Canon ZR Instruction Manual

Important Usage Instructions

Introduction

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.

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

Digital Video Camcorder, ZR 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. (516)328-5600

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 P ARTS 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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

In these safety instructions the word “product” refers to the Canon Digital Video Camcorder ZR 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-600A 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-600A 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.

Introduction

EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING AS

Fig. 1

PER NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

GROUND CLAMP

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ANTENNA LEAD IN 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.

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.

Contents

Introduction

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

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

Thank you for Choosing a Canon ......... 6

Introducing the ZR ................................7

Mastering the Basics

Powering Y our Camcorder .................... 8

Loading a Cassette .............................. 11

Basic Recording .................................. 13

Zooming .............................................. 16

Using the LCD Screen ........................ 17

Playing back a Cassette ....................... 19

Connections for Playback on a TV

Screen .................................................. 22

Tips for Making Better Videos ............ 26

Using the Full Range of

Features

~ General

Selecting from the Camera & VCR

Menus .................................................. 28

Turning the Image Stabilizer On/Off .. 30

Using the Wireless Controller ............. 31

~ For Recording ...~

Setting the Date and Time...................32

Taking Still Pictures (Photo Mode)..... 33

Searching and Reviewing While

Recording ............................................ 34

...

Using the Various Recording

Programs.............................................. 36

Using the Digital Effects ..................... 40

Audio Recording ................................. 44

Setting the Self-Timer ......................... 46

~ When Making Manual Adjustments ...~

Adjusting Exposure Manually............. 47

Adjusting Focus Manually .................. 49

Setting the White Balance ................... 50

~ For Playback ...~

Displaying Data Code ......................... 52

Setting the World Clock ...................... 53

Returning to a Pre-Marked Position.... 55

Searching the Tape

(Photo Search/Date Search) ................ 56

Editing to a VCR ................................. 57

Additional Information

Preparing the Camera .......................... 60

Notes on Using the Batteries............... 61

Setting the Audio Mix ......................... 63

Maintenance ........................................ 64

Troubleshooting................................... 68

The ZR System Diagram..................... 72

Optional Accessories ........................... 73

Finding Your Way Around the ZR ....... 75

Screen Displays ................................... 78

Specifications....................................... 82

Index .................................................... 83

Introduction

The serial number of this product may be found on the bottom of the camera. No others have the same serial number as yours. You should record the number and other vital information here and retain this book as a permanent record of your purchase to aid identification in case of theft.

Date of Purchase Dealer Purchased From Dealer Address Dealer Phone No. Model Name ZR Serial No.

Thank you for choosing a Canon

First, we’d like to thank you for purchasing this Canon camcorder. Its

advanced technology makes it very easy to use — you will soon be making high-quality videos which will give you pleasure for years to come.

To get the most out of your new camcorder, We recommend that you read this manual thoroughly — there are many sophisticated features which will add to your recording enjoyment.

Getting started

To get started we suggest that you master the basic operations of the camcorder first, before moving on to use its full range of features.

For quick reference (in addition to the contents and index) please refer to:

Introduction

• Finding your way around the camcorder (p. 75)

• Screen displays (p. 78)

• Troubleshooting — in case you run into any problems (p. 68)

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

Your camcorder is supplied with the following accessories:

WL-D67 Wireless Controller

SS-200 Shoulder Strap DU-100 Docking Unit

LCD Cover

CA-600 Compact Power Adapter

STV-150 Stereo Video Cable

STV-250 Stereo Video Cable

Two AA batteries

BP-608 Battery Pack

DC-600 DC Coupler

S-150 S-video Cable

Digital Video Cassette

FU-100 Finder Unit and Case

Introducing the ZR

Digital Video

ZR is a next generation digital video camcorder that conforms to the new digital video

Mini

you outstanding picture quality.

2.5” LCD Screen (180,000 Pixels)

The high resolution LCD screen makes it easy for you to shoot colorful, well composed video. It is also great for playback.

Finder Unit

The ZR comes complete with a Finder Unit, that simply clips onto the LCD screen to convert it to a viewfinder.

Image Stabilizer

Stabilizes your recordings even at the furthest reaches of the zoom range.

standard to give

11× lens and 44× digital zoom

From wide-angle to 11× telephoto — with unparalleled optical quality. The digital zoom magnifies this by four for even more dramatic results.

Digital Effects

Advanced digital technology allows you to add special effects and scene transitions to your recordings.

World Clock

There is no need to reset the clock when you take a trip across time zones. When you play back your recordings, tell the camera where you went and it will make sure that the correct time is shown.

PCM Digital Sound

Offers you stunning digital sound —16bit for greater than CDquality sound, and 12bit for the playback of audio-dubbed cassettes.

Introduction

Lithium ion power supply

The ZR features the latest in portable power technology.

Powering Y our Camcorder

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

provide power from an AC outlet or charge battery packs 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

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

1. Slide the battery cover release switch in the direction of the arrow.

• The battery cover flips open.

2. Insert the DC coupler into the camera, in the direction of the arrow

Mastering the Basics

until it clicks into place.

• Lift up and pull the small rubber stopper out slightly and feed the cable through the opening. You can now close the battery cover.

3. Connect the DC coupler to the adapter.

4. Connect the power cable to the adapter.

5. Plug the power cable into an AC outlet.

6. Remove the DC coupler after use.

• Place the camera on its side before removing the coupler, since the coupler may drop out when you press the battery release knob.

• Slide across the battery cover release switch (and replace the small rubber stopper).

• Press the battery release knob (orange) upwards.

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

Charging and attaching battery packs

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. The power adapter supplied with your camcorder can hold two battery packs and is capable of charging them one after another. Additional battery packs are available as an optional accessory (p.73).

1. Attach one or two battery packs to the power adapter.

• Make sure the DC coupler is not connected.

• Align the triangle on the battery pack with the guide line on the power adapter.

• Press the battery pack down, and slide it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place.

2. Connect the power cable to the adapter and plug the power cable into an AC outlet.

• One of the two charge indicators 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.

• If you attached two battery packs, the second battery pack now begins to

charge: its indicator flashes red to show that charging is in progress.

3. Take the battery pack off the adapter and insert it into the camera.

• Slide across the battery cover release switch, insert the battery in the direction

of the arrow until it clicks into place, then close the battery cover.

4. Remove the battery pack after use.

• Place the camera on its side before removing the battery pack, since the

battery pack may drop out when you press the battery release knob.

• Slide across the battery cover release switch.

• Press the battery release knob upwards.

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

Mastering the Basics

Notes:

• The adapter can charge a single battery pack from either side, A or B. If you

attach two battery packs, charging begins from the battery you first attach to the adapter, or, if the adapter was already plugged into an AC outlet, from the side labeled “A”.

• When powering your camcorder from an AC outlet, you do not need to remove

attached battery packs, but charging will not take place until you remove the DC coupler from the adapter.

• You can find detailed notes for using the batteries in the “Notes on Using the

Batteries” on p. 61. These notes include charging and recording times and how to charge the back-up battery.

• Do not tug at the DC Coupler cable, or bend it backwards and forwards, while it

is fed through the opening in the battery cover.

• Be careful not to pinch the cable when closing the battery cover.

Mastering the Basics

Loading a Cassette

OPEN/ EJECT

Use videocassettes marked with the

Mini

logo only.*

Loading and unloading

1. Make sure that you have inserted a power source.

2. Slide the OPEN/EJECT 5 button downwards to release the cover (the camera’s grip).

• Pull the cover fully open and wait a couple of seconds for the cassette

compartment to open automatically.

3. Load or unload the cassette.

• Insert the cassette gently with the window facing out (and the erasure

prevention tab to the bottom).

• Remove the cassette by pulling it straight out.

4. Press the

PUSH

mark on the compartment until it clicks, and wait

for it to close.

5. Click the cover back into place.

Mastering the Basics

Mini

is a trade mark.

Notes:

• After loading a cassette, use record search (p. 34) to find the point where you

want to start recording.

• Do not interfere with the cassette compartment while it is opening or closing

automatically, or attempt to close the cover.

• Do not leave the cassette in the camera after use — return it to its case and

store it in a cool, clean, dry place.

Protecting tapes from accidental erasure

REC

SAVE

REC

SAVE

To protect your recording from accidental erasure, slide the tab on the cassette so that it exposes the hole. (This switch position is usually labeled SAVE or ERASE OFF). If you load this cassette and put the camera in record pause mode (p. 13), “THE TAPE IS SET FOR ERASURE PREVENTION” is displayed for approx. 4 seconds and then the v mark flashes in the display. 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.

Mastering the Basics

• 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.

Cassette Memory

You are unable to use the cassette memory function with this camcorder.

Basic Recording

MOVIE

PHOTO

OPEN

4, 5

OFF VCR POWER

Before you start recording

Have you completed the following steps?

• Attached a power source (p. 8).

• Loaded a cassette (p. 11).

• Fastened the shoulder strap (p. 60).

• Removed the LCD cover (p. 60). You may also want to charge the backup battery (p. 62) in order to set the date and

time display (p. 32).

Mastering the Basics

To record

1. Press down and slide the POWER switch to [.

• This selects the camera’s Easy Recording program. It allows you to simply point and shoot without making any manual adjustments (see p. 37).

2. Slide the MOVIE/PHOTO switch to MOVIE.

3. Slide the LENS COVER switch to OPEN.

• The lens cover opens and PAUSE appears in the display — 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, slide the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE and back again, or set the POWER switch to OFF and then back to [.

4. Press the start/stop button down fully (the red button) to begin recording.

• REC appears in the display.

5. Press the start/stop button down fully again to pause recording.

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

display.

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

stop button.

6. Slide the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE.

• As long as the POWER switch is set to [ or P (see page 13), you can use

the lens cover switch to turn the camera on and off. This makes it easy to save battery power, and prevents accidental operation of the start/stop button. It is also useful when you want the camera to remember your manual settings, such as white balance and shutter speed.

When you have finished recording

• Slide the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE.

• Return the LCD screen flush to the camera body, and replace the LCD cover.

• Unload the cassette.

• Set the POWER switch to OFF.

• Disconnect the power source.

Notes:

• Make sure that your fingers do not obstruct the microphone or lens during recording.

• In addition to [ (Easy Recording), the camera has six other recording programs. Turn the POWER switch to the P position to give you access to these recording programs (p. 36) and also to the digital effects (p. 40).

• 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

Mastering the Basics

digital video head cleaning cassette.

• You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker when recording.

• For tips on how to make better videos, see page 26.

Changing the recording mode (SP/LP)

You can record and play back a tape in SP (standard play) and LP (long play) modes. LP extends tape usage by 1.5 times. To switch to LP mode, select REC MODE from the camera or VCR menu, select LP and then close the menu (for instructions on how to use the menus, refer to page 28).

(see p. 28)

REC MODE••••LP

Notes:

• When recording and playing back tapes in LP mode, the nature of the tape and usage conditions may affect recording, mosaic-like noise may appear in the image and the sound may be distorted during playback. For important recordings, therefore, set the camera to SP mode.

• 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.

• A tape recorded in LP mode on other digital equipment may produce mosaic-like noise and the sound may become distorted when played back on this camcorder, and vice versa.

Mastering the Basics

Zooming

Zoom out

11× optical zoom

The camera’s 11× zoom lens allows you to choose the best picture angle for each scene:

• Turn the zoom control towards W to zoom out to wide-angle.

• Turn it towards T to zoom in to telephoto.

You can also control the speed of zooming:

• Move the control slightly to zoom slowly.

• Turn it further to zoom more quickly. (The further you turn the zoom control, the faster the zoom speed.)

The T and W buttons on the wireless controller adjust the picture angle, but not the zoom speed.

44× digital zoom

Zoom in

Turn the digital zoom on from choosing D. ZOOM at the camera menu, to multiply the camera's zoom range by four.

Mastering the Basics

(see p. 28)

D.ZOOM••••••ON

(For an explanation of how to use the camera menu see page 28)

The zoom control continues to work as usual. You can freely zoom in and out between 1× and 44× magnification — the camera automatically switches between optical zooming (up to 11×) and digital zooming (11× to 44×).

Notes:

• When you want to get as close as possible to your subject, keep the zoom at the wide-angle position. You can focus on a subject as close as 3/8 in (1 cm).

• Image resolution is slightly lower when the magnification is greater than 11×.

Using the LCD Screen

Changing the angle of the LCD screen

You can choose the angle of the screen that suits you best by tilting it upwards and away from you.

• You can use the screen for low and highangle recording. By lifting the screen up to face the opposite direction, you can also make recordings of yourself, or allow the subject to monitor recording (see p. 18).

Attaching the FU-100 Finder Unit

RELEASE

You can convert the LCD screen to a viewfinder by attaching the FU-100 Finder Unit.

1. Slide across the RELEASE switch and pull off the protective cap.

2. Attach the finder unit base-first and click the top into place.

3. To remove, slide and hold the RELEASE switch while gently pulling the unit off the LCD screen, from the top first.

Notes:

• Since the Finder Unit magnifies light, be careful not to leave it exposed to

bright sunlight or it may damage the unit or the LCD screen when attached to the camera. You may be able to move the Finder Unit out of direct sunlight by changing the angle of the LCD screen. When not attached to the camera, always replace its protective cap, and never look through the Finder Unit directly at the sun or other bright light sources.

• The Finder Unit comes complete with a case that you can attach to a belt or the

camera strap (p. 60).

• You can turn the viewfinder focusing wheel (to clearly see the display) to suit

your eyesight.

• Avoid touching the LCD screen or the mirror inside the Finder Unit.

• Do not hold the camcorder by the LCD panel.

• Bright light falling on the LCD screen may cause glare that makes it difficult

for you to view the image. In this case, attach the finder unit. You are also able to adjust the brightness/backlight of the screen (p. 65).

Mastering the Basics

About the LCD Screen

The LCD screen built into this camcorder is a high precision product.

However, small black dots or bright points of light (red, blue or green) may appear constantly on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction of the LCD screen and they are not recorded on the tape. (Effective dots: more than 99.99%)

Allowing the subject to monitor recording

When you lift the LCD panel up vertically so that it faces the opposite direction (see diagram opposite), you can watch yourself during recording or let your subject monitor recording.

• Screen displays are reversed (mirror mode) and the time code and remaining tape

indicators disappear. The recording itself is unaffected. Only certain displays are shown (see below).

• To cancel mirror mode, simply bring the LCD panel back down, away from the

vertical.

Notes:

• While recording in mirror mode you cannot operate the menu.

• You can start/stop the self-timer during mirror mode, but you must set it at the

menu before turning the screen upright. You can also use the wireless controller.

Mastering the Basics

Exposure Adjustment

Manual focus

No Cassette is loaded

OFF

REC REC PAUSE EJECT STOP

The tape has reached the end Condensation warning

The battery pack is exhausted Self-Timer countdown

Photo mode AF/AE mark

Playing back a Cassette

FOCUS

EXP

OFF VCR POWER

OPEN

You can use the LCD screen for instant, on-the-spot playback. The camera also plays back the sound track via the built-in speaker (p. 20). Operate basic playback functions from the multi-switch on the top left of the camera.

To play back your recordings on a TV, see p. 22. To use the wireless controller, see p. 31.

Note:

• To avoid accidental recording, make sure that you slide the tab on the cassette

so that it exposes the hole (the switch position is usually labelled SAVE or ERASE OFF).

1. Attach a power source, press down and slide the POWER switch to VCR.

2. Load the cassette.

3. Press down the e (play) side of the multi-switch to start playback.

• To end playback, press down the 3 (stop) side of the multi-switch.

• To wind the tape forwards, stop playback and turn the multi-switch lever

away from the lens.

• To wind the tape backwards, stop playback and turn the multi-switch lever

towards the lens.

• If the playback picture is rough (mosaic-like noise), clean the video heads

using a Canon DVM-CL Digital Video Head Cleaning Cassette or a commercially available digital video head cleaning cassette.

Mastering the Basics

Other playback modes

Playback pause

To view the video as a still picture, press down the a (pause) side of the multiswitch. Since you play and pause playback from the same position on the multiswitch, press here again to resume normal playback. The camera automatically goes into stop mode after about five minutes’ playback pause.

Fast forward playback

To play back the recording at about 9.5 times normal speed, turn and hold the multi-switch lever away from the lens during normal playback or turn and hold the multi-switch lever away from the lens during normal fast forward.

Rewind playback

For reverse playback at about 9.5 times normal speed, turn and hold the multiswitch lever towards the lens during normal playback or turn and hold the multiswitch lever towards the lens during normal rewind.

Built-in speaker

Mastering the Basics

The camcorder has a built-in speaker so you can review the sound track alongside the picture during playback.

Adjust the speaker volume by turning the select dial when the camera is in VCR mode (p. 19).

• A VOLUME bar appears in the display temporarily to indicate the current

volume.

Note:

• The speaker turns off when the camera is set to camera mode and when you use

headphones (p.44).

Speaker

Special playback

These can only be operated from the wireless controller (p. 31)

Frame Advance

To play back frame by frame, press the +/ae button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame advance.

Frame Reverse

To play back on reverse frame by frame, press the –/4a button repeatedly during playback pause. Press and hold to play back continuous frame reverse.

Slow Forward Playback

To play back at about 1/5 normal speed, press the SLOW normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

• The camera automatically returns to playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.

button during

Slow Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at about 1/5 normal speed, press the –/4a button and then the SLOW Press PLAY e to return to normal playback.

• The camera automatically returns to ×1 reverse playback after about 30 seconds of slow playback.

button during normal playback.

Mastering the Basics

Reverse Playback

To play back in reverse at normal speed, press the –/4a button during normal forward playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal forward playback.

Forward ×2 Playback

Press the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

Reverse ×2 Playback

Press the –/4a button and then the ×2 button during normal playback. Press the PLAY e button to return to normal playback.

Note:

• Mosaic-like noise appears on the screen during some of the VCR modes and the sound track cannot be heard.

Connections for Playback on a TV Screen

You can connect the camera to a TV or VCR in order to play back your recordings. See your TV or VCR instruction manual for further details. You will

need to attach a power source to the camera (see p. 8), and for S-video or to use an RF Unit, attach the DU-100 Docking Unit.

Attaching the DU-100 Docking Unit

The Docking Unit is fitted with video, audio, microphone and editing terminals. Connect it to the base of the ZR via the

SETSCREW

MULTI-CONECTOR

MULTI-CONNECTOR.

LOOSEN TIGHTEN

1. Make sure that the ZR is switched off.

2. Lift the MULTI-CONNECTOR cover and align the multi-connectors of the docking unit and the camera.

3. Push the docking unit onto the camera and turn the locking button clockwise to fix it securely onto the base.

• To remove, turn the locking button counter-clockwise and pull the docking

unit from the base of the camera. Close the cover.

• You cannot attach/remove a power source while the Docking Unit is attached.

If your TV (or VCR) has an S-video input terminal

S-150 S-video Cable

Mastering the Basics

STV-150 Stereo Video Cable

INPUT

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

AUDIO

• Use the S-150 S-video Cable to connect the S-video terminal d. Use the STV150 Stereo Video Cable, to connect the AUDIO terminals. Connect the white plug to the white AUDIO terminal 7 (left). Connect the red plug to the red AUDIO terminal 9 (right). Do not connect the yellow plug.

• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.

• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to

LINE.

If your TV (or VCR) has audio/video input terminals

INPUT

DV IN/OUT

AUDIO VIDEO OUT

STV-250 Stereo Video Cable

• Connect the camera using the STV-250 Stereo Video Cable. Connect the white plug to the white audio terminal 7 (left). Connect the red plug to the red audio terminal 9 (right). Connect the yellow plug to the yellow video terminal 0.

• Set the TV/VIDEO selector on the television to VIDEO.

• If you are connecting the camera to a VCR, set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

Notes:

• You can use the STV-150 Stereo Video Cable in place of the STV-250 Stereo Video Cable, by connecting the audio and video to the DU-100 Docking Unit, via its L and R audio terminals and V video terminal.

• If cables are inserted to the S-video or Video terminals of an attached Docking Unit, there will be no output from the AUDIO VIDEO OUT terminal of the camera itself.

• If you are going to use the TV as a monitor while you are shooting, remember to keep the TV volume turned down as long as the camera’s audio terminals are connected. If the sound from the TV speakers is picked up by the microphone, an unpleasant high-pitched squeal, called feedback, may be produced.

• If you want a mono output (or your TV does not have audio/video terminals, p. 24), attach a video cable to the camera (or to an attached Docking Unit), and then select MONO for the STEREO/MONO option at the VCR menu (p. 28). When using the STV-150 video cable do not connect the right audio terminal R to the docking unit. This will deliver a combined mono output from both left and right channels. (The output to attached headphones is unaffected.)

VIDEO

AUDIO

Mastering the Basics

If your TV is already hooked up to a VCR, you can connect the camera to the VCR instead of the TV. Follow the instructions on the previous page.

If your TV does not have audio/video terminals

TV with coaxial antenna cable

RU-100 RF Unit

VRL

VHF

TV with flat twin-lead antenna cable

RU-100 RF Unit

300-75 ohm

VRL

adapter

75-300 ohm adapter

To connect the camera directly to a TV which does not have audio/video terminals, you will need to use the optional RU-100 RF Unit together with the DU-100 Docking Unit.

Connecting the RF unit

Mastering the Basics

1. Connect the RF unit to the camera, via the DU-100 Docking Unit.

• The RF unit is available optionally.

2. Select MONO for the STEREO/MONO option at the VCR menu.

• See the note on page 23.

3. Connect the antenna cable to the FROM ANT. terminal on the RF

unit.

• If your TV has flat twin-lead cable, use the 300–75 ohm adapter.

4. Connect the TO TV terminal on the RF unit to the antenna input

on the TV.

• Use the coaxial cable with F-connectors.

VHF

If your TV has flat twin-lead cable, use the 75–300 ohm adapter.

Attaching the 300–75 ohm adapter

Loosen the screws on the adapter and insert the antenna cable. Tighten the screws again.

If the antenna cable does not have antenna lugs, you will need to strip one end of the cable and wind the wires around the screws.

Selecting the video channel

Turn the TV on, start playback on the camera (see p. 19), and set the TV and the RF unit to the video channel.

FROM ANTTO TV

4CH 3CH

The video channel is the channel which

4CH 3CH

is not used by a broadcasting station in your area and can be used for cassette playback (channel 3 or 4).

Note:

• Turn the camera off or disconnect it from the RF unit when you want to watch a broadcast program.

Mastering the Basics

Tips for Making Better Videos

Holding the camera

For maximum stability, grip the camera firmly with your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against your body. Support the camera underneath with your left hand. With practice, you will be able to operate the controls by touch, without taking your eye off the action.

Using a tripod

To prevent any unwanted movement, you can mount the camera on a tripod, (or any flat surface at a suitable height.) and operate it with the wireless controller.

• When you are using a tripod, be careful not to leave an attached Finder Unit exposed to bright sunlight or it may damage the unit or the LCD screen (since the Finder Unit magnifies light). You may be able to move the Finder Unit out of direct sunlight by changing the angle of the LCD screen. When not attached to the camera, always replace its protective cap.

• Make sure that the fastening screw of the tripod is no longer than 3/16 inch (5.5 mm), or it will damage the camera.

Composition

Mastering the Basics

The most important element in the scene does not have to be in the center. For a more interesting picture, try to position your subject so it is slightly to one side. Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving towards.

Don’t cut off the top of the subject’s head, and don’t cut people off at the neck, hips or knees (move a little bit above or below).

Watch out for distracting objects in the background.

Picture angle

Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups to show the details. Remember to change your viewpoint for each shot.

Long shot

Medium shot

Remember that any camera movement or change in picture angle should have a definite purpose. Avoid unnecessary or half-hearted movements.

Camera moves

Use pans to record a landscape or follow a moving subject. Decide the area you want to cover and stand facing the end of your panning angle. Without moving your feet, turn your waist to the starting position. Start recording, and after a few seconds begin to turn slowly from the waist. Hold the final image for a few seconds before you stop recording.

Tilt the camera up to exaggerate the height of the subject. Tilt down from the top of a building, for example, as an introduction to subjects at the bottom.

Close-up

Mastering the Basics

Pan

Tilt

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