................... 49

Zooming ..........................................................................................................................................................50

Adjusting the Focus.........................................................................................................................................52

Using the ND Filter (Lenses with Built-in ND Filter).........................................................................................55

Selecting the Frame Rate................................................................................................................................ 56

Setting the Time Code..................................................................................................................................... 58

Synchronizing the Camcorder’s Time Code.................................................................................................... 60

Setting the User Bit..........................................................................................................................................62

Audio Recording..............................................................................................................................................63

Image Stabilizer (Lenses Equipped with Image Stabilizer).............................................................................. 68

Using the Programmed AE Modes.................................................................................................................. 69

Recording in the Shutter-Priority (Tv) Mode.................................................................................................... 72

Recording in the Aperture-Priority (Av) Mode.................................................................................................. 73

Recording in the Manual Mode........................................................................................................................74

Adjusting the Exposure....................................................................................................................................75

Using AE Shift .................................................................................................................................................76

Adjusting the Gain ...........................................................................................................................................77

Setting the White Balance ...............................................................................................................................78

Using the Zebra Pattern ..................................................................................................................................80

Using the Skin Detail Function ........................................................................................................................ 81

Using the Custom Preset.................................................................................................................................82

Using Clear Scan.............................................................................................................................................89

Using the Custom Keys................................................................................................................................... 90

Recording Color Bars/Audio Reference Signal ............................................................................................... 93

Using the Faders .............................................................................................................................................94

Using the Digital Video Control........................................................................................................................95

Other Camcorder Functions/Settings ..............................................................................................................96

Introduction

7

Playback

Playing Back a Tape ........................................................................................................................................ 98

Connecting to a Monitor/TV........................................................................................................................... 100

Audio Output .................................................................................................................................................104

Returning to a Pre-marked Position ..............................................................................................................105

Index Search .................................................................................................................................................106

Date Search ..................................................................................................................................................107

Displaying the Data Code.............................................................................................................................. 108

Changing the Remote Sensor Mode ............................................................................................................. 109

Editing

Recording an External Video Signal (Analog Line-In, HDV/DV In)................................................................ 110

Converting Analog Signals into Digital Signals (Analog-Digital Converter)................................................... 112

Connecting to a Computer (IEEE1394)......................................................................................................... 113

Using a Memory Card

Selecting the Image Quality/Size................................................................................................................... 114

File Numbers ................................................................................................................................................. 115

Recording Still Images on a Memory Card.................................................................................................... 116

Selecting the Drive Mode .............................................................................................................................. 119

Selecting the Metering Method...................................................................................................................... 121

Using an Optional Flash ................................................................................................................................122

Reviewing a Still Image Right after Recording ..............................................................................................123

Playing Back Still Images from a Memory Card ............................................................................................124

Erasing Images..............................................................................................................................................126

Protecting Images..........................................................................................................................................127

Initializing a Memory Card.............................................................................................................................128

Print Order Settings.......................................................................................................................................129

Additional Information

Settings Retained at Power Off or STANDBY Mode .....................................................................................130

Screen Displays.............................................................................................................................................132

List of Messages............................................................................................................................................136

Maintenance/Others ......................................................................................................................................137

Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................................. 144

System Diagram............................................................................................................................................147

Optional Accessories..................................................................................................................................... 149

Specifications ................................................................................................................................................152

Index.............................................................................................................................................................. 155

Audio Block Diagram.....................................................................................................................................157

8

Checking the Supplied Accessories

Body Kit

CA-920 Compact
Power Adapter

Two AA (R6) Batteries Color Viewfinder Microphone Unit Camcorder Dust Cap SS-1000 Shoulder

Adapter Holder Stereo Cable DTC-1000 Component

DC-920 DC Coupler BP-950G Battery Pack SDC-16M SD Memory

Card

Video Cable

WL-D5000 Wireless
Controller

Strap

E

Introduction

Additional Accessories Supplied with the Lens Kit

Canon HD Video

5.4-108 mm L IS II
Zoom Lens
(with soft case)

The serial number of this product can be found at the battery attachment unit of the camcorder. Write down the number and other
information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.
Date of Purchase: Model Name: XL H1 A
Purchased From: Serial No.:
Dealer Address
Dealer Phone No.:

Lens Cap Lens Dust Cap Lens Hood

9

Components Guide

XL H1

Left side view

POWER dial

External control mode
VCR/PLAY mode
Power off
Auto
Shutter-Priority
Aperture-Priority
Manual
Spotlight
Night
Easy Recording

Recording
programs

LIGHT button
END SEARCH button ( 49)
MODE SELECT switch ( 48)
FRAME RATE switch ( 56)
AUDIO MONITOR button ( 67, 104)
POWER indicator
Side panel ( 135)
Color viewfinder socket ( 19)
FU-1000 Monochrome Viewfinder socket ( 150)
EVF PEAKING/EVF MAGNIFYING buttons ( 53)
EXP. LOCK button ( 75)
LENS RELEASE switch ( 24)
SET button ( 31)
IRIS dial ( 73)/SELECT dial ( 31)
(record review) button ( 46)

BARS/FADE SELECT button ( 93)
BARS/FADE ON/OFF button ( 93)
MENU button ( 31)
GAIN dial ( 75)
WHITE BALANCE dial ( 78)
WHITE BALANCE button ( 78)
STANDBY button ( 43)
INPUT SELECT switch (CH3, CH4) ( 66)
REC LEVEL switch (CH3, CH4) ( 67)
INPUT SELECT switch (CH1, CH2) ( 64)
REC LEVEL switch (CH1, CH2) ( 67)
REC CH SELECT switch (CH1, CH2) ( 64)
CH1/CH2 dials ( 67)
FRONT MIC ATT. switch (CH1, CH2) ( 64)
CH3/CH4 dials ( 67)

LIGHT Button

Press the LIGHT button to illuminate the side panel for approximately 10 seconds. Keep the button pressed for at
least 3 seconds, to keep the panel illuminated until you press the LIGHT button once more to turn the backlight off.

10

Left side view

E

Introduction

Dioptric adjustment lever ( 21)
STEREO/MONO microphone selector ( 64)
Lock lever ( 20)
Eye cup ( 20)
Color viewfinder ( 19-22)
Lock release button ( 21)
Viewfinder cable ( 19)
Zoom ring ( 50)
Lens hood ( 25)
Focus ring ( 52)

RESET button
Memory card slot ( 30)
ND filter operating ring ( 55)
ND filter unlock button ( 55)
STABILIZER ON/OFF switch ( 68)
POSITION PRESET switch ( 51)

AF switch ( 52)/

POSITION PRESET ON/SET switch ( 51)

Focus selector ( 53)

11

Right side view

S-video terminal ( 102)
Video terminal (BNC) ( 102)
RCA/BNC selector ( 102)
Video terminal (RCA) ( 102)
AUDIO 2 terminals (RCA) ( 66)
AUDIO 1 terminals (RCA) ( 64)
Terminal cover
Battery attachment unit ( 16)
BATT. RELEASE button ( 16)
HD/SD SDI terminal ( 100)
GEN.LOCK terminal ( 60)
TC OUT terminal ( 60)

12

TC IN terminal ( 60)
Serial number
Screw hole for adapter holder ( 23)
AE SHIFT dial ( 76)
LOCK lever ( 43)
FRONT MIC terminals ( 22)
Microphone cable ( 22)
Lens hood locking screw ( 25)
Grip zoom lever ( 50)
PHOTO button ( 116)
Cassette compartment ( 29)

Front view

E

Back view

Introduction

Tally lamp ( 97)
Remote sensor ( 28, 109)
Grip belt ( 23)
Attachment sockets for the optional TA-100 Tripod

Adapter ( 150)

Tripod socket*
Viewfinder cable ( 19)
Remote sensor ( 28, 109)
Start/stop button ( 42)
Microphone locking screw ( 22)
Strap mount ( 23)
XLR input terminals ( 65, 66)
SHUTTER buttons ( 72)
PHONES LEVEL dial

* Do not use tripods with fastening screws longer than 5.5 mm (0.2 in.) as it may damage the camcorder.

(phones) terminal
HDV indicator ( 47)
HDV/DV IN/OUT terminal ( 102, 110, 113)

terminal
LINE/MIC switch ( 65, 66)
+48V switch ( 65, 66)
MIC ATT. switch ( 64, 66)
TAPE/CARD switch ( 116)
CARD access indicator ( 116)
ZOOM SPEED switch ( 50)
ZOOM SPEED dial ( 50)
Start/stop button ( 42)
COMPONENT OUT terminal ( 101)

About the Terminal

(LANC) stands for Local Application Control Bus System. The terminal allows you to connect and control
connected devices.
Connect only devices with the mark to the terminal.

Operation cannot be guaranteed for connections with devices not bearing the mark.
Some buttons of connected devices may not operate or may operate differently than the buttons on the camcorder.

13

Top view

(pause) button ( 98) /

DRIVE MODE button ( 119)

(stop) button ( 98,110) /

(metering mode) button ( 121)

(rewind) button ( 98) /

- button ( 124)
(play) button ( 98) /

SLIDESHOW button ( 124)

(fast forward) button ( 98) /

+ button ( 87, 124)

REC (record) button ( 110)
Screw holes for adapter holder ( 23)
Tally lamp ( 97)

14

Remote sensor ( 28, 109)
Handle zoom lever ( 50)
Viewfinder locking screw ( 19)
Microphone ( 22)
Advanced accessory shoe ( 66, 122)
Start/stop button ( 42)
PHOTO button ( 116)
CUSTOM PRESET SELECT button ( 85)
CUSTOM PRESET ON/OFF button ( 85)
EVF DISPLAY button ( 45)
CUSTOM KEYS ( 90)
EJECT switch ( 29)

WL-D5000 Wireless Controller

E

Introduction

PHOTO button ( 116)
START/STOP button ( 42)
MENU button ( 31)
TV SCREEN button ( 132)
SLIDESHOW button ( 124)
DATA CODE button ( 108)
INDEX WRITE button ( 91)
AUDIO MONITOR button ( 67, 104)
END SEARCH button ( 49)
SEARCH SELECT button ( 106, 107)
REC PAUSE button ( 110)
REW button ( 98)
ZERO SET MEMORY button ( 105)

button ( 98)

PAUSE button ( 98)

REMOTE SET button ( 109)
AV DV button ( 112)
Zoom buttons ( 50)
Menu selection buttons ( 31)
SET button ( 31)

- button ( 124)
+ button ( 87, 124)

MIX BALANCE buttons ( 104)

/ buttons ( 106, 107)
PLAY button ( 98)
FF button ( 98)

button ( 98)

STOP button ( 98)

button ( 98)

SLOW button ( 98)

15

Preparations

Preparing the Power Supply

Charging the Battery Pack

Disconnect the DC coupler from the power adapter before charging. Remove the terminal cover of the
battery pack.

1. Connect the power cord to the adapter.

2. Plug the power cord into a power outlet.

3. Attach the battery pack to the adapter.

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

• The charge indicator starts flashing. The indicator
will stay on when the charging is complete.

4. When the charging is complete, remove the
battery pack from the adapter.

5. Unplug the power cord from the power
outlet and disconnect it from the adapter.

Attaching the Battery Pack

Charge indicator

1. Turn the POWER dial to OFF.

2. Attach the battery pack to the camcorder.

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

3. Remove the battery pack after use.

Holding the BATT.RELEASE button pressed down,
slide the battery pack down to remove it.

16

Using a Household Power Outlet

1. Turn the POWER dial to OFF.

2. Attach the DC coupler to the camcorder.

Press lightly and slide the DC coupler up, in the
direction of the arrow until it clicks.

3. Connect the power cord to the power
adapter.

4. Plug the power cord into a power outlet.

5. Connect the DC coupler to the adapter.

6. Detach the DC coupler after use.

Holding the BATT.RELEASE button pressed down,
slide the DC coupler down to remove it.

About the Built-in Rechargeable Lithium Battery

This camcorder has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery to retain the date, time and other settings. The
built-in battery is recharged every time you use the camcorder. However, when you use the camcorder
for only short times or do not use it for a period of over 3 months, it will become totally depleted. In that
case, recharge the built-in battery by powering the camcorder from a power outlet and leaving it with the
POWER dial set to OFF for at least 24 hours.

E

Preparations

 Disconnect the DC coupler from the power adapter when charging a battery pack.
 Turn off the camcorder before connecting or disconnecting the power adapter.
 If the adapter is used close to a TV, it may cause picture interference. Move the adapter away from

the TV or the antenna cable.

 Do not connect to the power adapter any products not expressly recommended.

 If you connect a faulty power adapter or battery pack, the charge indicator turns off and the

charging will stop.

 The charge indicator informs you about the charge status.

0-50%: Flashes once every second
50-75%: Flashes twice every second
More than 75%: Flashes 3 times every second
100%: Continuously on

17

 Charging, Recording and Playback Times

The following times are approximate and vary according to the charging, recording and playback
conditions.

Battery Pack

Charging Time with the CA-920 Compact Power Adapter

Recording and Playback Times

HDV

Maximum
Recording Time

Typical Recording
Time*

Playback Time Supplied color viewfinder

Recording and Playback Times

DV

Maximum
Recording Time

Typical Recording
Time*

Playback Time Supplied color viewfinder

* Approximate times for recording with repeated operations such as start/stop, zooming, power on/off. Actual

time may be shorter.

 We recommend charging the battery pack in temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and

86 °F).

 A lithium ion battery pack can be charged at any charge state. Unlike conventional battery packs,

you do not need to completely use or discharge it before charging.

 We recommend that you prepare battery packs 2 to 3 times longer than you think you might need.
 To conserve battery power, turn off the camcorder instead of leaving it in record pause mode.

HD 20x L
IS Lens

HD 20x L
IS Lens

HD 20x L
IS Lens

20x L IS
Lens

16x
Manual
Zoom
Lens

3x Zoom
Lens XL

HD 20x L
IS Lens

20x L IS
Lens

16x
Manual
Zoom
Lens

3x Zoom
Lens XL

Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder

Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder

Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder
Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder

Supplied color viewfinder
Optional FU-1000

monochrome viewfinder

BP-930 BP-945 BP-950G BP-970G

145 min. 220 min. 235 min. 320 min.

140 min. 210 min. 295 min. 405 min.

105 min. 165 min. 230 min. 315 min.

80 min. 115 min. 155 min. 210 min.

60 min. 90 min. 125 min. 170 min.

165 min. 250 min. 350 min. 480 min.

155 min. 230 min. 335 min. 455 min.

120 min. 180 min. 250 min. 350 min.

140 min. 210 min. 300 min. 415 min.

110 min. 170 min. 235 min. 320 min.

160 min. 250 min. 340 min. 465 min.

120 min. 190 min. 260 min. 360 min.

130 min. 195 min. 295 min. 400 min.

105 min. 165 min. 230 min. 315 min.

85 min. 130 min. 175 min. 240 min.

65 min. 100 min. 135 min. 190 min.

80 min. 115 min. 155 min. 215 min.

60 min. 95 min. 125 min. 175 min.

90 min. 140 min. 175 min. 240 min.

70 min. 105 min. 140 min. 195 min.

75 min. 110 min. 150 min. 210 min.

60 min. 90 min. 125 min. 170 min.

180 min. 275 min. 375 min. 510 min.

18

Preparing the Camcorder

Attaching and Detaching the Color Viewfinder Unit

Attaching the Color Viewfinder Unit

1. Slide the viewfinder unit onto the bracket
and tighten the locking screw.

2. Connect the viewfinder cable to the
upper socket of the camcorder body.

3. Hook the viewfinder cable onto the cable
clamp.

Insert the cable plug straight into the camcorder
socket.

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Detaching the Viewfinder Unit

1. Detach the viewfinder cable.

2. Loosen the locking screw and slide the viewfinder unit off the bracket.

Preparations

19

Attaching and Detaching the Eye Cup

You can change the position of the eye cup for use with either the left or right eye. Detach the eye cup
and reattach it when changing the position of the eye cup for right or left eye use.

Attaching the Eye Cup

Align the hole for the dioptric adjustment lever with the lever, and pull the eye cup into
position.

Right eye use Left eye use

Detaching the Eye Cup

Detach the eye cup as shown in the
illustration.

Adjusting the Position of the Viewfinder

The viewfinder position can be changed (right/left, forward/backward).
When storing the camcorder in the optional HC-3200 System Case, adjust the viewfinder to the right and
lock it.

Right/Left Adjustment

Loosen the locking screw, move the viewfinder
to the right/left and tighten the screw.

20

Forward/Backward Adjustment

Loosen the locking lever, move the viewfinder
forward/backward and tighten the lever.

Dioptric Adjustment

Turn on the camcorder and adjust the dioptric
adjustment lever.

Prevent direct sunlight from getting in the viewfinder. The viewfinder LCD may become damaged due
to concentration of the light by the lens. Pay special attention when mounting the camcorder on a
tripod, or during transportation.

Using the Viewfinder as LCD Panel

You can use the viewfinder as an LCD panel by opening the eyepiece adapter.

Press the lock release button and open the
eyepiece adapter.

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Make sure to close the eyepiece adapter when you are not using the viewfinder as an LCD panel.

The screen is slightly brighter when you open the eyepiece adapter.

Preparations

21

Adjusting the Viewfinder

DISPLAY SETUP / EVF SETUP BRIGHTNESS

CONTRAST

COLOR

SHARPNESS

You can adjust the brightness, contrast, color and sharpness of the viewfinder. These adjustments will
not affect your recording.

MENU

( 31)

•••••

••••••••

•••

••••

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [DISPLAY SETUP/ ] and press the SET button.

3. Select [EVF SETUP] and then select [BRIGHTNESS], [CONTRAST], [COLOR] or
[SHARPNESS].

4. Adjust the setting with the SELECT dial and press the SET button.

• After the adjustment you will return to the [EVF SETUP] submenu. Change additional settings in the

same way as necessary.

• For more details regarding the [EVF BW MODE] setting refer to ( 92).

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

Attaching the Microphone Unit

1. Loosen the microphone locking screw on
the viewfinder unit, open the microphone
clamp 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.

3. Plug the microphone cable to the
camcorder’s FRONT MIC terminals.

22

Fastening the Grip Belt

Adjust the grip belt so that you can reach the
zoom lever with your index and middle finger,
and the start/stop button with your thumb.

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

Pass the ends through the strap mount and
adjust the length of the strap.

Be careful not to drop the camcorder when adjusting the strap or the grip belt.

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Attaching the Adapter Holder

Attach the adapter holder to use the optional CH-910 Dual Battery Charger/Holder or a commercially
available wireless microphone receiver.

1. Attach the adapter holder and secure it by
tightening the screws.

2. Adjust the position of the support bars.

When using the optional CH-910, hook it onto the
support bars and secure it with the stop lever. To
detach the CH-910, press the stop lever in the
direction of the arrow and pull it off the support bars.

Support
bars

Stop lever

Preparations

23

Preparing the Lens

Refer also to the instruction manual of the lens.

Mounting the Lens

1. Set the POWER dial to OFF.

2. Remove the dust caps from the camcorder
and the lens.

3. Align the red mark on the lens with the red
mark on the camcorder and turn the lens
clockwise until it clicks.

Removing the Lens

1. Set the POWER dial to OFF.

2. Slide in the LENS RELEASE switch, turn
the lens counter-clockwise until it stops
and remove the lens.

3. Attach the dust caps to the camcorder and
the lens.

 Be careful not to drop the lens or camcorder when mounting or removing the lens.
 Avoid direct sunlight or strong light sources when mounting or removing the lens.
 The XL mount is not compatible with the VL mount.
 Do not touch the lens, lens mount and the interior of the mount, or expose them to dust or dirt.

If necessary, clean the lens with a dry, soft lens-cleaning cloth. Make sure to turn off the camcorder
while cleaning the lens.

 Proper operation cannot be guaranteed when recording in HDV standard with lenses that are not

HDV compatible. If you attach to the camcorder a lens that is not HDV compatible, the messages
“THIS LENS HAS NO STILL SHOOTING CAPABILITY” and “HD INCOMPATIBLE LENS” will
appear.

24

 Proper operation cannot be guaranteed when recording in HDV standard with the optional

Extender XL 1.6x. The message “HD INCOMPATIBLE LENS” will appear when using the extender,
even with an HDV compatible lens.

Attaching the Lens Hood

Attach the lens hood to protect the lens and shade it from stray light.

1. Place the lens hood on the front of the lens
and screw it clockwise until the Canon logo
appears on top.

• Be careful not to deform the lens hood.

• Make sure that the lens hood is aligned with the

thread.

2. Tighten the locking screw.

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Preparations

25

Adjusting the Flange Back
(Lenses without a built-in flange back adjustment function)

The flange back can be adjusted to correct the focus during telephoto and wide zooming. The flange
back can be adjusted automatically by the camcorder (AF) or manually (MF). Different flange back
adjustment values can be memorized and can also be saved as backup.
You can store flange back settings for up to 10 lenses.

Preparations

1. Set the frame rate to 60i or 30F.

2. Turn the camcorder facing the subject and secure it in place.

Place the camcorder at a distance of at least 1 m (3.3 ft.) from the subject. Avoid subjects that are difficult
to focus on at the widest angle.

3. Zoom out to full wide angle.

4. Set the POWER dial to Av and set the aperture to full open.

5. Zoom in to full telephoto.

Make sure the subject remains in the center of the frame both, in full zoom out and full zoom in.

6. Check that the exposure conditions are appropriate.

If necessary, use the ND filter.

AF Adjustment

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and press the SET button.

3. Select [FB] and then select [ AF ADJUST].

4. When the confirmation screen appears, press the SET button to begin the adjustment.

5. Once the message “FB ADJUSTMENT SUCCESSFUL” is displayed, press the MENU
button to close the menu.

MF Adjustment

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and press the SET button.

3. Select [FB] and then select [ MF ADJUST].

4. When the confirmation screen appears, press the SET button to begin the adjustment.

5. The camcorder will zoom in to full telephoto. When the message “ADJUST FOCUS &
PUSH ” appears, focus as necessary and press the SET button.

6. The camcorder will zoom out to full wide angle. When the message “ADJUST FOCUS
& PUSH ” appears, focus as necessary and press the SET button.

7. Once the message “FB ADJUSTMENT SUCCESSFUL” is displayed, press the MENU
button to close the menu.

26

Resetting the flange back adjustments

This procedure will reset the stored flange back adjustment value for the mounted lens.

1. Press the MENU button.

2. Turn the SELECT dial to select [CAMERA SETUP] and press the SET button.

3. Select [FB] and then select [SET DEFAULT].

4. Select [YES] and press the SET button.

5. Press the MENU button to close the menu.

In the following cases the flange back cannot be adjusted correctly and the camcorder will return to
the flange back adjustment selection screen.

- In the AF adjustment the camcorder cannot focus.

- The lens was removed during the flange back adjustment.

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Preparations

27

Using the Wireless Controller

When you press the buttons on the wireless
controller, point it at one of the camcorder’s
remote sensors.

The camcorder has three remote sensors: two at the
front and one at the back.

Inserting the Batteries

The wireless controller operates with two AA (R6)
batteries.

1. Open the battery cover.

2. Insert the batteries following the + and –
markings.

3. Close the battery cover.

 The camcorder and wireless controller are equipped with 2 remote sensor modes ( 109). If the

wireless controller does not work, check if the camcorder and wireless controller are set to the
same mode.

 When the camcorder cannot be operated with the wireless controller, or when it can only be

operated at very close range, replace the batteries. Make sure to replace both batteries at the
same time.

 The wireless controller may not work properly when the remote sensor is located under strong light

sources or direct sunlight.

28

Loading/Unloading a Cassette

Use only videocassettes marked with the logo. For recording in HDV we recommend you use
videocassettes compatible with the HDV standard.

1. Slide the EJECT switch to open the
cassette compartment cover.

The cassette compartment opens automatically.

2. Load/unload the cassette.

• Insert the cassette straight, fully into the

compartment with the window facing out.

• Unload the cassette by pulling it straight out.

E

3. Close the cassette compartment cover.

Press the mark on the cover.

 Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing automatically.
 Be careful not to get your fingers caught in the cassette compartment.

Preparations

If the camcorder is connected to a power source, cassettes can be loaded/unloaded even if the
POWER dial is set to OFF.

29

Inserting/Removing a Memory Card

You can use SD memory cards or commercially available MultiMediaCards (MMC) with this
camcorder. The SD memory card has a protect switch to prevent accidental erasure.

Inserting the Card

1. Set the POWER dial to OFF.

2. Open the memory card slot cover.

3. Insert the memory card straight, all the way
into the card slot.

4. Close the card slot cover.

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

Removing the Card

Do not forcefully remove the memory card without first pushing it in to release it.

1. Set the POWER dial to OFF.

Make sure that the CARD indicator is not flashing
before you turn off the camcorder.

2. Open the memory card slot cover.

3. Push the memory card to release it and
then remove the memory card.

4. Close the card slot cover.

30

 This camcorder is compatible with SD Memory Cards or MultiMediaCards (MMC) only. Do not use

any other type of memory cards.

 Proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all memory cards.
 Turn off the camcorder before inserting or removing the memory card. Otherwise, it may result in

lost data.

 If you use memory cards other than the supplied one, make sure to initialize them with the

camcorder ( 128).